Yes, it’s legal in every state in the US. And it’s time we normalize nature’s way!
Hey Mama!
Let’s chat about something as natural as breathing—breastfeeding. It’s a huge part of being a new mama. But have you ever felt like people make it seem weird or even wrong when you’re doing it in public? Listen, breastfeeding wherever you need to is not just okay—it’s your right, and it’s good for both you and your little one.
It’s time to change the narrative and normalize breastfeeding, everywhere and anywhere.
Understanding Breastfeeding Stigmas and Myths
You might have heard some weird ideas about breastfeeding in public. Some folks say it’s “not okay,” others incorrectly view it like it’s something sexual. Let’s clear the air:
What Science Says: Breastfeeding is incredible for you and your baby, both for your bodies and your hearts.
What the World Thinks: Most places around the world see breastfeeding as completely normal, with zero sexual vibes. In the U.S., the law’s on your side—even if not everyone has gotten the memo yet.
Good news for mamas: If you’re in the U.S., you’ve got the legal protection to breastfeed wherever you need or want to as long as you have permission to be in that place. All 50 states have laws that back you up. Want to know the specifics? Check out the table below to find the law that protects you.
Feeling Good While Breastfeeding Your Baby in Public
You deserve to feel comfy and confident when you’re feeding your little one, no matter where you are. Here are some easy tips to make public breastfeeding a breeze:
Pick Your Spot: Look for places that seem welcoming for breastfeeding.
PLEASE REMEMBER, you do NOT have to nurse in the bathroom. If you wouldn’t eat there, your baby shouldn’t have to either.
Dress Smart: Wearing nursing-friendly clothes can make everything simpler.
Be Prepared: A little planning goes a long way. Pack some extra breast pads to stay dry, and make sure your nursing bra is comfy and easy to use. Keep wipes handy for quick clean-ups and some hand sanitizer for before and after feeding. If you prefer a bit more privacy, think about bringing a nursing cover or a small pillow.
If you see another mama breastfeeding, a simple smile or nod can really help her feel supported. We’re all in this together, so let’s lift each other up and mold a better society!
Navigating the Real-World Hurdles of Public Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding your baby in public can come with its own set of challenges. But don’t worry, you’re not alone, and we’ve got you covered. Here are some common hurdles you might face:
Your Baby Gets Distracted: New places and noises can make your little one lose focus.
Try finding a quieter spot or use a familiar blanket or toy to keep your baby’s attention. You can also use your hand, towel, small blanket or a nursing cover to shield out distractions. It might take multiple nursing sessions for your baby to become accustomed to nursing with distractions.
What to Wear: Finding clothes that are both comfy and easy to nurse in can be a puzzle.
Look for tops with easy access, like button-downs, or nursing-specific clothing that has hidden panels. Layering can also be a lifesaver—you can lift one layer for easy access.
Spotting the Right Place: It can be tough to find a spot where you feel relaxed and private (if you want it to be).
To help avoid distractions for baby, look for less crowded areas or comfortable seating away from high-traffic spots. If you prefer, many malls and public places now have nursing rooms.
Dealing with Looks or Comments: Sometimes people stare or even say something. We’ll talk about how to handle that.
As with many invasive or intrusive people, a simple smile or nod can disarm or confuse them. If someone is persistent or rude, remember: you have the right to breastfeed in public.
To Cover or Not to Cover: It’s Your Call
Some mamas like using a cover up when they’re breastfeeding, and that’s great! But remember, it’s up to you. You don’t have to cover up if you don’t want to. You have every right to breastfeed in public. And if someone else has a problem with it, that’s on them, not you.
If you choose to cover up, practice at home before trying it in public for the first time. It can be a bit tricky. Your baby might take some time to get used to being covered up. You also might want to practice in front of a mirror to see what it looks like from a different perspective.
Different Cultures, Different Views
How people feel about breastfeeding in public can vary based on where they’re from. In some places, it’s a non-issue, but in others, people might not be so open-minded. Knowing this can help us all be a bit more understanding and work towards a world where every mama feels comfortable nursing wherever she needs to.
You’re Not Alone—The Law’s Got Your Back Too!
Your journey with breastfeeding is a special time for you and your little one. Let’s work together to help every mama feel welcome and respected, no matter where she’s feeding her baby. It’s up to all of us to make our communities friendlier for breastfeeding mamas.
Do you feel like this message needs to be seen by…everyone? Share this article and let’s make a world where every mama feels supported, no matter where she chooses to nurse.
Public Breastfeeding State Laws
| State | Law + Link | Law Description |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Ala. Code § 22-1-13 | In Alabama, you have the right to breastfeed your child anywhere you want, whether it’s a public place like a park or store, or a private place. No one can stop you from doing so. |
| Alaska | Alaska Stat. § 29.25.080 and § 01.10.060 | In Alaska, you have the right to breastfeed your child in any public or private location where you are allowed to be. No city can make a law to stop or limit you from doing so. Also, breastfeeding is not considered inappropriate or indecent behavior. So, you can freely breastfeed your child without any legal worries. |
| Arizona | Ariz. Rev. Stat. Ann § 41-1443 | In Arizona, it’s completely legal for you to breastfeed your baby in public. The law says that breastfeeding is not considered indecent exposure. You have the right to breastfeed in any public place or any place that is open to the public, as long as you’re allowed to be there. |
| Arkansas | Ark. Stat. Ann. § 20-27-2001 | In Arkansas, you have the right to breastfeed your child in any public place or where other people are present. The law also clearly states that breastfeeding in public is not considered indecent exposure. So, you can feed your baby whenever and wherever needed without any legal issues. |
| California | Cal. Civil Code § 43.3 | In California, you have the right to breastfeed your child anywhere you is allowed to be, whether it’s a public or private place. The only exception is someone else’s private home or residence. |
| Colorado | Colo. Rev. Stat. § 25-6-302 | In Colorado, you have the right to breastfeed your baby in any place where you are allowed to be. This means you can breastfeed in public places without any restrictions. |
| Connecticut | Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. § 53-34b | In Connecticut, it’s completely legal for you to breastfeed your child in any public place, like parks, restaurants, or stores. No one is allowed to stop or limit you from doing so. This is your right as a mother. |
| Delaware | Del. Code Ann. tit. 31 § 310 | In Delaware, you have the right to breastfeed your child in any public place where you are allowed to be. This means you can nurse your child wherever you are, without any restrictions. |
| District of Columbia | D.C. Code Ann. § 2-1402.81 et seq. | In Washington D.C., it’s illegal to stop a woman from breastfeeding wherever she’s allowed to be. It’s not considered indecent exposure. |
| Florida | Fla. Stat. § 383.015 | In Florida, you have the right to breastfeed your baby in any public or private place. This act is not considered as any form of sexual offense, such as indecent exposure or lewdness. Also, breastfeeding is not defined as sexual conduct, obscene, nudity, or harmful to minors. So, you can freely breastfeed your baby anywhere you want without any legal issues. |
| Georgia | Ga. Code § 31-1-9 | In Georgia, you have the right to breastfeed your baby wherever you and your baby are allowed to be. This law encourages breastfeeding for the health of both the mother and the child. |
| Hawaii | Hawaii Rev. Stat. § 489.21 | In Hawaii, it’s against the law to deny a woman the right to use any public place or service because she is breastfeeding. If someone tries to stop you from breastfeeding in public, you have the right to take legal action against them. |
| Idaho | Idaho Code § 18-4101 | In Idaho, the law allows you to breastfeed your child in public. You are protected from being charged with indecent exposure or obscenity while doing so. This means you can’t be legally punished for breastfeeding in public places. |
| Illinois | Ill. Rev. Stat. ch. 740 § 137/1 et. seq. | In Illinois, it’s completely legal for you to breastfeed your baby in public. The law says it’s not indecent exposure. You can breastfeed anywhere you’re allowed to be, whether it’s a public or private place. If you’re in a place of worship, just make sure to follow their specific rules. |
| Indiana | Ind. Code § 16-35-6-1 | This law in Indiana says that you can breastfeed your child in any place where you are legally allowed to be. So, if you’re allowed to be somewhere, you’re also allowed to breastfeed there. |
| Iowa | Iowa Code § 135.30A | In Iowa, you have the right to breastfeed your own child in any public place where you is allowed to be. This means you can nurse your baby anywhere you are legally permitted to be present. |
| Kansas | Kan. Stat. Ann. § 65-1,248 | In Kansas, it’s completely legal for you to breastfeed your baby wherever you have the right to be. The state encourages and supports a mother’s choice to breastfeed as much as possible. |
| Kentucky | Ky. Rev. Stat. § 211-755 | In Kentucky, you have the right to breastfeed your baby or pump breast milk anywhere, whether it’s a public or private place. It’s not considered indecent or obscene in any way. Also, no city can make a law that stops or limits you from breastfeeding in public or private places. |
| Louisiana | La. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 51.2247.1 | In Louisiana, it’s completely legal for you to breastfeed your baby anywhere you’re allowed to be, whether it’s a public or private place. No one can discriminate against you for doing so. Also, breastfeeding is not considered obscene or a violation of any other law. |
| Maine | Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. tit. 5, § 4634 | In Maine, you have the right to breastfeed your baby anywhere you are allowed to be, whether it’s a public or private place. This is protected by the Maine Human Rights Act. |
| Maryland | Md. Health-General Code Ann. § 20-801 | In Maryland, you have the right to breastfeed your baby anywhere you want, whether it’s a public or private place. No one is allowed to stop you or limit this right. |
| Massachusetts | Mass. Gen. Laws Ann. ch. 111 § 221 | In Massachusetts, you have the right to breastfeed your child in any public place where you and your child are allowed to be. It’s not considered indecent or illegal. If someone violates this right, you can take legal action against them. |
| Michigan | Mich. Comp. Laws § 37.231 – § 37.232 | In Michigan, you have the right to breastfeed your child in public. The law says that this isn’t considered public nudity, even if your nipple or areola is exposed while feeding. It’s also illegal for anyone to discriminate against you for breastfeeding. Plus, breastfeeding isn’t seen as indecent or obscene behavior. So, you can feed your baby whenever and wherever you need to. |
| Minnesota | Minn. Stat. Ann. § 145.905 | In Minnesota, you have the right to breastfeed your child anywhere you and your child are allowed to be, whether it’s a public or private place. It doesn’t matter if your nipple is visible while breastfeeding. Also, breastfeeding is not considered indecent exposure under any circumstances. |
| Mississippi | Miss. Code Ann. § 17-25-9 | In Mississippi, you have the right to breastfeed your child in any place you’re allowed to be. No one can stop you or pass laws to restrict this right. Also, breastfeeding is not considered indecent exposure, disorderly conduct, disturbance of public peace, or nudity. So, you can’t be charged with any of these offenses for breastfeeding in public. |
| Missouri | Mo. Rev. Stat. § 191.918 | In Missouri, you have the right to breastfeed your child anywhere you are allowed to be, whether it’s a public or private place. This act is not considered sexual or indecent in any way. Also, no city can make a law that stops or limits you from breastfeeding in public or private places. |
| Montana | Mont. Code Ann. § 50-19-501 | In Montana, you have the right to breastfeed your child anywhere you are allowed to be, whether it’s a public or private place. It’s completely legal and cannot be seen as inappropriate or offensive in any way. |
| Nebraska | Neb. Rev. Stat. § 20-170 | In Nebraska, you have the right to breastfeed your child anywhere you are allowed to be, whether it’s a public or private place. It’s also important for you to know that breastfeeding in public is not considered a violation of any kind. So, you can freely breastfeed your child without worrying about breaking any laws. |
| Nevada | Nev. Rev. Stat. § 201.232 | In Nevada, it’s completely legal for you to breastfeed your child in public. You can’t be accused of indecent exposure for doing so. You’re allowed to breastfeed anywhere you’re allowed to be, whether it’s a private or public place. |
| New Hampshire | N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 132:10-d | In New Hampshire, it’s completely legal for you to breastfeed in public. The law says that breastfeeding is not considered indecent exposure. If anyone tries to stop or limit you from breastfeeding, it’s considered discrimination. So, you have the right to breastfeed your baby wherever and whenever you need to. |
| New Jersey | N.J. Rev. Stat. § 26:4B-4 | In New Jersey, you have the right to breastfeed your baby anywhere you are allowed to be in public places like parks, restaurants, or amusement parks. If anyone tries to stop you, they could be fined. |
| New Mexico | N.M. Stat. Ann. § 28-20-1 | This law in New Mexico states that you have the right to breastfeed your child anywhere you are allowed to be, whether it’s a public place like a park or store, or a private location like a friend’s house. No one can stop you from doing so. |
| New York | N.Y. Civil Rights Law § 79-E | In New York, it’s completely legal for you to breastfeed your baby anywhere you want, whether it’s a public place or a private location. You can’t be charged with any offense for breastfeeding in public. So, feel free to feed your baby whenever they’re hungry, no matter where you are. |
| North Carolina | N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-190.9 | In North Carolina, you have the right to breastfeed your baby anywhere you want, whether it’s a public place or private location. You won’t be breaking any laws about indecent exposure by doing so. |
| North Dakota | N.D. Cent. Code § 23-12-16 | In North Dakota, you have the right to breastfeed your child in any place, public or private, where you and your child are allowed to be. You are also protected from indecent exposure laws when you are discreetly breastfeeding your child. So, you can breastfeed your child wherever you want without worrying about legal issues. |
| Ohio | Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 3781.55 | In Ohio, you have the right to breastfeed your baby in any public place where you are allowed to be. This means you can nurse your baby at places like parks, restaurants, stores, and more without any restrictions. |
| Oklahoma | Okla. Stat. tit. 63, § 1-234.1 | In Oklahoma, you have the right to breastfeed your child wherever you are allowed to be. You cannot be punished or considered as committing a crime for doing so. |
| Oregon | Or. Rev. Stat. § 109.001 | In Oregon, the law gives you the right to breastfeed your baby in any public place. You are legally allowed to do so and nobody can stop you or ask you to move elsewhere. |
| Pennsylvania | Act No. 28 | This law says that you have the right to breastfeed your baby in public places without facing any punishment. It also states that breastfeeding cannot be viewed as a disturbance, inappropriate behavior, or indecent exposure. So, you can freely feed your baby whenever needed. |
| Puerto Rico | 24 L.P.R.A. § 3518 | This law states that you can breastfeed your child anywhere you are allowed to be, whether it’s a public or private place. It’s not considered indecent exposure, an obscene act, or something you can be punished for. |
| Rhode Island | R.I. Gen. Laws § 23-13.5-1 | In Rhode Island, it’s completely legal for you to breastfeed your child in public. The laws that usually deal with indecent exposure don’t apply to breastfeeding. You’re allowed to feed your child, either by bottle or breast, anywhere that’s open to the public. If anyone tries to stop you from doing this, you have the right to take legal action against them. |
| South Carolina | S.C. Code Ann. § 63-5-40 | In South Carolina, you have the right to breastfeed your child wherever you are allowed to be. Breastfeeding is not seen as indecent exposure, so you can do it in public without any legal issues. |
| South Dakota | S.D. Codified Laws Ann. § 25-5-35 | In South Dakota, it’s completely legal for you to breastfeed your baby in public. You’re protected from indecency laws when breastfeeding. Also, you can breastfeed your child anywhere you’re allowed to be, whether it’s a public or private place. |
| Tennessee | Tenn. Code Ann. § 68-58-101 et seq. | In Tennessee, it’s completely legal for you to breastfeed your child in any place, public or private, where you’re allowed to be. You can’t be charged with indecent exposure or any other crime for breastfeeding. It doesn’t matter how old your child is, there’s no age limit. Local governments can’t make rules to limit or criminalize breastfeeding either. |
| Texas | Tex. Health Code Ann. § 165.002 | This Texas law says that you have the right to breastfeed your baby or pump breast milk anywhere you are allowed to be. This means you can do so in public places without any restrictions. |
| U.S. Virgin Islands | 14 V.I.C. § 1022 | This law says that you have the right to breastfeed your child in any public or private place where you are allowed to be. It also states that breastfeeding is not considered inappropriate or indecent behavior under any circumstances. |
| Utah | Utah Code Ann. § 17-15-25 | In Utah, a you have the right to breastfeed your baby anywhere you are allowed to be, even if your breast is uncovered during the feeding. You are not breaking any laws related to indecent exposure or obscenity by doing so. |
| Vermont | Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 9, § 4502 (j) | In Vermont, you have the right to breastfeed your child in any public place where you and your child are legally allowed to be. This means you can nurse your baby at places like parks, restaurants, stores, and more without any legal issues. |
| Virginia | Va. Code § 2.2-1147.1 | In Virginia, it’s completely legal for you to breastfeed your child in public. You can’t be charged with indecent exposure for breastfeeding. Also, you have the right to breastfeed in any place you’re allowed to be, including places owned or controlled by the state. |
| Washington | Wash. Rev. Code § 49.60.215 | In Washington, you have the right to breastfeed or pump milk anywhere in public. It’s not considered indecent exposure. Also, it’s illegal for anyone to discriminate against you for breastfeeding in public places like parks, hotels, or amusement parks. |
| West Virginia | W. Va Code § 16-1-19 | In West Virginia, it’s completely legal for you to breastfeed your child in any place, whether it’s public or private. You won’t be accused of indecent exposure for doing so. You have the right to breastfeed anywhere that’s open to the public. |
| Wisconsin | Wis. Stat. § 253.165 | In Wisconsin, it’s completely legal for you to breastfeed your child in any public or private place where you’re allowed to be. No one can tell you to move, cover up, or stop breastfeeding. You also can’t be charged with indecent or obscene exposure for breastfeeding. |
| Wyoming | Wyo. Stat. § 6-4-201 | In Wyoming, you as a breastfeeding mom are allowed to nurse your baby anywhere you’re allowed to be. You’re protected by law and cannot be charged with public indecency for breastfeeding in public. |
None of this information should be taken as legal advice.
