Breastfeeding in Public: Know Your Rights

Breastfeeding in public is a legal right in all 50 U.S. states, Washington D.C., and U.S. territories. If you’re nursing and on the go, knowing what the law says and understanding how to navigate different spaces can make a big difference in how comfortable you feel. Whether you’re heading to a park, traveling through an airport, or just running errands, here’s what you need to know.

The Law Protects You

You are legally allowed to breastfeed your baby anywhere you have the right to be. This protection applies in every state. Many states go further and explicitly state that breastfeeding is not considered indecent exposure. These laws are in place to protect you and your baby, and they apply across a wide range of spaces, including:

• Restaurants

• Parks

• Shopping malls

• Airports

• Public transportation

• Museums

• Places of worship

• Any other public or private space that’s open to the general public

Federal law also protects your right to breastfeed in federal buildings and on federal property. That means if you’re at a courthouse, post office, or national park, you’re legally protected.

Employers and business owners cannot legally ask you to stop, cover up, or leave because you’re breastfeeding. If they do, they’re in violation of the law. You have the right to decline any request that interferes with your ability to feed your baby.

Handling Uncomfortable Situations

Even though the law is on your side, real-world situations can still feel awkward or tense. Not everyone is informed or supportive. If someone makes a comment or confronts you about nursing in public, you can respond in a few different ways:

• Stay calm and assertive. A clear and confident response like, “I’m feeding my baby, and that is legal here,” is usually enough to stop further comments.

• Know your rights. Remind others that breastfeeding is legally protected and that asking someone to stop is against the law.

• Ignore the comments and continue nursing. You are not required to engage with anyone about it.

• If you’re in a business and someone tells you to stop or leave, ask to speak to a manager. Calmly explain that discriminating against someone for breastfeeding is illegal.

Some businesses mistakenly believe they can ask a nursing parent to leave because they are private property. That is incorrect. Most state laws make it clear that businesses cannot treat breastfeeding as a violation of their policies.

If you find yourself in a situation like this, here’s how to respond:

1. State your rights: “Breastfeeding is legally protected in this state, and businesses cannot discriminate against nursing parents.”

2. Ask for a manager: An employee may not be informed, but a manager may be able to correct the mistake.

3. Document the incident: If you’re asked to leave or are harassed, take notes about what happened. Record interactions if it’s legal in your state.

4. File a complaint: Many states allow you to report discrimination if a business violates breastfeeding protection laws. You can file a complaint with a state agency or reach out to a breastfeeding advocacy group.

Tips for Breastfeeding in Public

It can take time to feel completely at ease nursing outside your home. Every parent’s comfort level is different. Here are some tips that can help you feel more confident:

• Wear nursing-friendly clothing: Tops or dresses with easy access make feeding quicker and more comfortable.

• Choose your spot: Find a space where you feel comfortable. That might be a quiet corner of a café or a shady bench in a park.

• Practice at home: Try out different nursing positions and nursing in your carrier while you’re still in a familiar environment. This can help build confidence before you’re out in public.

• Use a baby carrier: Some baby carriers allow you to nurse while walking, shopping, or standing in line. It can be a discreet and hands-free option.

• Bring a support person: If you’re feeling unsure, having a friend or partner nearby can make the experience feel more manageable.

What About Public Restrooms and Nursing Rooms?

You never have to breastfeed in a public restroom unless that’s your personal choice. No one can legally require you to feed your baby in a bathroom stall. Besides being uncomfortable, it’s not the most hygienic option.

That said, some parents prefer private spaces for their own comfort or for a calmer feeding experience. Many public places now offer designated lactation rooms or nursing lounges. Look for:

• Lactation pods in airports, malls, and stadiums

• Family lounges in department stores

• Nursing rooms in libraries, museums, and community centers

There are also apps, like Mamava, that can help you locate nearby breastfeeding-friendly spaces. Local parenting groups and online forums may also have recommendations.

Traveling While Nursing

Traveling with a nursing baby can bring a whole new layer of planning. Knowing your rights and being prepared can make things go a lot more smoothly.

• Airports: TSA allows you to bring breast milk through security, even if your child isn’t with you. Breast milk is considered a medically necessary liquid and is exempt from the standard 3.4-ounce liquid rule. TSA agents may still screen the milk using testing strips or by hand inspection, but you are not required to taste it or open the containers.

• Airplanes: Airlines must allow you to breastfeed at your seat. Flight attendants cannot legally require you to move or cover up. If you’re confronted, calmly state your rights. While incidents like this are rare, be aware that flight attendants have a lot of authority, so use your best judgment if a situation escalates.

• Road trips: Plan ahead by mapping out stops with clean, comfortable nursing spots. Look for rest areas, visitor centers, or shopping centers that have lounges or nursing rooms.

The Bottom Line

The more you nurse in public, the more confident you’ll likely become. Every feeding helps normalize breastfeeding and strengthens your connection with your baby. Feeding your baby is not something to hide or be ashamed of. It is legal, normal, and necessary.

Know your rights. Trust your instincts. And remember that you belong wherever you and your baby are.