Uni-boob. Poking underwires. Straps that slip. Cups that gap. These are all problems that you don’t want to have to worry about while nursing. I’m an experienced mom who has nursed multiple babies. I’ve worn over 10 different kinds of nursing bras in all styles, and at this point, I know all the ins and outs of nursing bras. I’ve picked all my favorites and ones I know will work well, and I’ve put them on this, The Best Nursing Bra List.
Best Nursing Bras of 2022
The WonderMoms Wireless Lace Nursing Bra is a lace, cotton bra that offers good coverage and support and provides a side opening cup to nurse your baby, while the MOMANDA Nursing Bralette is a lacy, polyamide/spandex bralette that gives good coverage but not as much support. This bra has drop down nursing cups.
WonderMoms Wireless Lace Nursing Bra
The WonderMoms Wireless Lace Nursing Bra is truly unique, with a side open cup instead of a drop-down cup. Every boob is different with different needs and more options make life better for nursing moms with different needs.
Even better, this nursing bra is actually pretty. A bit of lace on a traditional-looking bra and available in a delicate pink-beige color or black. This bra has extra stitches in all the right places, ensuring the quality. And, finally, this bra is perfect for daytime wear or nighttime.
The Good
Available in Medium – X-Large
You will get great coverage from this U-shaped back with the four rows of four hooks. This makes it a good nursing bra for larger breasts. The inner lining is made of 100% cotton and the fabric provides support as well as a beautiful shape. This bra is wire-free for full comfort and worry-free too, as using a bra with underwire can lead to to clogged ducts and mastitis.
The straps are fully adjustable and line up well to keep you comfortable. Also, the band is wide enough for comfort and support. To the delight of many women, this creation blends perfectly the support of a sports bra into a nursing bra that is as pretty as a regular bra. A lot of thought went into the design. For example, the bit of added padding offers just a bit of shape while concealing the nipples, but not so much to create breast spillover.
Finally, the cups open up to the side with an A-Frame opening, which also serves to brace your breast and makes multitasking while nursing a lot easier.
The Bad
The majority of women love this bra! However, a few women did complain that the snaps were a bit difficult to close and randomly failed from time to time, unsnapping on their own. And, a few of the women also complained that this nursing bra gave their breasts a bit of a “torpedo look”, but keep in mind that every bra fits each woman differently.
MOMANDA Nursing Lace Bralette
For a feminine and chic look that is also practical for nursing, the MOMANDA Nursing Lace Bralette has got you covered! Choose from a small selection of beautiful colors and feel your best in this lace bralette.
The Good
Available in Small – X-Large
Do not expect too much support from this gorgeous little bra. Made mostly of a lacy polyamide spandex, this little nursing bralette features a v-neckline and a lovely lacy fabric front to back. This bra offers full coverage without underwire and it is comfortable with a beautiful shape.
This is a great nursing bra for those flowy tops that show your bra a bit. Fashion and function, all in one. The double shoulder straps are adjustable. Also, the back closes with the typical hook and eye closure. Even the band around the bottom is lace.
The Bad
If you like to wear nursing pads, this bra will only work well for non-adhesive nursing pads, the adhesive nursing pads will not stick to this fabric. Another thing to consider is the lacy fabric, some women found it to be rather itchy.
Motherhood Maternity Full Busted Seamless Nursing Bra
Motherhood Maternity is a popular brand among both those pregnant for the first time, and those who have been pregnant for years (ha). Their high-quality products support moms comfortably while they care of their little ones. The Full Busted Seamless Nursing Bra is no exception.
The Good
Available in Standard (Small – X-Large) and Plus-Size (1X – 3X)
Made with 96% Nylon and 4% Spandex, this full-busted seamless nursing bra provides all the coverage that is needed and it comes in a selection of sizes. Like many of the others, this nursing bra is a hook and eye design with a lightly lined clip-down cup as a nursing feature. You can choose from a small selection of colors and packs when purchasing this bra.
Women who are extra-busty enjoy the support they receive with this Motherhood Maternity bra.
The Bad
The only complaint we’ve seen for this full-busted bra is that it can stretch-out a bit after wearing it for for awhile, offering less and less support.
Bamboobies Nursing Bra
Bamboobies Nursing Bra is ready to rock your world.
With a racerback, this nursing bra will support you in all of your everyday activities. Whether watching TV, going for a walk, or grocery shopping, this bra will keep you comfortable while it keeps your breasts where they belong.
While, not quite a sports bra, this nursing bra is of the same design and can hold up to a low-impact workout while still allowing easy access for breastfeeding. It’s great for yoga, walking, pilates, or other low-impact exercises. The name Bamboobies would be enough reason for me to give this bra a try, and then there are the other great features.
The Good
Available in Small – X-Large
This is the only nursing bra on the list made with rayon fabric that is made from bamboo. The bamboo fabric is more breathable and softer than cotton. This bra is one piece, no individual cups, and it is seamless. The fabric stretches for full breasts, the cups drop down and are designed with a supportive fabric underneath. Also, this bra includes removable cup pads for discretion. And, this nursing bra has an extender option, which is helpful while you work on getting back to your normal shape.
Finally, while this bra is a pullover design, it also has hook and eye closures for added stability. Add this to the racerback and you are coved. And, all of this without underwire. Instead, there is a thick but comfortable band to keep your girls in check, they do tend to misbehave after pregnancy!
The Bad
First, this bra is not for busty ladies.
Next, you need to be careful how you wash this bra, as without proper care the bamboo fabric may not last as long as other fabrics. But, it is super soft and breathable. Just make sure to hand wash and don’t ever even consider putting this bra in the dryer if you want to keep it for more than a month.
HOFISH 3PACK Seamless Nursing Maternity Bras
The HOFISH 3PACK Seamless Nursing Maternity Bras look like the most comfortable nursing bras ever. They are available in neutral colors and arrive in a pack of three. Also included are three size extenders and three bra clips, giving you the option to also wear with a racerback tank.
The Good
Available in Small – XX-Large
This fabric feels like nylon heaven with just enough Spandex for a bit of give. The softness paired with the perfect amount of stretch, makes this bra the ideal maternity bra. Comfy during pregnancy, this bra then transitions into your best nursing bra.
The size range is great and women say that the fit true to size, so you can confidently purchase the size you would normally wear. Even better, this bra offers a bit of separation with soft shaping that keeps your boobs in place. This nursing maternity bra is seamless and it disappears beneath your clothing.
The multiple hook rows and three lines across of them add additional support. The entirewidth of the band is super stretchy and comfortable, whether wearing it during the day or throughout the night.
The Bad
Some women did not like this bra because it can be seen when worn with a low cut shirt, like a v-neck. Other than that, these are top sellers!
Anita Women’s Nursing Bra
The Anita Women’s Underwire 5035 Nursing Bra isn’t the prettiest but it doesn’t look like a bra from the early 1900s either. It’s just a comfortable-looking nursing bra meant to disappear beneath your shirt.
The main selling point of this bra is its staying power. This bra isn’t going to fall apart or lose its shape. It’s going to stay put together so you can stay put together. I had multiple Anita nursing bras when I was nursing my three kids and they lasted the longest.
The Good
Available in 32B – 44E
This nursing bra will disappear under your clothing. No seams, no frills, just a smooth bra. There is a pattern but it’s built into the fabric and will not limit your wardrobe choices. Some very sheer shirts may require a tank, but trust me, layers are your friends when you are nursing.
The straps are not padded but they are a bit thicker and they sit in the right spot instead of falling off your shoulders.
This nursing bra has an underwire for lift and support and a bit of fabric underneath to keep the wire from digging in.
It must be pointed out, any clothing that applies pressure to the ducts will constrict flow and promote plugged ducts. However, if you find that underwires are uncomfortable, but necessary for your larger cup size, then try this little trick. Get some fleece fabric and cut it into long thin strips. Place them under the wire. This offers padding so the wire can keep your breasts up without digging in. And, an added bonus is that the fleece will soak up milk and sweat, keeping it off your skin. A great trick for the summertime.
All the basics are there. The nursing bra has Kwik Klips for easy opening and closing with a support strap to keep your boobs from running away. At the top of the cups is a loop for faster unfastening, plus a three-position, three-hook back fastener.
Pick from black, skin, nude, or white.
The fabric is nylon and elastane for shape and comfort, and it even has a bit of molded shaping built-into the cup for added support.
The Bad
Some women reported issues with the wiring. Underwire pops out of all bras at some point or another. Wire just tends to be stronger than fabric. A great way to prevent this is to reinforce the fabric with moleskin tape. Or, after the fact, a quick bit of sewing will normally close the whole. You can even hot glue the wire back where it belongs, but don’t do that with the bra on!
Lastly, this bra does not have a lining and many women are opposed to no lining.
Rosme Women’s Nursing Bra
The Rosme Women’s Wireless Nursing Unpadded Cotton Bra Collection “Mamacita” is an affordable nursing bra with wide straps! You read that correctly, no spaghetti straps here.
Otherwise, the bra looks rather perfunctory. Not pretty, not exactly ugly either. But, while you are nursing, you will probably be more concerned with support and comfort. And, this bra offers both. While not the most supportive or the most comfortable on the market, this nursing bra it is the right price for many moms.
Made of one hundred percent cotton, it does not get much more comfortable, especially for moms with sensitive skin.
The Good
Available in 34B – 44DD
This nicely priced bra comes in two colors, black or white. Sorry, no nude option available.
This bra is a basic design, with a simple seam across the breast to shape the cotton fabric. The cups drop down, making nursing easy both day or night. This nursing bra transitions easily from t-shirt to nightgown. The breasts are separated slightly by the defining lines that are sewn into the fabric, close enough to talk, but not in each other’s space.
As I said earlier, the straps are wide. The extra support is a great addition to this underwire-free option. Like a nursing bra should be, this bra is designed wire-free to reduce the risk of plugged ducts and keep the milk flowing. You will love the light padding, it keeps the seams from irritating your already sensitive nipples. Also, the band around the bottom is wide enough for comfort and the shaping fabric under the arms keeps your girls inside. And, to top it off, there is a tiny bow in the center for cute factor.
The Bad
While 100-percent cotton is great for softness and longevity, cotton without spandex does not offer much room for size fluctuations.
The only other issue is that the bra fit may not be true to size, cotton without the give of the spandex. You may want to consider ordering a size up or wait to order this nursing bra, as your size may change with breast milk onboard. Finally, most of the support comes from the straps in this wire-free design, which is why they are so thick. They have a serious job to do.
Best Nursing Sports Bras
The Kindred Bravely Sublime Support Low Impact Nursing Bra is a stretchy racerback bra that has a wide elastic band to provide breast support; whereas the Cake Lingerie Nursing Sports Bra has minimal stretch and offers built in underwire which gives support for nursing mama’s.
Kindred Bravely Sublime Low Impact Nursing Sports Bra
For those ready to get back into some low-impact exercise after pregnancy, the Kindred Bravely Sublime Low Impact Nursing Sports Bra provides a gentle yet supportive nursing bra that mixes function with comfort.
The Good
Available in Small – XX-Large
This low-impact nursing and maternity bra comes in four different colors and a range of sizes for the best fit. Made with 54% nylon, 37% polyester, and 9% spandex, you will find support with stretch in this nursing bra. The racerback feature keeps straps in place so they don’t fall off the shoulders. A wide elastic band on the bottom keeps everything secure and snug as you’re out and about or simply running around the house, as moms do.
Like a traditional nursing bra, this bra has drop down cups that open to the front and are secured with discreet clips. The main difference is there is no hook and eye closure. Instead, this bra is similar to a regular sports bra with a pull-over design.
The Bad
The price is pretty hefty for one bra, which is a bummer.
Another downfall of this nursing bra is that it does not wash well. Make sure to wash according to the manufacturer’s recommendations if you want this bra to last, especially considering the cost!
Cake Lingerie Nursing Sports Bra
Cake Lingerie’s Sports Nursing Bra with Underwire will keep your breasts happy at the gym. With a whole host of features, this sports bra is likely to become your go-to for a quick dose of post-birth yoga.
A perk to this nursing bra is the variety of sizes. It comes in larger sizes that are not normally found in the store. Finally, a decent nursing bra designed for large-breasted women! Now on with the show.
The Good
Available in 32B – 40H
The best thing about this breastfeeding bra is the O hook in the back, making it possible to use as racerback as well. And, if you don’t need them for extra support or if they start to become uncomfortable, you can just unhook them.
This bra has a underwire built-in to keep your breasts where they belong and actually makes exercising with nursing boobs more pleasant for well endowed mamas. The underwire lifts and separates so you can say goodbye to sweaty bouncing boobs. This nursing sports bra means business, with six rows of four hooks it plans to support you no matter where you go.
And the list goes on, with smooth spacer technology to reduce friction and molded cups for a smooth shape, the drop-down cups provide easy access so you can nurse while you sip on your post-workout smoothie.
This bra is made of a wicking fabric to keep you dry, from sweat that is. You will still need your nursing pads leaky breasts. A combo of mesh and stretch, this nursing sports bra boasts innovative breathability. And finally, Cake Lingerie uses only Oeko-Tex Standard 100 materials so you can rest assured there are no harmful substances near your intimate areas.
The Bad
Designed with compression and to be used for exercise, this nursing bra runs small. Go ahead and plan on going up a size. The straps do adjust, but only halfway. Some women may find that the straps are too long.
And, while annoying that the hooks of the drop-down cups make a clicking noise, it is no deal-breaker. The price, however, may be.
This bra is great option for nursing moms ready to get back in shape.
For more information on this bra and some other great pregnancy and nursing bra options, read our article about maternity bras.
Best Nursing Sleep Bras
Both sleeping bras are cotton with cross over cups, however, the Kindred Bravely Extra Soft Organic Cotton Sleep Bra gives gentle support and lots of comfort, available in sizes XS-XXL, while the Motherhood Nursing Sleep Bra is designed for fuller figures offering both support and comfort, and comes in sizes S-XL and also plus sizes from 1X-3X.
Kindred Bravely Extra Soft Organic Cotton Sleep Bra
Depending on who you ask, the Kindred Bravely Extra Soft Organic Cotton Wireless Nursing & Maternity Sleep Bra is either a miracle bra or no support at all. Taking a look at the picture above, it stands to reason that the crisscross design was not intended to keep larger breasts secured inside.
That being said, this bra comes in a plethora of colors and the “gentle” support offered, to even the busty ladies, will see you through pregnancy and into nursing. Also, it is great for those long nights of nursing.
The Good
Available in X-Small – XX-Large
For a decent price, you can be the proud owner of a very comfortable sleep bra made of organic cotton. What’s so special about organic cotton?
First, it stands the test of time. Cotton lasts longer than rayon and other fabrics because it’s stronger. Second, organic cotton is free of chemicals less irritating to sensitive skin. That’s a win, especially at this price, as most companies bloat the cost once the word organic enters the picture.
Pick from an assortment of twelve colors. Try a subdued color, choose from beige, black, gray, etc. Or, go a little wild and decorate your girls with a blue, deep purple, or pink stripe. The little bit of spandex holds the fit while your breasts expand before nursing and shrink after, if only that would happen with our waistlines as well.
And talk about easy access, just pull on one side of the criss-cross and pop out a boob. These nursing bras offer support by way of the elastic chest band. You can choose from the normal sizes or pick the “busty” size. And finally, the big bonus, these all cotton nursing bras can go in the washer and the dryer!
The Bad
Ladies, this bra is about comfort, not support. Yes, it will keep your girls in roughly the right position and maybe up a little higher too, but this is not the Fort Knox of nursing bras. Expecting full support from this bra is like putting up a two-foot fence to keep the cats out.
A few moms did find the band fits a little too tight and some moms even reported issues with clogged milk ducts.
Lastly, this bra is cut a bit low. No matter if you are busty or smaller, your breasts will pop out when you sleep on your side or bend over too low. Be prepared for this, as picking breast pads up off the floor in front of others does not go over well. Picture yourself stuffing them back in, while claiming that the five-second rule applies to breast pads too.
If organic cotton isn’t your concern, Kindred Bravely also makes a 2 Pack of racerback nursing bras that are made of a french terry fabric and come in busty options as well.
Motherhood Maternity Nursing Sleep Bra
The Motherhood Maternity Plus-Size Nursing Sleep Bra is made with larger moms in mind. A variety of size options are aimed at helping every mom sleep comfortably.
While most bra companies only cater to a few specific sizes, Motherhood caters to all shapes and sizes. Spend your days and nights lounging at home in this fabulous nursing bra that offers easy access for nursing.
Even better than the fit is the price, it is so nice that you can stock up. Have a few extras on hand while the others are in the wash or buy one for every night of the week! This bra will keep breast pads in place while you sleep and provides easy access for those 2 am nursing sessions.
The Good
Available in Small – 3X
This nursing bra is made to sleep in. With a blend of 95% cotton and 5% spandex, it’s breathable and has a little flex room for growth. For a night of sheer comfort and easy feeding, pull this bra on over your head and position your girls in the criss-cross cups. There are no wires to poke you and the soft fabric actually caresses your skin. The wide straps and a full back provide both support, and comfort.
Choose from black, nude, gray, or a striped blue. This bra is clean and simple. It is design to give nursing mothers light support a night. And, it works great as a pregnancy bra too.
The Bad
The Motherhood design does not allow for adjustments. Some moms founds that the shoulders are too tall or long, while others complained that this bra was too small.
Since the sizing is not listed by cup, you kind of have to guess which size will work for you when ordering.
The criss-cross design is not meant to offer more than light support. It will not keep your breasts in place when you bend over or when you roll over in the night. If you are looking for more support during the night, you will be happier with a traditional design.
Best Nursing Bras for Large Breasts
While the DotVol Women’s Maternity Nursing Bra is a comfy, t-shirt bra with a very affordable price tag, the HOTmilk Obsession Nursing Bra is a polyester, supportive bra that comes at a much higher cost.
HOTmilk Obsession Nursing Bra
HOTmilk’s Obsession Molded Spacer Flexi-Wire A-Frame Nursing Bra is the nursing bra of choice for moms with large breasts. This might be the perfect bra, or as close as a nursing bra can get.
Here you have all you want out of a good nursing bra, full comfort, support, and shape. Where most nursing bras fall woefully short, this bra has it all, wide comfort straps, smooth cups, and a bit of fabric under the wire. And, as you might expect, a hefty price tag as well.
Available in 32F – 42H
This super supportive bra boasts a flexi-wire for full support with comfort. The cups are smooth and look great even under a t-shirt, with just a bit of padding for support and shape. While made mostly of polyester, a touch of elastane adds the bit of stretch that nursing moms need to accommodate full breasts.
The cups are lined with cotton for breathability and the drop-down clip is easily operated with one hand. The A-frame design gives the breast additional support, which some moms find helpful while nursing. This bra is beautiful, even in nude and the skin tone looks great even under white shirts. And there is an extra set of hooks to help accommodate the basketball in your abdomen that breastfeeding will soon melt away.
Finally, manufactured in the UK, the sizing is also UK, so if you are a G cup in American, you are an F in the UK.
Elomi Women’s Smoothing Nursing Bra
The Elomi Women’s Smoothing Underwire Molded Nursing Bra is great not only for large breasted women but for plus sizes as well.
Most nursing bras cater to cup sizes C and below and most stores do not even stock bra sizes larger than D or DD. Yet many women need more boob room and finding a bra in a larger size usually requires a massive hunt. Elomi understands! Their nursing bras may have a few flaws but they will keep your girls tucked in!
The Good
Available in 34E – 48E UK
This nursing bra raises the bar, offering more than the average size options. Made of mostly polyester, this nursing bra does have a little give for growth with a touch of elastane. The flexible wire is comfortable without compromising shape or support.
The cups are seamless to prevent skin irritation and chafing. The cups drop away for easy access, while the A-frame provides support and modesty. And for the price, this nursing bra is a real bargain, especially in those hard-to-find sizes. Most of us are used to spending close to triple digits for a decent bra, but that is not the case here.
The Bad
Considering the options, or lack thereof. Any nursing mom will tell you that a padded bras keep breast pads hidden. They lining also provides comfort and a modicum of dryness.
The clips on this nursing bra can be a bit difficult to undo, however, this does not prevent them from slipping by accident. Also, there are only two hooks in the back, leading you to believe that it must be designed by men that do not understand how big and heavy boobs really are.
Finally, a few moms complained that the sizing runs large.
Find all the best nursing bras for larger breasts in our review article.
DotVol Women Plus Size Full Coverage Nursing Bra
The DotVol Women Underwire Full Coverage Nursing Bra is the closest we’ve found to the perfect t-shirt bra. This nursing t-shirt bra is simple with seamless cups and will look nice under anything you decide to wear.
Even better, you can also nurse with ease. The drop-down cups allow quick access, along with a bit of stabilizing fabric to keep your boob from falling out all over the place. You can throw this nursing bra on under your favorite t-shirt and forget about it.
The Good
Available in 34C – 46DD
You can pick from either black or beige. Not super exciting, but they both work well under clothing. The beige will even disappear under white shirts, as it matches your skin. The inner lining is 100% cotton, providing protection and comfort for your sensitive nipples.
Access your breasts for feeding with one hand and the inner sling will keep your breast where it belongs while you nurse. Bigger breasts will have a hard time staying in the sling, but the underwire is there to help.
And you will love the wide straps that prevent the bra from pulling your shoulders down or from digging in uncomfortably. The edge has a little bit of lace for added style and the back has four rows of three hooks for stability.
Finally, the cup is padded and molded with flexibility for changes in breast size. And all of this for a lovely price by any budget standards.
The Bad
The only flaw with this nursing bra is that there is no band under the wire. For this particular bra, if you like the comfort of underwire padding then you will need to make your own. Use fleece or even flannel, like we discussed earlier, to cut long strips and place then underneath the underwire as not to show.
The fabric will protect your sensitive skin from the discomfort of the underwire while it soaks up sweat and leaking milk. You may even want to use this trick with every bra. But, do keep in mind that underwire as well as any extra padding can constrict milk flow and even larger breasted women should attempt to go without underwire whenever possible to decrease their risks for plugged ducts and mastitis.
Best Nursing Tank Top
SUIEK Women’s Nursing Tank Top
If you want full coverage with full support, you may opt for a nursing tank top instead of a nursing bra. The SUIEK Women’s Nursing Tank Top is a top-selling maternity tank top that can be used for nursing as well. Do note though, that the bra portion of this tank is more of a sports bra and does not offer any separation.
Separation or no, it is the epitome of comfort for those lazy days around the house. Unless it’s cold outside, but even then, just wrap up in an open-front sweater, tuck baby in next to you and done. You are ready to binge-watch your favorite show.
The Good
Available in Small – X-Large
This racerback nursing tank is made of mostly cotton with a bit of spandex for size fluctuations. With discreet nursing clips, you can pair this with a cardigan or it is great by itself.
This tank goes all the way down to your hips and has a flowy fit. Which you may find especially nice after delivery, as the belly doesn’t immediately return to its former shape after the baby comes out and the extra coverage nursing tanks like this one offer may give you more confidence, even when it feels like your body is betraying you.
And, the racerback style eliminates the worry of slipping straps.
The Bad
A few moms did report that these tanks do eventually fall apart. But, the cotton fabric of this versatile tank is durable enough to see you all the way through your nursing journey.
The Best Nursing Bras Compared
The table below compares only the recommended products on this page. A low or high Price means it is low or high compared to the other products listed. The Popularity Score reflects how often readers click on and buy the product. The Quality Score is our assessment of the overall performance and satisfaction with the product compared to others in the table.
| Elomi Women's Smoothing Nursing Bra | 8.5 | 8.0 | 91.91 |
| Cake Lingerie Nursing Sports Bra | 8.3 | 8.0 | 72.00 |
| Anita Women's Nursing Bra | 8.1 | 8.0 | 69.00 |
| HOTmilk Obsession Nursing Bra | 8.4 | 9.2 | 52.46 |
| Kindred Bravely Sublime Low Impact Nursing Sports Bra | 9.9 | 9.2 | 47.99 |
| SUIEK Women's Nursing Tank Top | 9.9 | 9.2 | 35.99 |
| Kindred Bravely Extra Soft Organic Cotton Sleep Bra | 9.8 | 8.0 | 34.99 |
| WonderMoms Wireless Lace Nursing Bra | 9.4 | 7.4 | 34.99 |
| HOFISH 3PACK Seamless Nursing Maternity Bras | 9.9 | 9.2 | 29.99 |
| MOMANDA Nursing Lace Bralette | 9.6 | 7.8 | 26.00 |
| Bamboobies Nursing Bra | 8.7 | 8.8 | 24.99 |
| Motherhood Maternity Full Busted Seamless Nursing Bra | 9.9 | 8.8 | 17.00 |
| Motherhood Maternity Nursing Sleep Bra | 9.9 | 8.4 | 13.42 |
| Rosme Women's Nursing Bra | 3.9 | 6.8 | - |
| DotVol Women Plus Size Full Coverage Nursing Bra | - | - | - |
FAQs – Nursing Bras
Why are so many nursing bras wireless?
Underwire may hold breasts up higher and offer more support, but some people believe underwire nursing bras can inhibit the flow of breastmilk, cause clogged milk ducts, or cause mastitis. However, these beliefs are unfounded.
Like with most things, what causes issues for one person may not hinder another person. Some people may find that tight nursing bras can cause issues.
Overall, wireless nursing bras are more comfortable for your nursing breasts. Nursing can be difficult and painful. Your breasts are more sensitive and wire can trigger those sensitivities.
The choice is up to you if you want to use underwire nursing bras. If you find yourself with low milk flow, clogged milk ducts, or a breast infection, you may want to try wearing only wireless nursing bras and see if it makes a difference for you.
You can also cycle between underwire during the day and wireless at night, and that can help also.
Otherwise, you can try the trick I talked about earlier and put a piece of fleece under your bra’s wires for comfort. Many large-busted women have no choice and need the underwire for support. Keep your options open though, if possible.
How do I know what cup size to get? Will my breasts grow a lot when I start nursing?
Every woman is different. Some women will put on one cup size with pregnancy, but not when nursing. For others, it’s the opposite. Some may not gain any size at all and others still may put on a cup size with pregnancy and another when their milk comes in.
There is no way to know for sure what size bra you will need.
Buy a few pregnancy or maternity nursing bras with a little room for growth, and then buy the rest of the nursing bras you need once the baby is born and you know for sure what size your breasts need. You could also just buy a whole assortment and keep the receipt and return the ones that don’t fit.
Why do nursing bras come with such small straps?
The only reasonable explanation I have is that nursing bras were created by men. Just kidding. Kind of.
The problem with wider straps is they will show with most shirts, which women do not tend to like.
Second, if they are too wide they can slip off the shoulder and be a complete nuisance for you. I do wish bra companies would find a happy medium though.
We need to demand better nursing bras. The good news is, nursing bras improve every year. At least we aren’t wearing corsets!
How many nursing bras will I need?
The minimum amount of nursing bras you should own is three. One to wash, one to wear, and one on standby.
If you have the funds, the best choice would be to have three sleep nursing bras, three lounge nursing bras, and three going-out-in-public nursing bras. Not everyone can afford nine bras for a year. But if money isn’t an issue, nine nursing bras will ensure comfort and always have a clean bra on standby.
More often than you think, you will have to change your bra because of leaking. Even with breast pads, you will inevitably leak through.
I would suggest always having a nursing cover handy as it can cover up leaks until you can change nursing bras.
Do I need to wear a nursing bra in the swimming pool?
Forget a nursing bra under your swimsuit. Get a nursing swimsuit!
If nursing swimsuits don’t work for you, I would suggest wearing a racerback nursing tank top as a swim top and pairing it with some swim bottoms.
Can’t I just wear a normal bra instead of a nursing bra?
You can wear normal bras, but you will have to take the bra off every time you want to nurse, which is extremely inconvenient especially in public. Normal bras do not give instant access to your boobs to feed your baby.
If you only plan on nursing for the first couple of months and you do not want to invest a lot of money into nursing bras, then consider getting at least one good nursing bra to make those couple of months easier on yourself.
Read our article about the best bras to wear after breastfeeding for more bra options.
Do I need a nursing bra for pumping?
Some women do pump for extended periods and find a pumping bra can be invaluable.
For more information about pumping check out our best breast pump article and other related articles.
Which nursing bra style is better: A-Frame or Side-Sling?
This is more of a personal choice.
The A-Frame drop-cups offer more support but limit your ability to move your breast around for comfort when nursing. The side-slings offer more movement but are not as supportive. Try one of each if possible to find out which works best for you. If you do not like either option, you can use the criss-cross sleep nursing bras if you find this style to be easier. Also, you can use a bra with a front open panel.
Overall, moms with larger breasts will find the A-Frame to be a better fit for comfort and stability. Especially in public, as moms don’t usually want to swing large breasts around. If you are nursing twins, you will probably want an A-Frame as well for positioning.
The side-slings are better for home use or for smaller busted women but can work for larger busts also.
How can I keep my breasts comfortable during nursing?
Two great ways to stay comfortable nursing are nipple shields and nipple creams.
You can also use cabbage to help with tenderness and engorgement. Yes, you read that right. Some unknown properties in cabbages help soothe the breast. No wonder as a single cabbage leaf is practically the size and shape of a bra cup! Go figure.
My favorite go-to method to help with nursing was a warm bath. If I was engorged, the breastmilk would leak out and become a great way to soften the bathwater! Finally, try some ice packs for your breasts if the heat doesn’t work. The best way to stay comfortable when nursing is to buy a comfortable nursing bra.
Do I need nursing pads for my nursing bra?
Yes! Nursing pads prevent leakage all over your skin and will keep you comfortable and dry.
First, no mom wants damp boobs all day long. Second, leaking boobs are messy and just cause more work for you. Third, leaking milk in public is socially unacceptable. Nursing in public is barely acceptable. Now imagine walking around with milk just dripping off your body. No thank you. Nursing pads are necessary.
Although, at night I find they move around too much and I just used cloth diapers to soak up the milk. I just shoved them straight into my bra. Yes, they were bulky but soft and not that uncomfortable. Think about it, cloth diapers are meant to soak up liquids. Just don’t use the same cloth diapers on your breast that you use on your baby’s bottom!
