Finding the best nursing bras for your somewhat-foreign postpartum body is a challenge at best. Not only are you in need of a different-sized bra than you wore before and during pregnancy, there’s a shortlist of prerequisites breastfeeding bras need to meet — and they’re much more rigorous than the requirements of “regular” bras.
“When you’re shopping for nursing bras, you want something that’s supportive without being too restrictive,” says Molly Petersen, a certified lactation counselor at Lansinoh. “Bras that are too tight can pinch off the ducts that move milk through your breasts. This can cause plugged ducts, which may turn into mastitis, which can cause some moms to have supply issues.”
Petersen also notes that a bra that works one month for a nursing mom may not fit quite right the next. “Be prepared to shop for nursing bras more than once when you’re breastfeeding,” she says. “Many moms will go through a few size changes, as their weight fluctuates and their baby’s breastfeeding habits evolve.”
Ready to find your ideal breastfeeding bra? Here are 10 of the best nursing bras for every type of need.
1. Best nursing sleep bra
With over 3,000 5-star reviews, it’s no surprise that the Nursing & Sleep Bra from Kindred is so popular.
“I couldn’t ask for more in a nursing bra,” one reviewer wrote on the Kindred Bravely website. “I’ve used these bras through two kids and beyond. I’m pretty sure I will wear these nursing bras well after the end of my nursing days because they are soooo comfortable!”
Where to buy: French Terry Nursing & Sleep Bra ($25, Kindred Bravely)
2. Most comfortable nursing bra
“Target was always my go-to for super comfy nursing bras,” says mom of two Michelle Lee, of Cranford, New Jersey. “I just wanted something that was affordable, offered good coverage and that had easy-to-unclip, drop-down cups since breastfeeding under a nursing cover often turned into a wrestling match!”
Where to buy: Nursing Seamless Bra by Auden ($17, Target)
3. Most supportive nursing bra
“I love the Everyday Nursing Bra from Storq,” says mom of three Jana Branson, of Maplewood, New Jersey. “It’s soft but still very supportive — a must for me, as I’m currently nursing my third. I have the black since it hides leaks best!”
Where to buy: Everyday Nursing Bra ($48, Storq)
4. Best nursing cami with a built-in bra
Looking for an easy, go-with-everything nursing camisole with clip-down straps? The Clip-Down Nursing Cami is a steal at $15 and it’s perfect for under cardigans or on its own. Done and done.
Where to buy: Clip-Down Nursing Cami ($15, Motherhood Maternity)
5. Best nursing sports bra
Who knows breastfeeding better than La Leche League International? No one, that’s who! The drop-down style sports bra from LLLI has gotten rave reviews on Amazon, thanks to it’s soft material and easy access.
Also, when shopping for a sports nursing bra, keep your intended workout in mind.
“Pay attention to what level of intensity the nursing sports bra is intended for,” says Elisa Minsk Hartstein, president and founder of Milk Nursingwear. “For example, there are several yoga sports nursing bras that work well for moderate workouts. They may be very comfortable for light activity, but would not offer adequate support for running or high-intensity activities.”
Where to buy: La Leche League International Nursing Sports Bra (starting at $18, Amazon)
6. Best hands-free pumping bra
While this bustier would be too restrictive to wear as a nursing bra, it comes in extremely handy for hands-free pumping. Whether you’re pumping at work or pumping at home while scrolling Instagram on your phone, this bustier makes pumping a no-handed breeze.
Where to buy: Lansinoh Simple Wishes Hands-Free Pump Bustier ($30, Target)
7. Best nursing and pumping bra
For a nursing bra accessory that helps you pump hands-free without changing into an entirely different bra, try the Bravado Designs Clip & Pump Hands-Free Nursing Bra Accessory. You slip it on over the bra you’re wearing, pull down said bra, and then slip the flanges through the holes for hands-free pumping. And when you’re done, simply unclip and pull your existing bra back up.
Where to buy: Bravado Designs Clip & Pump Hands-Free Nursing Bra Accessory ($30, Bravado Designs)
8. Best cotton nursing bra
For a cotton nursing bra that’s inexpensive and no frills, it’s hard to beat the two-pack of nursing bras from Loving Moments. Made from a cotton blend with wide padded shoulder straps, these drop-down nursing bras are as comfy as it gets.
Where to buy: Loving Moments by Leading Lady Nursing Bras ($27 for 2, Walmart)
9. Prettiest lace nursing bra
“I was so sick of my boring nude, white and black cotton nursing bras that I had to buy something new,” says Erika Kessler, of Lynn, Massachusetts. “I wound up getting a lacy nursing bralette from Amazon, and I was surprised at how much more put-together it made me feel.”
Where to buy: Momanda Wire-Free Lightly Lined Lace Maternity Nursing Bralette ($24, Amazon)
10. Best pushup nursing bra
Think you don’t need a pushup bra because you’re nursing? Think again. As time goes on and your body changes due to your baby’s milk needs evolving, you may be looking for a little lift. With slight padding and adjustable straps, the Gratlin nursing bra will give you exactly the kind of boost you’re looking for.
Where to buy: Gratlin Padded Pushup Underwire Nursing Bra ($17, Amazon)
Tips for buying nursing bras
Since the wrong bra could indirectly cause mastitis, it’s important to know what to look for. According to Hartstein, here are a few things to keep in mind when looking for the best nursing bras:
- Comfort. “Most nursing moms will be wearing a bra day and night during the first few weeks, so you want to feel good,” says Hartstein. “In the beginning, look for nursing bras made from soft fabric that have some stretch and that don’t have uncomfortable trims that can be scratchy, like lace.”
- Fit. Hartstein recommends getting fitted professionally for a bra toward the end of your pregnancy. “A good rule of thumb is to buy a nursing bra during the third trimester that’s one cup size larger than you wear at that point. And then once your milk regulates after four to six weeks, get refitted for your nursing bras.”
- Ease of access. Of course, the main purpose of a nursing bra is to offer easy-access when it’s time to breastfeed or pump. Hartstein notes that if a bra is complicated or requires a lot of effort, it’s probably not worth it. “There are two types of access: drop-down cup style, where there’s a clasp that you release to drop down the cup, and pull-down style, where there are no clasps and you simply pull the cup of the bra down under the breast,” she says. “For drop-down cups, it is important to test out opening the clasp to see how easy it is to release. Ideally, you’ll be able to open the clasps with one hand. And for pull-down styles, you want to make sure you can easily pull the fabric down low enough to comfortably latch your baby on.”
- One that fits the intended use. Just as you had a variety of bras pre-breastfeeding, you’ll want to have a selection for a range of purposes. “Select the type of nursing bra according to your needs,” says Hartstein. “A T-shirt nursing bra will look smooth under more fitted clothing. A sexy, lacy nursing bra will make you feel attractive and works well under less fitted outfits. And for days where you are around the house, you may prefer the comfort of a leisure or sleep bra.”
