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When a mama bear begins nursing their little one, their breasts tend to take on a life of their own. In other words, if you haven’t fed the little one in a while, the breasts will become swollen and rock hard, and when done with nursing, become smaller and soft just like they were before. pregnancy.
Therefore, during this time it is essential for the nursing mother to look for the best nursing bras as they are designed to deal with the literal ups and downs of breastfeeding. The nursing bra features to be quite comfortable and made from a stretchy fabric, providing easy access for the baby in the feeding sessions with the help of the pull-down or push-aside cups.
What are the different kinds of nursing bras available for breastfeeding mothers ?
Just like regular bras, the nursing bra is available in the market in various styles. These include:
- The underwire or wireless nursing bra
- Lined or unlined nursing bra
- Shaped cups or seamless nursing bra
Just like this, there is a nursing sleep bra too that is to be worn overnight or while you are pumping. Likewise, many come with more rows of hooks that are attached to the band to accommodate fluctuating sizes due to the body changes in the postpartum period.
How To Choose The Best Nursing And Pumping Bra?
Here are the things that you must keep in mind when shopping for a nursing or pumping bra:
- They should be comfortable – When choosing your best nursing bras, make sure they are comfortable and relaxing to be worn for the whole day. You certainly don’t want to change every 30 mins to feed.
- The nursing bras must have extra hooks – In order to have a seamless fit for the ever-changing size, make sure to check if the nursing bra has extra columns of hook and eye closure.
- Padding and lining – Given that the breasts become larger when breastfeeding, you may want to pick a bra that has light padding when you nurse as it helps to absorb any milk leakage.
Top 9 Best Nursing Bras To Choose From!
To know and pick the best nursing bra or a hands-free pumping bra, Parenthoodbliss has accumulated a list of the top 9 best nursing bras here. Read on to pick one that is comfortable, stylish, and convenient for breastfeeding.
1. Bravado Maternity Silk Seamless Nursing Bra
This best nursing bras from Bravado feature to be super comfortable as they are made to be soft and seamless avoiding the sensitive nipples to rub against or experience poking on the sides. They also have shoulder strap clips that allow you to pull the cups down to nurse the little one or you can choose to even remove the removable foam that is inserted for shaping the maternity bra. The highlight of this bra is that they are multifunctional and can be turned into a regular bra by using the conversion kit included when you purchase.
Additional Specs Include –
- Size Range – XS-XXL
- Machine washable
- 91% nylon, 100% elastane and 9% spandex
- Has a Hook and eye Closure
Amazon Reviews
Just in time to go back to work, I found this bra. As a pre-pregnancy 36I, I’ve been uncomfortably shoved into XXL of whatever cheap five-pack nursing bras I could find for a while. I was not happy to have to spend this much more to get a bra I didn’t even know would fit, but it’s worth it! After I got this and wore it a couple times, I ordered three more! These are now my go-to nursing bras, though the old stash sometimes still get some play for sleeping or working from home. Buying one of these for my sister to try since she’s pregnant with her first and similarly endowed.
As of writing this review, I’m 14 weeks PP, 5’6″, 188lbs and bought the XL-Plus/full cup
Fabric is so comfy feels like a sports bra that doesn’t squish your boobs but with more support. I can’t breath with underwire bras and not to say to much but being pregnant my boobs are sore. This bra feels great and doesn’t hurt wearing it all day. Great product 👌
For more product reviews visit Amazon
2. Boob Fast Food T-Shirt Nursing Bra
This best nursing bra features removable pads with clip-down cups and is made from recycled and sustainable materials that are certified to be free of harmful chemicals. Also comes in an eye-and hook band the nursing tank can be extended as per the size both, during and after pregnancy.
Additional Specs Include –
- Size Range – S-XL
- Machine washable
- 89% polyamide with 78% recycled material and 11% elastane
- Eye and hook closure
Amazon Reviews
I was looking for a sports bra to use while nursing and although this one cost a bit more than I had hoped to spend it has been totally worth it. It is very comfortable to wear running and nurse in. I’m a size 34B and got a size small which fits great. The material is soft and smooth. It’s very supportive while running which is what I was really looking for. Love it – was worth the price!
Great support! I had to exchange for a smaller size but worth the extra steps. Fits great and is supportive even for a larger chest. Worth the money!
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3. Cake Maternity Rock Candy Nursing Bra
When using this maternity nursing bra, one doesn’t need to worry about the bra straps slipping down as you already have a lot on your plate. It features molded cups that lift with grippy straps that provide support all day long. The removable contoured foam pads allow you to shape with the drop-down cups offering quick access in the nursing period. This maternity bra also has adjustable straps for a racerback nursing or racerback style experience.
Additional Specs Include –
- Size Range – S-XL
- Machine washable
- Made from 92% nylon and 8% elastane
- Has an eye and hook band
Amazon Reviews
I was looking mostly for a sleeping bra, but this one offers such a great support that could be worn as a daytime bra as well. It is very soft and comfortable, nursing clasps are easy to use in the middle of the night. The fit is snug, but comfortable to sleep in. Thick straps offer really good support. I was 36 DDD before pregnancy and now of course my boobs are fuller with milk, so I went with Large. It fits great. I am not using the inserts as they seem a bit too small for the bra cups, which is fine with me. I do use disposable nursing pads any way, so no need to use both. As for the price, it surely is pricey, especially since I like having two bras for sleeping and two bras from another brand for daytime, so they can be washed and used without wearing out too much. But I also know that boobs are one body part that can’t be fixed in the gym. As a nursing mom, this is the most crucial time in having the right breast support so they don’t lose their shape. I also spent a lot of money on other brands of bras after my first pregnancy and none of those survived the wear. I have a lot of confidence in this brand. So even though expensive, it’s an investment that’s worth the pric
I bought my first Cake bra at a Nordstrom, and it’s been the only bra to stick with me through both pregnancy AND postpartum. I had others from Target, Macy’s, etc. and they all eventually wore out. Not only is the band resilient, it’s easy to adjust the padding insert and the straps, and the clips are secure. It’s really easy to fold the cups down while I’m at work to pump, and I can put myself back together one-handed after my little one falls asleep on my arm after a nursing session.
When I had to throw away 2 other bras in 2 days from wear and tear, I decided to see if Amazon had the bra or something similar. I was THRILLED to find the bra, and even happier to see it was at least $20 cheaper than when I bought it in store.
For more product reviews visit Amazon
4. Third Love 24/7 Classic Wireless Nursing Bra
As the brand is known for, these maternity bras are comfortable, stylish and are available in three options; classic, wireless with a front closure. While purchasing these wire-free soft fabric bras on the market you may earn a fortune as they come with return policymaking the wireless bra super convenient to find the perfect fit for when the baby arrives.
Additional Specs Include –
- The size of the lightly padded bra has a wide range from 32 to 48, A-I
- Machine washable
- Made from Pima cotton, modal, spandex
- Has an eye and hook feature
5. Anita Microfiber Underwire Nursing Bra
This underwire bra provides good support, especially for bigger boobs. They feature lifts and larger cup sizes with a smooth look. However, this bra has nursing pads for new moms, therefore, they may be visible under thinner shirts and have a low impact.
Additional Specs Include –
- The bra size range is 32C-44E
- Hand wash
- Is made from 80% nylon and 20% elastane
- Eye and hook band
Amazon Reviews
This is the closest bra i could find to one I had from soma years ago. It’s truly unlined (no pad or shaped cups ) I like thin material ,i have large boobs and don’t want any extra added . I’m a 34DDD in other brands I got 34f and it fits great
I love these nursing bras. I have been nursing one child or another since 2011, and have also nursed while pregnant, so that’s a special nursing bra requirement as well. Lots of nursing bras have gone through here. I don’t think I will ever buy another bra, I love these so much.
Now, what I like might not be what you like, so: I love that these are unlined. I generally like unlined bras, but I really like them for nursing because I find them more comfortable to pull down. There is no strap padding. The straps for my size(s) are a tad thick, but nothing bulky and embarrassing. I did have another Anita bra with strap padding, and I did not care for it. There isn’t a bazillion hooks. I have extenders if they’re needed, but majority of the time I have a bra, I don’t want to need them, and I don’t want all that extra fabric. it is pretty streamlined.
What I don’t like: Really, I can’t think of anything.
I had another Anita nursing bra in a different style that I did not like. The bottom part rolled over, which was annoying. And as I already mentioned, the strap padding was not ideal.
One last thing I want to mention about this bra. As long as you get it in a larger size, it is VERY forgiving. I originally bought this in a 32H. A few months later I bought it in a 32F. That’s not an insignificant size difference. Even though the smaller bra is definitely what fits me *properly*, I can still wear the 32H comfortably. The cups go back way further than my breasts, but the cup is so moldable, that it still keeps everything in place just as it should.
Now I’m hoping that larger size will last me through most of this next pregnancy!!
– Gina
For more product reviews visit Amazon
6. Hotmilk Women's Show-Off Nursing and Maternity Bra
The Hotmilk women’s T-shirt bra has good nursing access while featuring fun, lacy patterns, and colors with structured cups providing the nursing moms a wireless shaping and support. The foam cups are cotton-lined which makes it much easier for the skin to breathe and the nipples dry. Not only that, there are coordinating underwear too that create a set that you’ll for sure want to buy.
Additional Specs Include –
- A size range of 32B-38H, 40C-42H
- Machine washable
- Made from 92% nylon and 8% elastane
- Eye and hook band
Amazon Reviews
Yay! It took a couple of tries but I finally found a bra in the right size, w/o underwires that I can wear for the last couple months of my pregnancy. I am a big busted gal and couldn’t imagine not having underwires until my ribs started expanding with my pregnancy – WOW is that painful! I got rid of the underwires and increased my band size to help with the discomfort. This bra is great! Super soft, with multiple hooks on the back for expansion of the rib cage. Now if they only had in it my size in the nude color so I could lose the tank top (this summer is SO HOT) to cover the navy color under my lighter colored shirts! I bought one cup size up for post pregnancy and I think between this one and that one, I will be well covered 🙂 I bought a 36G and 34H.
I’m nursing my fourth baby currently and am large chested (36I). I have been through countless nursing bras, custom made, store brand, high dollar stores and specialty ones. This bra is one of my all time favorites. It’s extremely comfortable, supportive without wires, easy clasp closure for nursing and it’s pretty! I like how easily adjustable it is and although I was initially worried about the seam on the cup, it isn’t visible unless you are wearing a tight fitting, thin shirt. The price is not the cheapest but it isn’t the most I’ve spent on a bra. I would buy this again in a heart beat.
– CJ Young
For more product reviews visit Amazon
7. Ingrid & Isabel Nursing Bra
This motherhood maternity nursing bra features a seamless nursing bra with soft, stretchy, comfortable wear. A drop-down cups allow the nursing a breeze and is considered to be ideal for Petites.
Additional Specs Include –
- These bras are designed in a size range of XS-XL
- Is machine washable
- Made from 92% nylon and 8% spandex
- Eye and hook band
Amazon Reviews
I love this nursing cami, I have 2 and will probably get another. I prefer a cami style because I can pull my shirt up to nurse without being exposed or just wear these tops around the house without a shirt. I am tall and the length is good (even in 3rd tri) and doesn’t ride up. It is more of a shape wear style, so I can wear it underneath my tops and it looks flattering. This cami is different than others because there is no built in band/shelf bra to dig into you but there is still enough support. I am a size 2, 34A pre-pregnancy and the small fits well. If you are in between, I would size up. My only gripe is that the padding was creased the way it was folded in the packaging. I have washed the cups and the crease is softer, but still there. Hopefully it will flatten out with another wash or two.
Priced higher than I would normally like to spend, but a great quality undershirt (even when your done nursing).
For more product reviews visit Amazon
8. Simple Wishes signature Hands-Free pumping Nursing Bra
This maternity bra features holding pump bottles up to the breasts for about 20+ minutes one-handed ( if not comfortable) or hands-free, not restricting your work. It features flanges and bottles that hold in place, are compatible, can convert into a racerback, tank top, or in a halter style, and can be worn throughout the day.
Additional Specs Include –
- 2 size range – XS-L and L-Plus
- Is machine washable
- Made from 83% cotton and 17% spandex
- Hook and eye
Amazon Reviews
I’m 35w pregnant and was looking for a comfortable, well structured nursing bra. I think this will be it! Adjusting the back panel was easy and it feels wide/comfortable across my back. Clipping the shoulder straps was also easy and they were simple to adjust. I love the front zipper which I think will serve as easy on from the front- which I like bc the girls are sensitive and I don’t want to have to spin the bra around from the back to the front to put on. The operative words here are COMFORTABLE and EASY. Glad I had it on my registry.
Pros
Just got it and already love it! I love the fact that I can wear my regular nursing bra and just throw this on to pump. Love that it is adjustable and ease of putting it on. It was super easy to attach Spectra flanges. It is comfortable and soft. Love the pink color. Will also be ordering in black.
Cons
Although is easy to put on my only recommendation would be to add an i hook to the top to help us larger chested folks. I did struggle a bit to get the zipper started due to zipper having such a wide spread. I don’t believe I could wear this as a bra all day due to lack of support. The girls get heavy. But definitely will be part of my daily pumping regimen.
For more product reviews visit Amazon
9. Maternity GapFit Medium-Impact Nursing Sports bras
This sports bra features good support when you are working out, or otherwise, for an extra boost. It is made from a breathable, moisture-wicking material that also keeps the skin dry with adjustable straps that can undo at the front while nursing.
Additional Specs Include –
- Available in a size range of XS-XXL
- Machine washable
- Made from 77% Polyester and 23% Spandex.
- Hook and eye
To Conclude:
Choosing the best nursing bra is a vital purchase for best nursing, be it a sleep bra, sports bra, a bra with pumps, or a hand-free nursing bra. This doesn’t mean you need to assign a whole new drawer just for these new nursing lingeries. But, a new mom must pick the ones that will be required the most with the breast size and comfort. You can make use of the list above as well that features the best picks for the best nursing!
On the other hand, you can also make your nursing period easy by using the best nursing pillows, wear nursing robes, store breast milk, and use nipple creams.
Best Nursing Bras FAQs
1) Do you really need a nursing bra ?
2) Should you wear a nursing bra at night ?
3) What are the other ways to have a healthy nursing session ?
4) When must one wear a maternity bra?
5) Will my breast sag if I don't wear a nursing bra during my pregnancy?
Reviewed By-
Brandi Nicole, Lactation Consultant
Brandi Nicole is a pediatric nurse, a postpartum doula, and an international board-certified lactation consultant. She is a proud member of the International Lactation Consultant Association, the United States Lactation Consultant Association, and the Bay Area Lactation Associates.
