The best nursing bras fit well, are incredibly comfortable, and easy to unhook. When I was shopping for my first nursing bra, I quickly discovered that shopping for one wasn’t like regular bra shopping. There are many different considerations, from accounting for your changing breast size to finding a bra that’s comfortable enough to wear overnight. I finally found a style that worked for me, but it took some serious time and energy. To help you find the best nursing bra possible, we asked the experts at maternity store Bump Brooklyn in Park Slope for their top tips. We also rounded up the best nursing bras on the market! So, check out these fit tips — and click through to see which nursing bras to buy now.
1. Don’t stock up on nursing bras too soon. Wait until the last 6 weeks or so of your pregnancy to purchase your nursing bras and then only get two (one to wear and one to wash). Your cup size will be closer to what it’s going to be once you’re nursing (if you buy the bras too early you might get a size that’s too small). You can stock up on more nursing bras once your baby is born and you’re breastfeeding; you’ll know then if you need a different size.
2. Plan to buy a size that’s bigger than what you normally wear. Your breast size will increase once your milk comes in after your baby is born. You may also want to ask a salesperson to measure you; your breasts begin to change size as soon as you get pregnant, and knowing your correct size now will help you predict the size your breasts will be once you’re nursing.
3. But, remember that your belly will make the band a little tighter. So, it’s okay if you are on the last or second to last clasp. You want to have room to tighten your band as your rib cage and diaphragm get back to “normal.” Your back strap should go straight across your back (no hiking up) and you should be able to comfortably put a finger under your bra strap.
4. Look for a bra with cups that cover and support your breasts. You don’t want to feel like you are falling out or overflowing. You also want to have room on the strap to make your bra tighter as it stretches a bit and your breasts get smaller (they will at some point). Most importantly, make sure it feels comfortable. Move your arms a bit, bend over and make sure you are being held in place. You are going to be moving around a lot with your baby and your bra needs to support you in that process!
Nursing Bras
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Bravado Designs Buttercup Convertible Maternity/Nursing Bra
Criss-cross the straps to wear under a racerback or use it for standard tees and dresses with the traditional setting. This butter-soft and stretchy convertible nursing bra comes in nude, black, and a fun watercolor print, and it provides mild support without underwire.
Photo: Nordstrom -
Charley M By Cake Lingerie Maternity Viva Plunge Bra
Who knew that a nursing bra could be supportive, functional, and this sexy at once? There are tons of gorgeous nursing bras out there with lace and other pretty details, but the mesh detail on this one is special and sleek. Bra features supportive band, seam-free cups, and an easy clip-down.
Photo: ASOS -
Cosabella Never Say Never Mommie Bra
A lace nursing bra for the mama who wants something a little sexier. This one comes in an array of colors and despite being really pretty, it’s also super comfy. The soft band won’t dig, even if you start wearing it while you’re still pregnant.
Photo: Cosabella -
Gilligan Seamless Nursing Bra
Every nursing mama needs a basic, soft bra she can sleep, nurse, and run errands in. At under $20, this one fits the bill without breaking the bank. Wireless, streamlined, and easy to unhook one-handed, this Target nursing bra is a must-have.
Photo: Target -
MAMA 2-Pack Conscious Nursing Bras
These organic cotton nursing bras from H&M are both earth- and body-friendly. Soft cotton nursing bras like this often come in letter sizes S-XL, but these offer a full band and cup size range like a standard bra for a more accurate fit and better support.
Photo: H&M -
La Leche League “Serena” Nursing Sports Bra
Taking baby for a run or to Pilates class? Or, just don’t have time to change between a workout and a feed? Nursing sports bras are a genius invention. This one from La Leche League offers plenty of support to keep the girls in place while you’re in motion, and clips down seamlessly for nursing on-the-go.
Photo: Q-T Intimates -
Lamaze Maternity Cotton Comfort Sleep Bra
Speaking of nursing sleep bras, it really doesn’t get any better than this one. A simple criss-cross design and flexible cotton spandex make it the perfect nursing bra to wear from day through the night. The fabric easily pulls aside for nursing without any clips. And, it’s a great price!
Photo: Amazon -
Motherhood Seamless Clip Down Nursing Bra
This no-frills, seamless nursing bra is sure to be your go-to. In five color options that blend seamlessly into your wardrobe, and a soft, full-coverage construction, it’s an easy-on, wear-with-anything option. Bonus: with light support and mega softness, this is a good one to sleep in, too.
Photo: Motherhood -
Rosie Pope Pump & Nurse Underwire Bra
This zip-closure nursing bra is easy to get on and off, plus it offers two pull-down options: exposing the whole breast to nurse or just the nipple for pumping. With underwire for support and lace details for a pretty touch, this is an all-around top pick.
Photo: Nordstrom
