Mothers are known to be the most selfless, loving, and strongest people in the world. During the first year after giving birth, these traits are manifested even more through breastfeeding. It creates a deep connection between a mom and her baby while also providing the best source of nutrients for a newborn. Along with it comes changes in a woman's body, which will require the right undergarment.
Nursing bras give the proper support to the breasts, which will feel heavier because of the increased milk supply. Unlike regular bras, these have detachable cups, so moms can easily feed their babies without taking off the entire bra. With the variety of nursing bras on the market, we've prepared a buying guide, fact-checked by Obstetrician-Gynecologist Chona Fabian-Madarang, MD, as well as our picks for the 10 best nursing bras that you can buy online.
Quick List - Top Nursing Bras
Mamaway
Snug-Fitting Bra With Odor-Resistant Fabric
Dr. Chona Fabian-Madarang is a private practitioner specializing in women's health. She is always on the lookout for new innovations and inventions.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
After giving birth to your baby, your breast will increase in size and will also become fuller and heavier. A nursing bra is an undergarment specifically designed for breastfeeding moms to help support the extra weight of the breasts. Its cups can be clipped and folded down or pull to the side for quick and easy access. This bra can be conveniently used to breastfeed your baby anywhere.
This type of bra is very useful in making you feel comfortable when breastfeeding. Aside from that, it can provide protection to your sore nipples and help absorb excess milk as it comes with a nursing pad. Additionally, if you plan to do some workout to get back in shape, this bra is a must-have to avoid the risk of having an infection and sagging breasts.
Nursing bras are designed for breastfeeding moms to be comfortable during the breastfeeding period. They are non-wire, can easily be adjusted, and most of them are made from cotton. They usually have clip-on covers, so when it's time to breastfeed, you can just unclip the covers without removing the whole brassiere.
Here are some key points to consider:
More often than not, your pre-pregnancy bra size will no longer be the right fit for you. Since your chest area will be fuller, take note of your new measurements. Grab a medida to measure your bust size or the fullest part of your chest as well as the band size or the area below your breasts. Then, use a bra size calculator to get your new bra and cup size.
The next step is to check the store’s sizing chart to know if they carry your size. It is important to wear the correct bra size to stay comfortable, especially when you're little one is latching.
The right nursing bra should not be too tight because it might be a hindrance to your milk supply and may cause blocked ducts. Plus, wearing a nursing bra will help to prevent your breasts from sagging to maintain firmer breasts.
The nursing bra will provide support, especially when the breasts are full. It will lessen the chances of the breasts sagging.
While it's more comfortable to go bra-less at home when you're breastfeeding a newborn every hour or so, there is a variety of styles that you can consider should you need to wear a bra. The right one will depend on your routine or lifestyle. We have listed below a few options you can choose from.
The clip-down bra, which is sometimes called a drop-down cup, is the most common type of nursing bra. It features bra cups with clips, poppers, or hooks at the top to easily drop them down from the strap to feed your baby. A variant of this nursing bra has a middle cup closure, which places the buttons near the center gore of the bra.
It also has a thinner layer of fabric underneath, which covers some parts of the breast when the main cup is dropped down. This type of nursing bra is perfect for day-to-day use because it feels like you're wearing a regular bra- but with a double-layer cup. Plus, you can easily unhook or unclip the main cup with just one hand.
These are comfortable, airy, and convenient for nursing mothers. They are actually a must-have so your breastfeeding journey will be a breeze.
This kind of bra has a smooth and stretchy material for a light and comfortable feeling when breastfeeding at night. It has a crossover design that gives easy access to your newborn with no hooks or hard seams. This type and style of nursing bra is ideal for the initial postpartum period.
Sleep bras are convenient, especially for those just starting their breastfeeding journey.
If you want extra support, a nursing bra with contoured cups has a more structured design. It has soft cups that can be easily folded down to allow easy access for the baby. It provides shape and full coverage of the bust area that looks smooth under the clothes.
As stated, it will provide a structured design. However, make sure you really need this. The breastfeeding journey should be convenient and comfortable.
This type of bra is a special nursing bra specifically designed for moms who use a breast pump. It can be worn like a tube top with a zipper in the middle and 2 openings where the flanges will be inserted. It provides enough support and a firm hold of your milk bottle without the use of hands.
It makes hands-free pumping possible- perfect for busy moms who like to multitask. With this, you can express milk while working on the computer, finishing some paperwork, folding baby clothes, or watching the TV during your me-time.
This will be convenient for mothers with two or more babies, as you can do other household chores with the full use of your hands.
Just like regular bras, nursing bras can also be classified into non-wire and underwired bras. You can choose between the two depending on the level of comfort and support that you prefer.
If you prefer comfort over support, you can opt for a non-wired seamless bra. This bra gives your breasts some breathing room while still being snug. You don't feel restricted and avoid the feeling of being poked- typically caused by the wire. Your movements will be a lot more natural, and the chest area will have a natural shape as well.
These nursing bras are affordable, comfortable, and convenient.
Underwired bras are designed for those who have a large-sized bust area. It can provide sufficient support and lift for heavier breasts, as well as shape the cup. In general, it is a great solution if you suffer from back pain and strain due to the increased breast size.
Usually, this type of bra is made up of two or more materials to ensure that it maintains its fit and function. However, the wire tends to be visible through your clothes, so you may feel a little bit conscious about it.
When choosing the best nursing bra, consider the material or fabrics used for a better fit. Most nursing bras are made with cotton, polyester, nylon, or a cotton blend material, which is made with 80% cotton that's mixed with other fabrics, such as polyester, linen, or rayon. Of course, when it comes to breathability and comfort, 100% cotton is the best option.
You may also want to check if the fabric has moisture-wicking properties. This refers to its ability to absorb moisture, such as sweat and excess milk. Some nursing bras have spandex, which makes them stretchable- making them more suitable for your changing body because your breast size can change from time to time.
Choose the one that fits your needs. If you are a first-time mom, you'll want to choose a bra with the same materials as your regular bra. This is to lessen the chances of developing discomfort. However, make sure that even though they have the same materials, comfort is still the primary concern that needs to be addressed.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Mamaway Antibacterial Crossover Sleeping & Nursing Bra with Cups | ![]() | Snug-Fitting Bra With Odor-Resistant Fabric | |
2 | Nice Born Women Nursing Bra | ![]() | Affordable Nursing Bra With Full Bust Coverage | |
3 | Medela Easy Expression Bustier | ![]() | Hands-Free Pumping Bra to Finish More Tasks | |
4 | Mamaway Young and Free Nursing Bra | ![]() | Contoured Cup Bra With Flexible Wires | |
5 | So-En Maternity Bra | ![]() | Comfortable Nursing Bra From a Trusted Brand | |
6 | Inay Moments Cotton Crossover Sleep Nursing Bra | ![]() | Lightweight Sleep Bra for Relaxing at Home | |
7 | Milk Easy Nurse and Pump Easy Bra | ![]() | Nursing and Pumping Bra in One | |
8 | Barbizon Maternity Nursing Bra | ![]() | Non-wired Maternity With Full Coverage Cups | |
9 | Yabyab Floral Maternity Nursing Bra | ![]() | Switch It Up With a Sweet & Girly Pattern | |
10 | Hands-Free Pumping Bra With Extender | ![]() | Pumping Bra That You Can Wear All Day |
Mamaway's nursing bra is made with moist-wicking fabric that can absorb sweat or leaking milk from your nipples. The material used includes Meryl® Skinlife, which prevents bacteria growth to lessen unpleasant odors. In addition, it has a crossed front design for easy feeding- just pull the fabric aside, so your baby can start latching.
and maintaining
In addition, it comes with detachable padding, in case you need to replace it with breast pads. You can choose from 3 color options- pink, black, and nude. You can wear it day or night because it's so lightweight and non-restricting.
If you want an affordable and easy-to-use nursing bra, this undergarment from NiceBorn is for you. It features full bust coverage- providing a great fit for firmer and fuller breasts. The front buttons allow one-handed access for a simple and trouble-free way of breastfeeding. It also has a wide shoulder strap for extra support.
This maternity bra is made with cotton fabric, which is a breathable and moisture-wicking material that can easily absorb the excess milk from your breasts. The removable chest pads are made with anti-bacterial fabric that can be easily cleaned. Overall, it is a hassle-free nursing bra that is best to use during daytime nursing.
This Easy Expression Bustier from Medela is a pumping bra that makes it offers easier and more convenient to express milk. You can wear it on its own or over your nursing bra. In addition, it promotes hands-free pumping, so you can multitask and finish other errands or work at home, even at the office.
It features the Adaptive-Stretch technology that is designed to fit all body types- prioritizing comfort and support. It can securely hold the breast shields or pump flanges through its "drop of life" openings with reinforced stitching. Then you can close the bustier in the middle with a top hook and zipper. It is seamfree and is made of breathable nylon and spandex fabric.
Another quality item from Mamaway is the Young and Free Nursing Bra. It has 3D contoured cups for comfortability and support, especially for bigger bust sizes. It also features L-shaped wires that are flexible, you're not limited with your movements. The front area has a deep plunge for easy access when breastfeeding.
It is soft and smooth against the skin, while the shoulder straps are wide to promote even weight distribution. Aside from the drop-down clips, you can simply fold the cup to start the feeding. Most importantly, you can open and close the cups with just one hand.
It is designed with a stabilizing ballet back to lift the bust line and elongate the torso for a better body posture. At the same time, the removable bra extender will help you adjust your bra when your chest area grows larger.
So-En is one of the well-known and trusted undergarment brands in the country. They offer budget-friendly yet high-quality bras for all ages and body types. This maternity bra is very comfortable - perfect for everyday use. It also provides support through its durable and adjustable shoulder straps.
You can choose between 2 colors- melon and black. It's available in a variety of sizes, from 30 to 42 inches. This bra comes with special clasps on the straps and is also padded and non-wire, so you don't feel restricted while wearing it. You can also use this as your sleeping bra for a comfortable night feeding.
Inay Moment's sleep bra is the perfect nursing bra when you're just staying at home all day. It's lightweight, comfortable but still able to provide you support. It is made of a cotton-spandex blend to give it enough stretch- and with its crossover design, you can simply pull it down when it's time to feed your little one.
It has an elastic bust band for a snug fit. It doesn't have rims as well as hooks or clasps that might hurt your back- this gives you a smooth and seamless back as well. It comes with removable foam pads- so you have the option to use breast pads if you need a thicker layer that will absorb excess milk.
This Nurse and Pump Easy Bra from Milk Easy is a great maternity bra for moms who regularly express milk, whether at home or at work. It combines the functions of a regular nursing bra and a pumping bra- while looking like a regular bra. It's the perfect on-the-go pumping bra that can firmly hold the flange and milk bottle and lets you do some of your errands at the same time.
It is a seamless and non-wired bra - giving you support without the risk of having clogged milk ducts. It comes with snap hooks, adjustable straps, and removable pads- all these contribute to the overall function of the Easy Bra for a worry-less pumping routine.
Barbizon's Maternity Nursing bra is a non-wired and lightly padded undergarment that offers full coverage cups. These provide the right support and comfort that your busts need. It has lacey details with a small ribbon accent on the center gore for a bit of style.
This nursing bra has detachable front cups, adjustable shoulder straps, as well as hook and eye closure at the back for a secure fit. In addition, it's a clip-down bra that can help prevent sagging and maintain the shape of the breasts. This is suitable for moms out there who want a simple and useful breastfeeding accessory.
This nursing bra from Yabyab features a pink floral pattern, which is a cute alternative to plain bras that come in neutral colors, such as black, beige, and white. It is made of 90% cotton and 10% spandex for a comfortable fit. In addition, it is a contoured cup bra with padded cups for a more defined shape and support.
It has adjustable straps as well as adjustable hooks at the back, which ensures that it won't easily come off while you're breastfeeding. You can open and close the main cups through their middle snap closure. Overall, it offers the functionality of a nursing bra without leaving out the style.
This nursing bra is specially designed for moms who are exclusively expressing milk via a breast pump. It features a double-layer- the first one being the main cup with the flange openings. The second layer serves as the outer layer that covers the main cups. You simply pull it down when you're ready to pump, then pull it up again once you're done.
With the elasticity of the fabric, it ensures a well-shaped bust area. It has a three-row buckle at the back that won't easily come even when you do a lot of movements. This special maternity bra is ideal for physically active moms as well.
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by OB-GYN Dr, Chona Fabian-Madarang.
As your bundle of joy grows each day, there are a lot of baby essentials you must prepare to provide for his needs. Check out the articles below for more buying guides and product recommendations that will lend you a hand in your parenthood journey.
Author: Cristel Joy Aron
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Mamaway|Antibacterial Crossover Sleeping & Nursing Bra with Cups
No. 2: Nice Born|Women Nursing Bra
No. 3: Medela|Easy Expression Bustier
No. 4: Mamaway|Young and Free Nursing Bra
No. 5: So-En|Maternity Bra
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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