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How to Find the Perfect Nursing Bra and What to Consider? With or Without Underwire? Bralette or Bra? And What About the Right Size?

These are questions that every mom who wants to breastfeed her baby ponders. After all, it's inconvenient to have to completely undress your chest before every feeding while on the go.

The perfect nursing bra should offer high comfort, easy access, a snug fit, and breast support. Quite a few requirements, but don't worry, we'll tell you how to find this ideal companion easily.

1. WHAT SIZE DO I NEED?

When you're still pregnant, it can be challenging to buy a nursing bra in the right size. As a rule of thumb, you should add at least one size to the bra size you wear at the end of your pregnancy because your breasts will increase in size after your milk comes in. The underbust measurement usually remains unchanged.

Therefore, we recommend buying a nursing bra at the end of your pregnancy that is 1-2 sizes larger than your current well-fitting bra. This way, you'll be prepared after giving birth and can then calmly look for additional models. You'll know your nursing bra is no longer the right size when it doesn't provide proper support and isn't comfortable. The shape of your breasts may change multiple times during your breastfeeding journey.

Our Tip: If you're already breastfeeding, try on the nursing bra with full breasts, not immediately after nursing. This way, you can determine your current size more accurately. You can find instructions on how to measure your bra size correctly on this page.

2. WHAT MATERIAL IS IDEAL FOR A NURSING BRA?

Nursing bras come in all shapes and variations. Many women find nursing bras without underwire more comfortable or opt for nursing bralettes. These options don't cut in and are less likely to compress.

However, for fuller breasts in larger sizes, you should consider a nursing bra with underwire to provide optimal breast support.

Whether it's sporty or with lace – the style of your nursing bra is a matter of personal preference. But it should fit well. If your nursing bra is too tight, it can press heavily on your breasts, which can become very painful. It might even lead to an uncomfortable milk blockage.

Your ideal nursing bra should be made of stretchy material so it can adapt to minor changes during your breastfeeding journey. Additionally, make sure the material is machine washable and dries quickly.

Padded cups have two advantages: they protect your sensitive nipple from friction and catch unexpected milk droplets in small amounts.

3. NURSING BRA WITH UNDERWIRE: YES OR NO?

Nursing bras offer more comfort than regular bras. Breasts are more sensitive during breastfeeding, and many women find softer models more comfortable.

Most nursing bras do away with underwire since it can often squeeze the breasts and, in the worst case, lead to a milk blockage.

If you need a nursing bra in a larger size and prefer one with underwire, ensure it fits perfectly so it remains comfortable even after extended wear.

4. THE RIGHT CLOSURE: THE MATTER WITH THE CLASP

The variety of nursing bras is extensive, and the same goes for closures. We'll explain the advantages and disadvantages of each option.

NURSING BRAS WITH FRONT CLOSURE

Some nursing bras have a front closure between the cups. You simply undo the hooks before nursing and expose your breast. The advantage is that you only need one hand to open it, while the other can attend to the baby. However, this option is less common these days.

If your nursing bra has a front zipper, please ensure that it doesn't constrict your skin or, worse, the tissue.

Most nursing bras can be opened and pulled down from the front with a clip on the strap, fully exposing your breast.

NURSING BRALETTES & NURSING CUPS: COMFORTABLE FOR WOMEN WITH SMALL BREASTS

Nursing bralettes don't have hooks at all. We recommend this option for women with smaller breasts or for nighttime nursing when support is less crucial. Nursing bralettes are especially comfortable and often made of very soft material.

Additionally, there are nursing bras that don't fully expose the breast, only a portion. These are called nursing cups. We also recommend this option for women with smaller sizes, as nursing bras with larger sizes may squeeze and cause discomfort.

NURSING TANK TOPS: THE COMFORTABLE ALTERNATIVE

They are discreet and can be worn under clothing or as a top: We're talking about nursing tank tops. These tank tops don't have underwire, are seamless, and are described by many moms as particularly comfortable. The cups are sewn in, allowing you to breastfeed your baby discreetly. They don't provide as much support as other models and are therefore more suitable for women with smaller breasts.

NURSING BRAS IN LARGE SIZES: WHAT TO CONSIDER

If you have larger breasts, a clasp closure is your best choice. Often, these models have a more stable underbust band compared to nursing bralettes, providing firmer support. Additionally, make sure your nursing bra has at least two, preferably three hooks for closure.

5. NURSING PADS FOR UNPLEASANT SURPRISES

Your breasts are working hard, so leaks can happen. This is entirely normal and nothing to be embarrassed about.

Nursing pads not only provide extra-soft cushioning for your sensitive nipples but also catch the occasional milk droplet. Because, especially in the early weeks of breastfeeding, even the best nursing bra cup can't catch every drop.

Whether you prefer disposable products from the drugstore or opt for the sustainable choice of washable pads is a matter of personal preference. If you choose reusable nursing pads, you have options like silk, cotton, or wool inserts. Nowadays, you can also find great nursing bra models on the market that are so absorbent that you can completely forgo nursing pads.

Now, choosing the right nursing bra is child's play. We wish you and your baby a fulfilling breastfeeding journey!