The Best Breastfeeding Bras:
Which is Your Perfect Fit?
Other Moms Size Them Up

It's just too easy to spend a tushie-load of money on bras that look better on the model than they feel on you.

And since you're going to be living, 24-7, in these bras, it's important to find the best nursing bra for you.

Easier said than done. A drawer full of rejects in my bedroom can attest to that.

Save your self the drawer-space (not to mention the money) by doing some due diligence before you whip out the credit card.

In other words, know what you're looking for before you start looking. That's what this article is all about.

• Learn about the various types of breastfeeding bras, so you can consider which style(s) most appeal to you.
• See how to self-measure your bust to ensure that you're ordering or purchasing a bra that will actually fit comfortably.
• Where to find plus sized nursing bras. (Yes, they are out there!)
• Get pointers on shopping for nursing pads. Washable? or Disposable? Which is best for you?
• Finally, see what moms like you and me had to say about the top brands of breastfeeding bras. Move past the mannequin and see what living-breathing breastfeeders liked and disliked about the so-called "favorites".

So let's jump right in!

Which Style is Best for You?

• Fastens in the front, between the breasts. Mothers report that it they are easy to open and close. These can be difficult to find in stores. Here's an example of the fasten-in-front style breast feeding bra.
• Flaps fasten above each cup. Most breastfeeding bras follow this pattern. Make sure the flap opening is wide enough for your entire breast, not just the nipple (which can cause plugged ducts). Here's an example of the standard nursing bra.
• Stretchy, sports-bra like breastfeeding bras. This style is very comfortable and is extremely useful as you are working hard to get back into those pre-preg jeans! They have an additional layer of mesh to pull sweat away from your nipples and prevent bacteria from settling in. Here's an example of a sports nursing bra.
• Crossover breastfeeding bras. These are very similar to the sports-like bra. They do not have latches or snaps, instead relying on a crossover front design. This design allows you to slip your breast out quickly and easily, one handed. This type of nursing bra is extremely popular as a nighttime bra (but can be worn anytime). Here's an example of a crossover nursing sleep bra.
• The nursing tank, with a built-in bra. This type of bra is hidden as a regular tank-top, allowing you to wear it alone, or under a shirt like a regular tank-top. It is relatively new, and a must-have in the closet. Here's an example of the nursing tank

Besides a comfortable bra and nursing pads, purchasing a nursing cover is also a good and wise investment. These specially-designed covers allow you to keep an eye on the nursing process, and make adjustments without flashing the teenager across the mall. They are breathable, too keep your baby cool, large to let you maneuver, and stylish. See nursing cover reviews here.

When to Shop...

Expect to spend between $15 (for basic) and $50 (for the premium) for a nursing bra. Higher priced bras generally have higher-quality fabrics, better design, and more color options.

But be warned...High price is no guarantee of a good bra, just as a low price is no guarantee of a good deal! These reviews of the top brands from moms like you will give you an idea of where to start your search.

How Many to Own...

Keep in mind that the IRS usually offers tax deductions for items considered "breastfeeding equipment."

If you're going back to work and still want to breastfeed, purchase an extra nursing bra to keep at your desk in case of an emergency leak. (An extra shirt is also a good idea. See more great tips for working breast feeders.)

{Photo by fikirbaz}

Things to Look For...

If you choose a breast feeding bra that has flaps, make sure the flaps can be easily opened and closed. An extra bonus if you can do it one-handed! Some mothers prefer snaps for easy open/shutting, while others prefer a hook-and-eye system.

To underwire or not to underwire? It is generally recommended that if you choose an underwire nursing bra, you don't wear it in the first few weeks of milk production.

Your milk ducts wrap around your side, going up to your armpit and down to your rib cage. Underwire bras can pinch those ducts, creating painful blockages. If you choose an underwire, pick one that doesn't press against your breast tissue, and lies comfortably against your skin.

The cups on the best breastfeeding bras will be a breathable fabric, like 100% cotton. They will NOT have plastic lining or other synthetics that trap moisture against the skin.

Wet, warm skin is a breeding ground for bacteria. Bacteria that can cause infections on your breast or on/in baby's mouth.

Below are some simple steps you can take to measure yourself at home. These are general guidelines. As you're shopping, consider each brand's suggestions for getting the best fit. If you're still not sure, you can always stop in at your local bra store for a professional fitting.

Measuring Yourself for a Good Fit

Then measure yourself under your breasts, across your rib cage. Which measurement is larger? If it's an odd number, round up 1. This will become your band size.

For your cup size, measure across the fullest part of your breast, across your nipple. Your breasts should be loose and not constricted as you take this measurement.

Subtract this number from your band size. Each inch left over will equal 1 cup size. The the chart to the right as a starting point in determining your cup size.

Or, if you'd rather choose via department, rather than brand, Motherhood Maternity has a large plus-size department that has a wide range of options for the blessedly busty.

Since you won't know until your nursing whether you have "leaky" breasts or not, I recommend having some breast pads on hand just in case. The larger the pad, the more discreet it will be under your clothing. Slightly-pink pads also tend to be less notice under light colored clothing.

Prevent this "most embarrassing moment" from happening by keeping a good stock of breast pads. There are two types of breast pads out there. The washable (re-usable) breast pads, and the disposables.

Washable Nursing Pads: Pros and Cons

When shopping for washable nursing pads, look for 100% cotton. This allows for good airflow to keep nipples dry and bacteria-free. Lace on the top is fine, as long as the rest of the pad is cotton. Some moms have used cut up cloth diapers or a man's folded napkin effectively as a homemade nursing pad. The same rule applies though. As soon as they get wet, change to a clean pad to prevent infection. Heavy leakers are encouraged to have about a dozen on hand for rotating through the wash.

The Bravado washable nursing pads are recommended by most lactation consultants. They have a large circumference, to cover the entire breast and feature a "cool max layer" that pulls moisture away from the skin for quick drying (and avoiding any "sticking" that disposables and some other washables can cause - youch!).

They are fully machine washable and made from terry-cloth. They are approximately $14 for a set of 6. Heavy leakers should double their pads for maximum protection (which would be the case with any nursing pad).

The best price for Bravado washable nursing pads is at HerRoom Lingerie

Disposable Nursing Pads: Pros and Cons

{Photo by Daquella Manera}

If you're practically an open faucet, you're going to pay through the nose to keep your breasts dry. In that case, purchase several washable sets. It will pay off in the long run.

Sanitary napkins do not make good homemade disposable nursing pads. They may absorb the leakage, but they do not allow for good airflow, encouraging yeast and bacteria to grow.

In the world of disposable nursing pads, Lansinoh takes the lead for having the most-beloved disposable nursing pad. (72% gave them 5 stars.) These pads have a slight contour that keep it invisible under your clothing.

A self-adhesive tape keeps it from shifting around without you're noticing (always a frustration). They absorb well, while keeping your skin dry.

The second-place winner in the world of disposable nursing pads was Medela, with 51% of nursing mothers giving them a 5-star rating.

The best deals on both these disposable nursing pads can be found at Amazon. Buying in bulk will allow you to purchase them for as little as $0.18 a pad.

Reviews of The Top Breastfeeding Bras:
Moms Speak Out

Bravado Breastfeeding Bras

• Sizes Available: Sizes will vary on the specific bra you're looking at. Women with small band sizes (32-36) will find cup sizes from B all the way to DD - F. Women with larger band sizes at 42-46 inches, can find cup sizes as large as F - G.
• Where To Buy: Her Room
• Final Rating: 4.6 out of 5

Glamourmom Nursing Tanks and Tops

There was agreement that the tops were easy to use and had an attractive design. If you're looking for a nursing top or tank, and you are not an E cup, you may find these are just what you're looking for. However, check the return policy just in case!

• Sizes Available: Sizes vary according to style. The smallest found was AA-B cup, 28-32 band. The largest was D-F cup, 40-44 band.
• Where To Buy: A Pea in the Pod
• Final Rating: 3.2 out of 5

Playtex Breastfeeding Bras

This brand is well known for being the most inexpensive of the nursing bras. 96% of moms who use this brand report that it is comfortable and offers good support. The most common complaints were the plainness of the design and that the bras tend to wear out fairly quickly. 89% recommend the Playtex bra for everyday use.

The most popular design is the Expectant Moments Underwire Nursing bra. If you decide to give this design a go, be sure to skim through my comments about underwire nursing bras in the "What to Look For" section above.

• Sizes Available:
• Where To Buy: Amazon
• Final Rating: 4.4 out of 5

Medela Breastfeeding Bras

The Medela Comfort Bra is their top design and is beloved by most moms for it's comfortable fit. The larger-chested you are, the more comfortable moms says it is. The Comfort Bra is worn by moms during the day and as a sleeping bra. The fabric is mesh-like, soft, and stretchy. It washes well and lasts a long time. Some mothers reported that the brand runs a little small, so you may wish to order 2 in different sizes and return the worst fit.

The overall consensus was that, specifically, the Medela Comfort Bra is a hands-down favorite for around the house and bedtime wear. If you're going out of the house, you should probably look at the underwire Medela nursing bra (also a big hit) or another brand altogether.

• Sizes Available: The Comfort Bra is offered in small to X-large sizes, which corresponds to a minimum of 34-band and maximum of a 43-inch band. They do not offer cup sizing on this sports-bra style. Moms report they run a little small.
• Where To Buy: Amazon
• Final Rating: 4.7 out of 5

Elle MacPherson Breastfeeding Bras

These nursing bras are on the expensive side, so expect to spend $50 - $60 for a single bra. 87% of moms reported that it was one of the most comfortable bras (let alone breastfeeding bras) they've ever owned. Larger-breasted women especially seemed to find the fit supportive and comfortable.

The largest complaint was the thin material. The nipple factor was a common dilemma. Most women reported fixing it with nursing pads.

• Sizes Available: Up to size 38DD, some moms have found them up to cup size G.
• Where To Buy: Her Room
• Final Rating: 4.6 out of 5

La Leche League Breastfeeding Bras

However, most moms admitted that although it was comfortable, looked nice under clothing, and had good support, when it came down to nursing it was somewhat of a pain. Because of the padding, the cups are trickier to fold down and expose for nursing. The padding also provides great warmth in winter, but watch out Floridians! It could contribute to sweating and dampness around the breast (a nursing no-no).

If you decide to give this bra a try (the lower price here is a bonus), most mothers recommend you invest in a good nursing cover to provide discreet covering during the somewhat-cumbersome latch-and-unlatch process.

• Sizes Available: Up to cup size DD
• Where To Buy: Her Room
• Final Rating: 3.9 out of 5

ADD TO YOUR SOCIAL BOOKMARKS: Blink Del.icio.us Digg
Furl Google Simpy Spurl Technorati Y! MyWeb

Can't stay awake for all 832 pages of What to Expect the First Year? Welcome to the 21st Century... Custom Search

Stay Connected to the EiR

Subscribe to "The Essential Infant Blog" by Email

↑ Grab this Headline Animator

I am not a doctor. I do not diagnose or prescribe.
When in doubt, give Doc a shout!

Copyright © The Essential Infant Resource for Moms 2007 - 2011.

Return to top