Best Breastfeeding Bras From an Exclusively Nursing Mom
Sick of disappointing nursing bras?
Here are my 3 favorite styles of nursing bras that have become the only brand I wear as a nursing mama.
A few months ago, I passed over 2 years of breastfeeding between my two children. And in that time I've learned a thing or two about nursing bras.. Mainly, that some of them are just plain awful- bulky, scratchy, or quick to pill and fray. So when you find a brand that does it well, you know it’s a keeper.
That is why I wanted to share my tried and true favorites- nursing bras that keep you supported and comfortable while keeping the goods easy access for you and your little one!
What I Look For In Nursing Bras
First and foremost- I want comfort. Smooth fabrics, soft materials, and a band that doesn't dig or pinch. I gave up on underwire bras a long time ago and typically prefer a full-fabric style.
Secondly, I prefer natural fabric over synthetic ones but it generally is not a deal breaker for me. Especially if the bra is comfy. With all the bodily changes that come with pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding, I want something that I feel comfortable and confident in above all else.
So when I found a brand that offered both-- take my money.
The other thing I prioritize is a bra that does it all-- I don't want a ton of different bras for different occasions. One for pumping, one for everyday wear, one for going out- my personal preference is to have 2-3 different styles that cover all my needs, while still offering easy nursing access.
With that said, I don't use a stationary pump. Only portable ones or a quick manual pump sesh-- so I do not own any pumping bras so can't speak to bras with that design! I also don't love nursing tank tops (with the longline exception I listed below 🙊) because I feel like they are not very versatile.
So if that sounds similar to what you're lookin' for, keep reading!
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My Favorite Nursing Bras
I remember when I was younger and had a cute Victoria's Secret bra collection.. these days I wouldn't ever be caught in something that constrictive or structured. Oh the ways motherhood changes you 🤪 If you are looking for a better bra for motherhood, these are some of my tried and true favorites.
French Terry Racerback Sleep Bra
This is what I wear 99% of the time. It has minimal support and is the most comfortable nursing bra. I bought this during my second pregnancy and sized up from my normal size to accommodate for rib cage expansion during pregnancy.
It also was perfect for when my milk came in postpartum and my breasts were more swollen and uncomfortable. With all those breast changes towards the end of pregnancy and the beginning of postpartum and breastfeeding, this was perfect through it all.
PROS:
OEKO-TEX Certified
Great as a nursing lounge bra or sleep bra
Wire-free, unpadded design for supreme comfort
Pull-aside nursing access that doesn't stretch out over time
Pullover racerback for a little support and versatility
CONS:
This is not the right bra if you are looking for extra support
It is not padded, so if you like a really smooth look under a tshirt, this aint it (although i have worn bra inserts underneath and it’s perfect)
Sports Bra
For the days I need additional support or some more structure, this is my go-to.
PROS:
light to moderate support. Personally, I have found it to be enough support for any of my workouts.
Nursing clips for convenient feeding and skin-to-skin
Stretchy, supportive performance fabric
adjustable straps to get the right fit
Underwire-free with removable padding (this is what I use in the sleep bra if I want a smoother look under a shirt to help keep the nipples tamed 😅)
moisture-wicking fabric to keep you dry
CONS:
the only thing I don't love about this is that it is pullover style as opposed to having an adjustable closure. It hasn't been an issue since the band size is comfortable, but it's just personal preference!
Sublime Bamboo Longline
This is a different style than most nursing bras but my newest favorite.
PROS:
you can wear it on its own as a crop tank
smooth and double-lined
CONS:
it’s a bit thick to wear under a tshirt
Across the board, Kindred Bravely has high-quality products that help to elevate a woman's body during all the seasons of motherhood. I love that even during body changes, growing breasts, hormone fluctuations, and a few sleepless nights, I can feel comfortable and confident.
Here are some of my favorite features of the brand:
so many different sizes 👏 Regardless of your bra size or breast shape-- they've got you covered. They also have a "busty" line for if you have a larger cup size without wanting to size up the band as well. I think this is great for a new mom who knows their band size but has no idea what their milk supply will look like--or how their breast size will fluctuate depending on levels of milk production.
Shop by stage- one of my fave features is that you can shop depending on what stage of motherhood you are in
Care + Keeping of Nursing Bras
One thing I have learned is that taking care of your new bra will help it to take care of you. Kindred Bravely recommends hand-washing your bras with a gentle soap or detergent. Personally, I don't hand wash anything......... but i do wash all my bras on a low/delicate setting on my washing machine with a small amount of an all-natural and non-toxic detergent. Then I allow them to air dry!
Some of my bras from Kindred Bravely are going on 3 years, and they still look and feel as if they were brand new!
Another thing to note- if you use nipple cream or ointment, or leak a lot of breast milk, wearing breast pads will help to keep from staining or leaking!
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