Breastfeeding is no easy feat. For women who choose to breastfeed their newborns, it can be frustrating, uncomfortable, challenging, difficult and even painful. So even the smallest details like what kind of bra you’re wearing should be the last of your worries.
That’s why we’ve taken the time to find the best maternity nursing brands and our top picks for our favourite bras so you can check one less thing off your to-do list.
What is the best bra to wear while breastfeeding?
Above all, a nursing or maternity bra should be comfortable. Look for something that’s breathable and doesn’t dig into your skin while offering quick access for easy feeds through drop cups. During this time, your body is in a constant state of flux so choose a bra that will move and grow with you. It should be supportive but never tight or it can cause issues such as mastitis, clogged milk ducts or can even decrease your supply of milk.
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The best nursing bra brands
Ranging from seamless bralettes through to wirefree bras, Bonds is home to a whole heap of different nursing wear ideal for a new mum. A household name when it comes to comfortable underwear, our favourite is the Damn Dry Milk Leaks range for its leakproof layers and all-day odour control.
The Modern Cotton Maternity Bralette is a great sporty-style bra for nursing mothers. It features drop-down clips for quick access and comes in a super-soft fabrication. The lightly padded cups offer support while the adjustable straps and elastic underband will help to move with you.
Available at Myer, Ripe was created to celebrate all the stages of a women’s pregnancy journey. Included in the range is a nursing bralette, pumping bra and crop top for those sportier days. All bras are super soft, void of underwire, and designed with maximum stretch.
The best affordable nursing bra brands
Offering 2 bras for $22, choose from a wirefree seamless crop, wirefree T-shirt bra or wirefree crossover crop top. Each set is highly rated with at least 4.5 stars and features all the good things like optimum comfort and none of those seams or underwires that dig at a very affordable price.
Big W’s Brilliant Basics Seamfree Maternity Bra is great value for money. It ranges from sizes 10 up to 20, is made from a stretchy fabrication that moves with you, and comes with adjustable padding if you feel like you need the extra support.
You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to nursing bra options on Amazon. Brands like Shapermint Bras, Momcozy, RelaxMaternity and Grestar all offer a wide variety of bras, bralettes, strapless bras, bras for sleep and so much more. Ranging in colours, shapes and price points, you’re bound to find something that’s suited to you and your body.
The best leakproof nursing bra brands
Offering two different maternity bras in the range, our pick is the Wireless Maternity Bra. The cups can be easily switched out to a set of leakproof pads for that added piece of mind. Like all Boody products, it’s made from bamboo viscose for ultra breathability, extra comfort and flexibility.
Choose from sleep bras, bamboo nursing bras, strapless maternity bras and more with the extensive range from B Free. But what we really love is the option to purchase eco-friendly reusable nursing pads that can easily be tossed in the wash and worn again and again.
The best nursing bra brands for large breasts
Offering sizes up to a 18E-G, ModiBodi has nailed the size inclusivity for nursing mother’s with larger breasts. Not only that, the Breastfeeding Bra holds up to 25ml per cup for any leakage issues so mum can stay nice and dry.
Available in seven colours and nine colours from a XXS through to a 4X, the Skims maternity bra range has something for everyone. Our personal favourite is the Fits Everybody Pumping Scoop Bralette for its multi-use front clasps, adjustable straps and the option to go hands-free pumping.
Is a tight or loose bra better for breastfeeding?
A nursing bra shouldn’t be too tight nor too loose – look for something in the sweet spot!
Avoid anything with underwire or bras that feel restricted on your breasts. Instead, be guided by comfort so you feel supported without putting pressure around your chest.
Should I wear a bra to bed while breastfeeding?
This is a personal preference. Some nursing mums choose to not wear a bra at all for comfort reasons while some will wear a bra to bed as a way to feel supported and if you have concerns over leaking at night.
How many nursing bras does a mother need?
There is no one-size-fits-all number to how many nursing bras someone may need. You may need more if you’re prone to leaking or less if you’re wearing them simply to feel supported. As a general rule of thumb, some women will choose to own a handful so they’re always in easy reach regardless if one’s in the wash or in the dirty laundry basket.
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