The Ultimate Nursing Bra Guide
Finding the right nursing bra can feel a little overwhelming. Your body is changing, your usual bras may no longer feel comfortable, and suddenly you're faced with nursing clips, drop-down cups, different styles and a whole new way of thinking about your lingerie.
At Mumty Bumpty, we believe choosing a nursing bra should be much simpler. You want something that fits well, feels comfortable and makes breastfeeding easier — while still making you feel like you.
Here's everything you really need to know before choosing your nursing bra.
What is a nursing bra?
A nursing bra is designed to make breastfeeding easier, usually with cups that can be opened or lowered so you can feed your baby without removing your bra.
There are lots of different styles available, from soft, wireless bras to more structured options. Some have simple drop-down cups, while others offer more shape and support.
The important thing is finding a style that suits your body and your lifestyle. There isn't one nursing bra that's perfect for everyone.
When should you buy a nursing bra?
You don't necessarily need to wait until your baby is born to buy a nursing bra.
Many women start looking during pregnancy when their usual bras begin to feel uncomfortable. Having one or two nursing bras ready before your due date can also be useful, particularly if you want to pack one in your hospital bag.
Your breasts can continue to change throughout pregnancy and after your baby arrives, though, so there's no need to buy your entire collection months in advance.
Our advice? Start with a couple of good options and see what works for you. You can always add more once you've discovered which styles you love.
How should a nursing bra fit?
A nursing bra should feel comfortable and supportive without feeling tight or restrictive.
The band
The band should sit securely around your body without digging in or riding up at the back. It provides much of the support, so you shouldn't need to rely on the straps to keep everything in place.
The cups
Your breasts should sit comfortably inside the cups without spilling over the top or sides. You also don't want lots of empty space.
Because your breast size can change during breastfeeding, a little flexibility in the fit can be helpful.
The straps
Your straps should feel secure without digging into your shoulders. If you're constantly tightening them to get enough support, it could be a sign that the overall fit isn't right.
The nursing clips
Don't forget to try the nursing clips!
You want to be able to open and close them easily, ideally with one hand. It might seem like a small detail now, but you'll appreciate an easy-to-use fastening when you're holding your baby.
How many nursing bras do you need?
You don't need a drawer full of nursing bras before your baby arrives.
For most people, around three is a good starting point:
- One to wear
- One in the wash
- One spare
You may decide you want more once you've started breastfeeding, particularly if you prefer having plenty of clean bras available or find that you like different styles for different occasions.
A soft nursing bra might become your favourite for relaxing at home, while a more structured style could be perfect when you're heading out.
Start with a couple of different styles rather than buying lots of the same one. You'll soon discover what works best for you.
Wireless or flexi-wire nursing bra?
This really comes down to personal preference.
Wireless nursing bras
Wireless styles don't have an underwire and are often soft, flexible and comfortable.
They're a popular choice during pregnancy and the early days of breastfeeding, particularly if you prefer a little more freedom and flexibility.
They're also a great option for sleeping or relaxing at home.
Flexi-wire nursing bras
If you prefer the shape and support of a more structured bra, a flexi-wire nursing bra could be a better option.
As the name suggests, the wire is designed to be more flexible than a traditional rigid underwire, while still providing additional support and shape.
You may find that you prefer one style during pregnancy and another once you're breastfeeding — and that's completely fine.
There really isn't a right or wrong choice. Comfort comes first.
Can you sleep in a nursing bra?
Yes, if you find it comfortable.
Some women love the gentle support of a soft nursing bra at night, particularly during the early days of breastfeeding. Others prefer to sleep without a bra.
If you want a nursing bra for sleeping, choose something soft, stretchy and comfortable rather than a structured style that feels restrictive.
Do I need a nursing bra for my hospital bag?
It's certainly useful to have one packed.
Choose something comfortable and easy to open, rather than worrying about taking your very best or most complicated bra.
You don't need to pack your entire lingerie drawer either! One or two comfortable nursing bras should be enough to get you started.
For more advice on preparing for birth, take a look at our Hospital Bag & Birth Guides.
What makes a good nursing bra?
When you're choosing a nursing bra, look for:
- A comfortable, supportive fit
- Easy-to-use nursing clips
- Adjustable straps
- Comfortable fabrics
- Enough flexibility for your changing body
- A style that suits how you want to wear it
And don't forget the most important one:
Choose something you actually like.
Nursing bras don't have to be boring
There was a time when maternity and nursing lingerie seemed to come in a very limited selection of practical colours and uninspiring shapes.
Thankfully, things have changed!
Choosing a nursing bra doesn't mean you have to give up feeling feminine or wearing lingerie that makes you feel good.
Whether you love something simple and comfortable or prefer pretty lace and a little more glamour, there's no reason your nursing lingerie can't feel like you.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding are practical enough without your lingerie having to be boring too.
Finding the right nursing bra for you
Your body will go through a lot of changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and your lingerie needs may change with it.
You might love a soft wireless bra during pregnancy and prefer something more supportive later. You might think you'll want one style and discover that another works much better once your baby arrives.
That's all completely normal.
The best nursing bra isn't necessarily the one your friend loves or the one that looks best on someone else. It's the one that fits your body, suits your lifestyle and makes you feel comfortable and confident.
And if it makes you feel a little bit gorgeous at the same time?
Even better.
Ready to find your nursing bra?
Explore our nursing bra collection and find a style that's right for you.