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If you’re planning on nursing after you give birth, one of the most important things you can do is buy several quality nursing bras.

A good nursing bra can not only provide essential support — much like a traditional bra — but can also make it easier to quickly nurse your little one. This is good, because you may find that baby goes from hungry to hangry in an instant.

Especially when you’re just beginning to breastfeed, your breasts can fluctuate in size. And if you’re wearing a bra that doesn’t provide stretch and support, you’re going to be uncomfortable, especially if you’re struggling with issues like engorgement.

During pregnancy, many people transition directly to a nursing bra rather than opting for a maternity bra. Typically, nursing bras tend to feature more enhanced support than standard bras. This can include:

  • wider shoulder straps
  • back straps with additional hook and eye closures for a more secure fit
  • a back extender to accommodate your changing bustline

Shopping for a nursing bra isn’t too different from normal bra shopping, but you’ll need to consider a few additional factors.

To get you started, we looked at a range of nursing bras for a variety of lifestyles and body types — you definitely want to choose one that fits comfortably and doesn’t put pressure on your breast tissue to avoid health complications.

To get you started, we looked at a range of nursing bras for a variety of lifestyles and body types. We took customer reviews into account and also considered the following:

  • Enhanced support: It’s not uncommon for your breasts to grow larger during pregnancy and stay fuller while nursing. So, we looked at bras that can provide sufficient support.
  • Price: Just like regular bras, nursing bras can range from affordable to indulgent. How much you’re willing to spend can vary based on how long you plan on breastfeeding, as well as what features are most important. So we chose bras at various price points.
  • Accessibility: When your baby’s hangry, the last thing you want to do is delay nursing because you’re dealing with a bra that’s difficult to manage. Remember, in most cases you’re trying to undo your bra with one hand and hold your baby in the other — so bras with simple clasps or drop-down cups were our preferred choices.
  • Adjustable straps: Bras made from stretchier materials might stretch out over time. So bras with adjustable straps offer more longevity with wear.
  • Durability: Even if you only plan on nursing for a few months, you don’t want a bra that falls apart in 2 weeks or after one wash.
  • Comfort: Don’t forget that as you’re adjusting to breastfeeding, your breasts will be sensitive and can be as much as three cups larger than your pre-pregnancy size. So, we looked at bras made from breathable and stretchy materials with supportive features.

Use caution with underwire

Both La Leche League (LLL) and March of Dimes recommend against underwire bras while breastfeeding because research suggests it can put too much pressure on the breasts and lead to problems like mastitis or plugged ducts — especially in the early days and weeks when your milk is coming in.

This has been frequently shared, especially with authoritative lactation organizations like LLL. Generally speaking, it may be best to avoid underwire bras at least in the first 2-3 weeks postpartum and ideally for the first 2-3 months to be safe. However, more recent research suggests that this isn’t necessarily the case, and that you want to avoid bras that are too tight or don’t fit correctly — not the underwire.

However, you definitely should avoid wearing an underwire bra while sleeping.

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Here are the bras that won out.

A note on price

Most of these bras fall between the $20 and $40 price range, proving you don’t have to break the bank for a quality nursing bra. We also included some splurges over $40.

  • $: $0–$25
  • $$: $26–40
  • $$$: $41 and up
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Best overall nursing bra

Bravado Designs Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra

  • Price: $$$
  • Size range: XS–2XL and Plus M–XL

If you’re larger than a DD cup, you already know the frustration that comes with bra shopping. The Bravado Designs Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra is available in sizes XS to XXL to accommodate traditional cup sizes from A to J.

The soft, wire-free construction features molded cups, removable foam inserts, and a four-way stretch fabric that not only hugs your shape but can accommodate your breasts as they grow — so important while breastfeeding! And nursing is made easy thanks to the clips and drop-down cups.

While most reviews of this nursing bra are positive, some people noted that the seams frayed in critical areas such as where the clips are fastened to the straps and bra cups. Others noted that this bra can run a little small and recommended ordering up a size to guarantee a comfortable fit.

Pros

  • side size range with compatible chart to traditional bra sizes
  • seamless and wireless for comfort
  • maternity- and nursing-friendly for more longevity

Cons

  • expensive price might not be realistic for some people
  • bra pads might create an odd silhouette under tops
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Best underwire nursing bra

Cake Maternity Croissant Flexi Wire Nursing Bra

  • Price: $$$
  • Size range: 32C–42K

Sometimes you want more support than soft cups can offer. In that case, Cake Maternity Croissant Flexi Wire Nursing Bra fits the bill. This bra may cost a bit more than some of the others listed here, but it’s made from cotton and has wider shoulder straps with hook and eye closures to provide excellent support.

Some drawbacks are that this bra isn’t available for sizes smaller than 32C and the underwire isn’t padded, which can add to your irritation as you breastfeed. Underwire bras can cause pressure and may lead to mastitis, though more research is needed to prove this. Don’t wear an underwire if it’s uncomfortable. If you’re entirely set against underwire, Cake Maternity makes fantastic wire-free options like this Cotton Candy Nursing Bra.

Pros

  • size range from 32C to 42K accommodates larger busts
  • drop cup design for easy feedings
  • t-shirt bra for a smooth silhouette

Cons

  • a pricey option
  • underwire may be a no-go for many people
  • cup sizes under C not available
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Best nursing bra with underwire for full busts

Elomi Smoothing Underwire Molded Nursing Bra

  • Price: $$$
  • Size range: 40DD to 36H U.S. sizes

Especially in the early days of breastfeeding, a supportive nursing bra is a must-have item. This bra is a full-coverage design that’s created with larger sizes in mind. Specifically, this bra is available for DD through H cup sizes. It also accommodates you as you grow.

This bra relies on U.K. sizing, although most cup sizes are comparable between the U.S. and U.K. While reviews are overwhelmingly positive, a common issue among negative reviews is that the clips can be hard to maneuver, can be stiff, and in some instances require serious force to open or close. Another complaint was that this bra lacks padding in the cups.

Pros

  • sizing is ideal for fuller busts
  • simple drop cup design makes nursing access easier
  • lined for modesty

Cons

  • does have an underwire which could be uncomfortable for some
  • expensive
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Best nursing bra without underwire for full busts

Motherhood Maternity Seamless Clip-Down Nursing Bra

  • Price: $
  • Size range: 1X–3X

Going bra shopping can be tough enough if you wear a larger bra size. But when you’re shopping for a nursing bra, it can be even more difficult.

The Motherhood Maternity Seamless Clip Down Nursing Bra gives you good support and a smooth silhouette (it’s seamless!). This full-coverage bra is designed with stretchy nylon and Spandex to accommodate size fluctuations.

On the downside, many women compared this to a traditional sports bra in that it pushed their breasts together rather than providing individual lift and support.

Pros

  • affordable nursing bra for plus-size moms
  • stylish design that works with most tops
  • drop front, seamless design for added comfort and easy access

Cons

  • may not be a good fit for moms with fuller busts — may be better suited for wider rib cages
  • sizing can run small
  • contains underwire which is controversial, and definitely not recommended when sleeping
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Best budget-friendly nursing bra

Daisity Seamless Sleep Nursing Bra

  • Price: $
  • Size range: M–2XL

Whether you’re not ready to invest in pricier nursing bras or your budget won’t allow you to, you don’t have to go without. The Daisity Seamless Sleep Nursing Bra is a great value — three bras for around $20.

These seamless, wire-free nursing bras provide core features like clips with drop-down cups, adjustable straps, light padding, and breathable nylon and Spandex fabric.

However, some women found the material to be scratchy and felt that the stitching dug uncomfortably into their skin. And for some people, this discomfort created skin irritations. So if you have sensitive skin, this might not be the bra for you.

Pros

  • economical 3-pack
  • drop cup clasp design for easy nursing accesss
  • seamless sleeping bra for more comfort

Cons

  • some people may find the material to be scratchy
  • possible design changes mean the built-in sling is now an elastic strap which may not be as comfortable
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Best eco-conscious nursing bra

Pact Maternity Nursing Bralette

  • Price: $$
  • Size range: S–XL

Pact makes its nursing bralette with 95 percent organic cotton (the other 5 percent is elastane). It’s GOTS-certified and made in a Fair Trade Certified factory. The brand takes pride in not using toxic chemicals and reducing water use by 81 percent during its manufacturing process.

It’s available in eight colors including white, black, agave (a pastel green), pink, honey stripes, ore heather (a heathered blue), and wisteria (a light purple). The design is low support, so it’s best for when you’re lounging around.

Pros

  • Eco-friendly and GOTS-certified
  • Lots of color options
  • Low cut v-neck design makes nursing access easy

Cons

  • Not the best choice if you’re looking for a super-supportive nursing bra
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Best nursing sports bra

Kindred Bravely Sublime Nursing Sports Bra

  • Price: $$$
  • Size range: S–3XL

Getting back into a workout routine can be hard after having a baby, but it can be even harder when traditional nursing bras don’t provide the support you need when exercising. A nursing sports bra helps fill this gap.

The Kindred Bravely Sublime Nursing Sports Bra is extremely functional and gets positive reviews for being both fashionable and easily adjustable. It’s designed for low-impact workouts so you may want to consider a more supportive design when you’re ready to up the intensity (the brand also makes a high-support option).

The most frequent complaint is that the stitching can come undone in various locations.

Pros

  • available in two fits — regular and busty — with a wide size range for both
  • wide color range
  • drop cup design for easy access

Cons

  • higher price point makes this unrealistic for some
  • not suitable for high-impact exercise
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Best budget-friendly nursing sports bra

Bamboobies Yoga Nursing Bra

  • Price: $$
  • Size range: XS–2XL

If you’ve managed to stay active throughout your pregnancy, good for you! When you’re ready to transition to a nursing bra, the Bamboobies Yoga Nursing Bra is a smart option that will grow with you while also providing the support you need to stay comfortable during low-impact exercise.

It has adjustable straps with a racerback design and a bra extender, and it accommodates one-handed accessibility while nursing, thanks to the clips and drop-down cups.

Women who are well-endowed and larger than a full D cup may find that this bra isn’t as supportive for an active lifestyle.

Pros

  • drop cup design paired with the support of a sports bra
  • adjustable back and racerback design works with more top styles
  • breathable bamboo rayon with removable pads

Cons

  • clips have a tendency to break easily
  • not supportive enough for high-intensity workouts
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Best adjustable pumping bra

Simple Wishes Adjustable Hands-Free Pumping Bra

  • Price: $$
  • Size range: XS–L, L plus, all with options for extra one-inch panel

Whether you’re new to pumping or not, you can expect to spend anywhere from an average of 10 to 30 minutes per pumping session. We can all agree that it’s not the most exciting way to spend your precious moments — especially if you have to hold the breast pump the entire time.

The Simple Wishes Adjustable Hands-Free Pumping Bra makes the experience more tolerable, thanks to the built-in cutouts in the cups that are designed to hold most major breast pump brands.

Other essential features include adjustable and convertible shoulder straps that can transform this bra into racerback, strapless, halter, and traditional tank styles. It’s soft to the touch, yet the four-way layering provides added support and a secure seal when the breast shield is inserted.

Pros

  • simplified sizing chart
  • designed to hold breast pump flanges for hands-free pumping
  • four overlapping layers of fabric create a tight seal

Cons

  • wide size compatibility may create an inconsistent fit for some people
  • concerns of bulkiness for people that are on the smaller end of a size range
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Most versatile pumping bra

Bravado Designs Clip and Pump Hands-Free Nursing Bra Accessory

  • Price: $
  • Size range: S–XL

Imagine if you were able to turn any nursing bra into one that could support hands-free pumping. The Bravado Designs Clip and Pump Hands-Free Nursing Bra Accessory promises to do exactly that.

Instead of buying a separate pumping nursing bra that can often look thick and overwhelming, this bra works by slipping on over your existing nursing bra and clipping into the existing clips. Unhook your normal drop-down cups and then slide the breast shield of your pump into the figure-eight openings within each cup of the Bravado Designs bra.

The biggest benefit of this type of nursing bra enhancer is that you can continue to use traditional nursing bras without having to swap to a bulkier style that you typically see with pumping nursing bras.

Pros

  • supports hands-free pumping and drop cups for nursing
  • great add-on accessory to convert any nursing bra into a pumping bra
  • easy to install

Cons

  • inconsistent sizing as women with fuller busts may struggle to find a size that fits properly
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Best nursing bra for sleep

Caramel Cantina 4-Pack Nursing Maternity Sleep Bralettes

  • Price: $$
  • Size range: S–2XL

Many women prefer to wear a sleeping bra when they’re nearing the end of their pregnancy or nursing because it provides additional support.

This four-pack of stretchy bralettes from Caramel Cantina is a smart and affordable solution that’s available in a wide range of color combinations. They come in a wide range of sizes, from small through 2X. And instead of fumbling with clips, you’ll appreciate the easy slip-down, criss-cross cups that are paired with a supportive higher back design. Better still, the simple silhouette looks smooth under clothing with a v-neck shape that works with most necklines.

Even though this is a comfy option, a common complaint was that sometimes the sizing could be a bit inconsistent within the multi-pack. A fewreviewers noted that one of the four bras was at least a size too small when compared with the rest of the set.

Pros

  • economical four-pack set
  • simple slip-down cups for late night and low-light feedings
  • v-neck works with most necklines for day or night time use

Cons

  • it’s possible to get a set with inconsistent sizing between individual bras
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Best stylish nursing bra on a budget

Momanda Lightly Lined Nursing Lace Bralette

  • Price: $
  • Size range: 32A – 40E

Just because you’re a mom doesn’t mean you don’t want to be sexy — or even just give your ego a boost with a bra that looks more fashionable than functional (but happens to be both).

The Momanda Lightly Lined Nursing Lace Bralette is the perfect blend of form and function. While it looks like a sexy lace deep-v demi-cup bra, it still features the essentials that a nursing mom needs: clasps and drop-down cups, a wire-free design for comfort, light padding, and three-row hook and eye closures.

Although beautiful, a common complaint with this bra is that it isn’t as stretchy as users would have hoped, especially as their breasts changed to accommodate incoming milk. And others felt that the band was a little too tight.

Pros

  • a stylish nursing bra that works for date night
  • wide color range and wireless
  • wide size range with drop cups

Cons

  • lace may be scratchy
  • some moms noted that the fabric has no give — which can be uncomfortable when milk comes in before a feeding
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Best camisole with a built-in nursing bra

Playtex Maternity Women’s Nursing Camisole with Built-in Bra

  • Price: $
  • Size range: S–3XL

A good cami is a stapleof an y wardrobe — and that’s no different for nursing mamas. If you’re not a fan of nursing tops that feature that built-in fold, you’ll appreciate this nursing camisole from Playtex. It features a drop-front design and has a built-in bra for added comfort and support.

This camisole offers a generous length to accommodate your postpartum body. It’s also made of a soft nylon and Spandex blend and comes with adjustable shoulder straps. And the stretchy fabric guarantees that it will grow with you as you adjust to breastfeeding.

However, even though this has built-in foam for added support and shaping, you may want to add nursing pads to prevent leaks as it would require changing the entire top versus simply changing a bra. This is especially important in the early days of breastfeeding when your milk flow can be more unpredictable.

Pros

  • long line design ideal for modesty and simplicity
  • built-in bra with drop cup design for easy feedings
  • good size range from S through 3XL

Cons

  • nursing cami may be impractical for early breastfeeding when milk flow is more unpredictable
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Best transitional maternity-to-nursing bra

Belly Bandit B.D.A. Bra for Maternity Support & Nursing

  • Price: $$
  • Size range: S–XL

If you’re focused on getting the biggest bang for your buck, a maternity bra that can transition with you into motherhood is a smart investment. This pick from Belly Bandit (yes the postpartum girdle brand) is a great option. While it’s a median-priced solution on our list, you may like that it features a stay-put lower band that prevents the bra from riding up.

The simple criss-cross front is not only comfy as you progress through pregnancy, but it also makes nursing a breeze. Better still, the full support back ensures that you’re getting plenty of stability. Plus, this bra features stretch and recover fabric — meaning that you’ll have to worry less about sretching with wear.

However, besides the fact that some people might find this to be a pricey choice for a single bra, some reviewers noted that the higher arm holes could be irritating. Additionally, the breathable fabric is thinner, so coupled with the lack of padding, it might not offer as much front support as other options.

Pros

  • transitional bra from maternity through breastfeeding
  • stay-put band prevents bra from riding up
  • simple criss-cross front ideal for late-night feedings

Cons

  • arm holes may be too high for some people and cause chafing
  • thinner fabric and lack of padding means minimal front support for breasts
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Best nursing bra that doesn’t look like a nursing bra

Negative Silky Nursing Bra

  • Price: $$$
  • Size range: 30A–40DD

It’s hard to ignore that many nursing bras look incredibly utilitarian. And while you might not care at first, after a while you want a bra that makes you feel like you existed before you had a baby. The Negative Silky Nursing Bra, while functional, is designed to remind you that you’re still sexy. It was made by moms who, after three and a half years of combined breastfeeding, felt that this niche was sorely missing.

This silky bra features the tried-and-true drop cup. It has a classic low back shape, making it ideal to pair with pretty much anything. But you’ll like how it creates a seamless silhouette under your clothing and offers a demi-like design with a scoop neckline. Choose from three colors and a size range that is compatible with 30A through 40DD.

While sexy, this is probably a bra better suited for smaller cup sizes, as well as women who are further along in breastfeeding. In other words, you won’t want to make this your starter bra when your breasts are most likely to be sensitive.

Pros

  • a sexy design that boosts your mood
  • low-profile style
  • solid size range from 30A to 40DD

Cons

  • expensive bra
  • may not be a smart choice for a first nursing bra
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Best nursing bra for small busts

Calvin Klein Intrinsic Maternity Unlined Triangle Bralette

  • Price: $$$
  • Size range: XS–XL

While conventional wisdom assumes that breastfeeding parents will have their cup size grow considerably, this isn’t always the case. So, for some people with more modest bust lines, the more padded and structured bras might be excessive. For people with petite busts that never get that cup boost, this Calvin Klein unlined triangle bralette is a great option.

Along with a stay-put band, it features a low-profile lace design with drop cups for easy nursing access. Meanwhile, a U-shaped back works for most tops. The lace is brushed for added comfort. There’s also a cushioned back closure and adjustable straps.

However, the unlined nature of this bra and simple elastics might be uncomfortable for more endowed breastfeeding mamas. And note that you need to hand wash this bra — which might take it out of contention for many people.

Pros

  • sleek silhouette with soft hand feel
  • simple unlined design ideal for people with smaller busts
  • stay-put band for added comfort

Cons

  • expensive
  • unlined design might not work for fuller busts
  • hand wash only
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PriceSizesBest forConsiderations
Bravado Designs Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra$$$XS – 2XL, Plus M – 2XLPlus, sleep, everyday useMay run small, seams at clips may fray
Cake Maternity Croissant Flexi Wire Nursing Bra$$$32C – 42IEveryday useUnderwire, not available for smaller bust sizes
Elomi Smoothing Underwire Molded Nursing Bra$$$38DD – 38HFuller bustsUnderwire, no padding in cups
Motherhood Maternity Seamless Clip-Down Nursing Bra$$$Plus Size 1X – 3XEveryday, plus/full bustCups may not be big enough for truly busty women
Daisity Seamless Sleep Nursing Bra$M – XLEveryday useHand wash only, material may be scratchy
Pact Maternity Nursing Bralette$$S – XLLounging around the houseLow-cut v-neck design offers a little less support than other options
Kindred Bravely Sublime Nursing Sports Bra$$$Busty & regular; S – 3XLEveryday, low-impact activityStitching may fray prematurely
Bamboobies Yoga Nursing Bra$XS – 2XLEveryday, low-impact activityMay not be ideal for women over a D cup
Simple Wishes Adjustable Hands-Free Pumping Bra$$XS – L/L – 2XLMoms who pump/expressLimited size range may create inconsistent
Bravado Designs Clip and Pump Hands-Free Nursing Bra Accessory$S – XLMoms who pump/expressLarger sizes may have inconsistent fit for bigger cup sizes
Caramel Cantina 4-Pack Nursing Maternity Sleep Bralettes$$S – 2XLOvernight feedingsInconsistent fit within a multipack is possible
Momanda Lightly Lined Nursing Lace Bralette$32A – 40EEveryday useFabric lacks sufficient stretch for when milk comes in
Playtex Maternity Women’s Nursing Camisole with Built-in Bra$S – 3XLEveryday useBuilt-in foam molding may not be compatible for early breastfeeding
Belly Bandit B.D.A. Bra for Maternity Support & Nursing$$S – XLMaternity & nursingHigh arm holes may cause chaffing, thin material lacks front support
Negative Silky Nursing Bra$$$30A – 40DDEveryday Silky material not ideal for beginning nursing
Calvin Klein Intrinsic Maternity Unlined Triangle Bralette $$$XS – XLMaternity & later nursing Not ideal for larger busts, unlined style is not ideal for beginning nursing mamas

During pregnancy, most people choose to start shopping for a nursing bra during their third trimester. If you decide to start using one earlier than this, it’s important to confirm that the fabric is stretchy enough to provide comfortable support if your breasts continue to grow.

Keep these other factors in mind as you select the right nursing bra for your needs:

Enhanced support

Whether you’re just starting to breastfeed or are an old pro, your breasts are heavier than before you gave birth. A nursing bra should provide support through the shoulders without digging into them or around your rib cage.

Comfort

Even though you were hoping that you’d leave discomfort behind with the end of your pregnancy, breastfeeding introduces a new host of irritations. First, your breasts are sore from the experience of not just your milk coming in, but getting used to the feeling of your baby nursing. So, look for a bra that doesn’t just support your breasts, but also doesn’t add to chafing or discomfort.

Also keep in mind that as your milk comes in, it can make your breasts larger. And that means you need a bra made from stretchy material that can accommodate those unexpected changes. Additionally, breathability is critical. While you’re not pregnant, breastfeeding means you might find that you sweat more. And of course, unexpected leaks can also occur. So, features such as moisture-wicking fabric, breathability, and even the ability to comfortably insert nursing pads can all make a difference in your comfort.

Room to grow

You know a bra is comfortable and fits properly when you’re able to secure it on the middle hook and eye closures. But many nursing bras come with a back strap extender that allows you to add additional length to the back strap to accommodate your growing breasts. This is a key feature you should keep in mind as you shop for a nursing bra.

Accessibility

When your little one is hungry and crying, the last thing you want to do is fumble with complicated closures. Most nursing bras feature one of two ways to easily nurse your child. Snap front styles allow you to unsnap the front panel of your bra from either the shoulder strap or the center front band and feature foldable cups.

Bras without snap fronts are usually designed with crossover soft cups so you can easily slip one of them down to allow your child to nurse.

Additionally, if you’re planning to pump as well as breastfeed, you might want to consider purchasing a nursing bra that’s designed to hold a breast pump so you can be hands-free.

Cup linings

You don’t realize how important it is to have comfortable fabric against your skin until it’s irritated. Especially during the early days of nursing, your breasts — and especially your nipples — may be in pain as you adjust to your new normal.

To reduce that discomfort, look for nursing bras with a soft cotton lining.

Durability

More than likely, you won’t just rely on one nursing bra. But even so, you want to look for bras that can retain their shape, supportive features, and clasps in the wash. Look for styles with reinforced stitching and durable fabrics that are meant to be cleaned in a washing machine. (But to protect your investment and prolong their lifespan, wash your nursing bras in a mesh laundry bag.)

Budget

For the most part, you can expect to find a quality nursing bra at a moderate price. Most of the bras in our list range between $20 and $40. However, underwire nursing bras or those designed for larger cup sizes do tend to be more expensive. But if you shop wisely, you can find nursing bras in multi-packs which can help you to save money.

Flexible underwire

If you opt for a nursing bra with underwire, make sure the underwire is made of flexible materials like bamboo. This will make it easier to move your bra cups when you’re nursing and are less likely to cause you discomfort.

Stock up on styles

Even though a nursing bra might seem like a utilitarian purchase, it can be a very versatile undergarment. You wouldn’t just buy one type of standard bra and expect it to work for every occasion. So, the same can be said of nursing bras.

Whether you’re planning to restart a fitness routine and need a good sports nursing bra, or you want to present the right neckline or silhouette in specific clothes, selecting a range of styles will give you that versatility you need.

Do nursing bras help with milk production?

While a bra can’t exactly boost production, an ill-fitting bra can constrict milk flow and impact your supply — even leading to blocked ducts or mastitis in severe cases. Your bra should be comfortable and shouldn’t feel like it’s digging into your breasts or rib cage, or compressing your breasts. This is why you’ll find that most nursing bras are wireless and made from stretchy, breathable fabric.

When should I stop wearing my nursing bra?

Although there’s no hard rule for when you can stop wearing a nursing bra, there is a guideline for when you should wait before switching back into your pre-pregnancy bras. Most guidelines center around when to reintroduce underwire bras to your routine, with the La Leche League recommending to wait at least a few months. But you may find that you’ll want to keep wearing nursing bras until you stop breastfeeding.

Your breast size can fluctuate even for seasoned nursing parents. This means that just before feeding, your breasts might be a cup size larger. You’ll want a bra that can comfortably accommodate that without pressing against your breasts or digging into your sides. Additionally, most standard bras aren’t made with drop cups — meaning that you might find the process of adjusting your regular bra tedious when it is time to nurse.

Should you size up in nursing bras?

You can buy the same size nursing bra that you would in your regular or pre-pregnancy bras. However, because your breasts can grow by a cup size or more because of your milk supply, it’s usually a good idea to also buy a bra that’s one to two cup sizes larger than your regular bra size. if you’re unsure, consider opting for bras made from stretch material that’s more forgiving and can accommodate a fluctuating bust line.

Nursing bras have come a long way from decades past where you only had so many options and all of them were bulky designs that covered your entire chest. Whether you’re petite or well-endowed, the options are limitless. But the type of bra you select is going to be directly dependent on your lifestyle, needs, and comfort level.

You don’t have to necessarily pay an arm and a leg for a quality nursing bra. As we’ve highlighted in our list, many of them are budget-friendly. And, you can still feel like a hot mama when you wear them!