The Best Nursing Bras for Every Occasion

There is no doubt, breastfeeding your baby is an amazing thing. It can also be challenging, uncomfortable and at times painful, especially during those early days when feeding is relentless and you are both figuring things out. Which is why finding the right nursing bra is essential.

Non-nursing styles can be hard to move out of the way and make it difficult for your baby to latch on, but a bra that is comfy, supportive and easy to access can be the difference between you stopping or continuing on your breastfeeding journey. 

When shopping for a nursing bra there are a few key things to look out for:

• EASY ACCESS: You won’t want to be fussing about when your baby is crying out for milk, so one of the key things to look for is ease of access. The majority of nursing bras have clips that snap on and off at the base of the shoulder straps to move the bulk of bra out of the way when it's time to breastfeed. Less popular but ideal if your not keen on clips, are nursing bras with extra stretchy fabric that you can pull out of the way.

• ADJUSTABILITY: Chances are your breast size may change over the course of your breastfeeding journey (post pregnancy weight loss and babies feeding needs all effect the size of your breasts), so it's a good idea to look for a bra that can work with your changing shape. Stretchy bras are designed with this in mind, adjusting to fluctuating sizes. For nursing bras that are more structured like regular bras, look for adjustable straps and hooks so you can find the best fit.

• PADDING: Not all nursing bras come with padding and it isn’t a necessity when looking for a nursing bra but they can offer additional protection for milk leaks, especially during those first few weeks when milk supply can often exceed demand.

• SUPPORT: Look for comfortable straps that are going to support heavy breast and wireless bands around the ribcage for support and to help the bra stay in place. You may also prefer a different type of bra for the newborn days vs. later on: In the beginning your top priority will most likely be comfort whilst later on when you start to nurse less frequently you may prefer to go for more structure and style forward  options.

Thankfully, nursing bras no longer resemble the flowery monstrosities our own mothers had to contend with and these days it is possible to find a nursing bra to suit your every need.

From sports bras and t-shirt bras, to sexy bras and bras so comfy you can sleep in them, we’ve put our babies hard to work testing out the best nursing bras for every occasion.

Best T-Shirt Bra

BRAVADO Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra £34

Your perfect everyday nursing bra. So comfortable we’d happily wear it all day, the Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bras’ luxurious soft fabric moulds to your changing shape, so that you can wear it throughout pregnancy and breasting feeding, while its seamless design provides a flawless silhouette under clothes.

Best Eco Friendly Bra

UNDERPROTECTION Mia Maternity Bra €55

Ethical, Sustainable and oh so pretty. Nursing bra’s don’t get more desirable than Underprotection’s best-selling Mia Bra, which has been loving redesign into a maternity bra for new moms. Featuring the Mia’s signature lace, made in the softest lyocell jersey, the bra has soft and wide shoulder elastics for optimal support. Feel like treating yourself? Match it with Mia Briefs or get extra comfy with the high waisted Mia Hipsters.

BEST SPORTS BRA

CADENSHAE Breastfeeding Freedom Bra £40

Medically endorsed, Cadenshae’s Freedom Bra tops our list of breastfeeding friendly sports bra’s.  Soft against your skin, with versatile cross over straps and discreet drop down cups for easy nursing, it  provides the ultimate in comfort and support so you never need to choose between burpees or breastfeeding.

Best Sleep Bra

SERAPHINE Bamboo Nursing Bras Twin Pack £35

Made of the softest bamboo, which is know for its antibacterial, hypoallergenic and moisture wicking properties,  and a must have flexible fit design that adapts to your changing shape, Seraphines twin pack are our first choice of sleep bras. Each pack contains two bra’s, one in black & one in white, while simple drop-down cups allow easy access for breastfeeding during those long night feeds.

Best Two Pack

COSABELLA Never Say Never Mommie Set of Two Stretch-Lace Nursing Bras £100 @ Net A Porter

Reworking their best-selling 'Never Say Never' bra for new moms, Cosabella’s stylish maternity two pack features a desirable stretch-lace design, adjustable straps with in-built nursing clips and slinged padded cups for support and coverage.

Best Everyday Bra

FRANCIS & HENRY Balawa Bralette €32

Not a fan of clips? Then you might want to check out Francis & Henry’s gorgeous Balawa Balawa Bralette. Underwire-free, soft with a stunning floral print from the TINI KA LIMA collection, this  stretchy bralette can be pulled up or down for nursing, serving as both - practical and beautiful essentials to pack in your hospital bag. 

Best Sexy Bra

SIX Emmeline Black Jersey and Silk Nursing Bra £69

Breastfeeding doesn’t mean you need to feel like a frump. Balancing the need for function and practicality with a contemporary and desirable aesthetic Six answers the needs of a modern woman who doesn’t want to compromise her style or self-identity during or after pregnancy.