The racerback style features drop-cup nursing access, but because the front is constructed from one large fabric panel, it may take some maneuvering to find a comfortable position for nursing. Because it is a sleeping bra, the French Terry Racerback offers less support than daytime bras. If youve been Keeping Up With The Kardashians, youll be well aware of Kims brand Skims, which is here to totally revamp your underwear drawer. The thick band and soft fabric feel cozy and secure around the ribcage. One of the most inclusive labels out there, it offers pieces in a range of sizes (XXS to 5XL), nine skin tone-inspired hues and boasts an impressive collection designed specifically for expectant and new mothers, including this nursing bra. As well as being stylish, the seam-free cups have been designed to be pulled aside for quick access to feeding, essential when youve got a hungry baby on your hands. Support in the band should be snug, but not uncomfortable because this is where most of the support in your bra comes from. And, we combine our review work with gobs of expert parenting advice. The bra also comes with the added bonus of being nursing-friendly thanks to two little clips on the bra straps, which can be unfastened one-handed, and theres also an inside sling made from the same stretchy material for shoulder stability. For a daytime bra, look for adjustability in the band, so it can accommodate your expanding rib cage as your tummy grows. How can we improve BabyGearLab? Growing breasts need more support through pregnancy and nursing than a regular bra can provide. "I wanted to create a range that would achieve the best flattering bust shape and allow you to wear low cut tops without showing the top of the bra," she said. We trialled a range of different bras in a variety of settings, from Zoom meetings to pregnancy yoga sessions and even to bed, testing each for its fit, size range, versatility and, of course, how enjoyable it was to wear, with extra points awarded for stylish designs. It is our number one recommendation for a sleep bra for nursing. However, we think its worth noting that while the back of the underband has a decent amount of stretch, the section that sits beneath your breasts doesnt have any such flexibility, which could prove problematic as your ribcage starts to expand. Best suited for large busts, it comes in sizes 32D to 40J, has fully adjustable wide straps and a longer hook and eye fastening with four rows to accommodate for your expanding rib cage. No ads. The only downside is that the inset padding is tricky to realign after washing - but thats the same with all of these types of bras, it just takes a bit of patience.". The hook-and-eye closure is more expansive than average and has four width adjustments, allowing customization for your changing body. Also, consider how well a bra will fit in with your maternity wardrobe. The ribbed design of the Bravado Body Silk helps add support and shape. Extra-wide closure with multiple adjustments. This pullover style has no band adjustment, but the high-quality ribbed fabric easily forms to your shape. However, its worth noting that it cant be chucked in the washing machine and must be hand washed only. Our only niggle? While wearing a bra to bed might sound like the last thing you want to do, most women have little choice during and post-pregnancy thanks to the need for extra support. To determine how well your bra fits you, check for the following: This should sit parallel to the floor. Keep spit-up woes at bay with a handy burp cloth. We really appreciated that the smooth, seam-free cups mean the bra is invisible under clothing and found that they support your changing breasts, even without an underwire. We tested 8 of the top nursing bras available today to find the best. We did not experience any side boob spillage and never had to worry about tucking anything back in. We wore these during yoga classes and Zoom calls, as well as snuggled up in bed, Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile, Our list includes supportive styles for both larger and smaller busts. Whatever your preference, you want a bra to match. If a bra doesn't feel good when you're wearing it, it's the wrong bra. You may find your breasts increasingly sensitive during this time so choosing a non-wired bra is a sensible option. Unlike the other bras on our list, these ones from Seraphine have no clips or fastenings, which makes them an absolute dream to wear. The bra is only available in eight sizes ranging from 32C-DD to 40E-G. We wish there were more options available for those with smaller busts as theyre truly missing out. Need a pacifier? The softness and stretchiness of the fabric are important when considering the possibility of irritation and chafing. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the GooglePrivacy policyandTerms of serviceapply. BabyGearLab is reader-supported. The bra also comes in white. Breast tissue should not spill out of the sides of the bra. The cups also unclip very easily, giving easy access to the breasts for feeding, which is particularly handy if youre nursing a hungry little one. Review: "I love it. The Original Nursing Bra is available in sizes S, M, L and XL, and comes in white, black, grey and pink. Unfortunately, this can mean sacrificing shaping ability. Different mamas will appreciate different levels of support from their nursing bras. You can opt-out at any time by signing in to your account to manage your preferences. Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in, Please refresh your browser to be logged in, 10 best maternity bras that are stylish, comfy and practical, Paraben and sulphate free shampoo & conditioner, Sustainable and organic kids' clothing brands. They also get top marks for comfort thanks to the absence of a pesky underwire. Easy access when nursing and it seems to wash well.". The pink leopard-print bra is both pretty and comfortable, meaning it's great for everyday wear. The Bravado has a wide range of adjustments for a customized fit that helps mothers of all sizes find a good fit. Our goal is to help you find the right bra for your needs and lifestyle because the right fit can make all the difference. All the bras we tested have a way to keep the strap from slipping to the back, making it easy to adjust the bra back into its regular position. We spend tens of thousands of dollars crash testing car seats to inform our ratings. She has achieved this using a silky smooth micro-fibre that stretches while still maintaining support; the lace trim is a pretty feminine addition. It has a wide bottom band and flat, smooth racer-back for a sporty look. You wont regret splashing out on high quality maternity underwear when the time comes and this bra from Cake Maternity is worth every penny. The bra is also designed with Calvin Kleins signature elasticated underband, which is slightly wider than those you find on its standard styles to ensure a longer-lasting fit. Each email has a link to unsubscribe. Made from a comfortable jersey fabric with a feminine lace trim, this bra is soft enough to wear from day to night and gives you light support throughout your pregnancy and beyond. If the band rides up in the back, its too big. This bra does it all at once, and in lovely colours too. We opted to go without rather than adjusting and readjusting them. We just wish it came in more sizes. Or do you usually go with the standard straight straps? Smooth, comfortable and lightly padded (which is great for protecting sore nipples and against leakages), this structured bra is made from sustainable cotton and is among one of the softest on this list almost on par with ModiBodis offering. While not the cheapest in the review, it is a high-scoring option with a lower price than some competitors. This bra runs a bit small, so you may want to size up. Are you pregnant or nursing and searching for a comfortable nursing bra? Available in three subtle colours, this nursing bra achieves a lot at once. As soon as I got it and wore it for the first time I bought 2 more! I wish I had been wearing this bra the whole time! While the inner cotton lining is soft it does feature seams that anyone struggling with particularly sensitive nipples might find uncomfortable. If you thought that nursing bras were all cumbersome, ugly affairs, think again. How easy a nursing bra is to use will significantly influence how often it gets worn. Designed with comfort in mind, its made from soft stretch cotton modal, which adapts to the changing shape of the body from bump to baby. No sponsored content. If there is puckering or extra room, its too big. Let us know! However, as your breasts grow, you will likely need a bit more than your pre-pregnancy bras provide. The stretchy fabric is cut and gathered to lift and separate, helping to eliminate the uni-boob look that often accompanies a fuller bust. The full-coverage cut and the extra-thick band give a held-in and hugged feeling that inspires confidence whether working out or lounging around. However, the padded cups can be slightly difficult to manoeuvre out the way and need to be folded down. When your baby is here, simply use the easy-feed drop down cups with nursing clips if you're breastfeeding. We love the On Gossamer Next to Nothing material because it feels silky soft on sensitive areas. Copyright 2012 - 2022 BabyGearLab LLC Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? The moulded wire-free cups are great for shape and support. Made from bamboo viscose, theyre hypoallergenic and soft to the touch, which helps appease sore nipples. If you want a nursing bra that looks smooth and has a little perk, it is perfect for wearing more form-fitting shirts or dresses. I love that there is no padding in it since I have to put breast pads in for leaky boobs anyway. Start your Independent Premium subscription today. There is no dedicated space to insert the pads, so they may travel through the night and end up in the wrong spot. If you want gentle support for low-impact activities, the Ingrid and Isabel bra is a sporty full coverage option but still cute. She enjoyed it so much that she purchased two more after testing. Plus, if you are planning on breastfeeding, it features nursing clasps, which can be easily opened and closed with one hand. Working out at just under 10 per bra, this set of bralettes is ideal for those on a budget. If youre wearing a bra at night, go for a band that doesnt have hooks and eyes so that its flat for comfortable sleep. So we were elated to find this set that is specially designed to help you get a more comfortable nights sleep. Designed with no underwire, it has a ribbed underband for extra support and a double layer of jersey material on the cups, which help protect you against any leaks. Pregnancy and nursing underwear thats actually sexy, Petite maternity clothes for shorter mamas, Newborn baby essentials you actually need from day one, The best maternity leggings that you can wear all day, everyday, 13 of the best nipple creams for breastfeeding, 11 breast feeding pumps tried and tested by real mums, Bauer Media Group consists of: Bauer Consumer Media Ltd, Company number: 01176085, Bauer Radio Ltd, Company Number: 1394141, Registered Office: Media House, Peterborough Business Park, Lynch Wood, Peterborough, PE2 6EA H Bauer Publishing,Company Number: LP003328, Registered Office: Academic House, 24-28 Oval Road, London, NW1 7DT. We then dove further in with hands-on testing to find the best of the best, examining aspects such as fit, style, and comfort. When it comes to nursing, the bras have nursing clips that are easy to unfasten for breastfeeding and theres also integral support, which offers a more discreet feed. The longline silhouette of the Ingrid and Isabel offers a more sleek and modern take on the sports bra. It looks great too!". The Ingrid and Isabel Seamless performed better than average in all our tests and had a reasonable price compared to the competition. They also tend to have more hooks and eyes than normal bras to allow loosening and tightening, and are free from niggling seams and uncomfortable underwires. Others have a clip where the cup and strap meet, allowing you to drop the cup down for easy feeding. The cups are very lightly padded and provide great full coverage with a nursing drop down clip for easing feeding. As a new mother, she augmented our analysis with her opinion on the fit and support and ease of access during nursing sessions. But if you wear it while sleeping, perhaps support is less of a concern. From cosy wire-free support to sculpting styles and sleep bras, these are the best ones we found that will accommodate you and your changing body. Comparing these metrics helped us find the best options. The fabric in the cup should be smooth with adequate coverage. The bra comes in a choice of four colours black, dusty green, dusty white and dusty aqua and is size inclusive, spanning XS to XXL, which equates to clothing sizes UK8 to UK28. Look for wider straps to help comfortably distribute the weight of your breasts. We think these are minimal drawbacks, and we love the overall functionality of the Kindred Bravely. The Kindred Bravely French Terry Racerback is a foolproof sleep bra earning a 9 of 10 for ease of use. With a front-to-back strap adjustment, the Bravado Body Silk Seamless bra is one of the most user friendly. The lowest scoring bra for fit and comfort is the La Leche League with a 3 of 10 score and itchy thin materials that stretch too much too quickly. From XS to XXL, each size is also available in a "busty" option with a smaller band to cup ratio. The sets are available in standard clothing sizes, running from a UK8 to UK16. The bra also features four rows of hook and eyes for good adjustment and flexible fit. It's my bra to wear to work or wear out when a lounge bra just won't cut it but I could easily wear this around the house all day and be comfortable as well. Both pretty and practical, this is a bra youll actually want to wear, and we loved that it comes in a choice of colours including black and pink or ivory and champagne. Its also nursing-friendly thanks to its drop-away access, which can be accessed through little clips on the straps which are easily undone one-handed. Review: "Have really been struggling to find a comfy and supportive bra whilst being pregnant and being a size 34GG doesnt make it easy but this bra made a difference as soon as I put it on. If you were a fan of Calvin Kleins cotton bras before pregnancy, you wont be disappointed by its maternity version, which has been updated with light padding for added security. Theres an impressive range of sizes available, spanning 32B to 40G. Coupled with an expanding rib cage and tenderness (which can continue throughout each trimester) all of this means your old underwear might not fit or feel as comfortable as it used to. Leading the review is Senior Review Editor, Abriah Wofford. Dont wait to purchase like I did.". Review: "A comfortable nursing bra which actually looks pretty too. Nursing clips that you can unfasten and refasten one-handed is important for when you have a baby in your arms, or if youre half asleep. Of course, you can wear these outside of the bedroom too, which we did regularly and found that they provided a good shape under clothes. We tested these nursing bras with real moms, pre and postpartum, to assess comfort, functionality, and support in side-by-side comparisons. A non-underwire design during the first few weeks of breastfeeding, as underwires can lead to clogged milk ducts. The Bravado Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra won our hearts due to the perfect combination of perks that make it supportive and easy to use. We also liked the crossover front, which makes for easier access if youre breastfeeding. If youre a new or expectant mum, chances are youll have experienced the frustration of buying a new bra to fit your seemingly ever-expanding bust, only to find that it no longer fits a few weeks later. Many women experience changes to their breasts in early pregnancy in fact, its often one of the first signs that youre pregnant, with research indicating they can increase by a cup size or more in the first trimester alone. I struggle with nursing bras as sometimes they're too restrictive and cause me blocked ducts, but I've not had problems with this one so far. Upon opening this lightweight bralette we were alarmed at how small it appeared considering we ordered a size larger (which wed recommend you do, too) but we soon discovered that this is all down to its super-elasticity. They are relatively easy to adjust but didn't slip. If you can fit more than 2 fingers, its too loose. Breast pads are concealed within a moisture-wicking, mesh lining, a godsend during those early first days, and the bras straps are extra soft. All registered in England and Wales. The cherry on top of all this is style. This lace dual-use maternity and nursing bra from Jojo Maman Bebe is seamless, while its moulded cups and soft cotton lining is ideal for sensitive nipples and drop down clips make for easy feeding access. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and we never accept free products from manufacturers. There are so many other things happening with your body that an ill-fitting piece of clothing can be the straw that breaks the camel's back. Plus, the material is moisture wicking, making them ideal for nursing mums or those prone to dreaded night sweats. Definitely worth the money and I will be buying more!". Supportive, comfortable and easy to undo when you need to feed, ModiBodis bra is a great all-rounder. We think this makes up for the lack of a band adjustment in this pullover-style bra. Review: "2-3 weeks postpartum I purchased this bra. Its pretty, its supportive, its comfortable, and its easy to use. Review: "I have had such a hard time finding a wire free supportive nursing bra for my H cup chest, but not anymore! The On Gossamer Next To Nothing earned a high score for style thanks to a design that doesn't look like a granny bra and natural boob separation, which is harder to find in nursing bras than you'd think. This bra runs very small, so it may take a few tries to find your perfect fit. Review: "I have tried so many nursing sports bras but the Zest bra is the most supportive and comfortable one Ive found. Highly worth it!". We love this bra and think that it is one you will reach for again and again during your nursing years. Our Editors independently research, test, and rate the best products. The bra is available in black and white. The straps are easy to adjust, and the clip that holds the cup is easy to undo with one hand. Need a drying rack for your baby's bottles? Nursing bras have many of the same features but are typically worn postpartum (although you can start wearing one during pregnancy, too) and come with clips that attach the cups to the strap to allow for easy access to your breasts while breastfeeding. I love the range of colours, the fabric feels soft and the design isn't frumpy at all - which I've come to expect from anything dubbed a 'maternity bra'. Super smooth and seam-free, the Freya Pure moulded nursing bra has moulded cups made from breathable foam for shape and support to give a smooth look under clothes. The Ingrid and Isabel is a perfect example of a bra that flexes to fit the shape of your body. If its a no-frills approach to maternity bras that youre after, consider this pack of three from Next there are no fancy features, pretty patterns, lace or ribbing but they get the job done. Your nursing bra should be comfortable enough to hang out around the house, and stylish enough to go out. Choosing the most inexpensive option you can find is also not the best strategy, as it could end up being too uncomfortable for long-term or everyday wear. In the end, we feel that these are minor flaws in an overall fantastic bra and would not hesitate to recommend it to a friend. For nursing bras specifically, stretch is important, top boxes to tick include: Full breast access through drop-down or pull-away cups for essential skin-to-skin contact with your baby. Because you could be wearing your nursing bra for more than a year, we think it is best to buy a few comfortable and easy-to-use options that perhaps cost a little more than looking for the least expensive option you may hate wearing. The material has a very thick-ribbed texture that may be less comfortable for some users over long periods. We like that the cup liners are removable, but we had problems with them shifting around. To assure complete independence, we buy all the products we test ourselves. As part of H&MS mama range, which offers a wide range of maternity and nursing clothes, these seamless bras provide the comfort you need during and post-pregnancy. In contrast, the straps have restricted stretch so theyre supportive and good for your shoulder and back muscles. Highly recommend! When you click on links to buy products we may earn money to support. Really impressed!". However, it can feel a little restrictive at first (it loosens slightly after a few wears) so if youd prefer more room to grow wed size up for added comfort. I feel so confident in it! It doesn't come with any padding, so you'll need to purchase nursing pads separately if you need them. Its available in sizes S (32-34 B-DD) to L (36-28 B-DD), and our only criticism is that the bra doesnt have much stretch to it, particularly on the underband, which could prove an issue as your ribcage grows. You will likely appreciate two individual pads sewn into the bra for the extra coverage and absorbency. Its an easy pull-on style with no aggravating fastenings or back closure, meaning it feels gentle against your skin. Layers in the cup such as a removable foam insert, or a double layer of fabric provides a smooth silhouette and nipple discretion. The elastic band around the bottom of the bra conforms easily to your shape and doesn't dig in uncomfortably. Lovely and comfortable in pregnancy too.". It also has a stylish lace trim that makes it feels attractive compared to some others and we loved that it serves a far greater purpose than simply looking good. The use of good design and extra-stretchy fabrics can make some bras more universally comfortable and flattering. The shoulder straps should anchor the bra without providing support. The cup fabric is so stretchy that we had no problem with the side pull access, while the band feels secure enough not to let anything slip out, even while tossing and turning. So, if you want a super comfy fit that you can continue to grow into wed suggest investing in a size up. However, if you have a heavy milk supply, you may want to use them as an extra layer of absorbency. We know how hard it is to feel like 'yourself' when you have a new baby, but getting the foundations right with a good bra is the first step. The Kindred is the softest option in the group, perfect for those who value fabric feel. Review: "This is genuinely the comfiest bra I've ever worn, while still being really supportive. Thats why a maternity bra is such a necessity for mums-to-be and new parents. The contemporary, pull-on style allows for an effortlessly chic look, designed with a feminine crossover styling and wide bottom band, the knitted bra is perfect for pregnancy, nursing (thanks to pull-away cups) and beyond. We've spent time doing some research so you don't have to - from pretty and feminine to seriously practical, here are the best nursing brasyou can buy today. If the straps are slipping off, they should be tightened, or a smaller cup size may be needed. It is equally essential to avoid bras that gap in the wrong places; extra loose fabric can cause just as much irritation as extra tight. In our tests, the top-scoring bras for fit and comfort were the Kindred Bravely French Terry Racerback and Bravado Body Silk Seamless with a 9 and 8, respectively. Its made from a clever polyamide-blend fabric that stretches as your breasts change size and shape, so one cup size fits anything from a size B to an F. The bra comes in black and white. The hardest-to-use bra is the Cake Maternity Croissant, earning 3 thanks to straps that are extremely difficult to adjust. After hours of research, we selected the best nursing bras available in 2021. You should be able to fit two fingers comfortably underneath. It also has adjustable straps that feature easy to use clips and extra support slings for breastfeeding, as well as removable pads that we found offered a little lift. It uses a rayon/spandex blend fabric that is smooth to the touch and cozy with no plastic parts that could get uncomfortable through the night and a full coverage cut that holds everything securely in place, making this bra the stuff of dreams. Our tester enjoyed this bra so much that she bought several for herself when testing was over. For each bra in our tests, we considered Fit/Comfort, Support, Ease of Use, and Style. But hey, grandma probably knows a thing or two about brassieres. A wider clasp on the back so it looks smooth under a shirt. The most supportive option in this review is the Cake Maternity Croissant with a 9 of 10 thanks to the underwire that provides more support but could be less comfortable. We purchased and tested the top baby Baby bottles come in all shapes and sizes, but which are tested thousands of baby and kids products, Great coverage, supportive, easily adjustable, Comfortable, very supportive, good quality, Super soft fabric, large size range, easy access, Soft material, padding stays put, good shaping, Comfy full coverage bra that you'll want to wear all-day, Excellent support, stylish, high-quality fabric, and a comfortable thick band make this a budget-friendly favorite, Simple sleep bra with velvety soft fabric and side pull access that gives enough support when comfort is king, Light and simple nursing bra that feels like you're not wearing anything at all, A simple yet effective staple to have in your postpartum wardrobe, Underwire bra offers flattering shape and good support, but difficult to adjust, A comfortable and functional nursing bra that comes in a value pack to suit anyone's budget, Simple sleep bra best for small chested moms to wear around the house. Privacy | Cookies | Terms, In-depth baby product reviews led by a Pediatrician, We tested the top nursing bras from Playtex, Bravado, Ingrid and Isabel, La Leche, and others to find the best. Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in. The straps are extra wide and sturdy; we didn't experience any uncomfortable digging. Review: "Great, comfy nursing bra, at least for smaller boobs (B-C). Emma Jane maternity bras regularly win awards, thanks to their comfort and style and this seam-free version is one of their most popular. Theyre made from a soft jersey fabric that has a decent amount of stretch to accommodate your growing frame with adjustable straps, an elasticated lace trim at the hem and four rows of hook and eye fastenings. It is one of the most discreet nursing bras in this review and can easily be worn under a loose flowy tank for extra coverage and support. We also like the Bravado Body Silk for its full-coverage design that is snug but not suffocating. Its simple, functional, comfy, and it doesnt make breastfeeding any harder than it has to be. With baby in tow, it is ideal to have a clip that can be worked with only one free hand. Nursing bras have two access types: some have a side pull style that utilizes extra stretchy fabric sewn into a wrap style. Available in black or opaline, the bra comes in a good range of sizes, spanning 32B to 38DD. BabyGearLab was founded by a Pediatrician Mom with a mission to provide a reliable, independent, source of information to new parents. Well structured, the cups are lightly padded and made from a soft cotton material thats naturally cooling and feels breathable, with plenty of fabric to ensure your breasts are suitably covered. M&S has been a go-to destination for women looking to upgrade their undies for many years and its not hard to see why. Finding a comfortable bra is vital. We also prefer straps that are slightly wider than average, like on the Bravado Body Silk, because they will help distribute the load better. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission. Our experts have tested thousands of baby and kids products to share key performance, health, and safety findings. There is value in selecting a product you will enjoy wearing. How does the bra look? The Cake Maternity Croissant offered the best shaping and support features of all the bras we tested. This bra is so comfortable, supportive, and looks great. The nylon/spandex blend fabric is exceptionally smooth, and we trust that it doesn't feel irritating, even on the most sensitive and chapped nipples. For the latest discounts and offers on other fashion buys, try the links below: Keep you (and bump) comfy while working out with the best maternity sportswear pieces and sets, Registration is a free and easy way to support our truly independent journalism, By registering, you will also enjoy limited access to Premium articles, exclusive newsletters, commenting, and virtual events with our leading journalists, {{#verifyErrors}} {{message}} {{/verifyErrors}} {{^verifyErrors}} {{message}} {{/verifyErrors}}.