As a breastfeeding mama, comfort is key. You want a bra that will support your breastfeeding journey by providing comfort and ease, and even making you feel pretty. There are so many different maternity and nursing bras on the market, it can be tricky to decide which one you want.
We’ve compiled a list of the best nursing bras in 2025 to see you through pregnancy and breastfeeding.
What is a nursing bra?
A nursing bra is designed to support your breasts during pregnancy. Maternity bras generally have no underwire and feature thick straps that provide much-needed support. Breastfeeding bras clip open to allow easy access for feeds, allowing you to breastfeed discreetly when you’re out and about.
Do I need a nursing bra?
Yes, you’ll need to invest in some maternity and nursing bras to keep you comfortable during pregnancy and beyond. Over the course of their pregnancy, you will experience your breasts growing, and this will continue after pregnancy if you choose to breastfeed. Your body goes through so many changes during this period, and a nursing bra can accommodate your changing breasts.
Most mums experience sore and tender breasts over the course of their pregnancy as a result of changing hormone levels. A supportive maternity bra can provide help to reduce discomfort caused by sensitive nipples and tender breasts. Pregnant women often find sleeping in a nursing bra helps them feel comfortable at night.
When you are looking for the right cup size and shape, try BellyBelly’s nursing bra calculator.
When should I buy a nursing bra?
Generally, experts advise waiting until your third trimester to purchase a nursing bra because your breast size might change considerably over the course of the pregnancy. You might find you need to buy a new one even earlier in the pregnancy, though, when your regular one no longer fits or feels comfortable.
If you buy your first nursing bra early in the pregnancy, you’ll probably need to invest in a couple more as you near the end of your pregnancy. Essentially, whenever your maternity bra starts to feel tight and uncomfortable, it’s time to be fitted for a new one.
A nursing bra is a must pack item for your hospital bag. Look at BellyBelly’s article Easy Hospital Bag For Labor – What To Pack to find out what else you need to take with you on the big day.
How many nursing bras do I need?
Nursing bras aren’t cheap; if you’re on a budget, you might be keen to figure out how many you’ll need. To begin with, you’ll need at least two so you can rotate them when they need washing.
When you’re breastfeeding, you’ll need to wash your personals more frequently than usual because of breast milk leaks. Although breast pads can help, some breast milk will inevitably end up on your clothes. Some women notice they sweat more when breastfeeding, so you might need to wash more frequently because of that, too.
It makes sense to buy two sets to begin with, and then expand your collection as and when you need to. You might need to purchase extra breastfeeding bras as your breasts change size after the birth.
Choosing the best maternity or nursing bras in 2025
Here are some things to consider when choosing the best nursing bras for pregnancy and postpartum:
- Comfort
This is the most important factor when choosing a new bra. Comfort is key during the postpartum period, so make sure you choose a bra you can lounge around in. A 2021 study published in Revista Brasileira de Enfermagem states that a supportive and comfortable bra can minimise health problems associated with breastfeeding. - Aesthetic
While comfort might be top of the list, it’s also worth choosing a bra that makes you feel good. The postpartum period is a strange time; your body has been through lots of changes, and it can take time to feel like your old self again. Do your ‘future you’ a favour by choosing a bra that makes you feel confident. - Needs
Consider how you’ll be using the bra. If you’re going to wear it to bed, you’ll want one that’s comfortable for sleep. If you’re planning to wear it to postnatal fitness classes, you’ll need a sports bra to provide extra support. - Washing
You want bras that you can machine wash easily. Even if you use nursing pads, you’re likely to suffer spills and leaks, so you’ll need to wash your bras regularly. - Budget
You’ll need enough bras to have in rotation so you always have a clean one to wear. It’s worth bearing in mind that you might need to buy additional maternity bras as your breasts change size over the course of your breastfeeding journey.
What are the best maternity or nursing bras in 2025?
Here are BellyBelly’s favourite nursing bras for 2025:
#1 Nursing Bra – HOFISH nursing bra
The seamless design of the award winning HOFISH nursing bra ensures all day comfort, with non-restrictive, soft cups to support your breasts. The stretchy, flexible fabric ensures a proper fit throughout the day, and the non-slip shoulder straps stay in place as you go about your day.
This pack of three bralettes features three different colourways, so that you can pair your bra with your outfit. The clasp allows one handed access for easy nursing, so you can feed your baby discreetly, no matter where you are.
HOFISH’s popular nursing bra comes with a bra extender to make sure your bra fits for longer. The bra extender increases the band size of your bra, so you don’t need to buy a bigger bra. This adaptability is ideal for your changing body, allowing you to find the perfect fit at any stage of pregnancy or breastfeeding.
#2 Nursing Bra – Suekaphin nursing bra
Suekaphin understands the importance of comfort, convenience and good design when it comes to breastfeeding bras. The wireless cup, adjustable straps, and band extenders make sure you can always achieve a perfect fit.
We love the huge range of colours the Suekaphin nursing bra is available in, and you can choose a style you really love. Most nursing bras come in black, nude and white, but the Suekaphin bras are available in a range of colours, including purple bean, heather and mint green.
The one step feeding clasp means you can easily and discreetly start breastfeeding your baby. The design of the bra makes sure you feel covered, even when breastfeeding your baby, thanks to the wide side band and fabric coverage.
The removable padding is easy to wash and keeps its shape even after frequent washing. The fabric’s elasticity enables a close and supportive fit, and the high-quality manufacturing ensures durability. It’s a breathable bra, which means you can comfortably wear it to bed for extra support during the night.
#3 Nursing Bra – Medela 3-in-1 nursing and pumping bra
The Medela 3-in-1 bra is designed for breastfeeding and pumping, so it’s perfect for mamas who do both. The clever design features double layer drop down cups so you can breastfeed or pump discreetly. Designed with both in-bra pumping and electric pumping in mind, the Medela 3-in-1 bra will suit your individual feeding journey.
The seamless, strapless tube top provides a snug fit to support the entire breast. The soft and adaptive stretch material supports your changing body throughout your pregnancy, and during breastfeeding and pumping. The stylish top provides support throughout the day so you can get on with the things that matter.
As a pumping mama, you’ll understand the importance of a pumping bra to allow you to get on with your day while expressing milk for your baby. Enjoy hands free pumping with this nursing bra designed with modern mums in mind.
This versatile bra is fantastic for easy nursing access, electric breast pumps, and pairing with breast pumps that sit comfortably in your bra. The full drop down cups make sure you and your baby get a regular dose of skin to skin contact, to boost bonding, encourage breastfeeding and soothe you both.
#4 Nursing Bra – Bravado full cup nursing bra
If you want a supportive bra, you can’t go wrong with the Bravado full cup nursing bra. The ultra-soft, breathable material feels comfortable against your skin, and the breathability makes it a perfect sleep bra.
The stylish racer back means you don’t need to worry about your shoulder straps slipping down. The sporty aesthetic looks modern and fresh, and the thick band offers unrivalled support. This bra is ideal for larger breasts as it has the coverage and support necessary for a comfortable fit.
The full drop away cup makes sure you and your baby get to enjoy some skin to skin time during breastfeeds. Available in a variety of colours, the simple, non-padded and wire-free design of the bra is ideal for sleep and everyday wear.
It’s not difficult to see why this bra is popular amongst new mums; it has adequate support, all day comfort and super soft fabric.
#5 Nursing Bra – Mamaway Mamawave maternity nursing bra
When you’re ready to start gentle postnatal fitness classes, you’ll need a breastfeeding sports bra. Sports bras offer increased support so you can exercise comfortably without having to rearrange yourself constantly.
The crossover straps provide ample support and make sure you stay comfortable while exercising. The durable nursing clips allow for easy one handed access for convenient breastfeeds, and are also strong enough to prevent accidental unclasps while you’re exercising.
Additional side support (removable padding) means your breasts are well supported while you exercise, ensuring you stay comfortable. The wide underband offers a snug fit that accommodates your changing body. The ribbed design looks and feels great.
The long lasting odour release, breathable and quick drying fabrics leave you smelling fresh, even after an intense postnatal workout. The removable padding is breathable, too, so you don’t need to worry about smelling sweaty.
#6 Nursing Bra – Simple Wishes Supermum nursing and pumping bra
A breast pump bra is a must have if you’re planning to use an electric breast pump. The clever design of the Simple Wishes bra means you can pump hands free, allowing you to get on with other things at the same time.
The unique clasp technology allows you to switch effortlessly between breastfeeding and pumping, so you don’t waste a drop of your liquid gold. Simple Wishes’ clever universal design ensures it is compatible with a range of breast pumps.
The comfort sling provides additional support and boosts pump performance, so you can pump hands free without losing efficiency. The buttery soft fabric feels dreamy against your skin, allowing you to feel comfortable at every stage of your feeding journey.
The removable padding and adjustable straps make sure you can achieve the perfect fit. The adaptability of this bra means it will last you through pregnancy, pumping and breastfeeding. A poorly fitting bra is uncomfortable, especially when you’re battling the tender breasts of pregnancy and breastfeeding, so it’s crucial to invest in a bra that fits perfectly.
#7 Nursing Bra – Delimira wireless sleep bra
We love the Delimira wireless chic charcoal panthera design of this fun sleep nursing bra. The lace trim is a cute feature, and the aesthetic is unlike other wireless bras on the market. It doesn’t look like your typical nursing bra; instead, it looks more like a fashionable sports bra or lace top. If you want a bra that makes you feel stylish, cute and fun, this is a perfect choice.
The wide shoulder straps provide decent nighttime support, and the adjustable hook and eye closure allows you to find the perfect fit. Ideal for night feeds, the easy pull aside cups offer easy breastfeeding access all night long. The crossover front design is ideal for accommodating your growing breasts during pregnancy and beyond.
The wireless and non padded design offers comfortable support during the night. The breathable stretch fabric provides a snug fit for adequate support, and the fabric feels soft against your sensitive skin.
How do maternity or nursing bras work?
This depends on the individual bra but, generally, maternity and nursing bras are designed to provide extra support, allow for easy access, and have multiple size fittings so they can accommodate your changing breast size. The best nursing bras feature clip down cups so you can free the nipple easily for an impromptu feed when you’re out and about.
Differences between maternity bras and nursing bras
Maternity bras offer additional support in the form of thicker shoulder straps, a wide underband, and extra fabric at the sides. They also usually feature extra clasps on the back to allow the bra to fit for longer into your pregnancy.
Nursing bras offer all of this, but have the additional benefit of clip release cups that allow easy access to your breasts for breastfeeding. Most maternity bras double up as feeding bras so you can use them for longer.
Can you nurse in a regular bra?
While you can technically nurse in a regular bra, it’s much better to use a nursing bra. A regular bra won’t allow easy access for feeds when you’re out and about, which could be uncomfortable. Regular bras don’t have the thick shoulder and back straps to provide much-needed support to your growing (and more sensitive) breasts. Breastfeeding bras are usually wireless, ensuring comfort without restriction.
Regular bras are unlikely to offer the same level of comfort, accessibility and ease as a specially designed nursing bra does.
How do you find the perfect bra?
The best way to find a perfect fit when it comes to bras is to get measured by a professional. You might be wearing the completely wrong size; a professional fitting can sort this out. Your breasts should fit neatly into the bra without any spillage or gaping. The shoulder straps should be snug, and the fabric between the cups should lie flush against the skin on your chest.
You might want to try BellyBelly’s nursing bra calculator when you are looking for the right cup size and shape.
How to use a nursing bra to pump
Pumping bras enable you to pump without having to hold the pump against your breast. The breast pump flanges fit neatly through the openings on the pumping bra. Ideally, the bra will provide support to hold the pump in place and support its weight.
If you have a pump that fits snugly in your bra, you can simply pop it inside your regular nursing bra and pump away.
How to use a maternity sports bra
If you’re planning on attending a postnatal exercise class or prenatal yoga class, you’ll need a nursing sports bra in your collection. Bralettes are very comfortable, offer maximum protection, and are made from breathable fabrics that wick moisture away from the skin.
