Are you looking to buy a good nursing bra?
Knowing how to buy a nursing bra a necessity for a modern breastfeeding mother.
You don’t want to be that mom who finds this out while in the throes of handling a crying newborn and trying to maneuver your regular bra over your head.
With so many options available in-store and online, you will need to know the basics of how to buy a nursing bra to narrow the selection.
I’ve uncovered the best features to help you find the perfect breastfeeding bra.
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Related: 6 Best Nursing Bras for Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
How to Buy a Nursing Bra
Attractiveness
Do you love pretty lingerie that’s always matching? Then this will be important features for you.
Brands have really up their game in the last few years with maternity style. Gone are boring grandma bras. They’ve been replaced with modern fabrics which look pretty and provide support.
You are now able to purchase sets which include both a nursing bra and pants to match.
Support
When you’re breastfeeding your breast sizes can grow up to 3 times your pre-pregnancy size. This means that will need support for your breasts during the time you are nursing.
Typically, nursing bras have been non-wired as tight support may cause problems with blocked milk ducts.
If you have a large chest, you should consider a nursing bra with at least 4-5 clasp hooks. This feature will provide enough structure for adequate back support.
Size
Getting measured for a nursing bra is just as important as getting measured for a regular bra.
When breastfeeding your breasts will fluctuate in size throughout the day. A good nursing bra will accommodate this.
Nursing bras are easily available to accommodate all sizes from an A cup to N cup. Remember during a fitting you will need to allow room for nursing pads within the cup to prevent milk leaks.
Comfort
You may want to buy a few comfort bras which are used for those ‘growth spurt’ days. You know the ones where your baby is constantly attached to your breast, and you should just lounge around with your baby.
These bras have light support but are often seamless. This makes them ideal sleep nursing bras, as they prevent any rubbing of fabrics.
Consider what type of fabric feel most comfortable to you and allows breathability. It’s no use buying a pretty satin bra which will leave you feeling like a hot sweaty mess after 20 minutes of wearing.
You may want to consider under band or strap size and consider if they will ‘dig in’ after a few hours of wear.
Related: 7 Best Nursing Bras For Large Breasts
Ease of use
The best type of nursing bra will allow you to pop open a cup one-handed. It’s not only convenient but helps you to feed discreetly if others are around.
Look for a nursing bra with a popper or a clip system. You will need to consider how easy the bra is to put on.
If your breasts are engorged and tender, it’s difficult to maneuver a bra overhead, and a clasp clip would be more suitable.
Price
Consider your budget for purchasing a good nursing bra. Ideally, you will need at least four bras to see you through different use and washing.
It’s best to invest in you good breastfeeding bras as a bad fit can cause a whole host of breast problems.
Look out for dual purpose bras which can be converted to regular bras when you finish nursing, to get the best value for money.
