If you’re new to breastfeeding or preparing your hospital bag, this guide to breastfeeding clothes is for you. The key to dressing when breastfeeding is easy access, so here’s what you should look for in your wardrobe.
Nursing Bras
What are Nursing Bras?
Nursing bras are specifically designed to provide easy access for breastfeeding without needing to remove your bra.
How Do Nursing Bras Work?
Nursing bras use several mechanisms to ensure breastfeeding access is as simple as possible:
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Pull Aside: These bras feature a stretchy, crossover front that can be easily pulled aside for nursing.
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Front Fastening: These bras are easy to put on, comfortable for sleeping, and perfect for skin-to-skin contact during feeds.
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Drop-Down Clips: The most common design, these bras have a clasp at the top of the cup that you can undo and pull down for breastfeeding access.
Different Types of Nursing Bras
Here are several types of nursing bras that cater to both your breastfeeding and fashion needs:
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Everyday Nursing Bras: The most common type, featuring seamless, wire-free designs with drop-down nursing clips. It’s best to avoid rigid underwire bras as they could block milk flow and lead to issues like clogged ducts.
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Nursing Sleep Bras: These bras provide comfort and support, helping keep breast pads in place while you sleep. They’re usually pull-over style, with a stretchy fabric and easy-access nursing openings.
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Lace Nursing Bras: For a touch of elegance, lace nursing bras provide a more delicate and feminine look, with either full lace cups or lace trim accents.
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Strapless Nursing Bras: Perfect for strapless or one-shoulder dresses, these bras allow you to nurse discreetly.
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Nursing Sports Bras: Essentially the same as regular sports bras but designed with drop-down nursing clips for easy breastfeeding access.
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Pumping Bras: If you’re returning to work but still breastfeeding, a pumping bra will hold the breast pump flanges in place while you use the pump.
Breast Pads
What Are Breast Pads?
Breast pads are absorbent liners that are placed inside your bra to prevent milk leakage from staining your clothes. Leakage is common in the early days of breastfeeding when your milk comes in, but breast pads help manage this issue. As your milk stabilizes, you may only need to change them a couple of times a day, though heavy leakage might require more frequent changes.
Breastfeeding Camisoles
A breastfeeding cami is a perfect layering piece that hides your post-pregnancy tummy while offering easy nursing access. Many camisoles come with built-in support bras, so you don’t need to wear a separate bra. Some even feature compression to assist with postpartum recovery. Simply wear the cami under any loose top or tee for an instant nursing top.
Nursing Sleepwear
New moms are often sleep-deprived with frequent night feedings. The last thing you need is fussy clothing when you need to breastfeed. Choose sleepwear that’s comfortable and practical for nursing. Sleep bras provide comfort, support, and help keep breast pads in place. Opt for easy-access sleepwear to make breastfeeding at night simple.
Nursing Tops & Dresses
Nursing tops and dresses are designed to allow breastfeeding without needing to remove the entire garment. While these aren’t essential, they are particularly useful for special events or work settings where you might need to pump. Nursing clothes use clever openings to make breastfeeding as easy as possible. One popular method is the Drop-Down Snap Button Nursing Access, where snap buttons on the shoulder are undone, and the inner panel is lifted for discreet nursing access.
Nursing Leggings
Nursing leggings are the new comfort uniform for moms. These high-waisted leggings help conceal your postpartum tummy and offer compression to aid recovery after birth. Many nursing leggings feature durable power wave knit construction that provides gentle stimulation to help with weight recovery after pregnancy.
Nursing Covers
For mothers who prefer privacy while breastfeeding in public, nursing covers are a great option. These covers provide extra privacy, especially when a mother’s room isn’t available. Nursing covers are also great for helping to block distractions, as babies tend to focus on their surroundings. Many nursing covers can also double as scarves, which can be helpful for covering milk stains or leakage.
Nipple Creams
Breastfeeding can sometimes cause sore, dry, cracked, or itchy nipples. Nipple creams are designed to soothe and soften. It’s recommended to use natural formulations that don’t need to be wiped off before breastfeeding.
Conclusion:
When it comes to breastfeeding, having the right clothes and accessories can make your journey smoother and more comfortable. From nursing bras and sleepwear to camisoles and leggings, there are many options to make breastfeeding easier, no matter where you are. Make sure to choose clothes that provide convenience, comfort, and style, so you can focus on what matters most—bonding with your baby.
