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The 32 Best Maternity and Nursing Bras for Every Need

From sports bras to sleep bras and everything in between, we’ve rounded up the comfiest, most supportive nursing and maternity bras for every activity.
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By Ashlee Neuman, Content Director
Updated December 19, 2022
Best maternity and nursing bras 2022
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When it comes to the best nursing bras—which are generally designed for both pregnant and breastfeeding moms—there are endless options. You’ve got everyday nursing bras, sleep nursing bras, nursing bras with molded cups, pumping bras and extra-supportive nursing bras specifically made for women with larger busts. Yes, the cup runneth over with choices, but how do you know which one is right for you? Read on for shopping tips from lactation consultants and style experts, plus our roundup of the best maternity and nursing bras out there, so you can find the perfect fit.

Shopping Tips for Maternity and Nursing Bras

Wondering when to buy a maternity bra? There’s no hard and fast rule, but women often find it’s time to buy a good maternity bra around week 18 of pregnancy. And no, your current bra in three sizes bigger won’t do the trick—maternity and nursing bras are specifically designed to provide the best support for growing, pregnant and breastfeeding bodies. But just because you find a maternity bra that fits now, doesn’t mean that it’ll be your perfect size after baby arrives. “It’s not unusual to change bra sizes within the first few weeks of breastfeeding,” says New York City stylist Samantha Brown—so if you’re shopping before baby’s debut, consider buying one or two sizes larger than usual, so you have one ready to wear after birth.

The same features you look for when shopping for a regular bra are especially crucial when you’re looking for a bra while pregnant or breastfeeding. Your girls are working hard for you and baby, so accommodate them well! The best nursing bras include these key components:

  • Comfort. This should be at the top of your nursing bra must-have list during the first four to six weeks after having baby, says Stephanie Nguyen, founder of Modern Milk and a certified lactation consultant. She recommends stretchy nursing bras to accommodate the breast changes moms experience during this time. “Look for nursing bras in soft fabrics,” Nguyen says. You’ll also want to pick a bra with thick back closures that have four or more hooks and wide, cushioned straps, plus a band that doesn’t ride up in the back.

  • Support. Breasts filled with milk are fuller (and heavier), so you’ll want more support than you had before baby. A supportive nursing bra also prevents sagging breasts after baby graduates from breastfeeding. “The band under the bust should be snug,” Brown says, but make sure the straps don’t cut into your shoulders. “An ill-fitting bra can impact a woman’s posture, and lead to strain and tension headaches,” she warns.

  • Coverage. The cup should fully cover your breast—something you’ll especially appreciate around six weeks postpartum. “I personally like bras with molded cups to help disguise nursing pads and nipples that may be a bit larger than before,” Nguyen says.

  • Ease. The best nursing bras make it seamless to breastfeed. “Look for removable pads, no underwire (if it’s a sleeping bra) and clips for easy feeding,” Brown says.

Best Maternity and Nursing Bras for Everyday Wear

So how can you tell if you’ve found the best maternity or nursing bra for you? “If it fits, if it’s comfortable, if it’s easy to nurse in and you like the style,” Nguyen says. Pick up at least two nursing bras for daily wear, Brown suggests, so you’ll always have one on hand when the other is in the wash. Here, find some of the all-around best maternity and nursing bras out there.

Motherhood Maternity Seamless Clip Down Maternity and Nursing Bra

Motherhood Maternity seamless clip down maternity and nursing bra
Image: Motherhood
Buying Options

A fabulous do-it-all option, this is one of the best nursing bras for those on a budget. Thanks to the soft, stretchy fabric, it smooths, shapes and supports you from pregnancy all the way through postpartum and features clip-down straps for easy access when nursing or pumping. Because there’s no underwire, you could even use this as a nursing sleep bra—and you get all that for a very affordable price. It’s ideal for cups A through D, comes in nine different colors and is available in plus-sizes too.

What We Love
  • Seamless style for extra comfort
  • Lays smooth under clothes
Things To Consider
  • Thin material

ThirdLove 24/7 Classic Nursing Bra

ThirdLove 24/7 classic nursing bra
Image: ThirdLove
Buying Options

This underwire nursing bra, a 2022 Best of Pregnancy award winner for readers’ favorite maternity bra, boasts a foam-padded hook and eye-back closure with extended hooks, ultra-thin memory foam cups to form to your body and clips and drop-down cups for easy nursing. The spandex and Pima cotton nursing bra even features a tagless (aka scratchless) printed label (pregnancy skin can be so sensitive) and gold alloy strap adjusters for a dash of luxury. Available in cup sizes A through I.

What We Love
  • Great support for larger busts
  • Helps maintain your shape under clothes
  • Accurate online sizing system
Things To Consider
  • Only available in one shade
  • Has to be hand-washed

Cake Maternity Cotton Candy Seamless Nursing Bra

Cake Maternity cotton candy seamless nursing bra
Image: Cake Maternity
Buying Options

A winner according to both Nguyen and new moms we polled when it comes to the best nursing bras, this option has a high-thread count for extreme softness and a scoop neckline, making it comfy for day and night. Plus, the XL size can accommodate up to a 42E. (Good news for those looking for plus-size nursing bras!) There's a reason why Cake Maternity is our 2022 Best of Pregnancy Winner for best nursing bra brand.

What We Love
  • Wire-free with lots of support
  • Supportive racerback style
  • Comfortable enough to sleep in
Things To Consider

Bravado Designs Original Nursing Bra

Bravado Designs original nursing bra
Image: Bravado Designs
Buying Options

Next up is this pick from Bravado Designs. The original, wire-free nursing bra is ideal for pregnant and breastfeeding moms. It’s made from a breathable, cotton fabric with a wide under-bust band and a sporty racerback design. And, for ladies that prefer full coverage, it comes in a full cup style too.

What We Love
  • Soft cotton feel with lots of stretch
  • Unpadded and wire-free design
  • Made with sustainable fabrics
Things To Consider
  • Only available in racerback style
  • Has to be pulled on over your head

Lively the Mesh Trim Maternity Bralette

Lively the mesh trim maternity bralette
Image: Lively
Buying Options

Searching for a hardworking maternity bra that’s pretty too? The mesh-trim bralette from Lively could be the one for you. Available in five colors, this bra is made from sleek, supportive nylon with an inner sling and adjustable straps for added comfort and support. Plus, drop-down cups take the stress out of nursing on the go. Suitable for cup sizes A to D. Bonus: Use code BUMP to get 15 percent off your first purchase.

What We Love
  • Comes in fun colors
  • Lightweight yet supportive
Things To Consider
  • Mesh interior might feel scratchy against sensitive skin
  • Seam on cup won't always look smooth under clothes

Spanx Bra-Llelujah! Mama Nursing Bra

Spanx bra-llelujah! mama nursing bra
Image: Spanx
Buying Options

Spanx is a brand renowned for its signature shapewear, but did you know that they make maternity underwear too? Introducing the Bra-llelujah! mama nursing bra. This wireless style is made from a four-way stretch fabric that’s a dream come true for ladies with fluctuating breast sizes. Additional features include clip-down cups for easy one-handed nursing access, a wrapover design that’ll keep the opposite cup in place during breastfeeding, removable padding and nursing pad pockets, plus so much more. Available in three neutral colors in cup sizes A to DD.

What We Love
  • Racerback style to keep cups in place
  • Comfortable wire-free style
Things To Consider
  • This bra runs small

Storq Everyday Bra

Storq everyday nursing and maternity bra
Image: Storq
Buying Options

Many breastfeeding moms prefer to not have an underwire in their nursing bras to help avoid any clogs. But even during pregnancy, some women find an underwire to be uncomfortable against their sensitive breasts. Enter: Storq’s soft-cup nursing bra that accommodates a growing bust and can easily be pulled aside for feeding sessions. The modal-and-spandex blend makes for an ultra-soft, stretchy feel, but the bra still offers support through its lined fabric, adjustable back straps and hook-and-eye closure.

What We Love
  • Stretchy jersey material perfect for nursing or pumping
  • Comfy enough for everyday wear
Things To Consider
  • Cups are unpadded

iLoveSIA 3-Pack Seamless Maternity Bra

iLoveSIA 3-pack seamless maternity bra
Image: iLoveSIA
Buying Options

This beloved maternity bra has no underwire nor wide bands—just cups that drop down fully when you need them to; but there’s also enough room for you to add a cup or nursing pad when strapped up. Get three in a pack; they’re also available as tanks.

What We Love
  • Can be unclipped with one hand for ease when nursing
  • Good coverage on sides
Things To Consider
  • Removable cups can shift position in the wash

Gratlin Women’s Comfort Support Maternity Wirefree Seamless Nursing Bra

Gratlin women’s comfort support maternity wirefree seamless nursing bra
Image: Gratlin
Buying Options

This maternity bra is great for women who hate underwires, but still need plenty of support. The side panels, large cups and tightly knitted underband hold everything in without digging into your skin. Bonus: Amazon reviewers love the full-coverage nursing bra—and did we mention it’s only $20?

What We Love
  • Snaps can be used one-handed when nursing
  • Pads can be removed or replaced with nursing pads
Things To Consider
  • Might not offer enough support for larger busts
  • Has to be pulled on over your head

Best Maternity and Nursing Sports Bras

Just because you have a new baby—or are expecting one soon—doesn’t mean you have to stop moving; rather, it means you need a bra that’ll work even harder for you while you get in your exercise. The best maternity and nursing sports bras offer secure support, full coverage and quick, easy access for breastfeeding or pumping either after a workout or smack in the middle of one.

Kindred Bravely Sublime Nursing Sports Bra

Kindred Bravely sublime nursing sports bra
Image: Kindred Bravely
Buying Options

Whether you’re perfecting your yoga pose, sweating at Barre, hiking in the woods or just power-walking around town, you can’t go wrong with this sweat-wicking, racerback nursing bra. The stretchy but supportive fabric, adjustable straps and wireless design can take you from pregnancy to postpartum and beyond, and the clips provide discreet, one-handed nursing access. The best part? This style is available in a range of inclusive sizes designed to fit cup sizes B to I. Bonus: Use code THEBUMP15 to get 15 percent off sitewide.

What We Love
  • Moisture-wicking fabric to keep you dry and comfortable
  • Supportive for a wide range of bust sizes
Things To Consider
  • Best suited for low-impact activities
  • Has to be hand-washed

Ollie Gray the Anywhere Bra Athleisure Nursing & Hands-Free Pump Bra

Ollie Gray the anywhere bra athleisure nursing & hands-free pump bra
Image: Ollie Gray
Buying Options

This stylish nursing sports bra from Ollie Gray is designed for the modern mom who lives in athleisure attire. The clever design allows you to breastfeed or pump hands-free, while the luxe antimicrobial and moisture-wicking materials keep smells and stains to a minimum. Bonus: This cool style comes in seven trendy patterns and fits cup sizes A to DD.

What We Love
  • Comfortable for wearing all day, not just for working out
  • Buttery-soft fabric
Things To Consider
  • Opening for pumping is under the cup
  • Padding isn't removable

Love & Fit Athena 3.0 Nursing Sports Bra

Love & Fit Athena 3.0 nursing sports bra
Image: Love & Fit
Buying Options

Adjustable straps are par for the course among the best maternity and nursing sports bras, but the Athena bra offers an adjustable back closure to boot, and women rave about the medium-impact support and comfort it provides. The design adds extra coverage on the top and sides to keep the ladies in place, as well as removable cups to protect those sensitive nipples (you can even slip in nursing pads). When it’s time to nurse, simply unclip and go.

What We Love
  • Straps are covered in silky fabric for comfort
  • Five rows of closures on back band to fit your changing body
Things To Consider
  • You might need to size up

Cake Maternity Zest Maternity Bra with Flexi Wire High Impact Nursing Sports Bra

Cake Maternity zest maternity bra with flexi wire high impact nursing sports bra
Image: Cake Maternity
Buying Options

Gym-bunnies are sure to appreciate this next pick, which claims to be one of the only high-impact maternity sports bras to offer supreme comfort and support. Available as a plus-size maternity sports bra as well, this style minimizes bounce and reduces friction, while also wicking away moisture from the body. The wide straps offer comfortable support, and the mesh panels increase breathability. Once baby arrives, the cups also drop down for easy feeding.

What We Love
  • Easy-feed clips to help you nurse
  • Padded straps for comfort while you work out
Things To Consider
  • Might not offer enough support for high-impact exercises

Milx Nursing and Pumping Sports Bra

Milx nursing and pumping sports bra
Image: Milx
Buying Options

This pick is designed as a nursing sports bra, but really it’s an all-in-one bra for new moms. It’s secure, comfy, breathable and moisture-wicking, so you’ll feel great wearing it all day long. The cups easily pull aside for nursing or pumping, and the lower neckline means you can wear it under everyday clothes. There’s even an adjustable rib band, so you can get a great fit as your body grows and shrinks.

What We Love
  • Soft material for sensitive skin
  • Stretchy fabric fits to your body
Things To Consider
  • Only available in one color

Best Maternity and Nursing Sleep Bras

When your breasts are large, sensitive and prone to leaking, having a bra that’s comfy to sleep in is key. The best nursing sleep bras are ultra-soft with no wires or metal clasps to poke you awake, and cups that can be pulled aside without fumbling with clips in the dark.

Motherhood Maternity Plus Size Wrap Maternity and Nursing Sleep Bra

Motherhood Maternity plus size wrap maternity and nursing sleep bra
Image: Motherhood
Buying Options

This nursing sleep bra is made especially for plus-size moms. The soft cotton option is also clasp-free, with crisscrossed cups that can easily be moved aside for nighttime nursing. It’s available in sizes 1X to 3X and three colors, including this pretty floral print.

What We Love
  • Stretch material for great coverage
  • Holds nursing pads in place overnight
Things To Consider
  • Sizing runs a little small

Medela Nursing Bra for Sleep and Breastfeeding

Medela nursing bra for sleep and breastfeeding
Image: Medela
Buying Options

This racerback nursing bra is perfect for wearing to bed. The crisscross front design means instant one-handed access. Plus, the four-way stretch fabric comfortably adapts to your changing body, and also wicks moisture away (in case of leaks or sweaty nights). It’s even OEKO-TEX certified, meaning you can rest assured there are no nasty chemicals in the materials of this Medela nursing bra.

What We Love
  • Comfortable to wear all day and overnight
  • Panels can be pulled back for nursing instead of needing to be unclipped
Things To Consider
  • White bra can be sheer

HATCH the Skin to Skin Bra

HATCH the skin to skin maternity sleep bra
Image: HATCH
Buying Options

This maternity sleep bra is all about comfort. With cotton-spandex cups and no clasp in sight, how could it be anything but? The minimalist sleep bra is also nursing-friendly, thanks to an elasticated band at the top. You also have your choice of four colors. Bonus: Use code BUMP10 to get 10 percent off your first order.

What We Love
  • Soft and lightweight fabric for sleeping in
  • Supportive without wires or clasps
Things To Consider
  • Elastic band can become twisted

Bravado Designs Ballet Bra

Bravado Designs ballet maternity sleep bra
Image: Bravado Designs
Buying Options

This super-soft, wire-free nursing sleep bra is loved by moms and moms-to-be alike. The material is light, lined and stretchy, with a pull-away front design. It’s also OEKO-TEX certified, meaning it’s made with safe materials. Simply put, it’s one of the best nursing sleep bras around.

What We Love
  • Comes in six different colors
  • Adjustable straps for added comfort
Things To Consider
  • Soft and stretchy design offers only light support

Best Sexy Maternity and Nursing Bras

Yes, maternity bras and nursing bras are designed with a clear purpose in mind—but that doesn’t mean they have to be wholly utilitarian without any frills. These are our favorite sexy nursing bras that look as good as they feel.

Seraphine Navy Lace Maternity and Nursing Bra

Seraphine navy lace maternity and nursing bra
Image: Seraphine
Buying Options

Here’s a gorgeous bra that can be worn from your first trimester to your fourth (and beyond!). Cotton-lined cups, covered with a stylish navy lace overlay, provide a supportive fit with drop-down nursing access. And it’s underwire-free, so it’s super comfortable to boot!

What We Love
  • 6 rows of closures to fit your changing shape
  • Cotton-lined cups offer comfort for tender breasts
Things To Consider
  • Wire-free design might not offer enough support for some

Natori Feathers Maternity Bra

Natori feathers maternity bra
Image: Natori
Buying Options

Elegant with just the right amount of sex appeal, this Natori nursing bra features a plunging neckline and a feminine lace trim, adjustable stretch straps and nursing clips. It offers a smooth look under clothes—and it’s oh-so-pretty when those clothes come off.

What We Love
  • Comfortable for everyday wear
  • Four rows of hook-and-eye closures for the best fit
Things To Consider
  • Thin straps could dig into shoulders

Cake Maternity Chantilly Nursing Bralette

Cake Maternity chantilly nursing bralette
Image: Cake Maternity
Buying Options

This next pick is proof that maternity intimates can be pretty and practical. Made from chantilly-style stretch lace, this nursing bra exudes French boudoir chic. Better yet, this bralette has adjustable straps, drop-down nursing cups and a supportive side-sling design, making it functional enough for everyday use.

What We Love
  • Wire-free design for comfort
  • Supportive enough to wear during the day but soft enough to wear at night
Things To Consider
  • Band isn't very stretchy

Goddess Keira Wire-Free Nursing Bra

Goddess Keira wire-free nursing bra
Image: Bare Necessities
Buying Options

Available in cup sizes DD through N and band sizes 36 through 46, this is a great sexy nursing bra for plus-size mamas, with its super-silky (read: sensual) fabric. The wide underband and adjustable straps make it comfortable too.

What We Love
  • Comfortable for sleeping in
  • Great range of sizes
Things To Consider
  • Snap-down clips can be stiff to use
  • Only available in one colora

Ann Summers Sexy Lace Non Padded Flexi Wire Nursing Bra in Red

Ann Summers sexy lace non-padded flexi wire nursing bra in red
Image: Ann Summers
Buying Options

Add some sass to your underwear drawer with this racy red nursing bra by Ann Summers. It has a flexible underwire for moms that need extra support and drop-away nursing cups with clip-fastenings that can be opened and closed with one hand.

What We Love
  • Comfortable while being supportive
  • Flattering style
Things To Consider
  • Sizes may run small

Le Mystere Sexy Mama Underwire Nursing Bra

Le Mystere sexy mama underwire nursing bra
Image: Le Mystere
Buying Options

Nothing says sexy quite like peekaboo lace. Available in black and ivory, and in multiple sizes, this stunner among our sexy nursing bra picks is practical too, thanks to easily unfastened clips.

What We Love
  • Underwire for additional support
  • Five row hook-and-eye closures for the best fit
Things To Consider
  • Hand-wash only

Best Hands-Free Nursing Bras

Pumping can turn into a pretty time-consuming activity, so the last thing you want is to have to hold the shields to your breasts the entire time. Enter: hands-free nursing bras. These genius accessories let you slip the shields into your bra and pump while putting your hands to other good uses.

Kindred Bravely Sublime Hands-Free Pumping & Nursing Bra

Kindred Bravely sublime hands-free pumping & nursing bra
Image: Kindred Bravely
Buying Options

This maternity bra is truly one of the best we’ve seen—which is why it won a 2021 Best of Pregnancy award. You can nurse or pump in this underwire-free design, which fits all standard pump flanges. Plus, this style offers hands-free support, thanks to the double-layered cups with removable padding. Available in sizes S to XXL busty (cup sizes B to I).

What We Love
  • Padding can be removed
  • Gives plenty of support
  • Looks great under T-shirts
Things To Consider
  • Some find the front of the bra to be bulky

Bravado Designs Original Pumping & Nursing Bra

Bravado Designs original pumping & nursing bra
Image: Bravado Designs
Buying Options

This hands-free nursing bra is made with a breathable combo of organic cotton and TENCEL Modal, making it comfy enough to wear all day long. When you’re ready to pump, simply undo the simple clip. The cups are specially engineered to make it easy to insert the flange, as well as remove it without spilling any milk.

What We Love
  • Smooth profile doesn’t show under clothes
  • Bottom band is extra wide for your comfort
Things To Consider
  • Racerback style has to be pulled over your head

Bodily the Do Anything Bra

Bodily the do anything nursing bra
Image: Bodily
Buying Options

Developed in collaboration with a lactation consultant, this hands-free pumping bra was designed for active parents on the go. The secure-snap nursing clips allow for easy, one-handed access, and the adjustable slider straps let you seamlessly transition from pumping to nursing. It’s made from OEKO-TEX certified fabric that’s silky-soft and supportive, so you can pump worry-free. It's so good, we gave it our 2022 Best of Pregnancy Award for best pumping bra.

What We Love
  • Straps can be adjusted in front
  • Buttery soft fabric for all-day comfort
Things To Consider
  • Holes for flanges might be tight for some pump models

Simple Wishes Hands Free Pumping Bra

Simple Wishes hands-free pumping bra
Image: Simple Wishes
Buying Options

With over 7,000 reviews and a near five-star rating, it’s no wonder this popular pick is one of the best hands-free nursing bras out there. Designed specifically for pumping, it features a zippered front, an adjustable Velcro back and even an extra panel with a zippered extender to ensure a perfect fit as your body changes. It works with all major breast pump brands and holds the shields and bottles securely.

What We Love
  • Zipper panels and velcro helps it fit to your changing shape
  • Easy to take on and off
Things To Consider
  • Can be difficult to insert flange to begin with

Lilu Massager + Bra

Lilu Massager and hands free nursing Bra
Image: Lilu
Buying Options

Next up on our list of the best hands-free pumping bras is this massaging bra from Lilu. This option’s innovative design features cushions that imitate massage techniques recommended by lactation experts. What’s more, its rechargeable controller allows you to pick from various massage levels for optimal comfort. If you like the style of this nursing bra but aren’t a fan of the massage feature, be sure to check out Lilu’s other versatile pumping bra.

What We Love
  • Massage cushions replicate techniques created by lactation experts
  • Can be worn alone or clipped to a nursing bra
  • Comes with a controller that can easily be recharged
Things To Consider
  • Only available in one color
  • May be loud while in use

Best Supportive Maternity and Nursing Bras

All of the best maternity bras and nursing bras are going to provide some support—but when you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, sometimes you need even more cushioning. These full-coverage, ultra-supportive maternity and nursing bras are just the ticket.

Soma Embraceable Full Coverage Contour Nursing Bra

Soma embraceable full coverage contour nursing bra
Image: Soma
Buying Options

Moms rave about the level of support this full-coverage nursing bra offers. It has contoured, lightly padded cups; a plush underwire; an extended, padded hook-and-eye closure and a brushed microfiber fabric for an unbelievably soft feel. Available in cup sizes B to DDD.

What We Love
  • Brushed fabric feels super soft on tender skin
  • Four rows of hook-and-eye closures to adjust to your changing body
  • Comfortable yet supportive
Things To Consider
  • Cups are lightly padded
  • Only available in one color
  • Largest cup size is DDD

Best Strapless Maternity and Nursing Bras

When you’ve managed to find the perfect strapless dress, the last thing you want is your bra straps ruining the look. But finding strapless maternity bras—and strapless nursing bras—isn’t always the easiest task. We’ve done the hard work for you, rounding up our favorite strapless options for moms and mom-to-be.

Lively No-Wire Strapless Bra Bundle

Lively no-wire strapless bra bundle
Image: Lively
Buying Options

Although this bra hasn’t been specifically designed for pregnancy or postpartum wear, we think it would work well in a pinch thanks to the underwire-free design. Molded cups and an underbust support band keep the ladies in place, but the nylon-spandex blend material still has plenty of stretch.

What We Love
  • Two versatile colors
  • Comfortable wire-free style
  • No-slip strip to keep the cups in place
Things To Consider
  • Not a lot of support
  • Cups might look pointy under shirts
  • Seams can be seen through thinner shirts

La Leche League Pullover Seamless Strapless Nursing Bra

La Leche League pullover seamless strapless nursing bra
Image: La Leche
Buying Options

This nursing bra slips under a strapless dress, halter or strappy tank for instant, gentle support. Clear straps are included, should you want a little more lift, and the frame itself is built so it can be easily flipped up for nursing. If you want a little more wiggle room, this maternity bra is available up to size XL, which accommodates a size 38 band.

What We Love
  • Cotton pockets for removable cups
  • Perfect for everyday wear as well as lounging
  • No unclipping or unclasping needed for nursing
Things To Consider
  • Sizing runs small
  • Included straps can be uncomfortable
  • Only one color available
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