Becoming a new Mum comes with plenty of surprises, and one of the biggest, besides your baby’s arrival, is how much your body changes in such a short period of time. Hello, where did these boobs come from?
Many women discover that their previous bras suddenly feel uncomfortable and restrictive because they simply don’t fit anymore. From first becoming pregnant, ribcage expansion, nipple tenderness, milk coming in, fluctuating breast size, and constantly feeding, you will soon realise why maternity and nursing bras are a thing. That’s why finding the right nursing bra matters more than many mums realise.
The best nursing bras provide comfort, support, easy feeding access, and flexibility as your body changes throughout your breastfeeding journey, but more importantly fit you.
In this guide, we’ll talk about exactly what to look for in a nursing bra, when to buy one, and the 5 best nursing bras every new mother should consider. By the end, you’ll know exactly which bra works best for your lifestyle; whether you’re sleeping, running errands or simply running, heading back to work, pumping or just focusing on your new addition.
Why the Right Nursing Bra Matters
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A nursing bra isn’t simply a regular bra with clips attached, despite what some TikTok creators might have you believe. A well-designed nursing bra is thoughtfully engineered to support your body through every stage of pregnancy, breastfeeding, and beyond.
The right nursing bra is designed to accommodate:
Your ever-changing pregnancy and postpartum body.
Natural breast size fluctuations throughout the day.
The dramatic changes that occur when your milk comes in.
Easy, one-handed access for frequent feeds.
Comfortable support for sleeping and overnight nursing.
Everyday life, from work and exercise to relaxing at home.
Breast pad placement and unexpected leaks.
A style that helps you feel just as confident as you did before pregnancy.
Breathable fabrics to help regulate your increased body temperature.
Soft, flexible materials that won’t irritate tender, sensitive breasts.
The right nursing bra doesn’t just make feeding easier. It provides comfort, support, and confidence during one of the biggest transitions your body will ever experience.
Many mamas experience multiple size changes during their pregnancy; five on average, so don’t get too attached to a specific ‘pregnancy size’.
What to Look for in a Nursing Bra
Not all nursing bras are created equal, and the “best” one depends on your lifestyle, your breast size, where you are in your pregnancy or breastfeeding journey, and of course… your personal style.
Here’s what separates a great nursing bra from one you’ll be counting the minutes to take off.
Easy Nursing Access
Whether it’s nursing clips or another clever one-handed design, feeding should be quick and fuss-free. Because chances are, your baby won’t be waiting patiently while you wrestle with your bra.
Breathable and Absorbable Fabrics
Pregnancy and postpartum have a funny way of turning up your internal thermostat. Soft, breathable fabrics help regulate body temperature while feeling gentle against sensitive skin. Absorbable fabrics also help regulate your body temperature, not to mention help with other nursing spills.
Flexible Sizing
Your breasts don’t stay the same size throughout pregnancy, breastfeeding, or even throughout the day. Look for bras with flexible sizing that comfortably adapt as your body changes. (We’ll dive deeper into this shortly.)
Support That Moves with You
Wire-free and flexi-wire nursing bras can both provide beautiful shape and support when they’re expertly designed. The key is finding a bra that supports and shapes without putting unnecessary pressure on ever-changing breast tissue that could lead to breast health issues that no one wants.
Actual Inner Slings
A quality nursing bra should feature folded-edge slings, whether these are side slings or an A-frame sling, as these will keep your breast in place while feeding. They’re much more comfortable, more supportive, and far more effective than a thin strip of elastic or tape.
Comfortable, Supportive Straps
Wide, adjustable straps with minimal stretch will help distribute breast weight more evenly, reducing pressure on your shoulders and making a noticeable difference in your comfort, especially for fuller busts.
Quality Construction
Whether you love seamless comfort, lacey bras, everyday basics, or a supportive sports bra, craftsmanship matters. Thoughtful construction, premium materials, quality trims, durable accessories and attention to detail are what transform a nursing bra from simply wearable into one you’ll genuinely love reaching for every day.
When Does Your Body Change?
One of the biggest surprises for many Mums is just how often their breasts and body change throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding. These changes are completely normal, but they can make finding a comfortable, supportive bra feel like a moving target.
Understanding what’s happening at each stage will help you choose a nursing bra that grows with you and know when it’s time to check your size and fit. After all, a well-fitting bra isn’t just about comfort. It’s about providing the right support exactly when your body needs it most.
During Pregnancy
Many women are surprised to learn that most breast growth happens during the first trimester. Hormones are busy preparing your body for breastfeeding pretty much as soon as you become pregnant, so it’s no wonder you’ll notice fuller, more sensitive breasts quite early on.
As your pregnancy progresses, it’s often your ribcage that changes the most. As your baby grows, your ribs naturally expand to make room, meaning your band size may increase even if your cup size stays relatively stable.
That’s why a maternity bra with multiple rows of hooks and eyes is such a smart investment. It allows your bra to adapt as your body changes, giving you a comfortable fit for much longer during pregnancy and for nursing too.
Did you know? Many mums find their breast volume at around 8 months pregnant is very similar to their breast volume 6 to 8 weeks after birth, once their milk supply has regulated.
Time for a Fit Check?
First Trimester: If your bras are already feeling snug or you’re still wearing conventional wires, it’s time for your first maternity bra fitting. Most breast growth happens during these early weeks, so don’t wait until you’re uncomfortable.
Style tip: We recommend a seamless, wire-free style for this stage.
Around 28 to 32 Weeks: As your ribcage reaches its maximum expansion, it’s worth checking your fit again. Make sure you’re fitting them on the outermost hook and eye to ensure they’ll fit you post-partum when your ribcage will reduce.
Style tip: Choose any style from flexi-wire to seamless for trimesters 2 and 3.
When Your Milk Comes In
A few days after giving birth, your milk “comes in”, and your breasts can suddenly feel much fuller, heavier and firmer than they did during pregnancy. This can be overlooked if you’re not wearing a bra that is ready to accommodate the dramatic increase.
This stage is temporary, but it can be one of the biggest size changes you’ll experience. A double layered seamless nursing bra, no matter if you’re fuller bust or not, with flexible sizing, soft fabrics and gentle support is your best friend here. The last thing you want is a bra that’s too tight, restricting circulation or putting pressure on milk ducts. Think comfort first! Your body is doing something incredible.
Time for a Fit Check?
Your breasts can and will change dramatically during the first week after birth. Whether you decide to breastfeed or not, your milk will come in. This stage is temporary while you and your baby develop a routine and milk supply establishes. Instead, wear flexible nursing bras that comfortably accommodate these fluctuations.
Once Breastfeeding Is Established
Around 6 to 8 weeks postpartum is when most mama’s milk supply begins to regulate. Rather than constantly feeling full, your breasts become more responsive to your baby’s feeding routine.
This is when your bra often becomes your everyday uniform. You’ll likely be wearing it all day, sleeping in it and opening and closing those nursing clips countless times. Comfort, durability and easy one-handed nursing access become just as important as support.
Time for a Fit Check?
Around 6 to 8 weeks postpartum, once feeding has settled and your milk supply has regulated, it’s the perfect time for another fitting. This is when your breast size is often more consistent, making it easier to find your ideal everyday nursing bra.
As Your Feeding Journey Changes
Whether you’re cluster feeding, exclusively breastfeeding, expressing, introducing solids, travelling or deciding to wean, your bra size will continue to change.
A quality nursing bra is designed to accommodate these changes without compromising support or comfort. Flexible sizing, multi-cup fitting, and premium construction help your bra adapt with your body, rather than working against it.
Remember, your breastfeeding journey is yours alone. There’s no “normal” timeline, and your bra should support you wherever your journey takes you.
Time for a Fit Check?
If you notice your bras becoming too loose or too tight, or you’re reducing or stopping feeds, it’s worth checking your fit again. Your body continues to evolve throughout your breastfeeding journey, and your bra should evolve with it.
Why does Cake use 6 hooks and eyes? Because your ribcage changes almost as much as your breasts do. Those six rows are designed to accommodate the six months of growth from your second trimester through to full term, then work in reverse as your body recovers postpartum.
Did you know our 6 rows of hooks and eyes aren’t there by accident? They’re designed to accommodate the natural ribcage expansion that typically happens throughout your 2nd and 3rd trimesters.
Here’s how to get the most from your bra:
Month 0-3: Start by fastening your bra on the firmest (innermost) hook.
Months 4 to 9: As your ribcage expands, simply move out one hook at a time to maintain a comfortable fit.
After the baby arrives: Once you’ve navigated those first 6 to 8 weeks and your milk supply begins to regulate, your ribcage will gradually settle back. You can then work your way back towards the firmer hooks as your body changes.
It’s one of our simple signature features, but it’s one of the reasons a thoughtfully designed maternity bra can support you from pregnancy, through breastfeeding, and well into your postpartum journey.
Our Recommendations
1. Tiramisu Nursing Bra
Best for: Everyday wear from late pregnancy through breastfeeding.
If you’re looking for one bra to wear on repeat, Tiramisu is a great place to start. Its flexible multi-fit design comfortably adapts as your breast size changes, making it ideal for pregnancy, those early postpartum weeks, and beyond.
Sizing: S to XL, fitting C to F cups.
Why mums love it:
Flexible Multi-Fit cups that adapt to size fluctuations.
Seamless moulded cups for a smooth shape under clothing.
Wire-free comfort with seamless knitted shaping.
Folded edge slings to keep your breast in place when nursing.
One-handed nursing clips for easy feeding.
Soft, breathable fabric for all-day comfort.
When to wear: Everyday wear, work, school drop-offs, coffee catch-ups, or simply lounging at home.
2. Tutti Frutti Nursing Bra
Best for: Everyday comfort throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Soft, simple, and incredibly comfortable, the Tutti Frutti is designed to move with your body through every stage of motherhood. Its seamless construction combined with pre-formed moulded cups and ribbed bamboo stretchy fabric with a racer back design, provide gentle support with a plunging neckline, while adapting to your changing shape.
Sizing: S to XL, fitting B – DD and E – FF cups.
Why mums love it:
Soft, seamless design for all-day comfort.
Flexible ribbed fabric that adapts to changing breast size.
Wire-free support without restriction.
One-handed nursing clips for easy feeding.
Foam moulded cups for shape, t-shirts and modesty.
Wide underband for added comfort and support.
Racer back design to ensure straps don’t fall down and added support.
When to wear: Everyday luxury, relaxing at home, sleeping, hospital bags, weekend wear, and when you’re not sure what size you are.
3. Milk Nursing Bra
Best for: Mums wanting a decent night’s sleep, 24 hour wear, yoga, lounging at home or popping to the shops.
The Milk Nursing Bra delivers a soft, supportive shape with a wire-free design and reinforced back support for all-night comfort. Specifically created for overnight wear, it’s perfect for those multiple nighttime feeds. Clever moisture-wicking inner pockets keep nursing pads securely in place while helping you stay dry and comfortable until morning.
Sizing: S to XL, fitting B to F cups.
Why mums love it:
Wire-free design without any adjusters to interrupt your sleep.
Smooth multi-fit cups for a flattering silhouette.
One-handed pull aside nursing for convenient feeding.
Soft modal absorbent fabric for all night comfort.
Wicking inner pockets to keep your nursing pads in place all night
When to wear: Sleep and lounging, yoga and floor exercises.
4. Lotus Pumping & Nursing Bra
Best for: Mums who regularly express and breastfeed. Yoga or walking.
Designed to simplify your feeding routine, the Lotus combines nursing and hands-free pumping in one comfortable bra. It securely holds your pump flanges or in-cup pumps while allowing quick access for breastfeeding, so there’s no need to keep changing bras throughout the day.
Sizing: S to XL, fitting B – DD and E – FF cups.
Why mums love it:
Dual-function design for nursing and hands-free pumping.
Secure pump flange opening.
One-handed pull aside nursing for breastfeeding.
Wire-free comfort for extended wear.
Soft, stretchy fabric that moves with your body.
Racer back design for additional support
Seamfree design
When to wear: Work, pumping, mixed feeding, travelling, light exercise or just busy days on the go.
5. Popping Candy Nursing Bra
Best for: Fuller busts needing exceptional wire-free support from pregnancy through breastfeeding, especially the first few weeks post-partum.
Created specifically for fuller cup sizes, the Popping Candy offers outstanding support without wires. Its innovative technology adapts as your breast size changes, making it a favourite for mums wanting comfort, confidence, and reliable support every day.
Sizing: S to XXL, fitting F to H cups.
Why mums love it:
Specifically designed for fuller busts with superior wire-free support.
Reinforced knit zones provide lift, shape, separation and stability.
Double layered, double moulded cups comfortably adapt to daily size fluctuations.
Folded edge platform sling to lift from the base of your breast
Folded edge side sling to keep your breasts facing forward, especially when nursing.
Wide straps help distribute weight and reduce shoulder strain.
Seamless, breathable microfibre yarn feels soft against sensitive skin.
One-handed nursing clips for quick and easy feeding.
When to wear: Everyday wear, work, long days out, and mums who want superior support without an underwire.
Browse through our full range of nursing bras. Each one carefully crafted to make breastfeeding easier, more comfortable, and more supported, every step of the way. Whether you’re in the newborn haze, navigating a busy schedule, or somewhere in between, there’s a style designed with you and your baby in mind.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best nursing bra isn’t about discovering one perfect style. It’s about having the right bra for every stage of your breastfeeding journey and the natural changes your body goes through along the way.
From soft sleep bras and supportive everyday favourites to structured options for work, pumping, or special occasions, each style is designed with a different purpose in mind. Building a small collection means you’ll always have the comfort and support you need, whatever the day (or night) brings.
When choosing a nursing bra, look for styles that adapt to changing breast size, provide easy nursing access, and prioritise comfort without compromising on support. A well-fitting nursing bra can make feeding easier, reduce discomfort, and help you feel confident throughout pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. After all, you’ve got enough on your hands without your bra adding to the challenge
Katie is the proud mum of two beautiful girls and has been responsible for all the designs, style and fit at Cake Maternity for over a decade now.
Katie is a nursing bra specialist and a fit, pattern and grading technician. She is passionate about breastfeeding and the many benefits it offers to both mum, baby and the environment.
She is determined to make the breastfeeding journey a comfortable, supportive and beautiful one for all mums, understanding that it doesn’t always come easy to everyone. That’s why she has made it her mission to empower women as they mindfully navigate the world of motherhood and help make breastfeeding easier, through experience-driven innovation.
