By Jenisha Jonchhe Researched and tested where possible Updated
Affiliate links: this guide links to Amazon UK. As an Amazon Associate, My Bra Size earns from qualifying purchases. It never changes the advice or the size we suggest.
What to search for on Amazon UK
Add your UK size to the search on Amazon (for example “34G”). Not sure of it? Use our bra size calculator first.
- 1
Wire-free nursing bra with clip-down cups
One-handed clips at the top of each cup let you open one side while holding your baby.
- 2
Seamless stretch nursing bra
Soft, stretchy cups adapt as your breasts change size during the day and in the first weeks.
- 3
Nursing sleep bra
A gentle, crossover bra that holds breast pads in place at night and pulls aside for feeds.
- 4
Fuller-bust nursing bra in cup sizes
Sold in band and cup sizes such as 34G, for more support than S, M, L styles.
As an Amazon Associate, My Bra Size earns from qualifying purchases. Links open Amazon UK; prices and stock are set by Amazon and its sellers. Search results change often, so a product appearing there has not necessarily been tested. Product photos, where shown, come from Amazon. How we handle affiliate links
The best nursing bras are wire-free or flexibly wired, stretchy enough to cope with size changes, and have clips you can open with one hand. Your bra size can change several times in pregnancy and the first weeks of feeding, so buy for comfort and adjustability.
How your size changes
During pregnancy, your ribcage expands and your breasts usually grow, so both band and cup can change. After birth, your breasts change again when your milk comes in, and they can vary in size through the day. A firm-but-stretchy band and stretchy cups cope with this far better than a rigid bra.
Measure again whenever your bra stops feeling comfortable. Our bra size calculator gives a UK starting size from two measurements, and our how to measure bra size guide shows where to place the tape.
When to buy
Many UK retailers suggest a fitting late in pregnancy, often around 36 weeks. Choose a size with a little room in the cups for when your milk comes in, and a band that fastens on the tightest hook, so you can loosen it as your ribcage settles after birth.
Clip-down, pull-aside or crossover?
- Clip-down cups unclip at the top of the strap and fold down. The most popular style.
- Pull-aside or crossover bras are soft and simple, and ideal for sleeping.
- Zip or side-opening styles exist too, but are less common.
Whichever you choose, practise opening and closing it with one hand before your baby arrives.
What to look for
- Wire-free or flexible wires, especially in the early weeks.
- Wide, soft straps and a band with several hook positions.
- Breathable cotton or soft microfibre.
- Room for breast pads.
If your band feels tight in late pregnancy, a bra extender can help for a few weeks. For night feeds, see our guide to sleep bras.
Brands to search for
Bravado Designs, Hotmilk, Cake Maternity and Royce make nursing bras, and several UK fuller-bust brands make nursing styles in D cups and above.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Your midwife or health visitor can help with any breastfeeding or breast health concern.
Questions people ask
When should I buy nursing bras?
Can I wear an underwired nursing bra?
What is the difference between maternity and nursing bras?
How many nursing bras do I need?
Written by
Jenisha Jonchhe
Jenisha Jonchhe is a New York-based fashion writer and designer with academic training in fashion design. She writes research-led bra sizing and fit guides for UK shoppers.
Researched from brand and retailer size guides, and tested hands-on where possible. Search results on Amazon change often, so a product appearing there has not necessarily been tested. How we research and test
