As a new mom, breastfeeding and expressing milk for your baby can be a challenge, but one of the things that can make this easier is having the right clothing, particularly a nursing and pumping bra. Nursing and pumping bras provide easy access for nursing while giving you the ability to express milk hands-free. At Larken, we're a team of experienced moms who understand your needs, so check out this guide on what to look for when shopping for the best nursing and pumping bra.
1. Determine the Right Fit
The right fit is crucial when shopping for a nursing and pumping bra. You want a bra that provides relaxed support and is comfortable enough to wear day and night. With so many options available, having an all-in-one pumping and nursing bra is a seamless way to transition between different activities from work, to home, to nighttime. Which is why the Larken X, our all-in-one nursing and pumping bra is a great choice. Here’s a guide on how to measure yourself for this bra.
2. Consider Material
When shopping for a nursing and pumping bra, it's important to consider the material and care requirements. For the ultimate in comfort, a wire-free bra that offers relaxed support and doesn’t have weird holes, elastic, zippers, or clips is the best. Also look for bras that are made from soft and breathable materials that will prevent discomfort and not irritate your skin. According to the American Pregnancy Association, “if your bra is too tight, it could cause plugged milk ducts, mastitis or a decrease in your milk supply.”
3. Care Requirements
You'll also want to consider the care requirements for the bra, especially if you plan to wear it frequently. Some bras may need to be hand-washed or air-dried to maintain their shape and structure. The Larken X is conveniently machine washable and dryer friendly, and maintains its shape after washing because we believe in convenience for busy moms.
4. Accessibility
Nursing and pumping bras should provide easy access for your baby to feed. Look for bras that allow you easy access if you’re pumping or breastfeeding. The Larken X offers greater convenience and freedom, allowing you to nurse or pump on-the-go in public, or at work, without having to change or remove your entire bra or even fumble with clips.
5. Read Reviews and Recommendations
Finally, when shopping for a nursing and pumping bra it's always a good idea to read reviews and recommendations from other moms. Online shopping allows you to read reviews from other women who have tested out the bras and can provide valuable feedback.
Here’s what some of our customers are saying about the Larken X
“I love this bra so much I now own five. I tried many different pumping bras and most of them feel cumbersome and bulky. The Larken X is so comfortable and simple that I wear it all day for both pumping and nursing. I’ve actually come to prefer it over my standard nursing bras. It’s light on support, but I still feel comfortable wearing it both at home and out in public since I’m a smaller cup size. Highly recommend this bra!”
“So comfortable! Doesn’t feel like I’m wearing anything at all!”
“I have been looking, both as an IBCLC and mother of four, for a nursing and pumping bra like this. A bra that is supportive, but does not bind; allows for changing breast sizes postpartum, but is not loose; 24/7 pumping bra option immediately postpartum, but doesn’t hinder a healthy milk supply. This is as close to perfection as I’ve found. If you are looking for comfort, function, and protection of your milk supply, I believe this is it. NICU mamas, this is what you’ve been looking for. I’ve been very impressed and cannot wait to see what Larken will do next.”
We hope this guide has helped you choose a nursing and pumping bra. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out!