The best clothes for breastfeeding in 2021

Expecting a baby in 2021? Congratulations! Whether you intend to nurse your little one or are already breastfeeding, you are probably aware of the challenges that nursing mothers face – everything from an easily distracted baby to cracked nipples to mastitis – but figuring out what to wear shouldn’t be one of your concerns. Having the right clothes for breastfeeding will make your life with a new baby much easier. Here are some of the best ideas: 

Best picks for breastfeeding clothes

1. Nursing bras

A good nursing bra is a must-have item for any nursing mother. While you may opt to pull aside or flip up a regular bra, you will quickly realize that your bras lose support fast this way. Nursing bras feature special snaps, clips, or hooks that allow you to pull it down, move it over, or fold it down so that you can breastfeed without needing to take off your bra or compromise its support structure.

If possible, go for a bra that is constructed from a natural, breathable, absorbent fabric. The softness of the cups is also crucial especially for cracking nipples. You may also want to invest in nursing pads so that you don’t feel uncomfortable, sticky, or wet.

2. Nursing tank tops

A nursing tank top, sometimes referred to as a nursing camisole, makes a great addition to your breastfeeding wardrobe. Nursing tops typically feature sides that you can easily unclip and pull down, like with nursing bras, to allow your baby easy access to your breasts. You can wear a nursing tank top on its own on a warm day, or layer it under other clothes.

3. Nursing blouses, tops, and shirts

Nursing blouses, tops, and shirts come in varying designs and colors. They may have sides that you can pull up, pull over, or button down. Some styles you may want to consider include:

- Heather prints

Look for a top that has a heather effect, or a similar sort of print. The reason for this is that these top can hide potential marks and stains. Your baby will inevitably spit up milk, and you may also experience some leaking. A solid-colored top is ineffective at hiding these kinds of stains.

- Zippers and button-downs

Dressing for nursing is all about easy access. Button-down shirts allow you to quickly give your breast to your child. Consider leaving the lower buttons of your shirt done to help you feel more secure and to reduce the risk of exposing yourself unintentionally. If you are not too fond of having to button down every time you breastfeed, consider going for tops that feature zippers instead.

- Peasant blouse

If you prefer a boho-chic style, consider adding a peasant blouse or two to your maternity wardrobe. This blouse has a wide neck opening and a tie closure. This makes for easy opening and adjustments for when you need to nurse your little one on the go. You can pair these blouses with skirts, pants, shorts, or jeans for a casual day out.

- Scoop-neck or V-neck t-shirts

If you want something casual and comfortable, you can never go wrong with a scoop neck or V-neck t-shirt. These shirt designs have larger neck holes that allow you to pull them down to give your baby access. If you’re concerned that you might stretch out the neck of your favorite t-shirt, look for varieties that are made from fabric blended with polyester or Lycra as they offer more bounce.

- Crossover tops

A crossover top is a great choice for breastfeeding moms. The crisscross V-neck design of this top allows you to pull it aside with ease when you want to nurse your child. They are a chic step-up from t-shirts but are still casual enough to add to your daily wear closet.

4. Nursing sleepwear

As a nursing mother, you can expect to do a couple of feedings during the night, so your sleepwear has to be breastfeeding-friendly. Whether you prefer a nursing nightgown or a nursing tank, ensure that you sleep in clothes that will make those nighttime feedings easier.

5. Nursing dresses

When you want to get dolled up a bit, head off to a family gathering, or go out to dinner, you shouldn’t have to fret over what you’re going to wear as a nursing mother. Here are some stylish options to consider:

- Wrap dresses

Wrap dresses feature one layer of fabric draped over the other in a crisscross design, which makes it easy for nursing mothers to feed their little ones while looking amazing.

- V-neck dresses

V-neck dresses are great for breastfeeding as you can easily pull out your breast during feeding time. For a fancy night out, wear a deep V-neck dress with a nursing bra and pads for added comfort.

6. Nursing cover

Always bring along a nursing cover with you when going out with your baby. This way, you won’t have to worry about extra layers, plus you can shield yourself from prying eyes while still maintaining eye contact with your baby.

7. Scarves

For those days when you forget your nursing cover at home, use a scarf. Go for scarves that are wide and made from thin, stretchy fabrics so that you don’t feel weighed down but still have plenty of coverage.

8. Wraps, ponchos, and waistcoats

On a cold day where you have to wear layers, look for ponchos, wraps, and waistcoats to put on over your breastfeeding top/dress. These can also double as nursing covers and can be used to hide breastfeeding stains.

Tips for selecting breastfeeding clothes

• Stay away from tight-fitting tops, blouses, and bras. These tight items exert pressure on your breasts, causing discomfort, plugged milk ducts, sore nipples, or even mastitis.
• Prints, patterns, and darker colors are more effective at hiding unexpected leaks than light colors or solids.
• Stay away from dresses that you have to zip at the back or pull over your head as they don’t allow easy access.

Final thoughts

Putting some thought into your wardrobe before your little one arrives will help to free up your precious time after he/she comes along. You will find that you need to feed your baby several times a day, and having clothes that allow for easy access to your breasts can enhance the breastfeeding experience both for you and the baby.