Can a Nursing Bra Be a Pumping Bra?
Breastfeeding is an awesome way to bond with your infant and feed them all the essential nutrition.
In between this natural process, mothers start browsing for maternity bras and end up buying several nursing bras and pumping bras.
Both of these bras are designed with different intended uses, but they share a common goal: supporting mothers in breastfeeding. Still many pumping moms have this burning question in their mind: Can a bra do both?
To answer this query, we’ll discuss the overlap between these two bras.
What is a Nursing Bra?
Nursing bras are specifically designed brassieres to give support to lactating mothers.
A ‘nursing clip’ on each side of the bra enables you to lower the cup down, allowing easy access for nursing without the need to take off the bra.
A nursing bra can easily enhance the experience of breastfeeding by balancing comfort and style to make you feel poised and relaxed on your journey toward motherhood.
What does a Pumping Bra do?
The primary function of a pumping bra is to firmly hold the electric breast pumps in the right position.
This helps you to enjoy the hands-free pumping while multitasking with other tasks at the same time.
Pumping bras typically have deliberately designed openings or flaps that align with the breast shield of the pumps, giving full and easy access for pumping.
How to Use a Nursing Bra for Both Functions?
One “hack” that you might have seen or heard from other fellow mothers is that you can use a nursing bra as a pumping bra when necessary. Basically, you will have to use the internal straps of the bra to keep the flange on spot during pumping. It also depends on the type of pumps you are using—is it an electric breast pump or a wearable pump?
For electric breast pumps (pumps with a separate motor)
For instance, the Lovemere Seamless Nursing Bra can be converted into a pumping bra. It’s a DIY method that you can learn on YouTube.
However, these techniques honestly could have some shortcomings. It may not work for some moms, as it may not offer the firm hold that is required to keep your flanges intact. Also, you won't want to cry over spilled milk, so we strongly suggest the Skye Pump Bra for electric breast pumps for added support and dependability.
For wearable breast pumps (compact, battery-powered pumps that fit inside your bra)
Some nursing bras are able to hold the wearables well, such as the Holiday Triangle Bra, Chloe Dream Love Organic Bra, and Lovemère Seamless Nursing Bras, which are quite effective at holding the wearables. It is suggested to add extensions and lengthen shoulder straps while opting for these solutions.
Because of the stretch of the wearables, it's important to ensure the elasticity lasts long and ensure there's sufficient bra care.
In this nursing bra debate, it’s crucial to know that not every bra is created equally. That means not all nursing bras are made to be pumping bras, and vice versa.
Other Ways to DIY a Hands-Free Bra
Below are the two simple ways to switch your nursing bra into a hands-free pumping bra:
1. The Stretch Method
This is the simplest way, perfect for unpadded bras with stretchy fabric.
How to do it:
1. Unclasp your nursing bra and slide the nursing strap over your breast to the other side. It may need to be slightly loosened.
2. Adjust the flange on your breast, centering it on your nipple.
3. Pull the top part of the bra up, wrap it around the flange, and clip it back onto the strap. Repeat the process on the opposite side.
2. The Cut Method
This method has worked for many moms, but once you cut your bra, it’s a pumping bra for life. It’s a bit more permanent, but super secure and quick. To pursue this method, you will need a marker, scissors, and a needle & thread (optional).
How to do it:
1. Put the bra on and mark where your nipples are with the marker.
2. Cut a small circle or line at the marked spot. It’s best to start small and make the hole bigger if needed—this keeps the flange snug and secure.
3. If the fabric’s stiff, cut a small circle, just big enough for the flange. If it's stretchy, cut a line slightly shorter than the flange diameter to keep it tight.
4. If the fabric is delicate, stitch around the hole to prevent it from fraying.
Last But Not Least
To conclude, using a nursing bra for pumping has its benefits, like convenience and multi-functionality, especially for occasional pumping.
However, they may lack the snug fit and hands-free features that a pumping bra provides for electric breast pumps.
For mothers who pump multiple times a day, a long-lasting pumping bra will offer better comfort and support while also helping to prevent wrist strain or injury during hands-free pumping sessions.
Are you enjoying this post?
Feel free to share this with any moms. Join the moms community today and receive weekly motherhood tips and tricks directly to your inbox. Occasionally we will send you updates on new launches and exclusive events, and you will always be the first to know.
Shop the Lovemère collection today.