Today we (my fiancée and I) help your partner pick the best possible bra for different portable breast pump brands. Let’s give her three options: the best bra for Willow pump, for Elvie pump, and for Freemie pump.
We’ll weigh each of them against one another’s features and benefits to make the decision process easier. At the beginning of the article I also touch on why I chose these three brands.
- My Top Picks
- Bra Buying Guide for Popular Wearable Breast Pumps
- #1 Best for Willow Bras – Kindred Bravely Sublime Support
- #2 Best for Willow Bras- HOFISH Seamless Deep V Push Up Maternity Bra
- #1 Best for Elvie – Simple Wishes Signature Pumping Bra
- #2 Best for Elvie- Essential Pump & Nurse All in One Nursing Bra
- #1 Best for Freemie – GXXGE Womens Seamless Nursing Bra
- #2 Best for Freemie – LatalyWirefree Maternity Bralette
- FAQ
- Conclusion
My Top Picks
- #1 Best for Willow – Kindred Bravely Sublime Support
- #2 Best for Willow – HOFISH Seamless Deep V Push Up Maternity Bra
- #1 Best for Elvie – Simple Wishes Signature Pumping Bra
- #2 Best for Elvie – Essential Pump & Nurse All in One Nursing Bra
- #1 Best for Freemie – GXXGE Womens Seamless Nursing Bra
- #2 Best for Freemie – LatalyWirefree Maternity Bralette
Bra Buying Guide for Popular Wearable Breast Pumps
Picking the right bra for a wearable breast pump you’ve recently bought is certainly not child’s play. I wrote a comparison article comparing three very popular pumps, Willow versus Elvie versus Freemie and got many comments afterward. This made me look for a bra for these pumps.
I think they represent a real life-changer technology since due to these devices’ portability, moms can get back some of their freedom (of movement). As a mom, you can pump now EVERYWHERE, in the office, at home and without hiding from curious eyes.
There’s a lot at stake here, especially your partner’s comfort when trying to find the best bra. So we have to be extra careful and make sure we pick the correct one. Use this brief guide to arrive at the right decision.
Here’s an example of a VERY POPULAR bra for a wearable breast pump from this review so you see what a bra looks like. 🙂
Why Do You Need a Certain Bra for Breast Pumping?
Parenting literally never stops. This is especially true for women. Her swollen breasts during the nursing phase will always serve as a gentle (and often not-so-gentle!) reminder. Even when your partner is away from your little one, she likely still has to pump milk for the baby.
While as a dad you obviously can’t actively partake in the actual process, the least you can do is help her pick the right bra for the exercise. And unfortunately, Victoria’s Secret lingerie bra YOU have had your eye on simply won’t cut it. She’ll need a special kind of bra that allows for the following:
- A quick and effortless process
- Easy operation of the breast pump controls
- Easy access to the nipple
- The right bra can even allow her to multi-task while pumping away
What to Look for in a Bra
The secret to buying the perfect pumping bra lies in picking one that allows for a relaxing and comfortable experience. In order for her to enjoy the benefits listed above, you’ll need to consider a few important aspects when picking this bra. This way she’s more likely to pump so she won’t regret not breastfeeding, which might have some serious consequences. Look out for the following:
- Fit: Fit is everything when picking a bra to ensure maximum comfort. Measure if possible.
- Pump size: Consider if the bra matches the pump size. This way you’ll buy a bra that allows the pump to fit securely in place without shifting.
- Coverage: It’s advisable to pick a bra that offers full coverage to ensure a secure fit.
- Access: Consider the nursing or pumping access offered by the product. Ideally, you want one that allows for easy access to the pump controls. Opt for one with a nursing flap that can be opened or closed using one hand. Alternatively, you can opt for one that features removable cups.
- Style: Avoid bras that have underwire or are overly padded. Rather opt for comfort bras which are free from wires that might poke and prod at the bosom.
- Material: A bra that’s made of stretchy material is ideal since it offers excellent support and maximum comfort. Plus it easily adapts to the size of the breast along the breastfeeding journey. If you can find one that’s breathable, that’d be even better.
- Comfort: When it comes to comfort, a bra that has a flexible under-bust band will prove to be very useful.
#1 Best for Willow Bras – Kindred Bravely Sublime Support
I’ll start off with this low impact maternity bra which is the best to use with Willow pumps. It promises to offer support and comfort. I presume this is largely as a result of the ultra-soft fabric. It doesn’t have any hooks or snaps so it’ll be easy to wear. The bra can be used as an everyday bra and can be worn for any occasion be it a yoga class or simply handling chores around the house.
Who It’s For
This bra is ideal for active mothers.
Why You Should Consider It
Aside from being extremely comfortable, it allows for easy pumping and breastfeeding. This is because of the simple clip down nursing access which can be opened using one hand. Best of all it offers maximum support.
Product Information
- Cup sizes: B to E
- Materials: Nylon, polyester, spandex
- Nursing access: Clip down
- Number in a pack: 1
Pros
- Impressive quality bra
- Offers full coverage
- Easy to open and close
Cons
- Runs small
- Expensive
- Sweat collects inside the band
#2 Best for Willow Bras- HOFISH Seamless Deep V Push Up Maternity Bra
Still for mommies who own Willow pumps, we recommend this comfortable bra from HOFISH that’s designed to offer a snug fit. The package comes with a total of three bras, matching extenders, and extra bra clips. Pumping milk while wearing this bra is likely to be very simple and straightforward since it allows for one-hand access.
Who It’s For
Ideal for mothers who prefer nursing bras with padding.
Why You Should Consider It
Any comfort concerns are taken care of thanks to the adjustable shoulder straps. Breastfeeding or pumping will also be effortless since the bra has removable cups that allow for convenient feeding. V-design is a nice touch. Apart from enhancing the overall look of the bra, it makes breasts more breathable.
Product Information
- Cup sizes: B to DD
- Materials: Nylon, spandex
- Nursing access: Hook and eye closure
- Number in a pack: 3
Pros
- Affordable
- Quality material
- Available in an assortment of colors
Cons
- Padding crinkles up
- Not really push up bras as advertised
- Runs small
#1 Best for Elvie – Simple Wishes Signature Pumping Bra
If your partner owns a new or a used Elvie breast pump, consider this hands-free breast pump from Signature Wishes. It’s one of the few bras that don’t present sizing issues. Because of the hands-free design, it allows women to do what they love best — multi-tasking! To top it off, the bra offers maximum comfort which will very much be appreciated.
Who It’s For
It’s the ideal choice for mommies whose breasts change in size throughout the pumping process.
Why You Should Consider it
I like that though it’s widely regarded as the number one bra to use with an Elvie breast pump, it’s compatible with most major brands. This includes household names like Medela, Phillips, and Avent. With regards to comfort concerns, the bra features an adjustable back Velcro panel that easily adapts to a woman’s changing body during nursing. Pumping milk using this bra won’t be in the least bit messy since it features a tight seal of breast shields and flanges. And it’s easy to adjust the flanges accordingly since the bra has a zip center panel.
Product Information
- Cup sizes: AA to J
- Materials: Cotton, spandex
- Nursing access: Hands free pumping
- Number in a pack: 1
Pros
- Offers full coverage
- Comes in a box for easy storage when not in use
- Fabric feels soft against skin
- Inclusive size range
Cons
- Holes where you place flanges loosen over time
- Thin material which quickly wears out
- Weak Velcro attachment
#2 Best for Elvie- Essential Pump & Nurse All in One Nursing Bra
Mommies who own Elvie pumps can also pick this bra from Rumina which allows for hands-free operation. Pumping using this bra promises to be a quick, easy, and time-saving process. It’s easy to insert the breast shields via the bottom opening without necessarily detaching the breast shield from the bottle.
Who It’s For
This bra is ideal for extra busy mothers who always have their hands full.
Why You Should Buy It
This is one of the few bras that allow mothers to pump and breastfeed at the same time. And it’s extremely comfortable to wear the entire day—something your partner will appreciate during a busy day at the house. Despite being best suited for an Elvie pump, it’s also compatible with Avent, Phillips and Ameda pumps to mention a few brands.
Product Information
- Cup sizes: B to F
- Materials: Cotton, spandex
- Nursing access: Hands free pumping
- Number in a pack: 1
Pros
- Snug fit
- Comfortable
- Holds pump flanges securely
Cons
- Poor quality material
- Runs small
- Difficult to wear and remove
#1 Best for Freemie – GXXGE Womens Seamless Nursing Bra
If your partner owns a Freemie pump consider this seamless GXXGE bra which is literally invisible under clothing. Firstly, the bra comes in multiple nice colors. Secondly, the material is both soft and breathable. Mommy will be kept dry and comfortable at all times.
Who It’s For
This bra is a good choice for working mothers since it’s discreet under office wear.
Why You Should Consider It
This bra embodies all things comfort starting with the breathable soft fabric, adjustable shoulder straps, and wireless design. The material stretches to accommodate the bust size as it changes during nursing. With regards to pumping, the bra allows for one-hand access making it easy to use. The bra features removable padding which is easy to wash. And it won’t lose shape even after washing which most women will agree is a huge plus.
Product Information
- Cup sizes: B to F
- Materials: Nylon, spandex
- Nursing access: Hook and eye closure
- Number in a pack: 4
Pros
- Offers full coverage
- Provides ample support
- Reasonably priced
- Attractive color options
Cons
- Runs small
- Pads shift position often
- Straps don’t adjust to a long length
#2 Best for Freemie – LatalyWirefree Maternity Bralette
Last on my list, I have this maternity bra from Lataly which is also suitable to use with Freemie pumps. I must say the design looks very much similar to the attractive GXXGE bra I just reviewed. It’s made of the same stretchy breathable materials. It also features adjustable shoulder straps and discreet design. Clearly, what works for Freemie pumps, well, works for Freemie pumps!
Who It’s For
Since it comes in a pack of five, it’s a great option for mothers who like buying in bulk.
Why You Should Consider It
The bra will be borderline invisible under clothing. Plus it’s designed to offer a comfortable fit. Pumping milk will be easy just by simply removing the nursing clips.
Product Information
- Cup sizes: B to F
- Materials: Nylon, spandex
- Nursing access: Hook and eye closure
- Number in a pack: 5
Pros
- Offers ample support
- Provides full coverage
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Poor pad quality
- Color fades over time
- Pads not centrally positioned
FAQ
How many pumping bras are needed?
Much like regular everyday bras, the answer to this question depends on the individual. But for a start, three will suffice. One is worn while the other is washed and of course one extra.
Are nursing bras really necessary?
It’s not mandatory to wear a nursing bra. But for the sheer comfort and convenience they offer the wearer, purchasing one is undoubtedly a good idea.
Conclusion
It’s not every day that I get to give an opinion on the best nursing or pumping bra a mother should buy! But for the sake of the article, and under the strict guidance of my fianceé, of course, I’ll go ahead.
We (my fiancée and I ) recommend the Signature Wishes bras. Firstly, they don’t present any sizing issues, are compatible with most pumps, and allow for hands-free operation. They’re the perfect companion to Elvie pumps, which is our top choice. The bras are soft, offer full coverage, feel comfortable against the skin, and are easy to adjust. If you’re overly concerned with their durability, rest easy knowing that at least she has four of them to get through before calling it a day!
Another excellent choice we recommend Kindred Bravely Sublime Support which is a very very popular product. Check out the link to find out why if my review was not detailed enough. 🙂
Last update on 2024-04-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
