While the adjustable straps, removable padding, and stretchy lace help to create an overall supportive fit, we rated this bra a 3 for the support attribute, because our tester noted that the plastic adjuster piece would slide down the strap by the end of the day. This bra should only be hand-washed and hung to dry, which can be a big ask for nursing parents. Testers evaluated 13 pumping bras in the comfort of their homes, at work, and even during light workouts, assessing each on comfort, fit, access, material, and support. We also followed guidance from the American Pregnancy Association. Moreover, we spoke with Ashley Blankenship, breastfeeding counselor, founder of Supported Season, and creator of Bump Up Birth Method, to determine what to look for in pumping bras.

Testing Notes: “Unlike many sleep bras, which are pullover style, this one has hook/clasp. Since I pump at night (before bed), this feature made it easy to take it off and switch it with a pumping bra.” B Free’s maternity and nursing range features our luxe bamboo rich fabric. There are many reasons why you should choose bamboo for your nursing and maternity bras. Here are our top 5 reasons: During pregnancy and after the birth of your child, your breasts will grow larger and heavier; regular basic and fashion bras are not designed to provide this needed additional support. Nursing bras, however, are specifically designed to accommodate your ever changing size and shape. Additionally, while nursing your baby, your breasts are constantly changing as they fill with milk and shrink after feeding. The majority of our bras are constructed with stretch fabric to make these changes in size more comfortable.Nursing Bras are specifically designed to allow breastfeeding access without having to remove your bra, though most maternity bras also incorporate this feature! Read our blog here for tips on how to choose a nursing bra. How Does a Nursing Bra Work?

Bravado Designs Hands-Free Pumping Bra: While this pumping bra clips onto a nursing bra, it was tough to get flanges in the figure-eight openings, and they didn’t fit tight enough on our tester for pumping.Ultra soft: our fabrics feel incredibly luxurious and soft against the skin for the ultimate comfort When it comes to all of the best features of a nursing bra, the Hatch Everyday Nursing Bra is truly the gold standard. Made of breathable and buttery soft and stretchy Pima cotton and spandex blend, your breasts will feel supported, not suffocated. Our tester, a mom of two little ones, felt like the super-soft material was outstanding and lent to the easy, adjustable fit and rated it a 5 for both attributes. She described the material of the cups as soft and flexible, an essential feature as breasts fluctuate in size throughout your breastfeeding journey. We love that this everyday bra is available in sizes that can fit busts from 30B to 44I, and each bra comes with an expander, making it a size-inclusive option.

Testing Notes: “It's the type of bra I'd want to wear on a long flight. And if you have to flash a bit of bra in public to breastfeed, it's absolutely beautiful, thanks to the quality lace.” Having a proper fitting with a bra specialist in shops such as Bravissimo, Marks & Spencer or John Lewis is very important. Why would you need to invest in a strapless nursing bra?

But first! Here’s a strapless bra trick or two to consider when shopping:

I used this frequently with my first child when I was pumping at work,” our tester said. “It was easy to put on and [take] off, especially without the straps. You can just pull down your regular bra and wrap this around your waist, zip up, and then pull [up] over your chest.”