Nursing tops are designed to make feeding your little one easier. They are an excellent addition to the wardrobe of any breastfeeding mother.
What makes a nursing top a good buy? Find out where you can purchase the best nursing tops!
What Is A Nursing Top?
A nursing top is a shirt designed for easy access for any breastfeeding or pumping activities. It allows the breast to remain easily reachable without having to expose a large portion of your upper body.
There is no need to remove your entire shirt, lift one arm out or expose your stomach if you don’t want to.
Why Would You Need A Nursing Top?
Breastfeeding is a unique journey for every mother regardless of whether you are pumping or nursing directly from the breast.
Every mother has a certain level of exposure they are comfortable with. This level can also change based on the place you are breastfeeding, the people you are around, the willingness of your baby to be covered, etc.
Since mom life can be unpredictable, it might be a good idea for every breastfeeding mother to own at least one or two nursing tops.
Qualities of a Good Nursing Top
What makes a nursing top a good buy? Here are 5 common characteristics shared by the best nursing tops:
Quality fabric. You want a nursing top to be able to stand the test of time and a couple of wash cycles.
Good price or Budget friendly. Breastfeeding is a phase of mom life that doesn’t last forever. Some mothers would not prefer to spend lots of money on expensive tops.
Works with your nursing bra. There are several styles of nursing bras. Make sure your nursing top works with your specific bra type.
Ease of access. Can you easily undo the zippers, buttons, etc?
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The Best Nursing Tops
Now that you know what to look for, its time to shop!
You can find nursing tops in several brick and mortar stores ( Target, Motherhood Maternity, H&M).
You can also find several cute and affordable tops online. To give you an idea of what’s available, here are some of the best nursing tops in multiple styles and for different occasions.
Short Sleeved
Available in 20 colors, see them here.
While this shirt is not exactly marketed as a nursing shirt, the button down front and easy access check all the right boxes!
It’s a stylish pick that would still be in your wardrobe rotation after you’re done nursing. This mom raves that “The buttons are super easy to unbutton and rebutton back up. I love that this shirt is super comfy for postpartum life but makes me feel more put together and I can wear it out.”
Long Sleeved
Ruched Side-Shirred Nursing Top
Perfect option for when the temperatures drop and you need to wear a warmer top.
Most reviews say the fabric is thick, yet comfy. This long sleeved shirt is stylish and the shirring helps hide any unflattering spots you may be concerned about it.
They come in a 3 pack in multiple colors, so if stripes don’t suit you there are other colors you may like.
If it’s really cold and you need to layer up, try a sweatshirt. Reviews say this one runs small, so you should order up one size and you’ll be fine.
Nursing Long Sleeved Sweatshirt with Hood
Casual
This shirt is super stylish with ruffled sleeves. You could dress this up or down.
I believe the reason nursing tops come in stripes is to hide the opening. If that doesn’t bother you, check this shirt out. In addition to this cute candy apple red, it is also available in black and white.
Tank/Cami
When the weather heats up and you want to pull out your summer clothes, or it’s just too hot a tank top is your best bet. This nursing tank has a double layer with asymmetrical layers that you can just pull aside.
Active Wear
Breastfeeding moms are active moms! If you have started a postpartum exercise routine, you’ll find this activewear nursing top a great fit into your workout wardrobe.
Moms rave that this athletic nursing top with it’s asymmetric design makes the opening less obvious. Here’s a 5 star review from a mom who says it’s perfect for workouts.
Work Friendly
Breastfeeding at work for you may mean wearing pumping friendly clothing. Unless you get to bring your baby to work, then more power to you!
Here is a stylish work top that will allow you to pump without exposing your body to your coworkers.
Tie front peplum top available in emerald green and rust.
Plus Size
Plus Size Tie Front Nursing Top
This tie front top is very versatile. It can be styled in different ways just by changing the position of the tie! You can tie it front, back or side & in a knot or bow.
Do You Really Need Nursing Clothes?
Breastfeeding or nursing clothes are not a necessity. As I stated before, this really comes down to your personal preference.
Similar to nursing bras for breastfeeding moms, many moms can find ways to make the regular clothes they already own work.
Many try the two shirt method which involves wearing two tops, one you can pull up for access and the other stays down for body coverage.
Nursing clothes are designed for comfort and convenience for the mother. If you live in a warmer climate, it may be very uncomfortable to double layer your clothing.
Also, breastfeeding clothes offer the option to not have to cover your baby, which some of them hate and will protest!
I’d love to hear about your breastfeeding journey. Are you comfortable with breastfeeding publicly? Know where to find the best nursing tops? Leave me a comment below!
Be sure to check out all things mom style related on the blog! You might also be interested in these posts:
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