How to Find Good Nursing Clothes

While you've finished with your maternity wear, it might not be time to get back into all your pre-pregnancy wear just yet. If you̵7;ve chosen to breastfeed your baby, nursing clothing can make it easier to feed your baby on demand when you̵7;re at home, at the park or at your in-laws for a congratulatory dinner. Fortunately, you don̵7;t have to purchase a brand new wardrobe to accommodate your nursing needs; take your budget into account and then invest a little ingenuity.

Things You'll Need

  • 2-layer nursing shirts
  • Nursing bands or tube tops
  • Nursing blanket
  • Loose-fitting T-shirts (and shirts with deep arm holes)
  • Button-up shirts

Instructions

    • 1

      Consider the types of nursing clothing you require. For example, if you̵7;ll be nursing your baby in public often, look for nursing tops that separate just below the bust line for discreet breastfeeding. If you don't like the separating line below the bust, between the two layers of the shirt, opt for a crossover or "criss-cross" design. This type of shirt makes the function of the shirt even more discreet. Alternatively, purchase nursing bands to wear with ordinary shirts. The band is worn underneath the shirt to keep your tummy covered while nursing. Instead of a specialty nursing band, you can use a tube top, but pull it up to just beneath your bust line. If you won̵7;t nurse in public often, consider ordinary, loose clothing with a nursing blanket to cover up if you prefer.

    • 2

      Examine your own wardrobe for potential nursing apparel to determine what items you'll need to purchase. Loose-fitting T-shirts and shirts with deep arm holes make comfortable nursing attire at home, and button-up shirts can be worn for nursing at home and on the go.

    • 3

      Browse through local maternity stores to fill the gaps in your nursing wardrobe. Some of these stores carry both pregnancy and nursing clothing, as well as many items that can be worn during both periods. Many maternity shops also have retail associates available to help you make selections from the available stock. Talk to the associate about your nursing apparel needs prior to buying.

    • 4

      Purchase less expensive nursing clothing in the maternity section of large, discount department stores. While the selection is sometimes more limited than the apparel options at a store that specializes in maternity and nursing wear, you'll likely pay less for the clothing here.

    • 5

      Pick up secondhand nursing clothing if you're shopping on a budget. Many clothing purchased for nursing wear is only worn for a limited amount of time -- approximately a year -- and then the wearer no longer has any need for it. Look for secondhand shops and individuals online and in your local area, but inspect any secondhand clothing carefully before buying, to ensure it is in good condition. Alternatively, ask friends and family members who have had babies if they still have any of their nursing clothing.

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