Finding a comfortable and supportive pumping bra for large breasts can be a game-changer for breastfeeding moms. These bras need to balance functionality, comfort, and support while accommodating fluctuating breast sizes and ensuring hands-free pumping convenience. Below, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to the top 10 best pumping bras for large breasts, based on real user reviews, expert testing, and detailed product insights. This guide includes a comparison table, pros and cons, testing scenarios, a buying guide, and a FAQ section to help you make an informed decision.
Top 10 Best Pumping Bras for Large Breasts
1. Kindred Bravely Sublime Hands-Free Pumping & Nursing Bra
The Kindred Bravely Sublime Pumping & Nursing Sports Bra is comfortable enough to sleep in but supportive enough for a quick workout. It’s ribbed + soft, the band offers some support if needed, but it is really good at helping you feel that “bra-less” feeling! Easy nursing access with the crossover front and can be worn comfortably while adjusting to fluctuating breast size while pregnant as well. This bra has been designed for maximum support while still providing some stretch. Plus, the hook-and-eye back closure allows you to adjust the fit with ease. It’s a great option for women with larger breasts, as it comes in special “busty” sizes. The bra’s shoulder straps and band are also wide by design, to better distribute weight and keep you comfortable.
- Pros: Stretchy, comfortable, accommodates most breast sizes, supportive for wearable pumps, seamless design.
- Cons: A bit heavy with multiple layers, not ideal for warmer weather, some users report uniboob effect.
2. Bodily Do Anything Bra
Designed in collaboration with a lactation consultant, this pumping bra from Bodily was created to empower women to tackle their day, and it truly lives up to its name. The stretchy OEKO TEX-certified fabric will meet your changing needs while still being supportive enough to hold your pumping parts securely in place. Highly adjustable, the bra features an extended back closure and sliders. These will allow you to tighten the fit during pumping sessions and then loosen it for the rest of your day. You’ll also appreciate how it has shoulder straps that convert to a racerback style for added support. The material feels silky and comfortable; it’s also much lighter than the Sublime.
- Pros: Lightweight, silky fabric, adjustable straps, racerback option, easy to pump and nurse simultaneously.
- Cons: Limited padding may require breast pads, less supportive for very heavy breasts.
3. Larken X Hands-Free Pumping Bra
Once she was out of the early newborn stage, the Larken X bra was the only bra that Strategist writer Lauren Ro wore with her second son. It’s an all-in-one bra that works for both nursing and pumping, and though she tried other all-in-one styles, Ro preferred the Larken for pumping because it felt the most secure: “The Larken has a unique two-layer twist system that always held the pump flanges tight against my breasts, which helped me express my milk in an efficient manner,” she says. Ro described the Larken as a very soft but just-supportive-enough sports bra that is also comfortable enough to sleep in, so she could wear the same bra all day and all night.
- Pros: Soft, lightweight, secure flange hold, comfortable for all-day wear, ideal for warmer climates.
- Cons: Not ideal for very large breasts, less supportive for nursing on one side while pumping.
4. Simple Wishes Adjustable Hands-Free Pumping Bra
The zip-’em-in Simple Wishes Hands Free Pumping Bra does the job better than any other pumping bra we’ve found, in part because it is highly adjustable for a snug fit. This T-shirt bra with fixed padding and smooth nylon/spandex material looks sleek under regular clothes, even close-fitting shirts and work clothes, making this a great nursing bra to own if you’ll be pumping at your workplace. To nurse or pump, you simply unhook one or both sides. It comes in a wide range of sizes, but the sizes are very specific; many Amazon reviewers mention needing to try a few sizes in order to find the perfect fit.
- Pros: Highly adjustable, sleek under clothes, supportive for heavy bottles, compatible with most pumps.
- Cons: Not suitable for simultaneous nursing and pumping, sizing can be tricky.
5. Momcozy Hands-Free Pumping Bra
If you’re looking for a good pumping bra under $25, this is our recommendation. Our Textiles Lab has evaluated Momcozy bras and our Lab pros say they are great quality for the price. More than 35,000 five-star Amazon reviews back that up, though a common complaint is that this soft, thin cotton bra is not as supportive as others. This bra holds standard traditional pumps like those from Spectra and Lansinoh as well as wearable breast pumps. The X-shaped design makes slipping flanges in and out easy with a very secure feel as bottles fill to the brim.
- Pros: Affordable, soft cotton, compatible with wearable pumps, easy flange access.
- Cons: Less supportive, thin fabric may not suit larger breasts.
6. Dairy Fairy Pippa Nursing and Pumping Bra
The Dairy Fairy Pippa has a single panel with holes that hold up your breast shields, along with a hook and latch to take the entire panel down for nursing. The holes are hidden behind a small flap until you’re ready to use them. This bra combines lacy beauty and support for even heavier wearables. My favorite feature for this bra is the lightweight nature of it since any pumping bras are thick in nature, and in the heat of the summer with postpartum hormones, can be a bit much.
- Pros: Stylish lace design, lightweight, supports wearable pumps, easy nursing access.
- Cons: Limited padding, may not be supportive enough for very large breasts.
7. Davin & Adley Riley Pumping Bra
The Davin & Adley Riley is evidence that pumping bras can actually be really cute! Comfortable while also being functional and a really cute bra. It works well for not only nursing and pumping with traditional flanges, but also for wearable pumps and milk catchers. You can also nurse on one side and pump on the other, or single pump.
- Pros: Cute design, versatile for nursing and pumping, supports wearable pumps.
- Cons: Limited padding, may require breast pads.
8. Elomi Molly Stretch Lace Nursing Bra
This bra is said to be one of the most supportive by this community when looking for bustier sizes, but they liked it still looks pretty. It does have underwire in this bra, which for some is necessary or better for support. Band sizes run from 32-38 and cup sizes C-G.
- Pros: Highly supportive, pretty design, suitable for larger busts.
- Cons: Underwire may cause discomfort, not ideal for hands-free pumping.
9. HOFISH Nursing Bra 3-Pack
These bras are an Amazon gem! I personally love that they have built-in side extender panels so that the bra can accommodate our fluctuating breast size. That speaks volumes! It also comes as a 3 pack and comes with extra extenders and clips. Actually recognizing our body changes postpartum— which makes me so happy! Aside from that— the bra is seamless, wireless, has removable cups, is accessible with clasp closure, breathable, and has over 23,000 4.5-star reviews on Amazon!
- Pros: Affordable, adjustable extenders, breathable, versatile for nursing and pumping.
- Cons: Not as supportive for very large breasts, clasps may break over time.
10. Bravado Designs Pumping Bra
Avoid slipping straps with a racerback pumping bra, like this cotton design from Bravado. Personally, I found it needed a couple of washes to reach peak comfort, but I’d also recommend sizing up for a snugger fit. This style clips down with minimal effort—no fuss, no hassle. It’s available in sizes small to large, with specialty “full cup” options.
- Pros: Racerback design, easy clip-down, supports wearable pumps.
- Cons: May need sizing up, less soft initially.
Comparison Table of Top Pumping Bras
| Bra Model | Material | Size Range | Key Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kindred Bravely Sublime | Nylon/Spandex | S-2XL, Busty/Super Busty | Hook-and-eye closure, racerback, stretchy | $40-$55 |
| Bodily Do Anything | OEKO-TEX certified fabric | XS-2XL | Racerback, adjustable sliders, lightweight | $50-$60 |
| Larken X | 90% Polyester, 10% Spandex | XS-2X | Two-layer twist system, seamless | $35-$45 |
| Simple Wishes | Nylon/Spandex | XS-2XL | Zip-up, fixed padding, adjustable | $25-$35 |
| Momcozy | 93% Cotton, 7% Spandex | XS-XXL | X-shaped design, affordable | $20-$25 |
| Dairy Fairy Pippa | Nylon/Spandex | S-2XL | Lace design, hook-and-latch | $40-$50 |
| Davin & Adley Riley | Nylon/Spandex | S-XL | Cute design, versatile | $45-$55 |
| Elomi Molly | Nylon/Spandex | 32-38, C-G | Underwire, supportive | $50-$65 |
| HOFISH 3-Pack | Nylon/Spandex | S-2XL | Extenders, removable cups | $30-$35 |
| Bravado Designs | Cotton/Spandex | S-L, Full Cup | Racerback, clip-down | $35-$45 |
Pros and Cons of Pumping Bras for Large Breasts
Kindred Bravely Sublime
- Pros: Loved by testers for its racerback design, which provided enough support without digging into their skin or causing upper back discomfort. Two testers said it was even more comfortable than their regular sports bras.
- Cons: To provide such good support, it has to be made from sturdier material, which can feel heavy in warmer climates.
Bodily Do Anything
- Pros: Our tester felt like this extra support helped ease tension on her back and shoulders, even when pumping. It became her “go-to pumping bra” after months of testing.
- Cons: While the stretchy material felt great against her skin, our tester reported that it didn’t absorb any leaking milk and allowed nursing pads to show through.
Larken X
- Pros: The Larken X is one of my favorite all day pumping bras because it’s so simple – it’s just two panels of fabric that sit on top of each other. The design is simple but really effective, and it’s easy to use after you get the hang of it.
- Cons: It might not be the best choice for women with large breasts due to limited support.
Testing Scenarios
During the initial testing period, our moms used the bras for three pumping sessions and wore the bra approximately 30 minutes before pumping and at least 30 minutes afterward to determine comfort, fit, and support. To assess compatibility, our testers used at least two types of breast pumps (including hands-free, wireless, or manual). We have been testing these pumping bras for over a year now, and we continue to collect our testers’ feedback to update our article with insights on durability, quality, and long-term functionality. For example, Ashleigh, mother of two, had mastitis with her first baby and was very mindful of selecting a pumping bra that provided support without being constrictive. After a combined 10 months of pumping, her favorites are the Kindred Bravely Sublime Hands-Free Nursing and Pumping Bra and the Bodily Do Anything Bra.
To find the very best pumping bras, I tested six at home, at work, and even on a flight from New York to Japan. I also talked to other breastfeeding parents about their favorite pumping bras including Bodily, Kindred Bravely, and Simple Wishes. Whether you’re pumping at work, at home, or while traveling away from your baby, a good pumping bra will make the process a lot more comfortable. Stress is one of the biggest inhibitors to milk production, so anything that makes the process more relaxing and enjoyable, from soft, stretchy fabric to the ability to scroll on your phone, can help your body make more milk.
Buying Guide for Pumping Bras
When you’re lactating, avoid underwire or a bra that’s too tight, as either can affect your milk ducts and your supply. For a great pumping bra, you’ll want:
- Comfort: A good pumping bra shouldn’t dig into your shoulders or ribs. It should have a snug fit, but not so tight that you can’t sit or move around with ease.
- First, it should be easy to open and close—either by unclipping or pulling to the side—so that you can attach and remove your pump flanges without complications.
- If you’re looking for extra support, Bowens also recommends opting for bras with crossover straps. “Crossover straps help to distribute the weight of your breasts more evenly, which can be helpful if you have large breasts,” she says.
- “You shouldn’t have to change your bra just because your body is changing, although it is true that sometimes our fluctuations are significant enough that even with a well-designed bra, we might have to,” says Haim. She advises buying a bra that fits well in the early days of breastfeeding when size fluctuations begin.
For more guidance, check out What to Expect’s Pumping Bra Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a nursing bra and a pumping bra?
Unlike nursing bras, which unclip to allow you to bring your baby to the breast without removing your bra, a pumping bra is designed to hold the shields of a breast pump tight to the chest. Some bras, like the Kindred Bravely Sublime, combine both functionalities.
Can I use a pumping bra with wearable pumps?
Yes, many pumping bras, such as the Momcozy and Bodily Do Anything, are compatible with wearable pumps like Willow and Elvie. Ensure the bra has enough stretch and support to hold the pump securely.
How do I choose the right size pumping bra?
Measure your band and cup size during early breastfeeding when fluctuations are significant. Opt for bras with adjustable straps and extenders, like the HOFISH 3-Pack, to accommodate changes.
Are underwire pumping bras safe?
Underwire bras, like the Elomi Molly, can be supportive but may cause clogged ducts if too tight. Consult a lactation consultant if you experience discomfort.
How often should I wash my pumping bra?
Wash after every few uses, depending on leakage and sweat. Most bras, like the Larken X, are machine-washable for easy care.
This guide aims to simplify your search for the perfect pumping bra, ensuring comfort and support for your breastfeeding journey.