Are you looking for a nursing pad you can use without wearing a bra? Or maybe you are looking for a breast pad that can stick to your skin? A braless nursing pad is exactly what you need.

Unlike regular breast pads which require support from a bra or a nursing tank top. Braless nursing pads are able to prevent leaks and allow your “girls” stay free.

But first, let’s take a look at what they are made of and how to use them effectively.

What are braless nursing pads?

A braless nursing pad is a breast pad which sticks to your body and can be worn without a bra. It works by exerting pressure on the nipple to prevent any breast milk from leaking. Unlike regular breast pads which soak in already leaked milk.

Which is great especially for mamas who leak heavily and show through their regular breast pads. This way, you also get to avoid the awful smell of breast milk soaked in a cloth or worse thrush which may occur from using cloth nursing pads.

You can wear them with fancy backless dresses or nursing tank tops without built in bras, when you are swimming and to sleep without a bra and not leak through your sheets. And if you want to stay modest by avoiding showing your nipples they will save you any embarrassment.

Recommended braless nursing pads Lily Silicone Reusable Nursing Pads

See also  Nursing tank tops without built in bra

Pros 

Allow braless breastfeeding

Which is great especially for moms who do not necessarily prefer wearing bras. And for those who want to go strapless, these are perfect too.

Super discreet & invisible under clothing. 

Braless nursing pads are very thin and do not show through any material whether silk or a tight top.

Economical. 

Compared to disposable nursing pads, braless nursing pads can be used for at least 2 months before you need a new pair. What’s more, if you take good care of them they can last longer.

Easy to clean. 

They are very easy to maintain and clean. You only need to use water to wash them clean. And if you want to , you can use a mild wash which comes along with the Lily Reusable Silicone Nursing Pads

Soothing to sore nipples. 

Silicone breast pads are very soft and soothe sore nipples compared to using a cloth nipple 8 times over. Because with nursing pads made of fabric you experience awful friction between your nipple and the cloth if they are sore or cracked.

No breast milk smell. 

Because they prevent leakage rather than soak in already leaked milk, you do not have to deal with breast milk smell which can be awful sometimes.

Good for sensitive skin. 

They are made of medical silicone grade material which is safe for any skin. Which is a great alternative to fabric nursing pads which some mamas complain of itching when they use them,

Versatile. 

You can wear them for swimming which is so cool and not worry about leaks. 

See also What to wear to bed while breastfeeding

Cons 

Pricey. 

Compared to using cloth reusable nursing pads, braless nursing pads are costly. And according to the manufacturer you can use them for 2 months with proper care. If you are planning to breastfeed for more than a year, the cost can quickly add up.

Messes.

Although the probability of them happening is rare, they are more messy. They are likely to occur if you have heavy let down or you failed to wear them properly.

Imagine squirting milk all over a room due to the pressure which builds up while wearing the silicone pad. However, if you wear it well as recommend they might never happen.

Does not come with a storage box. 

They are packed in domes, but a cute little storage box would have been nice. This will enable you to air dry it conveniently without having to catch lint or dust in an open space.

FAQ on braless nursing pads

Can you wear nursing pads without a bra?

You are probably wondering whether you can wear nursing pads without a bra. The answer is yes, using a nursing pad which sticks to your body without adhesive you can totally go braless while breastfeeding.

What can I use instead of nursing pads?

If you do not want to wear nursing pads to prevent breast milk leaks at home. You can choose to use a piece of disposable nappies, a handkerchief or a piece of cotton wash cloth.

See also How many nursing pads do you need

Conclusion

There you go mama- you actually can prevent breast milk leaks without wearing a bra. What will make that possible is braless nursing pads made of silicone that stick to your skin. The only braless nursing pads I recommend are Lily Silicone Reusable Nursing Pads. They are discreet under clothes, easy to clean with water only and will last your 2-3 months depending on your usage.

After childbirth, you will bleed heavily whether you had a C-section or vaginal birth delivery. And this is not the normal menstrual bleeding you experience everyday. It is heavier and comes with big blood clots, which calls for a better sanitary towel to handle postpartum bleeding.

So, which one should you choose: diapers or pads after delivery? Well, during the first 3-5 days when you experience heavy bleeding an adult diaper for postpartum would be the best option because they are more absorbent and then once the bleeding reduces you can use regular pads.

At the end of the day it comes down to preference and comfort you are looking for. If you opt for pads it means you need to change more regularly to avoid leaks. Otherwise an adult diaper is more absorbent and comfortable just like wearing normal underwear.

Can you use normal pads after giving birth?

You actually could if you want to however there is a higher possibility of leaking especially during the first week or so. This is because the bleeding is heavier and accompanied by blood clots some the size of a palm.

That is why you are advised to use a super absorbent pad, hospital grade pad or an adult diaper. Furthermore, using normal pads could mean you have to change your pads more frequently and go through more pads as compared to getting an adult diaper or a super absorbent overnight pad.

See also Best pads for padsicles

What pads to use after giving birth?

If you opt to go for regular pads, then you need more absorbent pads because the bleeding is heavier after delivery. So, what kind of pads should you get so that you avoid leakage and be comfortable at the same time? Consider the following features when shopping for the best pads for after birth bleeding.

Super absorbent. 

Postpartum bleeding calls for a super absorbent pad or an overnight pad which holds more liquid. It surprises many first time mothers how heavy the bleeding is after delivery as compared to normal days. It will give you more time to rest rather than frequently going to the bathroom for a change. 

Maternity pads with wings. 

The wings will help keep the pad securely in place to your underwear to avoid any movements that may lead to leaks. If you do not prefer pads with wings, consider those with super adhesive so that they stick firmly on your underwear. 

Extra long. 

You should consider pads that will provide full coverage from front to back so that there is enough room for the pad to soak in and prevent any leaks. It will also give enough room for overnight protection depending whether you are a stomach or side sleeper. 

Scentless.

If you are a fan of scented pads, then by all means get those but as caution it’s better for you to consider using a scentless one. You do not need to add extra fragrances to the blood and clots which come out postpartum.  

What kind of adult diaper to use after giving birth? 

You do not have to be ashamed to use a diaper after delivery because brands such as Always have adult diapers specifically made to serve moms during postpartum. 

All the heavy postpartum bleeding can be handled by an adult diaper very well without the hassle of looking for a pad to meet all the above needs. Let’s take a look at why adult diapers work best for postpartum bleeding.

See also Best adult diapers for postpartum

Absorbency.

Adult diapers have super absorbent cores with rapid lock technology which ensures quick absorbing to keep you dry and avoid any unnecessary wetness. This way you keep the area dry for quick healing from the soreness of childbirth.

Design. 

Diapers come in very practical and cute feminine designs made to look like normal underwear. These fit discreetly under your clothes and are made of super soft fabric. What’s more, they come in delicate soft prints in colors purple and peach.

Comfort. 

If you had a C-section you do not have to worry about the diaper affecting your wound. The waistband of adult diapers are is  and follow the shape of your body curves to fit your postpartum body perfectly.

Fitting.

You do not have to worry about the diaper showing through your slacks or pajamas because they have 360 degrees elastic pulls which make it pull closer to the body for a hugging fit.

Leak proof. 

Most adult diapers have double leak guards all round to ensure you experience zero leaks on the edges. You can toss and turn all you want at night without worrying about leaks and blood stains on your clothes or bedding.

See also Depends Vs Always which is better

FAQ on Diapers or Pads after delivery

How long do you bleed after having a baby?

You should expect heavy bleeding after childbirth in the first 10 days after childbirth and normal bleeding on wards until 6 weeks. For the first few days consider using the hospital pads if you were provided with some or an adult diaper to handle the heavy bleeding and use regular pads afterwards.

Postpartum blood is bright red and is sometimes accompanied with big blood clots the size of a plum in the first few days that is why you need a pad which is hospital grade or an adult diaper. You might experience a gush of blood when you stand after some hours of lying down which is perfectly normal.

However, you should carefully note how much you bleed after childbirth or a C-section because severe bleeding is very dangerous. If you are filling a pad in less than an hour and are feeling dizzy you should consider calling your doctor.

How long do you need to wear pads after delivery?

You have to prepare for postpartum bleeding and stock up well. This is because you will bleed for about 6 weeks until your next first scheduled vaccination for your baby.

And as we have discussed you will need to use hospital grade pads for the first week or so and use regular pads for the rest of the weeks.

The bleeding should reduce as you progress , however do not hesitate to call your doctor if you notice that you are over bleeding and getting dizzy.

How many packs of maternity pads should you buy?

Because you will need to be changing your diaper every 4-6 hours in the first days after delivery and for the remaining 6 weeks consider getting 3 packs of pads. In a day you will be using approximately 4-6 pads.

Conclusion

Whether you have personal reservations about using diapers or pads after delivery. The reality is bleeding after childbirth is heavy during the first 3-7 days and a mom will need a super absorbent sanitary towel during that period. 

This is why hospitals provide mothers with hospital grade pads, disposable underwear or adult diapers which are absorbent enough to soak in the bleeding.

As a recommendation, going for an adult diaper will serve you better. They are more comfortable, form fitting and fit well under clothes. In addition, they are super absorbent and available in feminine designs plus feel like you are wearing normal underwear.

Nursing tank tops are cute and practical but sometimes the shelf bra just does not work for some of us breastfeeding mamas. Especially if you have large breasts, the built in shelf bras do not provide enough support. 

What’s more? If you choose to wear a bra with them, you feel so comfortable. Or you could choose to use braless nursing pads which stick to your skin.

Luckily, there are nursing tank tops without built in bras you can get that are modest, cute and comfortable for easy breastfeeding in public and at home.

Best Nursing tank Top Without Built in Bra Reviews 2020

Are you looking for a comfortable and stretchy nursing tank top? Or maybe you are shopping for a stylish tank top that can go well with your maternity jeans or leggings? Then get the Bearsland Women’s Maternity nursing tank top.

Bearsland nursing top is a favorite for nursing mamas and this is because of the cute and modest design, so easy to style and comfortable fabric. It is super stretchy, soft and comfortable to accommodate postpartum body changes and is made of 94% rayon and 6%spandex.

The design is discreet with double front layers in the front with raffles which hang down when you lift the front layer to nurse in public and hide any fat rolls you might have gained. You do not have to clip and unclip anything. 

What’s more? It also has an adjustable strap to fit you perfectly even after you lose your baby weight. It is also available in over 20 cute patterns and floral designs perfect for busy mama who does not have much time to think about what to wear in the morning.

You will love this cute and practical nursing tank top which you only need to hand wash or wash in a gentle wash and dry in the shade.

The Good

• Super stretchy material
• Available in all sizes.
• Over 20 cute designs to choose from
• Double front layers that are raffled to hide boob while breastfeeding
• Modest and easy to use design- lift and breastfeed no clipping and unclipping.
• Inexpensive – get 3 for under $50.
• An adjustable strap for perfect fitting.
• Easy to clean and dry.

Slight Concern

• Its just perfect no concerns from me.

Some nursing mamas prefer sleeveless nursing tank tops to one with an adjustable strap. That is why I strongly recommend Smallshow women sleeveless tops with the pullover O neck line.

Smallshow nursing tank top is made of a very comfortable and durable material. Which is so breathable compared to cheap polyester. It is made of 95 % cotton and 5% cotton which you only need to hand wash to clean.

They are great casual nursing shirts for the summer with a pullover O neck sleeveless style which matches effortlessly with your mom jeans or shorts for a cool laid back look.

The double layer front layer makes breastfeeding discreet and easy to use. The neck is not unreasonably low cut and covers enough when you lift it up to nurse your baby in public. Although they are not as fancy or fashionable by any means, they make a good choice for a basic summer top for nursing.

The Good

• Soft and breathable cotton material
• Easy to clean.
• Cool colors.
• Easy to pair with shorts or jeans.
• Available in all sizes up to XX large.

Slight Concern

• Not as fancy.

See also Braless nursing pads

If you are a little heavy on the upper body and you are looking for the perfect solution so that you can wear a good supporting bra underneath this SUIEK maternity nursing top is for you.

It is a game changer nursing tank top with a cool innovative slide slit you pull back to allow nursing mamas breastfeed discreetly in public. There is no double shirt for you to pull up so you do not reveal your skin per or your boobs or under them.

It is so easy to wear with a cardigan, sweater or jacket when it gets cooler outside. It is also available in very gorgeous colors you can select from to matches your skin tone and personal color preference.

Washing instructions say hand wash but you can get away with machine washing these. It is made of a highly elastic material versatile to use during pregnancy and post partum.

The Good

• Super elastic fabric for pregnancy and postpartum
• Discreet slit design for nursing.
• Perfect for mamas with large breasts.
• Easy to maintain and dry.
• Available in cool colors.

Slight Concern

• Maybe too loose for some.

If you are looking for a nursing tank top that you can use with a cute sports bra as you workout towards getting back in shape, get this Joy mom summer nursing tank top.

The asymmetrical scoop neck design without sleeves which gives plenty of room for air circulation as you nurse your baby in the summer. 

It is also rushed on to give a flowy fit and banded at the bottom making a perfect loose casual nursing top.The good part, it comes in a heathered color perfect for camouflaging milk leakages. 

The Good

• Perfect for wearing with a sports bras
• Colors can hide milk dribbles
• Soft fabric
• Very airy for the summer.

Slight Concern

• Not as flowy

See also What to wear to bed while breastfeeding

Unlike all the nursing tank tops in this list, this nursing tank top can easily pass as a formal top you can wear with a cardigan for the office.

The frontal layers hang on the front in such a way to hide a postpartum belly or accommodate a growing one very well, not too tight or flowy either, just the perfect sizing.

Consider this top if you are looking for the perfect nursing tank top without built in bra you can wear outside of the house.

The Good

• Has a formal design to it.
• Perfect flattering design, not too flowy or fitting
• Very soft fabric.
• Easy to wash and dry

Slight Concern

• Too plain for some

See also How many nursing pads do you need

Things to consider when choosing a nursing tank Top without a Bra?

Material.

If you are looking for a stretchy design consider getting one made of rayon and spandex. Cotton is also a super comfy material that will not cling to your body such as viscose does. It will allow you to wear braless nursing pads which stick to you skin without the need for a bra.

Style.

You do not have to compromise on your style as much as getting a nursing tank top without a bra is hard. Look out for flowy designs, cool patterns and colors that compliment your skin tone.

Comfort.

You want to be modest, breathable and comfortable. They are a good option for wearing to bed if your are breastfeeding because your body changes a lot after child birth. You should measure your bust and waist so that you get the right size that will flatter your body.

Wash.

It should be machine washable and not shrink after several washes ending up with a belly top instead of a tank top.

Price.

Consider getting 3 pieces rather than single ones as they are better priced. You do not have to break an arm and leg for them for $50 you can get 3 beautiful nursing tank tops.

Conclusion

I know the search for a nursing tank top without a built in bra is not easy. And that is why we have made it very easy for you. This if you want a fun and comfortable design get this you want a floral  Bearsland nursing tank.