Nursing & Feeding Products The Best Nursing Tanks of 2023, Tested and Approved by Moms These nursing tanks offer comfort, support, and easy access to your breast By Katrina Cossey Katrina Cossey Katrina Cossey is a freelance writer covering topics ranging from local and national news as well as writing and researching for parenting content. Learn about our editorial process and Maya Polton Maya Polton LinkedIn Maya has more than 15 years of experience in digital media and communications and specializes in writing about family, food, and lifestyles. Learn about our editorial process Updated on May 23, 2023 Medically reviewed by Andrea Chisholm, MD Fact checked by Marley Hall Fact checked by Marley Hall LinkedIn Marley Hall is a writer and fact-checker who is certified in clinical and translational research. Her work has been published in medical journals in the field of surgery, and she has received numerous awards for publication in education. Learn about our editorial process Print We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Verywell Family / Reese Herrington One of the most convenient clothing items during the postpartum period is a nursing tank, and the newest styles are as fashionable as they are comfortable and supportive. Whether breastfeeding, pumping exclusively, or a little of both, a nursing tank allows you to feel put-together while providing convenient access and coverage. Options include clip-downs, double-layered tops, pull-down styles, tanks with built-in bras, and more. You can wear them alone, under layers, or with an open cardigan or button-down shirt. To find the best nursing tanks, we went straight to the source: lactation experts and the nursing moms in our team of parenting editors. First, we spoke with breastfeeding counselor Ashley Blankenship and lactation consultants Nannette Mills, RNC, IBCLC, and Amy Peterson, B.S., IBCLC. We also researched guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) about sizing for nursing bras and tanks. With this guidance in mind, we researched dozens of top-rated nursing tanks on the market and considered their ease of use, support, fit, coverage, and value. We then narrowed our list to 20 nursing tanks, which we sent to the parenting editors in our team who were nursing at the time to get their real-life insights. As part of our testing process, our parenting editors wore the nursing tanks consistently for at least three months. During this time, they adjusted straps, evaluated the fit, clasped and unclasped clips, went on walks and to the gym, traveled, ran errands, slept in their tanks, worked, nursed their babies, and collected breast milk using different types of breast pumps. They also washed and dried them as many times as was necessary to assess any changes in quality, fit, and feel. To ensure we're recommending the best nursing tanks, our editors continue to use them and provide feedback. We will update this article as we gain further insights into these nursing tanks' long-term quality and performance. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Kindred Bravely Bamboo Lounge Around Nursing Tank at Kindredbravely.com Jump to Review Best for Sleeping: Bodily Always-On Nursing Tank at Itsbodily.com Jump to Review Best Extra-Long: Bamboobies Seamless Nursing Tank at Amazon Jump to Review Best Plus-Size: Motherhood Maternity Clip Down Nursing Cami at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Large Breasts: Kindred Bravely Simply Sublime Maternity & Nursing Tank at Kindredbravely.com Jump to Review Best Crossover: Beyond Yoga Featherweight Easy Access Nursing Crossover Tank at Beyondyoga.com Jump to Review Best Cotton: Hatch The 24/7 Nursing Tank at Hatchcollection.com Jump to Review Best Clip-Down: Storq Soft Touch Nursing Tank at Storq.com Jump to Review Best for Layering: A Pea in the Pod Luxe Clip Down Nursing Cami at Apeainthepod.com Jump to Review Best Budget: H&M MAMA 2-pack Nursing Tank Tops at Hm.com Jump to Review In This Article Expand Our Picks We Also Tested How We Tested What to Look For FAQ Why Trust Verywell Family Best Overall Kindred Bravely Bamboo Lounge Around Nursing Tank 4.9 Kindred Bravely View On Kindredbravely.com Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Support 5/5 Fit 4.5/5 Coverage 5/5 Value 5/5 Pros Sewn-in padding Loose fit Adjustable, easy-to-use straps/clips Cons Fixed padding position varies on breast shape/size The Kindred Bravely Bamboo Lounge Around Nursing Tank earns our top spot because it comfortably takes you from pregnancy through postpartum. The nursing tank's viscose bamboo and spandex fabric is available in three color options to match your style. A loose fit and high neckline ensure coverage without sacrificing support and comfort where you need it most. A built-in shelf bra with fixed padding and front adjustable straps is a game changer and one of our favorite nursing tank features. It's important to note that the position of the fixed padding may vary depending on breast size and shape. Still, we love how easily the nursing clips unstrap with one hand for skin-to-skin contact or quick feeding access. The nursing tank is machine washable on a cold, gentle cycle and safe to tumble dry on low. During the testing period, we washed the tank multiple times after several uses and saw no changes in quality. In our opinion, the sewn-in padding alone is worth this nursing tank's $38 price tag, although we love the adjustable straps, soft material, and loose fit, too—all of which make for a comfortable nursing experience. If you don't like the nursing tank, Kindred Bravely offers free returns within 90 days of your purchase. Price at time of publication: $38 Key Specs:Size Range: S-XXL | Type: Clip-down | Material: Viscose from bamboo and spandex | Washing Instructions: Machine wash cold on gentle cycle and tumble dry low Best for Sleeping Bodily Always-On Nursing Tank 5 Bodily View On Itsbodily.com Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Support 5/5 Fit 5/5 Coverage 5/5 Value 5/5 Pros Buttery-soft fabric Washes well with no quality changes Super comfortable fit Cons Fabric doesn’t offer significant absorption Meet your new best friend for nursing sessions in the middle of the night. The Bodily Always-On Nursing Tank features a buttery-soft micromodal (a type of rayon) and elastane fabric that is OEKO-TEX certified, meaning it underwent testing for harmful substances. The stretchy material offers light support, so you can sleep without feeling like you’re wearing a bra all night—although there are front strap adjusters if you prefer a tighter fit. The torso and top sections also provide enough stretch to accommodate growing breasts and bellies. A built-in bra keeps your breasts safe and sound until it’s time to nurse, and the straps feature a one-handed clip-down design for easy access. Thanks to the modern square neckline, you’d never know this was a nursing tank when wearing it under a cardigan or flannel. It’s low enough to be trendy but high enough to wear in front of the in-laws. We also love how the tank held its quality after multiple rounds in the washing machine and dryer. We didn’t notice any changes in the material’s quality, like fading, shrinkage, or pilling. The higher-than-average cost of the Bodily Always-On Nursing Tank is fair for what you get in return. Its smooth, soft fabric, comfortable fit, and easy-to-use clip-down style for breastfeeding access are priceless. Price at time of publication: $58 Key Specs:Size Range: S-XXXL | Type: Clip-down | Material: Micromodal and elastane | Washing Instructions: Machine wash warm and tumble dry on low Best Extra-Long Bamboobies Seamless Nursing Tank 4.9 Bamboobies View On Amazon View On Bamboobies.com Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Support 4.5/5 Fit 5/5 Coverage 5/5 Value 5/5 Pros Conforms to body without restriction Front strap adjusters Soft and gentle on skin Cons Support may not be enough for larger busts No padding The extra-long style of the Bamboobies Seamless Nursing Tank is great for layering and helps prevent exposure. We appreciate how bamboo viscose, polyamide, and elastane are combined to create an ultra-soft rayon fabric that’s machine washable and safe to dry on low heat. The nursing tank adjusts to the shape of your body for a comfy, supportive feel without creating gaps or stretching out by the end of the day. We walked, cleaned, shopped, and lounged in the nursing tank for weeks and never experienced the tank rolling up or shifting uncomfortably. In addition, the tank features easy-to-use drop-down clips and front strap adjusters for convenient access for breastfeeding and a comfy fit. A downside to the design is the lack of padding in the breast area, so we recommend adding nursing pads for leakage and to protect your nipples. No padding also means less support, which is not ideal if you’re large-chested. On the other hand, the design makes it a breeze to pull down the front for nursing. Another great feature of the Bamboobies tank is that it can also be used during your pregnancy, as it supports growing bumps and doesn’t feel constrictive. The Bamboobies Seamless tank comes in two color options, jet black and slate gray, so you can pair it with any cardigan. If you’re not a fan of the fit, the company offers returns and exchanges within 60 days of your purchase—just keep the tag on the tank and original packaging, and don’t wash it before sending it back. Price at time of publication: $30 Key Specs: Size Range: XS-XXL | Type: Clip-down | Material: Bamboo viscose, polyamide, and elastane| Washing Instructions: Machine or hand wash warm and dry on low heat or air dry Best Plus-Size Motherhood Maternity Clip Down Nursing Cami 4.7 Amazon View On Amazon View On Motherhood.com Our Ratings Ease of Use 4.2/5 Support 4.5/5 Fit 5/5 Coverage 4/5 Value 5/5 Pros Seven color options Long Nursing or pumping accessible Cons Little support in built-in shelf bra Available in sizes XS to XXXL, the Motherhood Maternity Clip-Down Nursing Cami caters to the needs of mamas during pregnancy and postpartum. Seven color options, like pink or black and gray stripes, pair well with a button-down shirt or double as a comfy pajama top. One of our favorite features of the tank is its fit, with its longer style and a roomy built-in shelf bra. While we wish the bra area was a smidge tighter, the adjustable straps allow you to find a comfortable fit without digging into the skin. The clip-down clasp is straightforward and intuitive for nursing and pumping access, although we struggled to unclasp it with one hand. Unfortunately, the bra has no padding, so we recommend wearing a nursing bra underneath for extra support and coverage when needed. Still, the 95% cotton and 5% spandex blend makes for a comfy pajama or all-day top. And you can safely toss the tank in the washing machine with the rest of your clothes for easy cleaning. In addition to its inclusive sizing, the Motherhood Maternity nursing tank is quite affordable. You can buy the nursing tank alone or as a two-pack, which is cheaper than buying two separately. Price at time of publication: $25 Key Specs:Size Range: XS-XXXL | Type: Clip-down | Material: Cotton and spandex | Washing Instructions: Machine wash or dry clean The 12 Best Breast Pumps of 2023, Tested and Reviewed by Verywell Family Best for Large Breasts Kindred Bravely Simply Sublime Maternity & Nursing Tank 4.7 Kindred Bravely View On Kindredbravely.com Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Support 5/5 Fit 3.6/5 Coverage 5/5 Value 5/5 Pros “Busty” size options Thick padding Supportive Cons Sizing runs small The Kindred Bravely Simply Sublime Maternity & Nursing Tank stands out for its special sizing that accommodates breasts from 30B to 44I. In addition to standard sizing from S to XXL, each size comes in a “busty” option. To find the right fit, Kindred Bravely recommends using its sizing guide, which combines your underbust and fullest bust to determine the bra size you need. We think the built-in bra supports all breast sizes and appreciate the thick padding. We also love that the nylon and spandex fabric is safe to throw in the washing machine on a delicate cycle (be sure to line dry) should any leakage occur. While the nursing tank’s smooth silhouette is comfortable, the sizing is tight—we recommend ordering a full size up. We also appreciate the convenient access to the easy-to-use clip-down cups for breastfeeding or skin-to-skin contact. The Kindred Bravely Simply Sublime costs slightly more than its counterpart, the Bamboo Lounge Around nursing tank, which only offers standard sizing. However, if you have larger breasts, the “busty” options can be well worth the investment. Price at time of publication: $50 Key Specs:Size Range: S-XXL/1X-Busty | Type: Clip-down | Material: Nylon and spandex | Washing Instructions: Hand wash with gentle soap or use a lingerie bag on delicate cycle and line dry Best Crossover Beyond Yoga Featherweight Easy Access Nursing Crossover Tank 4.6 Beyond Yoga View On Beyondyoga.com Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Support 4/5 Fit 5/5 Coverage 5/5 Value 4.5/5 Pros Ultrasoft polyester Doesn’t lose quality after washing Comfortable for day or night wear Cons No support The crossover V-neckline of the Beyond Yoga Nursing Tank is ideal if you’re looking for easy access for nursing. We also love the ultrasoft polyester and spandex fabric that provides plenty of stretch and comfort. The material feels breathable day or night, and the style can pass as a regular shirt. We washed the tank several times after wearing it for months and it never lost its quality. While this nursing tank lacks support, its simple pull-down design makes reaching your breasts much easier. Due to the lack of padding and cups, you may prefer to wear a nursing bra underneath. Still, we enjoyed how the tank hits at the lower hip for plenty of coverage for any activity. We think the cost is on par for the tank’s well-made design and premium comfort you can wear long after postpartum. Price at time of publication: $72 Key Specs: Size Range: XS-XL | Type: Pull-down | Material: Polyester and spandex | Washing Instructions: Machine washable and dryable The 10 Best Nursing Pads of 2023 Best Cotton Hatch The 24/7 Nursing Tank 4.6 Hatch View On Hatchcollection.com Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Support 4.5/5 Fit 4/5 Coverage 3.9/5 Value 5/5 Pros Easy one-handed clips High-quality material Comfortable Cons Loose near armpits Of all the nursing tanks we tested, we were particularly impressed by how soft the Hatch 24/7 Nursing Tank felt against our skin. The comfy tank is made of 91% Pima cotton (a higher-end cotton made with long fibers) and 9% spandex, which gives it the right amount of stretch. The Hatch 24/7 features a built-in bra that is supportive and comfortable. The clip-down clasps were easy to use one-handed, so we were able to hold the baby in the other hand for a quick feeding. We used the front strap adjusters to find a comfortable fit, but the one downside is that the area around the armpits felt a bit loose. We wore this Hatch nursing tank dozens of times over three months and washed it several times, noticing zero changes in comfort or quality. This nursing tank is the priciest on our list, but for a good reason. You’re paying for high-quality material that’s soft and washes well and the easy-to-use clip-down feature for stress-free nursing access. Price at time of publication: $78 Key Specs:Size Range: S-XL | Type: Clip-down | Material: Pima cotton and spandex | Washing Instructions: Machine wash cold and tumble dry on low Best Clip-Down Storq Soft Touch Nursing Tank 4.2 Storq View On Storq.com Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Support 4/5 Fit 4.2/5 Coverage 4/5 Value 4.5/5 Pros Buttery-soft material Internal shelf bra is supportive Easy-to-use clips Cons Not long enough Sizing runs small The biggest highlight of the Storq tank is its easy-to-use clips for nursing. We had no trouble clasping and unfastening the clips for feeding sessions or skin-to-skin contact. We also love how the buttery-soft modal and spandex blend feels and looks, and the unique zig-zag stitching is a nice touch. An internal shelf bra equips cup sizes A to E with plenty of support for all-day or all-night wear. During our test, sizing was a bit of an issue. Our editor ordered her pre-pregnancy size and found the fit tight and too short, reminiscent of her long-gone crop top-wearing days. After a few washes, the fit became more comfortable, but we still recommend that you size up. The Storq Soft Touch is available in sizes XS to XXXL and five color and pattern options, so you can match your style effortlessly and still feel like you. Plus, you save 10% off your order when you buy two or more. Price at time of publication: $58 Key Specs:Size Range: XS-XXXL | Type: Clip-down | Material: Modal and spandex | Washing Instructions: Machine or hand wash in cold water with like colors and lay flat to dry Best for Layering A Pea in the Pod Luxe Clip Down Nursing Cami 4.4 The Pea In The Pod View On Apeainthepod.com Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Support 4.5/5 Fit 4/5 Coverage 4.2/5 Value 4/5 Pros Long style Comfy padding Luxuriously soft fabric Cons Questionable support for large breasts Fit is a bit loose The generous length of A Pea in the Pod’s Luxe Clip Down Nursing Cami is why it earns our best for layering spot. We wore the nursing tank consistently for months while lounging at home and as a layering piece to complete outfits. The built-in shelf bra felt supportive and had non-removable padded cups and adjustable straps for a proper fit. However, we question whether the nursing tank’s shelf bra and stylish scoop neck would support and cover large breasts. Otherwise, we love how we didn’t struggle to use the clip-down feature for nursing sessions. The company calls the nursing tank “luxe,” and we totally agree—the cotton, modal, and spandex fabric is luxuriously soft against the skin. The material has held up well after several bouts in the washing machine and dryer with no change in quality. As for the nursing tank’s fit, we should have sized down when ordering, as it fits less snugly than preferred. Still, we stand by this nursing tank as a comfortable option for layering with a cardigan or open button-down shirt. Price at time of publication: $48 Key Specs:Size Range: S-L | Type: Clip-down | Material: Cotton, modal, and spandex | Washing Instructions: Machine washable The Best Breastfeeding Books to Guide You Through Every Nursing Challenge Best Budget H&M MAMA 2-pack Nursing Tank Tops 4.2 H&M View On Hm.com Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Support 3.3/5 Fit 3.6/5 Coverage 3.8/5 Value 5/5 Pros Breathable material Length provides great coverage Clip-down feature easy to maneuver Cons Too long for shorter people Built-in bra on small side for large breasts The H&M Mama Nursing Tank Tops prove you don’t have to blow your budget on postpartum clothing. The nursing tanks come in a two-pack for sizes XS to XL and four color combinations, like red and light beige or two black pieces. We enjoyed how much breathability and stretch the cotton and spandex fabric provided, and it held up nicely after many cycles in the washing machine. In addition, the clip-down feature was easy to maneuver and made it convenient to reach breasts quickly. A built-in bra with adjustable shoulder straps helps you achieve a comfortable fit. Despite their many useful features, the nursing tanks fell short in the support department. We found the bra area shallow and lacking support, especially for larger breasts. The generous length could be a pro as well as a con: We liked that they gave us plenty of coverage for layering and didn’t expose our tummies when we needed to unclasp the clips and adjust for nursing, but short people might find them too long. We’re elated by the $28 price tag for two nursing tanks. After your breastfeeding journey, you can take your tanks to any H&M store as part of the company’s garment collecting program. Simply turn in your old clothes at the register and receive a thank you coupon for your next purchase. The company’s business partner for the program will sort your garments into three categories—rewear, reuse, and recycle—to prevent the clothes from ending in a landfill. Price at time of publication: $28 Key Specs:Size Range: XS-XL | Type: Clip-down | Material: Cotton and spandex | Washing Instructions: Machine wash cool with like colors and line dry Best for Nursing and Pumping Seraphine Maternity & Nursing Tank Top 4.2 Seraphine View On Seraphine.com Our Ratings Ease of Use 3/5 Support 4.5/5 Fit 5/5 Coverage 4.5/5 Value 4/5 Pros Provides coverage for nursing in public Nice support Thick straps Cons No built-in bra If you plan on breastfeeding and pumping, a nursing tank that helps you do both effortlessly is one purchase you won’t regret. The Seraphine Nursing Tank Top provides lift-up breastfeeding access, so you’ll want to pair it with your favorite nursing and pumping bra. We love how easy it is to lift the fabric to reach breasts quickly, providing a more discreet nursing experience in public. Despite lacking a built-in bra, the tank has nice support to hold everything in without feeling restrictive, and its thick straps are the ideal size to hide bra straps for a seamless look. The viscose bamboo fabric feels soft and breathable, while a bit of elastane offers stretch for pregnancy and postpartum body changes. The material is quite durable, too, and we didn’t see any differences in quality after washing it multiple times, like shrinkage, pilling, or color changes. Price at time of publication: $45 Key Specs:Size Range: XS-XXL | Type: Lift-up | Material: Viscose bamboo and elastane | Washing Instructions: Machine washable at 86 degrees, do not tumble dry The 11 Best Pumping Bras of 2023, Tested and Reviewed Best With Compression Blanqi Everyday Pull-Down Postpartum + Nursing Support Tank Top 4 Nordstrom View On Nordstrom View On Bloomingdales View On Lyst.com Our Ratings Ease of Use 4/5 Support 4.5/5 Fit 4.5/5 Coverage 5/5 Value 3/5 Pros Provides plenty of coverage Flattering scoop neckline Sturdy, thick straps Cons Too tight for some The Blanqi Everyday Nursing Support Tank fits like shapewear and provides balanced compression to help re-engage your core after giving birth. During our test, an editor pointed out how much she loved it because it kept everything in place during the first few post-partum days, when she needed additional support. She also appreciated the flattering scoop neckline, sturdy thick straps, and ample coverage. However, if you're looking for a softer, more comfortable fit, it might be too restrictive. You should also keep in mind that it doesn’t have a built-in shelf bra. To access the breast, you’ll need to pull down from the neckline. This feature caused mixed reactions in our test: one editor struggled to access her breast while another said it pulled down easily. The stretchy fabric combines polyamide and elastane, which help maintain the top’s shape and fit despite all the pulling and many cycles in the washing machine. The downside to this fabric is that it isn’t breathable, so you may want to avoid wearing the compression tank top on hot summer days. We can see why the Blanqi Everyday Nursing Support Tank has an above-average price tag. Its 2-in-1 design yields compression where you need it most without sacrificing style. Price at time of publication: $72 Key Specs:Size Range: S-XL | Type: Pull-down | Material: Polyamide and elastane | Washing Instructions: Machine washable and line dry Best 7 Compression Socks for Pregnancy of 2023 Best Supportive Kindred Bravely Sublime Hands-Free Pumping Tank 4.2 Amazon View On Amazon View On Kindredbravely.com Our Ratings Ease of Use 4/5 Support 5/5 Fit 3.8/5 Coverage 3/5 Value 3/5 Pros Holds pump in place Supportive 2-in-1 design for pumping and nursing Cons Bra pads bunched up easily Straps need to be tightened often to prevent slippage If you’ve ever experienced the let-down reflex on one breast while nursing on the other, you’ll appreciate the Kindred Bravely Sublime Tank, which allows you to breastfeed and pump simultaneously. The all-in-one tank features two clips per strap that provide a smaller opening for pumping and a larger one for nursing. During our test, we were impressed by how well the nursing tank holds a breast pump in place (manual or electric with standard flanges) and how supportive it feels in the breast area. The one downside we found is that the padding bunched up easily and was difficult to reshape, but removing the pads helped with this issue. An extra-long, hip-length cut offers extensive coverage, so you don’t have to worry about the tank riding up. However, despite following the company’s sizing guide, we thought the nylon and spandex fabric felt snug, and we kept tightening the adjustable straps to prevent slippage. On the plus side, Kindred Bravely offers the Sublime Hands-Free Pumping Tank in sizes S to XXL, with additional “busty” options for large breasts (up to 44I). Price at time of publication: $56 Key Specs:Size Range: S-XXL | Type: Clip-down | Material: Nylon and spandex | Washing Instructions: Hand wash with gentle soap or use a lingerie bag on delicate cycle and line dry Best Racerback Anook Athletics Ruby Nursing Sports Tank 4.2 A Pea in the Pod View On Apeainthepod.com Our Ratings Ease of Use 4.1/5 Support 3.5/5 Fit 4.2/5 Coverage 5/5 Value 2/5 Pros Moisture-wicking material Clips are easy to unclasp Versatile Cons Clip covers interfere with unclasping Non-adjustable straps Nurse your little one and hit the gym afterward, thanks to the Anook Athletics Nursing Tank. The polyester and spandex fabric features an antimicrobial finish to help wick away sweat or breast milk. Clip covers discreetly hide nursing clasps for a seamless look and provide access to the built-in bra with sewn-in pads. During our test, we found the clasps very easy to unhook one-handed, but the covers did get in the way sometimes. We also had to move the inner strap to the side for nursing. This racerback nursing tank generously supports the breasts and is tight enough on fuller days. On the downside, the straps do not adjust, and one of our editors reported that they dug into her skin a bit. Also, an editor felt uncomfortable wearing it to the gym without a workout jacket because the tighter look was not very flattering to the postpartum body, she said. However, she still loved the top’s versatility and style. If you’re self-conscious about your new curves, a dark-colored nursing tank might be a good transition piece. If you’re in between sizes, the company recommends sizing down for a more secure fit or up for a more roomy fit. Price at time of publication: $72 Key Specs:Size Range: XS-XL | Type: Clip-down | Material: Polyester and spandex | Washing Instructions: Wash with like colors in cold water and hang or lay flat to dry The Best Postpartum Products Make Recovery a Little More Bearable How We Rated the Best Nursing Tanks 4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best nursing tanks we tested. We recommend them without reservation.4.5 to 4.7 stars: These nursing tanks are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great nursing tanks, but others are better.3.5 to 3.9 stars: These nursing tanks are just average.3.4 and below: We don't recommend nursing tanks with this rating; you won't find any on our list. Nursing Tanks We Also Tested Bravado Designs Nursing Camisole: Easy-to-use one-handed clips, adjustable straps, and a great fit are the highlights of the Bravado Designs Nursing Camisole. However, it showed signs of pilling and snagging before we washed it and pilled more after the first wash. Knix BlissFit Leakproof Nursing Tank: While we love the high-quality fabric and how easily the clips unclasp with one hand, the length barely reached the hip area and the tank didn’t provide enough breast coverage. How We Tested Nursing Tanks To select the best nursing tanks, we talked to lactation experts and enlisted the help of 15 parenting editors who were nursing at the time. First, we looked at AAP guidelines and spoke to medical professionals about the qualities of a good nursing tank and how to help parents navigate this challenging period. During the research stage, we relied on the expertise of Ashley Blankenship, breastfeeding counselor, founder of Supported Season, and creator of the Bump Up Birth Method; Nannette Mills, RNC, IBCLC, member of Lansinoh’s clinical advisory network; and Amy Peterson, B.S., IBCLC, Lactation Consultant for Evenflo Feeding. There are dozens of nursing tanks on the market, and we looked at all of them before narrowing our list to the best 20. We then sent these nursing tanks to our editors to test in the real world and asked them to evaluate several key attributes, including ease of use, support, fit, coverage, and overall value. For over three months, our editors wore the nursing tanks and performed everyday tasks—working, running errands, sleeping, going to the gym, nursing their babies, and pumping breast milk, among many other activities. To test the nursing tanks’ durability and quality, we washed them as many times as necessary following the manufacturer’s recommendations and wore them repeatedly. We made notes of any shrinkage, pilling, staining, fraying, or overall changes in quality, if applicable. We’ve asked our parenting editors to inform us how the tanks hold up over the next three months and beyond, and we’ll continue to update this list with current information to ensure we’re recommending the best nursing tanks. What to Look for in a Nursing Tank Type There are many types of nursing tanks, including clip-down, double-layer, and pull-down. According to Peterson, nursing tanks double as comfy sleepwear, layering pieces, and stand-alone shirts. When considering which nursing tank style is best for you, think about what type of access to the breast you prefer, she says. There are three main options: Clip-Down: A clip-down nursing tank, such as the Kindred Bravely Bamboo Lounge Around Nursing Tank, features clasps you unhook and fold down for access to the breasts. This type of nursing tank resembles a traditional breastfeeding bra and often features a built-in bra with padding (sewn-in or removable) for extra comfort. Pull-Down: This style is similar to clip-down but doesn’t have any clasps to fuss with. You simply pull down the nursing tank’s fabric to breastfeed. According to Peterson, these nursing tanks may offer less support for the breasts and typically don’t have padding. The Beyond Yoga Featherweight Easy Access Nursing Crossover Tank is a great example of a pull-down nursing tank. Double-layer: Double-layer nursing tanks, like the Seraphine Maternity and Nursing Tank Top, combine the pull-down style with additional fabric. A top layer pulls up, while the layer underneath pulls down for breastfeeding access. You often need to wear a nursing bra with this style. Consider whether the nursing tank has padding for extra comfort and support. According to Blankenship, a full-coverage silhouette leaves more options for nursing pads to remain discreet. Additionally, if you want to pump, Peterson recommends keeping the flange style in mind to ensure compatibility. Size When buying maternity or postpartum clothes, purchasing items in your pre-pregnancy size is best. If you want a more roomy or relaxed fit, size up. You’ll want to check the company’s sizing guide with clothing, especially nursing tanks. Many companies detail bra sizes in addition to regular sizing to help you find the best fit. According to the AAP, a too-tight nursing tank can result in clogged milk ducts, which can lead to mastitis. To help prevent clogged ducts, wear clothing that’s not restrictive, like tight tops or bras. Blankenship recommends opting for a nursing tank with adjustable straps since breast size often fluctuates during breastfeeding. If you wear your nursing tank as a layering piece, you may want a long, form-fitting tank to avoid creating a bulky look. If you wear it alone, you want to purchase a tank that provides your preferred coverage level and helps you feel confident. Comfort and Support You want to ensure your nursing tank is comfortable and supportive enough to wear for an extended period. Your breasts may be sensitive from your body's constant changes, especially after delivery, so support and comfort are paramount, Blankenship says. Opt for fabrics that are breathable, stretchy, and flattering. "Find one you can snap and unsnap quickly with one hand. If there is no snap, make sure it's not tight on your breast while feeding," she suggests. Remember: Comfort is key. Mills also recommends looking for nursing tanks with built-in bras so you won't have to wear another garment underneath. Layered nursing tank styles often feature strategically placed cutouts or slits under a layer of draped fabric so you can easily access your breast for nursing. Like pull-down styles, layered nursing tanks may not provide adequate support, and you may need to wear a nursing bra underneath. If you're planning on pumping, choosing a nursing tank that allows you to feed your baby and pump hands-free will be a lifesaver. Pay attention to the garment description, however. Some pumping tanks are meant exclusively for pumping, while others are designed for both pumping and nursing. Frequently Asked Questions Are nursing tanks worth it? Our three lactation experts agree that nursing tanks are convenient and offer you more coverage for breastfeeding, but they are not a necessity. In addition, Peterson says many new parents and caregivers feel overly warm after having a baby, and nursing tanks are a lightweight and convenient option to cool down and nurse comfortably. They also help keep the belly and back covered while nursing or pumping in public. Do you wear a bra with a nursing tank? Many nursing tank styles feature a built-in bra or soft shelf, so you can forgo wearing a nursing bra underneath. However, other styles, like pull-down tanks, typically don’t have bras or padding. You’ll likely want to wear a nursing bra under your tank to help support your breasts and position nursing pads. In any case, if you feel you need more support, you can always add a bra underneath for additional comfort, Blankenship says. Why Trust Verywell Family Katrina Cossey is a commerce writer, enthusiastic shopper, and devoted mom. She spent several years in broadcast journalism but found her true passion in writing about the best products for families, pregnant people, and kids of all ages. She’s researched thousands of baby products, toys, gifts, and more and personally tested many of them. In her spare time, you’ll likely find her in the beautiful outdoors of Oklahoma with her husband and 3-year-old son. When breastfeeding, Katrina used a clip-down nursing tank and loved its easy, one-handed access. She could hold her son in one arm and unclasp the clip with the other seamlessly for breastfeeding access. Maya Polton is a former marketing manager and current freelance writer who covers food, home, and parenting. She’s also the mom of a 10-year-old son, 7-year-old son, and 3-year old daughter. With three spring babies, nursing tanks were essential to Maya’s wardrobe. Throughout three newborn stages, she lived in cardigans and flowy tops with a nursing tank underneath. 1 Source Verywell Family uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. American Academy of Pediatrics. Clogged Milk Ducts. See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Other Helpful Report an Error Submit