Babies Postpartum Care The Best Nursing Tanks for Easy, Comfortable Style The Kindred Bravely Sublime Pumping Tank is comfy and useful for nursing needs By 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 and 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 Updated on April 15, 2022 Fact checked Verywell Family content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. We rely on the most current and reputable sources, which are cited in the text and listed at the bottom of each article. Content is fact checked after it has been edited and before publication. Learn more. 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 research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Whether you are breastfeeding, pumping exclusively, or doing a combo of the two, a nursing tank top can be an essential piece to wear alone, under other layers, or with an open cardigan. Most nursing tanks are made from stretchy and durable material, so they’ll last and fit your body through any postpartum changes. Reviewed & Approved The Kindred Bravely Sublime Hands-Free Pumping Tank is made of super-soft, stretchy, and supportive fabric that has removable pads and is underwire-free. If you want to splurge, we recommend the Hatch The 24/7 Nursing Tank. “A nursing tank allows coverage of your belly with easy access to your breasts while feeding. If you find the ease of access and coverage you get from a nursing tank convenient, go for it,” explains Ashley Blankenship, breastfeeding counselor, founder of Supported Season, and creator of Bump Up Birth Method. “You can always just pull your shirt down or up as long as it doesn't put pressure on your breasts to do so. If there is pressure while feeding, it can cause issues with clogged ducts.” Like nursing bras, most nursing tanks come in a clip-down style, but there are other types of nursing tanks, such as pull-down styles. Some have a built-in bra, eliminating the need for an additional layer, while others have a less constrictive style. If you're planning on pumping, you can choose a nursing tank that allows you to feed your baby as well as pump hands-free. We carefully considered design, ease of use, comfort, material, and value when coming up with this list. Here are the best nursing tanks for your body, lifestyle, and needs. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Kindred Bravely Sublime Hands-Free Pumping Tank at Amazon Best for Work: Knix BlissFit Leakproof Nursing Tank at Knix Best Cami: A Pea in the Pod Luxe Clip Down Nursing Cami at Buybuy BABY Best Clip-Down: Storq Soft Touch Nursing Tank at Storq.com Best Splurge: Hatch The 24/7 Nursing Tank at Hatchcollection.com Best Budget: Motherhood Maternity Clip Down Nursing Cami at Amazon Best for Pumping: Rumina Essential Nursing Tank at Buybuy BABY Best Seamless: iloveSIA Nursing Cami Tank Top at Amazon Best Sustainable: Bamboobies Seamless Nursing Tank at Amazon In This Article Expand Our Picks How We Selected What to Look For Why Trust Verywell Family Best Overall: Kindred Bravely Sublime Hands-Free Pumping Tank 5 Amazon View On Amazon View On Kindredbravely.com Pros Two clips for easy/quick nursing Long Designed for hands-free pumping Cons Requires delicate machine wash or hand-wash Runs small The Kindred Bravely Sublime Hands-Free Pumping Tank is an all-in-one tank that works for either pumping or nursing. Made of super-soft, stretchy, and supportive fabric, the smooth silhouette has an extra-long, hip-length cut so it provides plenty of coverage. The patented design is underwire-free and has removable pads. With an EasyClip design, the tank fits all standard pump flanges, comes in five sizes, and is available in black and nude. Size range: S–XXL | Material: Nylon and spandex | Washing instructions: Hand wash or delicate cycle only Best for Work: Knix BlissFit Leakproof Nursing Tank Knix View On Knix The last thing nursing parents want is to leak through their clothes at work. Enter the Knix BlissFit Leakproof Nursing Tank to banish any worry of unwanted wet spots. Made by the same company that produces leakproof underwear, this bra provides revolutionary protection by way of removable absorbent pads crafted from Knix leakproof technology. These underwire-free, supportive tanks are also made from a knit fabric that stretches to fit pregnant and postpartum bodies and adapts as your body changes. Inclusive sizes range from Small through XXXL+, with a bra size chart that makes it easy to find the right size. Size range: S–XXXL+ | Material: 93% polyamide, 7% spandex | Washing instructions: Machine washable, flat dry Best Cami: A Pea in the Pod Luxe Clip Down Nursing Cami Courtesy of Buy Buy Baby View On Buybuy BABY View On Apeainthepod.com Pros Built-in shelf bra Cups not removable Soft material Cons Nursing camis are thin layering tops with spaghetti straps that you can wear alone or under other shirts. This affordable option is great to stock up on, especially since it comes in six colors and four sizes. The super-soft jersey knit fabric tank features a shelf bra and an easy to use clip-down nursing function. Reviewers praise these tanks as super flattering and consider them an essential wardrobe staple. Size range: XS–L | Material: Cotton, modal, and spandex | Washing instructions: Machine washable Best Clip-Down: Storq Soft Touch Nursing Tank Storq View On Storq.com Pros Stretchy and soft Machine-washable Breathable Cons Runs short We love the many different features of this stylish nursing tank, including its soft fabric and internal shelf bra. Made mostly of modal and a little bit of spandex, this nursing tank will feel soft against your skin while providing just enough stretch. The internal shelf bra gives you light support to keep you feeling secure no matter where you are.Tired parents will appreciate how easy it is to clean this nursing tank. Simply toss it in the washing machine when it gets dirty and then lay flat to dry. Wear it underneath your clothes or as the main piece of your outfit, and clip it down for quick access when you’re ready to nurse. Size range: XS–3X | Material: 90% modal, 10% spandex | Washing instructions: Machine wash, dry flat The Best Nursing Bras for Comfort and Convenience Best Splurge: Hatch The 24/7 Nursing Tank Courtesy of Hatch View On Hatchcollection.com Pros Adjustable front strap One-handed clasp Can tumble dry Cons Anti-leak pads sold separately Limited sizing For a luxe splurge, this 24/7 nursing tank is made from a feel-good blend of cotton and spandex. The tank has a built-in bra, a front strap adjuster, and a one-handed clasp, so there is flexible support and easy access for a hungry baby. We also appreciate that you can machine wash and tumble dry this tank. For leakage support, Hatch also sells (separate) reusable anti-leakage pads that are durable and so soft. Size range: S–XL | Material: Cotton and spandex | Washing instructions: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low Best Budget: Motherhood Maternity Clip Down Nursing Cami Motherhood Maternity View On Amazon View On Motherhood.com Pros Thin fabric great for layering One-handed clasp Great price Cons Built-in bra lacks support If you’re looking for a nursing tank that’s easy to use, this is a great pick. Get ready for nursing quickly using one hand thanks to this nursing tank’s clip-down feature.The nursing tank is made of cotton, polyester, and spandex, making it comfortable and just stretchy enough, whether you're at home or out and about. There’s a built-in shelf bra, though some may still need an extra bra for full support. Size range: XS–XL | Material: Cotton, polyester, and spandex | Washing instructions: Machine wash or dry clean Best for Pumping: Rumina Hands-Free Pump & Nurse Essential Nursing Tank Courtesy of Walmart View On Buybuy BABY View On Walmart Pros Hands-free pumping bra built-in Compatible with all breast pumps Soft fabric Cons Tight on larger breasts Pilling on bottom layer Comfortable and soft, this all-in-one crew-neck tank can be worn from pregnancy through postpartum life. With a built-in, hands-free pumping bra, it eliminates the need for a separate pumping bra when you're multi-tasking. The full coverage tank is compatible with all major breast pumps and a tri-layered design securely supports and positions the pump shields. It's available in neutral colors black, white, and gray, and in six sizes. Size range: XS–XL | Material: Cotton and spandex | Washing instructions: Machine washable, gentle cycle The 8 Best Pumping Bras of 2022 for Hands-Free Nurses Best Seamless: iloveSIA Seamless Nursing Cami Tank Top 2-Pack Amazon View On Amazon Pros Stretchy material Long, full coverage Wide nursing sling prevents sagging Cons Lacks support Best for wearing under clothes, these seamless nursing tanks come in a budget-friendly two-pack. The style is long for full-body supportive coverage. Ultra-soft, this cami is made from a nylon-spandex blend and has easy-to-use, one-handed clip-down cups for quick access when your baby's extra hungry Size range: XS–XL | Material: Nylon and spandex | Washing instructions: Not specified Best Sustainable: Bamboobies Seamless Nursing Tank Bamboobies View On Amazon Pros Soft, sustainable rayon material Full coverage Durable Cons Thin fabric can be a problem in case of leaks We appreciate how affordable and easy to use this nursing tank is for new parents. Created with rayon from bamboo (a sustainable material!) , the tank is extra soft against the skin and offers support without uncomfortable underwires. The seamless design makes it great to pair with a jacket or relax in it solo at home. It's also got a clip-down feature you can operate with one hand. Should any leaks or spills happen, simply toss the nursing tank into the washing machine. Size range: XS–XXL | Material: Bamboo rayon | Washing instructions: Machine washable Final Verdict Keeping leaks at bay is an essential feature when it comes to a nursing top. The BlissFit Knix Leakproof Nursing Tank offers superior, one-of-a-kind protection. For a versatile option that allows you to nurse your baby as well as use your breast pump, the Kindred Bravely Sublime Hands-Free Bra is a great option and our top pick overall. How We Selected the Best Nursing Tanks We chose the best nursing tanks by researching reviews from customers and competitors, and by looking at the features of dozens of nursing tanks on the market. We considered price, design, features, ease of cleaning, material, and pumping-friendliness when deciding our picks. We also consulted with a breastfeeding counselor for any additional considerations and information. What to Look for in a Nursing Tank Comfort Just like with other clothing and undergarments (especially during pregnancy and the postpartum period), you want to make sure that your nursing tank is comfortable enough for you to wear for an extended period. Your breasts may be sensitive from your body’s constant changes. 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,” Ashley Blankenship, breastfeeding counselor, founder of Supported Season, and creator of Bump Up Birth Method, tells Verywell Family. “Tight-fitting clothing over your breasts can cause a range of issues while lactating. Comfort is key!” Purpose When do you plan on wearing your nursing tank? If it is going to be worn as a layering piece, you may want a tank that is long and form-fitting to avoid creating a bulky look. If you are going to wear it by itself, you want to purchase a tank that is a flattering style while also offering your preferred amount of coverage. Even if you’re unsure of how you plan to use a nursing tank just yet, consider at least one thing: machine-washable nursing tanks. “To cut down on how many you'll need to buy, find one you can toss in the dryer, so you're not waiting for air-drying,” Blankenship suggests. Type Like regular bras, nursing tanks come in a variety of styles and types, but no matter what style or type you choose, you always want support. “Breasts may be sore, especially in the beginning, so find one with the proper amount of support for you,” says Blankenship. “A full-coverage silhouette leaves more options for nursing pads to remain discreet. Some have pockets for pads, but that means you'll need to change the tank more often, not just a pad.” Most nursing tanks come in a clip-down style. This is convenient whether you're nursing on-the-go or in the privacy of your own home. These tanks can often be worn without a nursing bra. Pull-down styles are designed more like traditional tanks, but have more elasticized necklines to provide easier access for breastfeeding. Pull-down styles often don't include much support and may need to be paired with a nursing bra. Layered nursing tank styles often feature strategically placed cutouts or slits underneath a layer of draped fabric in order for you to gain easy access to the 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. Pumping If you're planning on pumping, choosing a nursing tank that allows you to feed your baby as well as 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 Do I wear a bra with a nursing tank? Some nursing tanks have bras built into them, so wearing a bra is not necessary. Some nursing tanks do not come with bras, and you will want to layer a nursing bra under them if you need support or additional protection against leaks. “The nice thing about nursing tanks is they usually have a shelf that offers some support. If you feel like you need more support, you can definitely add a bra underneath so you're more comfortable,” explains Blankenship. “There are also adjustable nursing tanks, which are helpful if your breast size changes while you are breastfeeding.” Do I need a nursing tank? A nursing tank is not necessary, but it can make life easier. Nursing tanks are specifically designed to allow you to have easy access for breastfeeding, often with a simple snap you can operate with one hand, or with stretch so you can pull it down quickly. They also help prevent leaks when you are out and about. Think of a nursing tank as an extra layer of protection and a point of easy access, which is key when you have a crying, hungry baby. Wearing a nursing tank under another top lets you lift the top to breastfeed while keeping your torso covered (unlike a bra), which might be important to you.“Nothing in nursing is a necessity other than a good latch,” Blankenship says. What do I wear over a nursing tank? You can wear anything over a nursing tank, as it acts like any sort of layering piece or undergarment. You could wear a breastfeeding-friendly shirt that also has snaps or stretch, or you could wear a regular blouse or sweater, as nursing tanks can help prevent leaks. “The best thing to wear over a nursing tank is something that buttons or zips. Easy access is key here,” Blankenship recommends. “However, the nice thing about wearing tanks instead of nursing bras is that it covers your belly if you decide to wear a top that you'll need to pull up or down to access your breasts.”Long after you’ve finished breastfeeding, nursing tanks are great layering pieces to keep around. You can wear them just like you would any other layering tank. Why Trust Verywell Family 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. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Track your baby’s most exciting moments with our milestone checklist. Get it free when you sign up for our newsletter. Sign Up You're in! Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. There was an error. Please try again. What are your concerns? Other Inaccurate Hard to Understand Submit