Are you hesitant to breastfeed in public? Do you feel embarrassed or ashamed? You don’t have to be. The best nursing covers can give you the privacy and freedom to breastfeed your baby whenever and wherever you are.
Nursing covers even allow you to see your baby as you breastfeed. Plus, there are also covers that are multi-functional and stylish.
I remember my mom telling me that there were no such things as nursing covers back in the day. Either you don’t use a cover (boob exposure alert!) or you just grab a blanket. It’s such a wonderful thing that this now exists! Thank goodness!
Using a nursing cover goes for both breastfeeding and expressing in public. Some people say that using a nursing cover calls more attention when you are out in public. Let’s just say that everyone is entitled to their opinion, although I personally do not agree with that.
For me, nursing covers are the best friends you can ever have when you are outside the house and need to feed your hungry baby. When choosing the best nursing cover, you should first look for:
- Coverage – Does it ensure that your body parts won’t be exposed and does it give you privacy when feeding? Also, is the neckline secure enough to allow you to see that baby without risking exposure?
- Material – Is the material soft, breathable, and comfortable? Is it thick enough so that you won’t be seen through the fabric?
- Fuss-free – Is it easy to use and easy to wash?
Versatility, design, and style can follow after you satisfy your basic criteria. In my opinion, here are the six best nursing covers you can choose from:
Bebe Au Lait Premium Cotton Nursing Cover
Price: $36.00
Average Customer Rank: 4.9 out of 5
Where to Buy: Amazon.com
I absolutely love this breastfeeding cover! Coverage is great even if my baby keeps on moving around after feeding or even if she grabs the cover during feeds.
It has a breathable, lightweight fabric that even has terry cloth pockets. You can even use those pockets as an alternative to burp cloths in case you forgot to bring some with you.
It’s so easy to wear and I like the open neckline which allows me to see my baby whenever I breastfeed. I can also clean it in the washer and dryer without any worries.
For me, it offers superb value for money! You get what you pay for.
Udder Covers – Breastfeeding Nursing Cover
Price: $12.06
Average Customer Rank: 4 out of 5
Where to Buy: Amazon.com
Udder covers are made from 100% breathable cotton and it’s lightweight. It is also machine washable. Plus, it’s so affordable! However, I think the quality of the fabric is not the best compared to others. Although, you don’t have to worry since you cannot be seen through the material.
It also has a rigid neckline, so you can definitely see your baby. But in terms of coverage, it’s quite small. You have to be careful in case your baby moves around or grabs the cover, otherwise you might be a bit exposed.
In terms of style, they now have 24 designs to choose from and the designs are really cute. You can also have your baby’s name embroidered on the cover for $6.95 – I think it makes for a lovely keepsake.
Get your FREE Udder Cover now and use the promo code 2DAA09. You simply have to cover the cost of shipping. You can also check out their nursing pillow, baby leggings, and other products. Don’t forget to use the same promo code (2DAA09).
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tzy Ritzy Nursing Happens Infinity Breastfeeding Scarf
Price: $20.10
Average Customer Rank: 3.9 out of 5
Where to Buy: Amazon.com
I love that its so stylish and convenient! You can always wear it around your neck as a statement piece (it is a scarf after all). And, there’s no need to put it in the diaper bag after use (one less item there). It also doesn’t have snaps or buckles, unlike apron-style covers.
It also offers coverage from front to back. It is made of cotton and polyester, lightweight, and is machine washable. You can also maintain eye contact with your baby and the fabric is breathable.
This versatile breastfeeding scarf comes in a variety of chic prints, but the pattern is only on one side. That means you have to fix it, so it doesn’t look like you’re not wearing it right when it gets twisted.
Bamboobies Chic Nursing Shawl
Price: $29.99
Average Customer Rank: 4.7 out of 5
Where to Buy: Amazon.com
If you are slender, this will look flattering on you. It is another stylish design that strays away from the apron-style nursing cover. Plus, you also don’t need to put this in your diaper bag. Coverage is awesome – covers both front and back! This shawl can be worn while you are pregnant and when you are nursing or expressing.
It comes in two colours – black and blackberry, which to me, can be improved. Dark colours absorb heat during summer. I also like that it’s easy to wear and care for – doesn’t have snaps or buckles. It is also lightweight and is made of bamboo and spandex. Perhaps, they could look into having various sizes or at least make it adjustable. I think it would also be better if it had some stitching at the hemline.
Mooiste Breastfeeding and Nursing Cover
Price: $24.99
Average Customer Rank: 4.8 out of 5
Where to Buy: Amazon.com
The style is similar to Bamboobies, but I personally love this much, much more. With this, you can breastfeed discretely in public. It can be worn as a shawl and scarf, and it has adjustable snaps. It is such a great solution to petite and plus sized women. You can place the snaps wherever you prefer – over your shoulder, back, or chest.
When you are not using it as a fashion accessory or breastfeeding cover, you can also use it as a blanket for your baby. Now that’s what I call versatile!
It is made of soft bamboo which is really light and breathable. It comes in grey which is easy to match with any outfit. However, I wish it there were other colours. Although it does not have a rigid neckline, it is moveable so you can adjust it accordingly.
MoBoleez Breastfeeding Hat
Price: $29.00
Average Customer Rank: 4.5 out of 5
Where to Buy: Amazon.com
Now, this is truly unique and different. It veers away from the apron-style cover, or even a shawl or scarf. It is actually a hat that your baby can wear. It comes in two sizes (0-6 months and 6-12 months) and has several designs (which are reversible so you can choose from printed or plain).
It is very soft and is the only hat that is made for this purpose. The wide brim serves as your breastfeeding cover. However, I think its a bit floppy. And while this is good for moms who don’t really want to wear a nursing cover, I don’t think this is for me. While it is really cute and fun to wear, I would like more cover when breastfeeding.
Finally, if you would like to wear a shirt or a non-breastfeeding top, and have struggled putting it up before, I have a cool suggestion for you.
Latchpal
Price: $15.95
Average Customer Rank: 4.9 out of 5
Where to Buy: Amazon.com
When I’m home, I like wearing t-shirts and this clip is just perfect to get rid of neck and chin strain! I don’t need to keep adjusting my shirt, and I can breastfeed without hassle. I love it!
I also used to wear a nursing band to remind me which breast I ended breastfeeding with. With this nifty gadget, you can just keep it clipped on your shirt. It’s such a good reminder for forgetful moms like me! The designs are even way cuter than my pink band.
In conclusion, breastfeeding in public can be convenient, discreet, and fun! There are a variety of nursing covers to choose from to cover yourself up and risk exposure. And at the same time, you can use a handy breastfeeding clip to make it even more hassle-free.
I hope you enjoyed this review and if you have any questions or want to leave your own personal review, leave your comment below.
My sister-in-law used to wear a nursing scarf, because my nephew got distraced very easily, so the scarf was a real help.
I am very glad to say that in Austria nursing in public is nothing that rises a heated discussion. At first I was a bit insecure too, but I grew more confident and never had a bad experience. I only wear a cover – usually a normal scarf – when I am in presence of somebody who makes me insecure or whom I do not like very much.
That’s great to hear, Schwefa! Nursing in public shouldn’t really be an issue, but obviously people have different opinions. A nursing scarf is indeed very helpful! Cheers!
I never wanted to use a nursing cover when my kids were babies, but I can understand why women would choose to use them. I stayed home a lot and didn’t nurse in public often.
I am ashamed to live in a culture that does not support breastfeeding in public and women feel the need to cover up. Women should feel comfortable feeding their babout!
I really like that Mooiste Breastfeeding and Nursing Cover, it looks super comfortable.
The MoBoleez hat is a good idea, as not all baby’s will stay under a cover.
Thanks for the great product suggestions 🙂
There are cultures where its fine not to use a nursing cover in public, and people don’t really mind. However, with most, it is still a big deal and nursing moms need to use one. The MoBoleez Breastfeeding hat works well if you are not really keen to use a nursing cover or if your baby doesn’t want to be under one. Thanks Andrea!
Hey Raquel. This is interesting. I didn’t know anything about nursing covers before coming across this. By using nursing covers, there should be no more complaints about breastfeeding in public. It is a widely discussed topic even if breastfeeding is such a normal activity. You definitely know what you are talking about. Best of luck to you!
Thanks Kelechi! This is definitely a good way to cover up in public. Moms should not be shamed or criticised when breastfeeding in public. Its great that so many people are now trying to do their share to normalise breastfeeding.
It’s amazing that in the world and age that we live in, new mommas can still feel ashamed of breast feeding in public. Nothing could be more natural or beautiful than a breast feeding momma. Some of these products look terrific. I assume they are all safe for bub while convenient for mom? Thanks for the reviews. I can now direct some of my friends on where to get the best review on each!
Absolutely Ben! These are fantastic to use for both moms and babies! Perfectly safe and convenient. Feel free to share it to your friends.
You’re right, breastfeeding is such a natural and beautiful thing. It’s sad that there are still mixed views about breastfeeding in public.
Wow, your site is so informative. I wish I would have known about these products when I was breastfeeding about 20-25 years ago it would have made breastfeeding my 4 children in public a breeze. I had to rely on a towel and secret corner.
I especially like the Bamboobies Chic Nursing Shawl. Great idea!
Thank you Jazzi! Awww, wish you did not have to rely on a secret corner back then! You are amazing to go through that with breastfeeding 4 kids! Great job momma!
So glad indeed that there’s so much help available nowadays for breastfeeding mothers. No need to rely on a towel or blanket. Glad you like the Bamboobies Chic Nursing Shawl. Such a stylish choice!
I will be stocking up on this sort of stuff moving forward (as mentioned I’m due in April – excited!!!) The Mooiste breastfeeding cover I think sounds the most suitable for me based on your reviews – as you say very versatile, and can be worn when not breastfeeding etc as well.
Although, I must say the hat is pretty cute as well….
Yes, that’s a good choice! Especially if you’re not into the apron-style covers. You can adjust the snaps and wear it according to your preference. You have time and it’s a wonderful thing to be prepared. The last thing you want is to be stressed during the last few months and weeks of your pregnancy.
Hope your nappy bag is almost ready. While you can wear the Mooiste nursing cover, I don’t think you’ll wear it every single day (as well as the MoBoleez hat). So it will most likely have its own little space in your nappy bag.
Awesome post. I didn’t know such items existed!!
My partner has no problem at all breastfeeding in public. Actually, she now says that finally she has a good excuse to have her boobs out and about freely all the time.
Maybe here in Spain the “Social Custom” is different from U.S.A. Thank god.
But I perfectly understand that not everyone might feel comfortable with it, so I really think this is good and let’s say, stylish way to accommodate both mother and child.
Hi Andrea! I love that Spain is such a breastfeeding-friendly place (will definitely mark it in my travel list, that’s one of the places I’ve always wanted to see)!
Yes, there are moms who need to feel more comfortable about breastfeeding in public and there is also the rest of society which you need to manage. They don’t want to see your boobs, so that’s where nursing covers come in handy. It’s awesome that there are different styles and prints available.
Hi Raquel, this is a great article! I would have loved the breastfeeding hat and latchpal for those moments in public with my nursing twins. I had a cover that I found was too distracting for baby, and the fabric did not feel light enough for the summer time. In hindsight, I should have done a bit more research before purchasing one. Thankfully, your thorough review of some great options should save others from making a less than ideal purchase.
Thanks Carmen! Would really love to help moms choose the best one based on their preference. Covering up is so important especially when you’re out in the public eye. Breastfeeding is so natural yet there are folks who make it a big deal.
The products that you have on your website look like they would be awesome for new mothers. My cousin recently had a baby and I know that breast feeding in public is a challenge for her. I will definitely recommend this site and some of these products to her. Which product would you suggest for a low price?
Unfortunately, breastfeeding in public remains to be an issue in our society. Moms still experience shaming, criticism, and mean looks. Covering yourself is really a good way to go about it, plus knowing that there is absolutely nothing wrong with feeding your baby. The most affordable nursing cover are Udder Covers. You can have your cousin check out the Freebies and Special Offers section. She just has to cover the shipping cost, and the nursing cover is free. Thanks Jax!