CircleBumpCheckedFilledMedicalBookmarkBookmarkTickBookmarkAddCheckBoxCheckBoxFilled

9 Best Nursing Pads for Breastfeeding Moms

Dealing with milk leakage? Check out these tried-and-tested nipple pads for nursing and pumping.
save article
profile picture of Martina Garvey
By Martina Garvey, E-Commerce Editor
Updated May 29, 2023
Nursing Pads-hero
Image: Kindred Bravely
We have included third party products to help you navigate and enjoy life’s biggest moments. Purchases made through links on this page may earn us a commission.

Breastfeeding can be a joyous experience but it also comes with a unique set of challenges, one of the most common being leaky boobs. Leakage can happen for a variety of reasons—your milk just came in, you have an oversupply or you’ve been away from your baby—or seemingly no reason at all. Whatever the cause, leaky breasts may leave you uncomfortable and embarrassed (with stained clothes to boot). Luckily, there’s an easy fix, and it comes in the form of nursing pads.

Yep, that’s right: After having a baby, you’ll most likely be wearing pads in your underwear and your bra (lucky you!). Nursing pads come in different shapes, sizes and types—deciding which option is best comes down to personal preference. Below find answers to a few frequently asked questions then browse our pick of the best nursing pads for every need.

What are Nursing Pads?

Nursing pads—also known as breast or nipple pads—are absorbent fabric inserts that slip inside your bra and soak up excess breast milk. Typically made from soft cotton or a bamboo blend, nursing pads can be worn inside a tank top, maternity bra or pumping bra.

There are three primary types of nursing pads: disposable, reusable and silicone, and each come with their own set of pros and cons. Disposables are convenient but can be costly; reusables are more economical and eco-friendly but need to be washed; and silicone pads are pricey but can prevent leaks from happening in the first place.

How Many Nursing Pads Do You Need?

The amount of nursing pads needed differs from person to person. The Mayo Clinic recommends changing breast pads regularly and you should always swap in a new pad if the one you are wearing is wet.

Aside from this, it depends on whether you’re using disposable or reusable nipple pads and how often you intend to do laundry. Disposable nursing pads tend to come in a pack of 100 or 200 (although smaller boxes are available); whereas reusable pads typically come in packs of 8 to 10.

While it can be tempting to stock up on postpartum supplies before baby arrives, we recommend testing a few different brands before purchasing nursing pads in bulk.

Best Nursing Pads

Pads you can clean and reuse will save you a bundle in the end; just make sure to stock up on several pairs, so you’re not left in the lurch when your pads are all soaked through. On the other hand, if the prospect of doing yet another load of laundry fills you with dread, disposable nursing pads might be the way to go. Slip them in and toss them when you’re done—it doesn’t get easier than that. Ready to start your search for the best nursing pads? Find our favorite reusable and disposable options below.

Best disposable nursing pads

Lansinoh Stay Dry Disposable Nursing Pads for Breastfeeding
Image: Walmart
What We Love
  • FSC-certified material
  • Fragrance free
  • Individually wrapped for convenience
Things To Consider
  • Some parents say the pads bunch up and chafe their nipples

In the world of nursing pads, Lansinoh reigns supreme. These insanely absorbent nursing pads soak up 20 times their weight in liquid, while still being relatively thin for a discreet fit. Better yet, two adhesive strips ensure they stay exactly where you want them (day or night). The pads are also some of the softest in the disposable game, which will have your sore nipples breathing a heavenly sigh of relief. Still not convinced? Just look at the gold-star reviews from thousands of mamas.

Type: Disposable | Material: Paper pulp and sodium polyacrylate | Count: 100 pads

Buy Now

Best reusable nursing pads

Bamboobies Washable Nursing Pads For Breastfeeding
Image: Walmart
What We Love
  • Thin and easy to conceal
  • Soft velour material is gentle on sensitive skin
  • Machine-washable and dryer safe
Things To Consider
  • Wash before first use

Itchy and uncomfortable these are not: Bamboobies nursing pads manage to feel like cashmere against your sore, sensitive skin—and just keep getting softer after every wash. Which brings us to our next major benefit: These washable nursing pads are not only eco- and wallet-friendly, but also low maintenance. Just toss them in the washing machine and dryer, and they’re ready to go again. This multi-pack includes three pairs of regular heart-shaped pads to wear during the day and a larger circular pair for overnight use.

Type: Reusable | Material: Rayon from bamboo | Count: 8 pads

Buy Now

Best thin nursing pads

Medela Safe and Dry Ultra Thin Disposable Nursing Pads
Image: Target
What We Love
  • Affordable price point
  • Waterproof back layer and absorbent core
  • Contoured shape and wide adhesive strip helps keep pads in place
Things To Consider
  • Regular absorbency

Pegged as the number one doctor recommended nursing brand, Medela offers a wide selection of breast pads. Our top pick? These ultra-thin disposable pads. At less than 2 millimeters, they are among the most discreet nursing pads for breastfeeding moms but the absorbent polymer core locks in moisture leaving you dry and fresh. Granted, they won’t be a match for heavy leakers—but for those looking for some backup against unwanted let-down, these can’t be beat.

Type: Disposable | Material: Polyethylene, polypropylene| Count: 120 pads

Buy Now

Best organic nursing pads

Kindred Bravely Organic Reusable Nursing Pads Ten Pack
Image: Amazon
What We Love
  • Super-soft and absorbent
  • OEKO-TEX certified materials
  • Comes with a waterproof bag for storing wet pads on the go
Things To Consider
  • One size fits most
  • Hand wash only

If you have sensitive skin or struggle with sore nipples, organic nursing pads are the way to go. Why? Organic materials tend to be naturally breathable, hypoallergenic and soft, resulting in less chafing and irritation. This reusable set by Kindred Bravely is our current favorite. Made from OEKO-TEX certified bamboo, these nursing pads are incredibly soft, super-absorbent and are free from harmful chemicals that may do damage to your tender skin. Plus, the pads are contoured to the shape of your breasts for a discreet and comfortable fit.

Type: Reusable | Material: Viscose from bamboo | Count: 10 pads

Buy Now

Best nursing pads for larger breasts

What We Love
  • Four layers of absorbent material
  • Organic bamboo lining
  • Waterproof outer layer protects clothing
Things To Consider
  • Some parents say the pads don’t stay in place

Bras aren’t one size fits all, but nursing pads typically are—which can make finding the right fit and coverage a struggle. Keababies takes care of that by offering three different sizes of reusable nursing pads: Medium (A to C cup), Large (B to D cup) and Extra Large (D cup and higher). BabyBliss pads also have a contoured shape (a rarity among washable nursing pads), making the fit that much better. Need further convincing? Over 20,000 people have awarded these pads five-stars on Amazon—and mama does know best.

Type: Reusable | Material: Bamboo-cotton blend | Count: 14 pads

Buy Now

Best silicone-backed nursing pads

Non-Slip Breast Pads
Image: Bodily
Buying Options
Bodily|$34
What We Love
  • Grippy silicone backing
  • Made with organic cotton and bamboo
  • Two different pad sizes offer customizable coverage
Things To Consider
  • Relatively high price point

Next up on our list of the best nursing pads is a set with serious staying power. Designed with a unique silicone exterior that grips onto your bra or top, these pads will stay firmly in place. And because your needs may vary throughout the day this set comes with low profile breast pads for lighter leaks and full-coverage pads that offer maximum protection day or night. Both options feature a soft bamboo lining that’s gentle on sensitive skin and sore nipples.

Type: Reusable | Material: Polyester, silicone, cotton and bamboo | Count: 12 pads (3 pairs full-coverage and 3 pairs low profile)

Buy Now

Best silicone nursing pads

LilyPadz Reusable Silicone Nursing Pads Single Pair Regular Size
Image: Amazon
Buying Options
Amazon|$19.95
What We Love
  • Gentle pressure prevents milk leakage
  • Made from medical grade silicone
  • Great option for nightime
Things To Consider
  • Relatively high price point

A nursing pad that prevents leaky boobs sounds too good to be true—but thanks to LilyPadz, it’s a reality. Rather than absorbing any leaking breast milk, LilyPadz are made of medical-grade silicone that places pressure on the nipple to stop any leakage in the first place. You stay dry and your milk doesn’t get wasted—the ultimate win-win.

Type: Reusable | Material: Silicone | Count: 2 pads

Buy Now

Best milk collection cup

Milkies Milk-Saver On-The-Go
Image: Amazon
Buying Options
Amazon|$17.95
What We Love
  • Each cup holds up to 1 oz. of breast milk
  • Top rack dishwasher safe
  • Good option if your free breast leaks while you nurse baby
Things To Consider
  • Visible under clothes
  • Some parents say the cups leak

Instead of using nursing pads to absorb leaking breast milk and then toss it (either in the trash or the wash), what if you could collect that liquid gold with breast pads that save milk? That’s the idea behind the Milkies Milk-Saver On-the-Go pads, which discreetly slide into your bra or tank top and collect up to an ounce of breastmilk at a time. The spout design makes it easy to then transfer into a breast milk bag or bottle, so that you don’t waste a single drop.

Type: Reusable | Material: Silicone | Count: 2 cups

Buy Now

Best breast pads for cracked nipples

Lansinoh Soothies Cooling Gel Pads
Image: Target
What We Love
  • Reusable for up to 72 hours
  • Gel layer soothes sore nipples
  • Pads can be stored in the fridge to enhance cooling
Things To Consider
  • Expensive for a single set
  • Not designed to absorb liquid

Rather than combatting leakage, these breast pads are specifically designed to provide soothing relief to dry, cracked nipples. The natural gel layer cools the inflamed area and helps heal minor irritation, while the soft fabric backing prevents your breasts from chafing against clothes. These pads can be reused for up to 72 hours (just make sure to hold onto the original packaging to store them in). Keep them in the fridge for an extra layer of cooling relief.

Type: Disposable | Material: Vegetable-based glycerin | Count: 2 pads

Buy Now

How We Chose the Best Nursing Pads

We get it—nursing or pumping requires a lot of gear, and it can be hard to find the best fit for your needs. To streamline your decision-making process, our goal is to do the bulk of the research for you, so you don’t have to spend hours scrolling through online retailers. We do this by considering a list of criteria when sourcing breast pads, including material, absorbency, value and practicality. This way you can count on getting the best bang for your buck, while also having dependable nursing pads that won’t let you down.

To decide which nipple pads are the best options on the market, we leverage our familiarity with leading maternity brands to make sure items are from reliable manufacturers. We read user reviews to get the low-down on how these products work for families, and typically don’t consider anything with less than an average four-star rating. And since many of us are also parents, we rely on our writers’ and editors’ experience using these products in their own lives.

Interested in learning more about our editorial process? Read about how our team develops and reviews all articles here.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

save article
ADVERTISEMENT

Next on Your Reading List

mother using breast pump with baby in bed
The 7 Best Breast Pumps, According to Nursing Moms
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
The Best Lactation Massagers-hero
The Best Lactation Massagers, and How and When to Use Them
By Martina Garvey
best maternity bras for pregnant women and postpartum women
The Best Maternity Bras, According to Pregnant Moms
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
ADVERTISEMENT
Motherlove Nipple Cream
Best Nipple Cream: Motherlove Nipple Cream
By The Bump Editors
Nook nursing pillow
Best Nursing Pillow: Nook Niche Nursing Pillow
By The Bump Editors
Motherhood Maternity nursing bras
Best Nursing Bra Brand: Motherhood Maternity
By The Bump Editors
couple packing hospital bag for birth
Hospital Bag Checklist: What to Pack for Delivery
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
ADVERTISEMENT
pregnant woman doing exercises to induce labor
Exercises to Help Induce Labor
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman holding belly
What Are Braxton Hicks Contractions?
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
close up of newborn baby sleeping on mother's chest after labor and delivery
The Best Labor and Delivery Gowns for Comfort and Convenience
By Christin Perry
ADVERTISEMENT
woman in labor with eyes closed
A Quick Guide to HypnoBirthing and Its Techniques
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
couple holding hands while woman is in labor in hospital bed
What Is a Birth Plan and Why Is It Important?
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
mom after labor and delivery in hospital bed with newborn baby
4 Must-Know Strategies for an Easier Labor and Delivery
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
ADVERTISEMENT
pregnant meghan trainor and son riley smiling
Meghan Trainor on Learning to Love Her Body Again Post C-Section
By Wyndi Kappes
frida mom c section recovery products gif
Frida Mom Is Launching New Products to Help With C-Section Recovery
By Nehal Aggarwal
pregnant woman in labor standing in labor and delivery room with mid wife nurse assisting
9 Things I Wish I Had Known About Birth Before I Had My First Baby
By Marissa LaBuz
Gestational Diabetes: Symptoms to Look for and How to Treat It
Gestational Diabetes: Symptoms to Look for and How to Treat It
By Lisa Milbrand
ADVERTISEMENT
How to Update Your Will to Prepare for Baby
How to Update Your Will to Prepare for Baby
By Brett Graff
woman in labor in hospital bed
This Dilated Cervix Chart Shows Why Moms ‘Deserve All the Things’
By Stephanie Grassullo
white essential oil diffuser on wood table
The Best Essential Oils for Labor
By Katherine Martinelli
ADVERTISEMENT
Article removed.
Article removed.
Name added. View Your List