Bamboo clothing while breastfeeding
Short answer: While breastfeeding, clothing needs to open quickly, handle many washes and feel soft on skin that is more sensitive than usual. Bamboo viscose covers the last two, and the cut takes care of the first.
Many washes
Clothes are washed more often than usual during this period, because milk and stains end up on them. A material that keeps its colour and shape at 40 degrees therefore lasts longer. Skip fabric softener and let the clothes air dry. All the tips are in the washing guide.
Soft bras are wire free
An underwire can press when the breasts are full, and that is felt most in the first weeks. Styles without underwire are therefore the most worn while breastfeeding. The fabric gives as breast size shifts during the day. See bamboo bras without underwire and choose one with wide straps.
Layers that open easily
A loose top or a shirt with buttons is easier to manage than a close fitting one. Many wear a soft top underneath and a loose shirt over it, so the outer layer can be lifted without exposing the whole stomach. See bamboo tops for women for the inner layer.
At night
Nights are short and broken, and nightwear needs to open in half darkness without fuss. Nightwear that does not pull across the chest or waist makes it easier to fall asleep again afterwards. Choose styles with buttons at the front or a loose neckline. See bamboo nightwear for women for soft options.
Loungewear that can keep up
Loungewear is worn for many hours at a time in this period, by day and by night. It should be soft, handle frequent washing and still look tidy when visitors arrive. A set with pieces that mix gives more combinations from fewer items. See bamboo loungewear for women.
Avoid fabric softener
Fabric softener coats the fibres and leaves perfume in the fabric. That is one of the reasons it is advised against for clothes that lie close to the skin for many hours. The coating also reduces the fabric's ability to absorb moisture, so it feels less dry against the skin.
How many sets you need
Expect to change more often than usual. Many keep three or four bras and a few extra tops, so there is always something clean while the rest is in the wash. It is good to have at least two sets of nightwear, since it often needs changing in the middle of the night.
A fit that changes
The breasts and stomach change in the months after the birth, and what fits today may not fit in three months. So do not buy too much at once. Choose soft, stretchy styles that can adapt, and add more later when the body has settled again.
Clothes for the new everyday
Much of what is worn while breastfeeding stays in use long after. Soft tops, bras without underwire and comfortable loungewear rarely leave the drawer once they are in use. Read more about the time after the birth in bamboo clothing after pregnancy.
Ask your health visitor
Clothing can make the day more comfortable, but it does not solve problems with breastfeeding. If you have soreness, redness or pain that does not go away, talk to your health visitor, midwife or doctor. They can judge what is needed and whether you need help other than clothing.
Frequently asked questions
Why is a bra without underwire recommended?
An underwire can press when the breasts are full or change size during the day. A soft style without underwire gives, which is why most people wear one while breastfeeding.
Can bamboo clothing handle the many washes?
Yes, when washed correctly. Wash at 40 degrees with a mild detergent, skip fabric softener and air dry. That way the fabric keeps its shape and colour longer, even with frequent washing.
Why is fabric softener advised against?
Fabric softener coats the fibres and leaves perfume in the fabric. That reduces moisture absorption and can irritate skin that is already more sensitive than usual during this period.
See our range of Copenhagen Bamboo.
