How to Measure for a Nursing Bra at Home

By Nursing Bras & Maternity Bras | Hotmilk Lingerie USA | A–M Cup | Published: 2026-10-18

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to measure your bust for a nursing bra at home with a simple step-by-step guide. Get accurate sizing for wirefree, full-bust styles like My Everyday FlexFit.

Quick answer

To measure for a nursing bra at home, you need a soft measuring tape, a mirror, and about 10 minutes. Measure your underbust and full bust while wearing a non-padded bra, then subtract the band measurement from the bust to find your cup size. For fuller busts (G–M cup), prioritize band snugness and cup depth over the number on the tag.

Why nursing bra sizing is different

Nursing bras are designed for fluctuating breast volume and easy access, so a standard bra size chart may not translate perfectly. During pregnancy and postpartum, your ribcage expands slightly and your breast tissue changes shape. That's why measuring at home every 6–8 weeks is more reliable than relying on a pre-pregnancy size.

Wirefree styles like the My Everyday FlexFit Nursing Bra accommodate these changes better than underwired bras because the fabric and support zones adapt without digging in. For cup sizes G through M, the band does most of the support work, so getting that measurement right is critical.

What you'll need

A soft, flexible measuring tape (the kind used for sewing). A mirror to check tape position. A non-padded, non-molded bra that lifts slightly without compressing. A notebook and pen to record numbers. Avoid measuring over a padded bra or thick clothing—it adds 1–2 inches and leads to a loose band.

Step-by-step: How to measure for a nursing bra at home

Step 1: Measure your band (underbust): Wrap the tape snugly around your ribcage, directly under your bust. The tape should be level all the way around and tight enough that it doesn't slide down when you move. Exhale normally and record the number in inches. If it's an odd number, round up to the nearest even number—that's your band size. Common mistake: pulling the tape too loose. A nursing bra band should feel firm on the loosest hook when new because it will stretch over time.
Step 2: Measure your full bust: Stand upright and wrap the tape around the fullest part of your bust—usually at nipple level. Keep the tape parallel to the floor and snug but not compressing the breast tissue. Record this number. If you're between two numbers, round to the nearest whole inch. Checkpoint: measure twice—once with arms down, once with arms raised slightly. If the numbers differ by more than 1 inch, your bust tissue is very soft and you may need a deeper cup.
Step 3: Calculate your cup size: Subtract your band measurement from your full bust measurement. Each inch of difference equals one cup size: 1 inch = A, 2 inches = B, 3 inches = C, and so on. For example, a 5-inch difference is a DD, and an 8-inch difference is an H cup. Common mistake: assuming the letter alone tells the whole story. A 34H and a 38H hold very different volumes. Always use the band + cup combination.
Step 4: Check the fit with a real bra: Once you have your numbers, try on a nursing bra in that size. For wirefree full-bust styles like the My Everyday FlexFit, the band should stay level when you raise your arms, the cups should fully contain your breast tissue without spillage at the sides or top, and the pull-aside access should open without stretching the fabric. Checkpoint: if the band rides up in the back, it's too big. If the underwire area (even in a wirefree bra) feels tight across the sternum, the cups are too small or the band is too tight.

Product facts that help with sizing

My Everyday FlexFit Nursing Bra - Latte Busty: My Everyday FlexFit Nursing Bra - Latte Busty is crafted from recycled nylon with moulded unpadded cups, targeted support zones, and a double-layer back for smoothing. It fits G to M cups. Because it's wireless and uses support zones instead of underwires, the band fit is more forgiving if you're between sizes. The double-layer back helps prevent the band from rolling up, which is a common complaint with fuller-bust wirefree bras.