Image: iStock
To breastfeed your baby anytime and anywhere, get your hands on the best nursing covers. These are extremely handy when breastfeeding outdoors as they make the experience more convenient and comfortable for you and the baby.
As nursing covers are available in many shapes and sizes, finding the right one can be confusing. Thus, we bring you a curated list of the top nursing covers that allow you to breastfeed your baby without feeling conscious of the people around you. Read on and select your favorite one.
Top Picks
11 Best Nursing Covers
1. Best With Top Opening: Itzy Ritzy Mom Boss 4-in-1 Nursing Cover
Get superior coverage in public areas with the top-opening Itzy Ritzy Mom Boss four-in-one nursing cover. This safe and effective nursing wear is made of 95% polyester and 5% spandex, which is gentle on delicate skin. You can also use it as a car seat cover, scarf, and shopping cart cover.
Pros
- Provides full coverage
- Universal fit
- Compatible with restaurant high chairs
- Available in multiple colors and patterns
Cons
- May not come with a storage bag
- May not be tear-resistant
2. Best For Sun Protection: Bamboobies Nursing Cover Shawl
Here’s a nursing shawl made of bamboo viscose material, combined with spandex for stretchability, making it a trusted choice for new moms. The lightweight and mom-approved shawl is machine-washable and dries quickly.
Pros
- Has a UPF 50+ rating
- Offers adequate coverage
- Gentle on the baby’s skin
- One size fits all
Cons
- Cannot be worn as a shawl when not in use
- Could have been slightly bigger
Quick Fact3. Best Universal Fit: WeeSprout Nursing Cover
Watch your little one as you feed them with the help of the detachable neck insert provided with the WeeSprout nursing cover. Made of breathable and soft material, this mommy-approved cover keeps you and your infant cool and comfortable. It is known for its proven performance and offers a universal fit, providing you the space to move around freely.
Pros
- Compatible with a high chair, shopping cart, and baby car seat
- Stretchable and hypoallergenic
- Lightweight
- Machine-washable and dryer-safe
- Available in multiple colors
Cons
- May not be suitable for feeding newborns
- May not be apt for warm weather
Best With Top Opening | Best For Sun Protection | Best Universal Fit | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Itzy Ritzy Mom Boss 4-in-1 Nursing Cover | Bamboobies Nursing Cover Shawl | WeeSprout Nursing Cover | |
| Weight | 8 ounces | - | 11.2 ounces |
| Dimensions | 0.5 x 26.5 x 25 inches | - | - |
| Material | - | 95% Viscose, 5% Spandex | - |
| Rating* | 4.8 | 4.5 | 4.6 |
| Reviews | 69 | 89 | 478 |
| Price | $18.86 | $21.99 | $19.99 |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
4. Best Non-See-Through: Bozeman Infinity Nursing Scarf
The baby-friendly nursing scarf features a double layer of fabric sewn together to make it thicker than conventional scarves non-see-through. When not in use, you can wrap the scarf around the neck. And when in use, you can pull and extend the nursing blanket to cover the baby while breastfeeding.
Pros
- Can be worn in various styles
- One size fits all
- Available in several designs
- Machine washable
Cons
- May not be suitable for summers
- May pill after a few washes
5. Best Oeko-Tex-Certified: Byrd & Blume Super Soft Breastfeeding Cover
With adjustable snap closure, the Byrd & Blume breastfeeding cover can be used as a shawl, swaddle blanket, scarf, and more. This safe and effective cover is made of breathable Oeko-Tex-certified fabric and is free from chemicals and artificial dyes. The extra-soft material of this mom-tested cover drapes smoothly and provides ample coverage.
Pros
- Machine-washable
- Convenient
- Suitable for pumping
- Available in multiple colors
Cons
- May be slightly thinner than expected
- Snaps may not be snug
Do remember6. Best Full Coverage: Boppy Nursing Cover For Breastfeeding
Made of soft cotton, this nursing cover by Boppy has a unique design that allows you to watch your child when nursing. Its patented SlideLine ring helps you keep track of the side previously nursed. This full coverage cover provides ample privacy during breastfeeding or when pumping in public areas, making it a trusted choice for moms.
Pros
- Has an adjustable strap
- Machine-washable
- Folds compact
- Open-back design
Cons
- May not be suitable for humid areas
- May not be wide enough for some
7. Best Adjustable: Udder Covers Breastfeeding Nursing Cover
The Udder Covers nursing cover is made of 100% cotton, which allows for adequate air circulation. This tried-and-tested nursing apparel features a stiff neckline that allows for the baby and the mother to have eye contact while breastfeeding.
Pros
- Stainless steel D-rings
- Adjustable neck strap
- Can be moves conveniently to the breastfeeding side
- Appealing patterns
- Machine-washable
Cons
- Might not be suitable for winters
- Material might be slightly thin
Do remember8. Best Stretchable: Simka Rose Nursing Cover
The nursing cover by Simka Rose is made of stretchable and breathable fabric and can also be used on car seats and strollers to provide 360° protection to your child. This baby-friendly nursing accessory features cute patterns and is available in an assortment of colors to offer privacy and make breastfeeding and pumping comfortable for the mother as well as the baby.
Pros
- Machine-washable
- Six-in-one convertible design
- Lightweight
- Provides full coverage
Cons
- Fabric may stretch with repeated use
- Size may be larger than expected
9. Best Versatile: Munchkin Brica XtraGuard 5-In-1 Nursing Cover
This Brica XtraGuard nursing cover offers versatility — you can use it as a car seat and stroller cover, nursing cover, shopping cart cover, high chair cover, and scarf. Made of 95% rayon and 5% spandex, it is a soft, breathable, and lightweight baby-friendly shawl that offers good airflow and comfort for both the parent and baby.
Pros
- Antimicrobial fabric
- Top snap closure
- Stretchy and lightweight
- Machine-washable
- Universal fit
Cons
- May not be available in other patterns or color options
10. Best For Preventing Milk Stains: NuRoo Nursing Scarf
The fabric of the NuRoo nursing scarf is made of wick-absorbing fabric, thus preventing milk stains on your clothes. You can wear it as a regular scarf around the neck. This nursing essential trusted by moms is soft and breathable with a fabric composition of 90% polyester and 10% spandex.
Pros
- Can be worn as a regular scarf
- Snaps at the edges to keep the scarf in place
- Stylish patterns
- Machine-washable and dryer-safe
Cons
- May not offer proper coverage
- May be slightly heavy
11. Best Soft: Tisu Nursing Cover For Baby
The safe and effective Tisu nursing cover is crafted from 100% natural muslin double-gauze cotton fabric known for its softness and breathability, ensuring your child’s ultimate comfort. The cover’s neckline features a sturdy arched support that provides a clear view of your baby during breastfeeding while enhancing air flow.
Pros
- Adjustable neck band
- Can be used as a stroller cover
- Protects from sun, dust, and wind
- Available in an assortment of colors and patterns
Cons
- May not be machine-washable
- Might be smaller than expected
What Is A Nursing Cover?
A nursing cover, also called a breastfeeding cover, is a clothing accessory to cover your torso while breastfeeding. The cover is worn over the body or placed as a drape. The baby stays under the cover with an adequate gap for air flow and the mother to see the baby.
Gopa Bezboruah, a parenting and travel blogger, says, “If your child is being exclusively breastfed, and you are someone who loves going out, consider buying a quality nursing cover. A nursing cover should be comfortable for you and for the baby. Make sure you use and test it a few times at home with your child before using it outdoors.”
What Are The Types Of Nursing Covers?
The following are the most common designs of nursing covers available in the market:
- Nursing apron: The apron-style cover is the most common type of nursing cover and probably the first one that comes to your mind when you think of nursing covers. Nursing aprons are large, rectangular pieces of cloth with a loop that goes over your neck.
Some nursing aprons, like traditional kitchen aprons, also have strings to tie at your back. A contoured neckline on top of the apron helps keep the apron stiff and leaves a window for air circulation and eye contact with the baby. Nursing aprons are comfortable to wear but do not cover your torso all the way to the back.
- Nursing poncho: It is an entire top that you put on like a regular piece of clothing; over your existing top clothing. It is shaped like a “poncho”, with a V-cut at the front and deep recesses on sides for your arms to come out easily.
Nursing ponchos are ideal when you are unable to carry a nursing apron or when you want to make inconspicuous breastfeeding while in public.
- Nursing shawl: A shawl is a versatile piece of clothing that can be used as a nursing cover or simply as a cloak even when your baby’s nursing days are over. Nursing shawls are almost indistinguishable from regular shawls and are available in a variety of design and color options. The shawl-style may be unsuitable when the baby tends to tug at the cover while breastfeeding.
- Nursing scarf: It is similar to a regular scarf but extends to cover the front of your torso. Nursing scarves are compact and do not come across as nursing covers, which means you can wear them all day. While they may not provide extensive coverage as the other nursing covers, they are long enough to cover the required area.
How To Choose A Nursing Cover?
Keep the following points in mind when picking a nursing cover.
- Place of usage: Where will you use the nursing cover? At work or while shopping? Pick the one that works for the moment. If you have nursing stations or private rooms at your workplace, then a nursing apron would be a better choice. If you are at a busy mall or a public place with no facility to put an apron comfortably, then you can wear a nursing poncho.
- Baby’s preference: Some babies are comfortable being under a breastfeeding cover while others go restless and tug at it aggressively. If the baby is fussy and tugs the cover, an apron can be a good choice since it is secured around the neck and sometimes at the back. Calmer infants can do great with other types of nursing covers.
- The extent of coverage: The purpose of a nursing cover is to keep breastfeeding a private affair. Choose a breastfeeding cover depending on the extent of coverage you intend to have while breastfeeding outdoors. Shawls and ponchos provide maximum coverage when compared to a scarf or an apron.
- Weather and ambient temperature: A shawl is best suited for temperate weather while an apron can work in any weather. Make your choice according to the climate in your region.
Why Trust MomJunction?
If you’re looking for a nursing cover to aid in breastfeeding when you’re out and about, let Vibha Navarathna, our writer and reviewer of nursing products, help you with your search. She is a mom and experienced writer who understands what products would be best suited for babies and nursing moms. She has conducted intensive research, gone through various websites, and tested several products to bring you this list of tried-and-tested nursing covers. Vibha has also included a buying guide to help you choose the right product.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are nursing covers necessary?
While nursing covers are not necessary, they can offer convenience and privacy for breastfeeding mothers in public places or outdoors. A nursing cover can make it easier for you to feed your baby without feeling self-conscious or distracted.
2. Are nursing covers with straps safe?
Yes, apron-style nursing covers come with a fastening strap and are safe to use. These nursing covers keep your chest and baby covered from the public eye while giving you access to the baby.
3. Are nursing covers safe for babies?
Nursing covers are safe and effective for babies when they are spacious enough and made of baby-friendly materials.
4. Are nursing covers machine washable?
Most nursing covers are machine washable and easy to maintain. However, read the manufacturer’s instructions on how to wash the cover.
5. Can I use a blanket as a nursing cover?
Using a blanket as a nursing cover may not be convenient for you and your baby. A blanket might slip off your shoulders between the feeds and require frequent adjustment.
The Bottom Line
Nursing covers come in handy for creating a safe and protected space for feeding your little one while outdoors. When buying one, ensure it’s made of breathable, soft, and skin-friendly materials suitable for your child’s sensitive skin. Look for various convenient designs and types for you and your child, and ensure they are machine-washable and provide adequate air circulation, like the Simka Rose Nursing Cover. You can also choose the hypoallergenic WeeSprout Nursing Cover or the apron-style Boppy Nursing Cover for Breastfeeding with storage for added convenience. Lastly, pick the best nursing cover that offers maximum comfort and sufficient coverage.
Infographic: What Are The Various Kinds Of Nursing Covers For Breastfeeding?
Nursing covers are essential accessories for breastfeeding mothers, providing privacy and comfort while nursing in public. Understanding these covers’ various styles and features can help you pick the perfect cover. Take a look at the following infographic to explore the different categories, enabling you to make an informed choice.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Get high-quality PDF version by clicking below.
Download Infographic
Recommended Articles:
- Best Nursing Pillows For Breastfeeding
- Best Baby Carriers For Nursing
- Best Nursing Pads
- Best Nursing Nightgowns
