Comfortable postpartum pajamas are one of those things you don’t realize you need until you’re suddenly living in them. In the first few weeks after birth, you’re healing, feeding, leaking, sweating, sleeping in broken little chunks and trying to feel even slightly like yourself again. So yes, what you wear actually matters.
The best postpartum pajamas are soft, breathable and easy to wash, with enough stretch to move with your body instead of squeezing it. They should also make life easier—whether that means buttons for nursing or pumping, a waistband that doesn’t dig into a c-section incision, or fabric that helps you stay comfortable through postpartum temperature swings and night sweats.
And here’s the good news: You don’t necessarily need pajamas that are labeled “postpartum” or “maternity” to get through this season comfortably. In many cases, the best postpartum pajamas are simply the ones that are soft enough to sleep in, functional enough to feed in and cute enough that you don’t feel completely undone when someone drops off dinner.
Maggie Gillette, mom and fashion and lifestyle expert, explains that finding the best postpartum pajamas comes down to identifying the features that actually matter to you. “Some pajamas are created specifically for pregnancy and postpartum and you may find these more useful if you’re breastfeeding since they often have features like straps that can be unclasped,” she explains. “But if you don’t want to invest in clothing that is specifically for postpartum, it isn’t necessary.”
Some key features to consider include adjustable waistbands, breathable fabrics, easy nursing access and silhouettes that don’t cling. “Nightgowns also tend to be more flexible in terms of size, which makes them great for postpartum pajamas, and there is an ease to being able to throw on one piece and call it a day—or night in this case,” says Gillette. Nightgowns can also be appealing after a c-section because there’s one less layer that could potentially rub against your incision.
If you’re breastfeeding or pumping, button-front tops, nursing clips, wrap styles and stretchy necklines can all make middle-of-the-night feeds feel a little less chaotic. From Gillette’s recommendations to personal testing during my own postpartum experience and crowdsourcing from mom friends, discover the best postpartum pajamas below.
Our Top Picks for the Best Postpartum Pajamas
- Best overall postpartum nightgown: Samringr NightGown
- Best budget pajama set: Amazon Essentials Cotton Pajama Set
- Best bamboo nursing pajamas: Kindred Bravely Clea Bamboo Classic Long Sleeve Maternity & Nursing Pajama Set
- Best splurge-worthy loungewear set: Eberjey Gisele Slouchy Set
- Best robe and nightgown set: SWOMOG Sleep Robe & Nursing Nightgown Set
- Best postpartum pajama pants: Basics 3-Pack Buttery Soft Pajama Pants
- Best warm postpartum pajamas: Ekouaer Women’s Button Down Nursing Thermal Underwear Pajamas
- Best one-piece postpartum outfit: HATCH Maternity and Nursing Jumpsuit
What to look for in Postpartum pajamas:
Some pajamas are created specifically for pregnancy and postpartum, but if you don’t want to invest in clothing under maternity care, they aren’t necessary. No matter the pair of pajamas you go with, you may want to consider a few things, like ease of breastfeeding if applicable, explains Gillette. Here are some features to look for in postpartum pajamas that will help you through the postpartum days (and nights) in comfort.
- Material: Opt for soft, breathable fabrics such as cotton, bamboo or jersey knit. These materials are gentle on the skin and can provide comfort during postpartum recovery, especially when you are dealing with fluctuating body temperatures. Gillette recommends staying away from silks during the postpartum period. “While I love a good silk nightgown, this probably isn’t the time. You’re going to want things you can throw in the washer and dryer for easy cleaning.”
- Easy Access for Breastfeeding: If you plan to breastfeed, any top or nightgown with buttons up the front or with clips is nursing-friendly, and you can find this style at nearly any retailer, not just from maternity brands, according to Gillette.
- Full Coverage: Choose pajamas that provide full coverage to ensure modesty and comfort. You will be dealing with your own postpartum underwear and diaper changes during this time, so this isn’t the time to wear those sexy pajamas you have.
- Versatility: Consider pajamas that can transition from sleepwear to loungewear. This allows you to comfortably wear them around the house during the day.
- Machine Washable: Postpartum pajamas should be easy to care for and machine washable. Given the demands of caring for a newborn, having easily washable postpartum pajamas can be a practical choice.
- Enough coverage to feel comfortable: You may be answering the door for food deliveries, family visits or pediatrician calls on zero sleep. A little coverage can go a long way in making you feel more like a person.
The Best Postpartum Pajamas:
Samringr NightGown
Samring offers the comfiest, softest and most breathable pajamas. This collar nightgown has a boyfriend fit, a button front that makes breastfeeding easier and has a comfortable length. The knee-length allows coverage and can also make a great labor and delivery gown.
What we love:
- Super soft
- Washes and wears well
- Wide range of colors and sizes
What we would change:
- Can run long for petite frames
Quick Facts:
- Size: S-3X
- Color: available in 34 colors
- Material: 95% Viscose and 5% Spandex,
- Care: machine wash
Buy now on Amazon; $26.86
Amazon essentials has some of the best quality but affordable items out there. This pajama set are cool to the touch and have a button down top, perfect for breastfeeding. You buy a few sets and mix and match the tops and pants, so you can tailor the set to your style and preference.
What we love:
- Cool to the touch
- Mix and match separates
- Buttons provide easy access to feeding
What we would change:
- Runs small
Quick Facts:
- Size: XS-6XL
- Color: available in nine colors
- Material: 56% Cotton, 37% Modal, 7% Elastane
- Care: Machine wash
Buy now on Amazon; $23
This super-soft pajama set is made from premium, temperature-regulating bamboo fabric and is great whether you’re pregnant, nursing, or lounging. The long sleeves and pants are great for colder weather, but the fabric is breathable and has button-down nursing access which is great for middle-of-the-night feeds. The set includes an elastic waistband for size fluctuations and convenient pockets, which everyone loves.
What we love:
- Pockets to hold essentials
- Super soft to the touch
- Elastic waistband for weight fluctuations
What we would change:
- Run small
Quick Facts:
- Size: XS-2XL
- Color: available in four colors
- Material: Viscose from Bamboo, Spandex
- Care: Machine wash
Buy now on Amazon; $80
Eberjey is known for their classic designs and high-quality, super soft sleepwear. While they’re pricey, their timeless styles always look great and hold up well to the frequent washing and wear that comes with postpartum and caring for a baby, says Gillette. This style in particular is a favorite because it looks more like loungewear than pajamas, which means you can easily get away with wearing these outside of the house.
What we love:
- Super soft material
- Oversized drawstring adds style
- Can be worn as pajamas or loungewear
What we would change:
- Pricey for pajamas
Quick Facts:
- Size: XS-XL
- Color: Available in ten colors
- Material: Spandex
- Care: Hand Wash
Buy now on Amazon; $148
SWOMOG is a great budget-friendly that is great brand shopping for postpartum pajamas. This two-piece set includes a bathrobe and matching cami nightgown, which is great for the hospital and early postpartum days at home. The cami nightgown has adjustable straps, an inside and outside belt and the cutest lace trim neckline.
What we love:
- Easy access for breastfeeding
- Robe and nightgown set
- Nice length for warmth and coverage
What we would change:
- Size runs small
Quick Facts:
- Size: S-2XL
- Color: available in 25 colors
- Material: Rayon, spandex
- Care: machine wash
Buy now on Amazon; $33
These drawstring pajama pants have the comfiest and softest feel. They’re wide leg and extra stretchy, perfect for postpartum. The high-quality and breathable fabric helps you stay cool at night and the adjustable drawstring helps it fit to your body. They also come in so many colors and patterns, allowing you to pick what fits your style.
What we love:
- Extremely soft and stretchy material
- Breathable
- Drawstring waistband is forgiving during weight fluctuations
What we would change:
- Pants run long if you are shorter
Quick Facts:
- Size: S-3XL
- Colors: available in several colors
- Material: Polyester, spandexCare: Machine Wash
Buy a 3-pack on Amazon; $30
Fleece on the inside, buttery soft on the outside, does it get any better than that? If you’re giving birth in the winter, these are going to be your favorite postpartum pajamas. The top features a few buttons that make nursing easy, but still provide coverage for your stomach. The pants feature an adjustable elastic waistband so you can adjust the fit during pregnancy and for postpartum recovery.
What we love:
- Easy access to nursing
- Adjustable pants for weight fluctuations
- Fleece lining for cold winter nights
What we would change:
- An option without fleece for warmer months
Quick Facts:
- Size: S- 2XL
- Color: available in 12 colors
- Material: Polyester, Spandex
- Care: Machine Wash
Buy now on Amazon; $30
While this isn’t your traditional postpartum pajama, it’s just as comfortable as any others. Gillette admits HATCH can be an investment, but this jumpsuit pulls double duty. “While this jumpsuit can be a bit of a splurge, being able to start wearing this while you’re pregnant and long after the 4th trimester gives them extra value,” she says. This jumpsuit is cute and elevated enough to wear out and about and soft enough to be able to get you through long sleepless nights. The button-down front allows for easy access for nursing and the wide flowy legs won’t cling or rub against your body.
What we love:
- One-piece jumpsuit for comfort
- Easy access to nursing
- Can be worn as pajamas or as an outfit
What we would change:
- Snaps instead of buttons at the chest
Quick Facts:
- Size: XS-L
- Color: Black
- Material: Cotton
- Care: Cold Wash
Buy now on Amazon; $128
One Last Thing: FAQ
How long do postpartum pajamas last?
The life of your postpartum pajamas comes down to individual preference. Weight fluctuations and postpartum recovery are different for all women and many times postpartum pajamas have a fair amount of stretch and give which means if you are wearing a non-maternity or postpartum-specific pair of pajamas you might be able to wear them longer than your initial postpartum recovery period. I have a pair of pajama pants that I wore throughout my pregnancy and in the first few months of postpartum and almost a year later I still wear them. Yes, they are quite big now but they’re so incredibly comfortable I roll the waistband a few times.
What’s the most comfortable pajama style for a c-section?
If you’re recovering from a c-section, you’ll want to look for postpartum pajamas that won’t irritate or rub against your incision, says Gillette. “Look for a nightgown if you’ve had a c-section. Nightgowns tend to be more flexible in terms of size, which makes them great for postpartum, and there is an ease to being able to throw on one piece and call it a day (or night in this case). Nightgowns can also be appealing for those who have had a c-section because it’s one less layer to potentially rub against your incision,” she says. If you do want to wear pants after having a c-section, look for loose-fitting pants that don’t have a tight waistband.
