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10 best maternity pyjamas for pregnancy and nursing, as recommended by mums
Whether you want snuggly shirts, cool vest sets or floaty nighties, here are the best maternity pyjamas to cover you from bump to baby.
By Jenny Wonnacott | Last updated Dec 20, 2023
As you progress in pregnancy it’s likely that sleep may become more irregular, so it’s important to do everything you can to ensure that you’re as comfortable as possible from the moment your head hits the pillow to taking your prenatal vitamins in the morning. Whilst an oversized T-shirt might cut it in the first trimester, you’ll probably find that as your bump gets bigger you’ll want sleepwear that will offer a little more support while still allowing you to move freely.
Maternity pyjamas are often a staple of the hospital bag (and unlike your birthing ball will slot in nicely alongside your TENS machine) so it's important to find a pair which will be practical as well as comfortable during labour. Once postpartum, you’ll probably be spending a lot of time in your pyjamas as well so it's also worth choosing a pair which looks and feels nice to wear. That’s why we’ve thought about style as well as functionality when searching for the best PJs for mums-to-be. When your baby has arrived you’ll also need to think about pyjamas which will accommodate nursing if you’re planning to breastfeed. No-one wants to be struggling with removing clothing whilst trying to feed a hungry newborn in the middle of the night.
Whether you’re just starting to show or ready to head to the maternity unit soon, there’s all sorts of things to consider when purchasing maternity nightwear. So we’ve done all the research for you, weighing up style, comfort and practicality to bring you the best maternity pyjamas to keep you comfortable during pregnancy and beyond.
We've taken the recommendations of Mumsnet users to bring you this list of the very best maternity pyjamas for the all-important good night's sleep. As the largest network of online parents in the UK, Mumsnetters are expert on all things pregnancy and parenting-related, from the most useful pregnancy books to read as your journey begins to the best parenting books to guide you through the years ahead.
Here are the best maternity pyjamas UK 2024.
The best maternity pyjamas: at a glance
Overall best maternity nightie: Happy Mama Maternity Night Dress and Robe Set | £41
Best maternity sleep shirt: ASOS Design Maternity viscose spot sleep shirt | £22.40
Best cotton maternity pyjamas: New Look Maternity Black Vest Pyjama Set | £19
Best lightweight maternity pyjamas: OCCIENTEC Women's Ultra Soft Maternity Pyjamas | £26
Best maternity night dress: Purpless Maternity 2-in-1 Pregnancy and Nursing Nightdress | £16
Best shirt style pyjamas: Chelsea Peers Zebra Maternity Pyjama Set | £42
Best maternity pyjamas for nursing: Boohoo Two-Pack Wrap Over Pyjama Set | £36
Best maternity pyjamas for summer: H&M MAMA Before & After pregnancy/nursing pyjamas | £40
Best luxury maternity pyjamas: Seraphine Bamboo Lounge Pyjamas | £59
Best maternity pyjamas for comfort: Next Navy Blue Animal Maternity Cotton Short Sleeve Pyjamas | £20
1. Best maternity pyjama set: Happy Mama Maternity Night Dress and Robe Set
Price on writing: From £41 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Size range: 8-16 | Material: 95% viscose, 5% elastane | Suitable for nursing? Yes
What we love
Great option for hospital bag
Works all year round (might need to add bottoms in winter)
Variety of colours/patterns
What to know
Can run small
What Mumsnet users say
“Take a look at the Happy Mama website. They have a lot of choice." (Brand tried and tested by Mumsnet user Rememberallball)
“Happy Mama did some great button up and longer length ones.” (Suggested by Mumsnet user bookish83)
Our verdict
Rating: 5/5
This Happy Mama nightie and robe set is a perfect addition to any hospital bag or for general wear when you’re pregnant, suitable from the first night after your positive pregnancy test if you so wish. Breathable fabric and a loose floaty style make it a very comfortable option to slip on and snuggle into your best pregnancy pillow, and the addition of the robe serves as a perfectly co-ordinated cover-up if you're moving around the hospital ward. The nightie also has a handy button down front giving easy access for nursing mums.
Some reviewers felt that the sizing came up a little small around the bump area so perhaps consider going up a size if you're looking for something to wear in the later stages of pregnancy.
Read next: The best nipple shields for breastfeeding mothers, as tested by mums.
2. Best maternity sleep shirt: ASOS Design Maternity viscose spot sleep shirt
Price on writing: £22.40 | Buy now from ASOS
Key specs
Size range: 6-18 | Material: 95% viscose, 5% elastane | Suitable for nursing? Yes
What we love
Soft and stretchy
Cool for summer, can be paired with bottoms for winter
Designed to fit from bump to baby
Can be worn in labour
What to know
Quite short for a sleep shirt
What Mumsnet users say
"One more vote for ASOS [maternity pyjamas]" (Retailer recommended by Mumsnet user coffeeorwine)
Our verdict
Rating: 4/5
There's a reason why ASOS Design come out on top in our round-up of the best maternity clothes - as a brand they just get it when it comes to designing clothes for pregnant women, and this classic sleep shirt is no exception. Featuring a button-down design ideal for breastfeeding later on, this sleep shirt is designed to fit from bump to baby and would make for a great outfit choice for labour.
It's a little on the short side for a sleep shirt (though it's worth noting the ASOS model is 5'9) but pair it with a pair of maternity leggings and you've got an outfit you can wear day to day as well as at night.
Read next: Pregnant and suffering from backache? Discover the best pregnancy support belt according to Mumsnet users and approved by maternity experts.
3. Best cotton maternity pyjamas: New Look Maternity Black Vest Pyjama Set
Price on writing: £19 | Buy now from New Look
Key specs
Size range: 6 - 12 (other sizes in other styles available) | Material: 100 % cotton | Suitable for nursing? No
What we love
Range of styles and options for different times of year
Bottoms have comfy over-bump panel
What to know
Top not suitable for breast-feeding
What Mumsnet users say
"I got some fairly cheap and cheerful ones from New Look - they are comfy and wash well :-)" (Brand recommended by Mumsnet user SillyBry)
"My maternity pyjamas were the comfiest thing I have ever worn. So good." (Wise words from Mumsnetter spookycookies)
Our verdict
Rating: 4/5
Cotton nightwear is definitely one of the best options for keeping cool on the hospital ward and when you start to overheat in that final trimester. The good thing about New Look's range of maternity pyjamas is that if this style isn't your thing, there are plenty more to choose from in the Maternity Pyjamas range, all coming in around or under the £20 mark, with many on sale for under £10. We like the comfy over-bump style of pyjama bottom and although the top isn't designed for breastfeeding, you can easily swap it out for one that is.
This particular maternity pyjamas set is 100% cotton, meaning it's nice and breathable and won't get too sweaty. We also like the cuffed leg design, no trailing pyjama bottoms which could trip you up on your 100th trip to the toilet!
Read next: Don't miss our guide to the best stretch mark cream according to Mumsnet users.
4. Best lightweight maternity pyjamas: OCCIENTEC Women's Ultra Soft Maternity Pyjamas
Price on writing: £26 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Size range: S-XL | Material: 95% rayon, 5% elastane | Suitable for nursing?: Yes
What we love
Available to 'try before you buy' for Prime customers
Great option for breastfeeding
Available in a range of colours
What to know
Not all sizes available in all colours
Our verdict
Rating: 4/5
These OCCIENTEC pyjamas are made from rayon (see our buyer's guide further down the page for more on the best choice of material to go for), making them highly breathable and comfortable. As they’re so lightweight they'll be a doddle to fit in the hospital bag too, right alongside your maternity bra.
We loved the classic style of these pyjamas and we reckon with a pair of maternity underwear underneath and a cardy on top, you could easily pop out to the shops without anyone knowing you were still in your nightwear.
The layered ruched design not only looks stylish but also makes breastfeeding much easier too.
Related: Check out a pair of the best compression socks for pregnancy while you're shopping on Amazon.
5. Best maternity night dress: Purpless Maternity 2-in-1 Pregnancy and Nursing Nightdress
Price on writing: From £16 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Size range: 8-18 | Material: Cotton | Suitable for nursing?: Yes
What we love
Range of colours
Lightweight and breezy
What to know
Could be chilly in colder months
Our verdict
Rating: 3/5
The Purpless nightie has excellent consumer reviews, particularly when it comes to fit and comfort. Reviewers also noted that the nightie washed extremely well and lasted throughout the entirety of pregnancy and beyond.
The nightie, whilst simple in its design, comes in a wide range of colours from hot pink to graphite grey meaning all tastes are catered for. It’s made from 100% cotton and is suitable for nursing after birth too. And, coming in at between £15 and £18, it’s also an absolute bargain.
Read next: If you've found yourself struggling with postnatal incontinence following the birth of your baby (even if that baby is now several years old) we've got you covered with our guide to the best pelvic floor trainer according to Mumsnet users.
6. Best shirt style pyjamas: Chelsea Peers Zebra Maternity Pyjama Set
Price on writing: £42 | Buy now from John Lewis and Partners
Key specs
Size range: 8 - 16 | Material: 95% recycled polyester, 5% elastane | Suitable for nursing? Yes
What we love
Soft, stylish and wash well
Range of designs available
Feel upmarket
Also available as a short set
What to know
Pricier than other options
What Mumsnet users say
“I just bought a super comfy pair of PJs from Chelsea Peers.” (Brand recommended by Mumsnet user kell5120)
“Another vote for Chelsea Peers!!!! I have four pairs now and have worn them all through pregnancy and afterwards! They are so soft and wash well. [Go for the] button up style for nursing.” (Vetted by Mumsnet user MichelleOR84)
Our verdict
Rating: 4/5
These adorable zebra pyjamas not only look fantastic but, as they’re made from recycled fabric, they’re environmentally friendly too.
The button down shirt and adjustable drawstring waist means you can wear them right through from the early stages of pregnancy to post-birth and reviewers report that they are extremely soft and comfortable. They are a little on the pricey side compared to other brands, but have a really luxurious feel to them and Mumsnetters report that they wash really well, which adds to their value. If they feel a bit toasty for summer, there is a short version available too: Chelsea Peers Maternity Organic Cotton Giraffe Print.
Read next: Discover Mumsnetters' pick of the best gifts for new mums.
7. Best maternity pyjamas for nursing: Boohoo Two-Pack Wrap Over Pyjama Set
Price on writing: £36 | Buy now from Boohoo
Key specs
Size range: 8-16 | Material: 95% viscose, 5% elastane | Suitable for nursing? Yes
What we love
Range of colours available
What to know
Some sizing no longer available in some colour options
What Mumsnet users say
“I found some cheap ones on Boohoo that I liked. I was surprised as never shopped with them before. They do a nice maternity range that's not too expensive. Free returns too for those like me who hate online shopping. Or shopping in general.” (Suggested by Mumsnet user Njay2571)
Our verdict
Rating: 3/5
The stretchy viscose material of these pyjama sets make them a lightweight and comfortable option. Whilst viscose is a little lighter and stretchier than cotton, it’s not necessarily as long-wearing, so bear this in mind if you want something that is going to last from bump to baby.
The cross-over top allows for easy access for breastfeeding mums and looks stylish too. At £40 for two pairs they’re also a real bargain.
Read next: Pregnancy can come with all sorts of unwanted symptoms, from acne to piles. Not to worry, our guides to the best skincare for pregnancy and the top-rated haemorrhoid cream have got you covered!
8. Best maternity pyjamas for summer: H&M MAMA Before & After pregnancy/nursing pyjamas
Price on writing: £40 | Buy now from H&M
Key specs
Size range: XS - XXL | Material: 55% cotton, 45% viscose| Suitable for nursing? Yes
What we love
Cool and lightweight
Double layer of material for easy, discreet breastfeeding
What to know
Best for summer due dates
A little pricey
What Mumsnet users say
"Have you tried H&M Maternity? Their stuff is actually really nice and washes really well." (Advice from Mumsnet user Meadows20)
Our verdict
Rating: 3/5
The soft, seersucker material give these elegant maternity pyjamas a floaty, summery look without making them frumpy.
They feature a double layer which allows for easy, discreet breastfeeding once the baby has arrived - it also means you should stay cool during the night without feeling too chilly or exposed while breastfeeding. Ideal for summer due dates, they're small enough for you to take in your hospital bag.
H&M also have an excellent range of baby clothes, if you're also on the lookout for a lovely baby gift for the newest little person in your life.
Read next: Trying for a baby but unsure when you're ovulating? Check out our guide to the best ovulation test as recommended by Mumsnet users.
9. Best luxury maternity pyjamas: Seraphine Bamboo Lounge Pyjamas
Price on writing: £59 | Buy now from Seraphine
Key specs
Size range: XS-XXL | Material: Bamboo viscose | Suitable for nursing? Yes
What we love
Stylish, comfortable feel
Hypoallergenic, moisture-wicking and antibacterial
What to know
Pricey
What Mumsnet users say
“I've got Seraphine bamboo ones. They're lovely and great for nursing too.” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user plimsolls)
“Also got some treat bamboo PJs from Seraphine but they were on the pricey side. But seriously the most comfy thing I've bought all pregnancy, so soft and they've fit perfectly for months, plus I plan to LIVE in them for a couple of months when I get home again! They are lovely and stretchy and will be ideal for feeding too.” (Reviewed by Mumsnet user katiegolightly)
Our verdict
Rating: 3/5
When it comes to Seraphine, you know you’re going to pay that little bit more, but just cast your eyes over the Mumsnet forums or customer reviews and you’ll see the words 'soft', 'comfortable' and 'long-lasting' time and time again. One of the great ironies of pregnancy and the early stages of parenthood is that, despite what feels like a time of complete sleep deprivation, you’ll find yourself wearing a lot of sleepwear. That’s why, if there was ever a time to feel justified in splashing out on some pyjamas, it's when you’re pregnant.
These chic bamboo pyjamas are incredibly elegant so you won't have to worry about being in your nightwear when you have the inevitable stream of visitors during those busy first few weeks. Not only do they look sophisticated, but they’re also made from bamboo material which is both naturally hypoallergenic and antibacterial and will help to wick moisture if you're prone to sweating.
The pyjamas also have a cross-over neckline which allows for breastfeeding.
Related: Expecting twins? Read our essential guide on what to buy for twins to find top recommendations from our huge network of Mumsnet twin parents.
10. Best maternity pyjamas for comfort: Next Navy Blue Animal Maternity Cotton Short Sleeve Pyjamas
Price on writing: £20 | Buy now from Next
Key specs
Size range: XS-XXL | Material: Cotton | Suitable for nursing? No
What we love
100% cotton so nice and breathable
Look stylish
Comfy
Machine washable
What to know
Over bump bottoms can be a bit warm in summer
What Mumsnet users say
“I’ve got a couple of sets from Next - two that I’m wearing at the moment and one is packed in my hospital bag - they’re really comfy.” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user theresaplaceforus)
“I got a lovely pair from Next. Over the bump as well so super comfy.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user Hairpulling)
Our verdict
Rating: 4/5
We love the animal print design of these stylish pyjamas from Next and they definitely look like something that could pass for loungewear, particularly if you mix and match.
The pyjamas are not only made from breathable cotton, but they also have a wide over the bump waistband to offer you plenty of support during the later stages of pregnancy.
Bear in mind that the T-shirt style top doesn’t come with buttons or a double layer, however, so they’re not the best option if you want something to wear whilst breastfeeding.
Do I need maternity pyjamas?
No parent should ever feel pressured into buying anything they don’t feel they need just because it has the maternity label. Many Mumsnetters simply bought an extra large T-shirt or went a couple of sizes up in pyjamas.
However, many mums-to-be found that maternity pyjamas offer that little bit more comfort and support when your bump gets bigger and many are designed with nursing in mind if you plan on breastfeeding. Maternity pyjamas also tend to be made in more breathable fabric and have a little more room up top to compensate for the inevitable breast growth during pregnancy.
The majority of the sleepwear we’ve selected will accommodate you from when you're just beginning to show to being postpartum and should last throughout pregnancy and beyond. Overall, despite the lack of sleep, you’re going to spend a lot of time in your nightwear so just make sure that whatever you choose makes you feel comfortable and won’t have you diving for cover if you have unannounced well wishers ringing the doorbell.
What to look for in maternity pyjamas
Material
Firstly, remember that, whatever the weather, the maternity ward will be hot. So even if you’re going to have a winter baby, you’ll still need something cooler to take to the hospital. You’ll also find that you’ll get much hotter even during the colder months when you’re pregnant.
Cotton is always a winner when it comes to keeping cool. Many brands use organic cotton which is more ethically sourced making it a more eco-friendly purchase.
Although made from natural products, rayon is technically a man-made material due to the way that it is refined. Rayon is not only very lightweight, but it’s also highly absorbent making it an excellent choice for women who are prone to sweating during pregnancy.
Bamboo is an incredibly soft fabric and wrinkle resistant so you can put the iron away. If you’re not quite feeling the heat and want something that feels a little more snuggly, bamboo is a slightly heavier fabric but still remains breathable.
Under the bump or over the bump?
This is all down to preference but most mums find that over the bump is generally more comfortable to sleep in. However, if you find yourself overheating a lot, an under the bump waistband may keep you a little cooler and a drawstring waist means you can wear your pyjamas pre- and post-bump.
Are the pyjamas nursing friendly?
Just because nightwear is specifically maternity doesn’t necessarily mean it is suitable for breastfeeding mums, so if you want something that will take you through to postpartum and you do plan on breastfeeding, make sure that your nightwear has a button down or cross-over top.
Where to buy maternity pyjamas
Many fashion retailers have their own range of maternity nightwear. When conducting our research, we found that there was a lot more choice online than in the shops. ASOS and Amazon in particular had an extensive range of maternity nightwear covering all different styles and budgets. If your budget is limited don’t forget to check out the local pass-it-on sites in your area for second-hand bargains and even freebies.
What type of nightwear for labour?
For during labour, the NHS simply recommends wearing something loose and comfortable that does not restrict you from moving around or make you too hot. For obvious reasons a nightie or shirt will be far more appropriate for the delivery room than shorts or pyjama bottoms! Remember to pack front opening tops or nighties if you plan on breastfeeding too.
How we chose our recommendations
Nothing is more important than optimising the likelihood of sleep when you’re pregnant or have just given birth. That’s why we’ve spent hours investigating the top nightwear to invest in. Here’s how we carefully chose our picks.
Recommendations from real Mumsnet users
There’s only so much you can tell by looking at a picture online. Nothing will give you a better sense of whether something is worth buying or not than an honest, unbiased review from a real parent. That’s why our first port of call is always our forums where we trawl the Talk boards to find out what Mumsnet users are independently recommending.
Expert opinions
To help us whittle down our shortlisted products we also took on board the top tips and advice from experts when it came to choosing the right kind of maternity nightwear, particularly when it comes to packing the all-important hospital bag.
Authentic customer reviews
Finally, we looked at maternity wear that was ranking highly on bestseller lists and analysed the ones that had first-class reviews on retailer sites. We took into account what reviewers were saying about comfort, style, value for money and suitability for nursing before we eventually arrived at our final selection.
Why you should trust us
We know that it’s often the little things, like finding the most comfortable pyjamas that make a big difference when it comes to pregnancy. That’s why we work hard to bring you the products that we would buy ourselves. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click-to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful articles like this one.
About the author
Mum-of-three Jenny Wonnacott is a Content Editor for Mumsnet, specialising in writing, editing and optimising pregnancy care and child play content.
Before joining the content team at Mumsnet, Jenny worked as a journalist for newspapers, radio, TV and b2b trades magazines for over a decade. She is also a bestselling sci-fi author (writing as J M Briscoe) and parenting blogger.
As a parent of three primary school-aged children, Jenny is passionate about making Mumsetters' lives easier through rigorous research of all items recommended in buyers' guides such as these, as well as product reviews and expert advice on all things pregnancy and child play related.