Is It Bad To Sleep In A Sports Bra?

We all know that bras can be restrictive in design. At the end of the day, we can’t wait to take them off and throw on a bralette or nothing at all. But what if I told you that some women also wear bras to sleep? They’ve found that sleeping in a bra can alleviate breast discomfort, help their boobs feel more secure, and allow them to sleep better. For women with larger cup sizes (D+), wearing a light bra to sleep can be more than comfortable than not wearing one. But is sleeping in a bralette or wire-free sports bra a bad thing?

Can wearing a bra to sleep cause sagging?

So far, there isn’t any evidence that sleeping in a bra of any kind will help your breasts stay perky. Many women opt to wear them at night to prevent sagging, however many experts believe that sagging occurs naturally with aging, and with weight loss or gain, and after pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Can wearing a bra to bed cause stretch marks?

Some experts do believe that wearing a sports bra (or any bra at night) to sleep will help prevent stretch marks for women with larger breasts. A soft, wireless bra is the best choice here or even a sports bra. Make sure to choose a sports bra that fits properly as one that is too tight can lead to sweating, overheating, rashes and reduced circulation and try not to wear the same bra too nights in a row.

While there are little to no health risks associated with wearing a sports bra to bed, it’s important never to wear one too tight or too often as that may lead to various side effects (rashes are more common). While some argue that wearing a sports bra to bed can improve the look of your boobs, there’s no evidence supporting this claim.

What are the benefits of wearing a sports bra to bed?

1.  They’re more comfortable than normal bras.

2.  They can help to prevent pain and discomfort while sleeping.

3.  They keep you cooler than other bras.

4.  Wearing a bra may help with stretch marks.

5.  This bra option is more convenient for nursing moms.

6.  They help to reduce the friction for sensitive breasts and help to prevent soreness after waking up.

7.  Teenagers and pregnant women may find them more comfortable than bras with underwire.

Related: Is It Bad To Sleep With A Bra On?

Can wearing a sports bra prevent boobs from growing?

Experts agree that what you wear does not influence breast growth in any way. For the most part, the intensity and rate of breast growth is determined by genetics or hormonal changes.

No matter which style you choose, it’s important to wear bras that fit well. If you wear a bra that is too small, there may be some digging into the breast itself. If you wear something too big, you won’t get enough support.

There is no real evidence that wearing a workout bra to bed is bad or any bra in fact. The only bad instance is wearing a constrictive bra that may affect the breast structure overall. This can lead to inflammation and irritation overtime. For women who choose to wear wire bras to bed, this may cause cysts and discomfort.

If you choose to wear a bra, whether it’s a sports bra or not, it’s a good idea to choose a soft cup, wire-free option preferably in a cotton blend (comfortable and breathable).

When you shouldn’t wear a sports bra to bed:

1.  If you use the same bra to bed that you wear to the gym, that’s a no-no.

2.  Sports bras should never be too tight or uncomfortable.

3.  If you have pinch marks after removing the bra.

4.  If you get a skin rash anywhere on, above or under your boobs from wearing it.

5.  If the bra is the wrong size.

6.  If you feel suffocated wearing it.

7.  If the bra influences circulation.

8.  If the wires on your bra (if applicable) poke you.

9.  If you suffer any discomfort from wearing it.

10.  If you’re only wearing it to bed because you’re too lazy to take it off.

Ultimately, some issues may occur if you wear a sports bra to sleep, so we suggest wearing a wire-free bralette or comfortable soft cup style instead. Your comfort is the most important factor, so if you’re noticing any irritation, marks or discomfort from your bras, you might be wearing the wrong size bra.

We always suggest getting a bra fitting (they’re quick and free!) from a local lingerie store every six months to one year (when you’re buying new bras) or after you’ve become pregnant or had a baby (congrats!) or experienced a change in weight loss or weight gain.

For a list of stores that offer bra fittings near you, check out our list here.

Related: Do Bras Prevent Sagging?

We Highly Recommend

Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!