Is Silverette Nursing Cup Worth it?

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Silverette Nursing Cups are designed to protect and heal nipples during breastfeeding and pumping, with users sharing their experiences across multiple threads.

The Good

  • Protection from friction: “They protect them from friction” (2 upvotes)
  • Healing properties: “Silverettes which definitely worked for my wife early on” (4 upvotes)
  • Essential for comfort: “I wore Silverettes literally every second I wasn’t nursing or showering… I loved those things” (2 upvotes)
  • Crucial for continued breastfeeding: “I wouldn’t have survived my breastfeeding journey without them” (6 upvotes)
  • Quick healing: “They work so fast, much better than nipple balm alone” (3 upvotes)
  • Long-term comfort: “I’m almost 5 months out and still wear silverettes everyday can’t imagine not wearing” (5 upvotes)


The Not So Good

  • Moisture issues: “For me they were just little cups that collected milk and then dumped it all out in my bra any time they were lightly bumped” (3 upvotes)
  • Thrush concerns: “They are supposed to be fine to wear for nipple thrush (according to the manufacturer) but I assure you, they are not” (13 upvotes)
  • Moisture-related issues: “You can NOT use balm with silverettes! It can cause a fungal infection” (14 upvotes)
  • Uncomfortable edges: “I found that the rims of the silverettes dig in around the edges of my areolas” (10 upvotes)
  • Metal sensitivity: “It turns out I am allergic to the alloy they used. So much pain, so much itchiness” (2 upvotes)
  • Limited use: “I used them twice, wish I didn’t buy” (20 upvotes)
  • Visible through clothing: “They bulged out awkwardly through all my clothes” (5 upvotes)


Comparison to Alternatives

  • Versus nipple balm: “I personally used both a balm and the silverettes because I couldn’t stand my nipples touching anything” (29 upvotes)
  • Versus hydrogel pads: “In hospital they gave us hydrogel pads which work very well for 24h, and lanolin cream seems to work as well” (4 upvotes)
  • Versus Medela softshells: “I wore Medelas softshells, and used lanolin on the nipple… and the shells kept abrasive clothing off my nipples and allowed for airflow” (2 upvotes)
  • Versus Elvie catcher cups: “You could try the Elvie catcher cups, they’re non suction so they don’t pump at all, just catch and create space for your nips to not touch anything” (8 upvotes)


Tips and Tricks

  • Breast milk application: “Silverettes were a godsend during engorgement and the first 6 weeks for me! I used to put a little breastmilk in them sometimes for some extra healing” (27 upvotes)
  • Cooling effect: “Yes! Omg pop them in the fridge for a few min before you use them. Heaven!” (2 upvotes)
  • Cleaning routine: “I only washed them a couple of times per day – they work even better if they have leaked breast milk in” (5 upvotes)
  • Temporary use: “I would wear them for several hours when I was the most uncomfortable but then take them off for hours at a time too” (3 upvotes)
  • Silicone rings for comfort: “I got silicone rings from the Silverette company that helped” when cups pressed into engorged breasts (2 upvotes)


The Verdict

Reddit users are divided on Silverette Nursing Cups. Many users found them essential for healing and protecting sensitive nipples during early breastfeeding, with some continuing to use them for months.

However, a significant number experienced issues with moisture buildup, thrush, discomfort from the edges, or simply found them unnecessary.

The consensus suggests they can be extremely helpful for specific situations but aren’t universally needed. Many users recommend waiting to purchase until you know you need them or trying cheaper alternatives first. For those who do benefit from them, they’re often described as “lifesavers” during the challenging early weeks of breastfeeding.


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