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Best nipple shields for breastfeeding mums, including MAM, Medela and Lansinoh
If breastfeeding is painful or difficult, nipple shields may help to ease both the pain and frustration. To help you find the right nipple shield for you and your baby, we've put together this guide to the nipple shields UK parents rate most highly.
By Poppy O'Neill | Last updated Mar 7, 2024
Breastfeeding might be natural, but sometimes it can feel like it doesn't come naturally at all. Feeding can be tiring and hard to establish, especially if you or your baby encounter obstacles such as tongue tie, difficulty establishing a latch or inverted, sore or cracked nipples. The best nipple shields can protect your nipples, lessen pain during breastfeeding, and even encourage your baby to latch on and feed more effectively.
At Mumsnet, we know every mother needs a little help with feeding sometimes. That's why we've extensively researched guides to all sorts of products, from the best breast pumps to the best nipple creams and the best nursing chairs to help make breastfeeding comfortable, easy and pain-free.
Babies can struggle to latch on properly for many reasons, such as being born prematurely or with a condition such as tongue tie which can affect feeding. There are lots of organisations that can offer support, such as La Leche League and The NCT.
It’s worth saying that nipple shields aren’t a magic solution, and that some experts don’t encourage use of them, particularly in the long-term as there is some believe that they may lead to nipple confusion. If you’re experiencing breastfeeding issues, it’s really important to speak to a health professional as your first port of call. For some women however, nipple shields can help to keep breastfeeding going, and that’s what’s important. If you believe that nipple shields may be helpful for you and your baby, there are a number of products on the market to help. We’ve carefully vetted some of the most-recommended nipple shields, as reviewed by real parents, customers and experts.
For more buying advice, check out our guides to the best changing mats, the best nappy bins, the best potties, the best baby wipes and the best nursing chairs, all featuring product recommendations from Mumsnetters.
1. Best overall nipple shield: Philips Avent Nipple Protector
Price on writing: £9.99 | Latest deals from Amazon
Key specs
Material: BPA free silicone | Size: 21 mm | Number of shields: 2
What we love
Butterfly shape for easy grip
Thinner than other products on the market
Durable
What to know
Some reviewers said the shield was too big for their baby's mouth
What Mumsnet users say
“They made a huge difference to me. Without them I wouldn't have carried on. Mine were so sore I just couldn't face it anymore, it was a last ditch attempt to keep going and it worked. Once my nipples healed though I stopped using them. I had a breast feeding specialist visit me and help me get the perfect latch. My health visitor made the referral and she came the next day.” (Recommended by Mumsnetter MoominFan)
Our verdict
This silicone nipple protector is a bit different from the usual round-shaped nipple shield, which is what sets these shields apart. Most nipple shields are perfectly round, unlike breasts, and here, the butterfly shape helps you to hold it in place. You can slip your fingers around the sides to get a better grip and, for that reason, it’s also a great nipple shield for tiny and premature babies, too.
The Philips Avent Nipple Protector is also thinner than many shields on the market which helps the warmth of your skin come through the shield and the shape maximises that all important skin-to-skin contact during feeds and means your baby’s nose is kept away from the silicone so that they can smell you a little better. Independent reviewers say that, although the silicone is very thin, it’s durable and withstands multiple feeds and washings. You’ll get two shields and a case in the pack.
Read next: The best baby wipes to buy, as recommended by Mumsnetters
2. Best budget nipple shield: NUK Silicone Nipple Shields
Price on writing: £4 | Latest deals from Amazon
Key specs
Material: Silicone | Size: 16/20/24 mm | Number of shields: 2
What we love
Different surface structures
Thin silicone
Designed for sensitive nipples
What to know
Some reviewers claim the case cause the shields to become misshapen
What Mumsnet users say
“I use NUK shields, baby switches between breast and bottle perfectly.” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user BabyBlues21)
Our verdict
The cheapest nipple shields on our list, NUK Silicone Nipple Shields, are a great budget option. Featuring soft, thin silicone and different surface structures to feel more natural and encourage milk flow, the manufacturer claims that the special triangle shape maximises skin-to-skin contact during feeds. Four holes in the ‘nipple’ makes it easier for your baby to suckle and get plenty of milk.
Designed for sensitive nipples, these would be great for anyone suffering with sore nipples in the early stages of breastfeeding. Although these nipple shields come with a storage case, some reviewers complain that the case can cause the shields to become misshapen, so that’s something to be mindful of.
3. Best nipple shield for tongue tie: Lansinoh Contact Nipple Shields
Price on writing: £9 | Latest deals from Amazon
Key specs
Material: BPA and BPS free silicone | Size: 20/24 mm | Number of shields: 2
What we love
Lower profile for shallow latch
Good for flat nipples
What to know
Reviewers say they come up a bit small
What Mumsnet users say
“I used nipple shields until DD was nine weeks. I had a set of Lansinoh ones. I tried a couple of other brands as well but I always preferred the Lansinoh ones.” (Recommended by Mumsnetter KeepOnRunning85)
Our verdict
Breastfeeding can be tricky for a baby with tongue tie. That’s because the strip of skin connecting their tongue to the bottom of their mouth is shorter than usual, which can restrict motion and prevent them getting the hang of latching and proper suction. The Lansinoh Contact Nipple Shields have a lower profile, making them the best nipple shield for shallow latch, which can be an issue with tongue tie.
They are also reportedly a good nipple shield for women with flat nipples and are available in two sizes – 24mm and 20mm – so that you can get the right fit. It’s worth being aware that reviews suggest they come up a little small so you may want to get a size bigger than the blurb suggests.
Read next: The best changing mats to buy, as rated by parents
4. Best nipple shield for newborns: Purifiyou Premium Nipple Shield
Price: £24 | Latest deals from Amazon
Key specs
Material: BPA and BPS free silicone | Size: 20/24 mm | Number of shields: 3
What we love
Three shields in a pack
Reusable cotton storage bag
3o day money back guarantee
What to know
Expensive
What Mumsnet users say
“I used nipple shields until DD was 9 weeks… I think it is helpful to have a pair ready just in case as it was a Sunday when DD was 5 days old when I started using them and I don't think I would have felt up to going to a shop to get them myself so DH would have had to. You'll probably just have to take a bit of a punt on which ones you think you'll get on best with.” (Recommended by Mumsnetter KeepOnRunning85)
Our verdict
This nipple shield is free from BPA and BPS and while it sounds expensive, you get three shields for the price, so you’ll always have a spare. The handy soft cotton reusable storage bag also means you won’t have to go hunting for the nipple shields in those befuddled sleepless early newborn days and nights. A hard case is also available to buy separately.
The purifiyou Nipple Shield measures 20mm and purifyou also offers a 30-day money back guarantee if you’re not completely happy, so we can’t think of a reason not to give them a go.
Read next: The best nappy bins to buy, as recommended by parents
5. Best nipple shield for bottle-fed babies: Haakaa Nipple Shield
Price: £17 | Latest deals from Amazon
Key specs
Material: BPA free silicone | Size: One size | Number of shields: 1
What we love
Shaped like a bottle teat
One size fits all
Perfect for invert, flat or sore nipples
What to know
Just one shield in a pack
Some women find the suction isn't as strong as other shields
What Mumsnet users say
“I still exclusively use nipple shields when feeding and my girl is now four months old! She’s had a poor latch since she was born and just doesn't like a bare nipple. I used to express milk as well and my baby took to the bottle easily due to being familiar with the bottle-like teat from the shield - that was from birth as well.” (Loved by Mumsnetter PastaSauceHoarder)
Our verdict
The Haakaa Nipple Shield is the best nipple shield for mixed feeding. If you’re doing a mixture of breastfeeding and bottle feeding, your baby may find it easier to latch on to the Haakaa Nipple Shield because the tip is shaped more like a bottle teat with a long ‘nipple for your baby to latch on to more easily.
This nipple shield is another one with a symmetrical butterfly design and it also has an anti-slip ridge so you can hold it in place more easily than shields with flat designs, such as the Avent shields. It’s made to fit all nipple sizes, making it the best nipple shield for flat nipples as well as the best nipple shield for inverted and cracked, sore nipples.
The only downside we heard about this shield was that some mums felt that although it was easy for a baby to latch on, their suction wasn’t as strong as with other shields, so if your milk doesn’t flow easily with a strong let down, some babies might find the flow isn’t fast enough for them. The pack contains one nipple shield and one carry case, making it quite an expensive option.
6. Best nipple shield for sore nipples: MAM Nipple Shields
Price: £10.40 | Latest deals from Amazon
Key specs
Material: BPA free silicone | Size: 17/20/23mm | Number of shields: 2
What we love
Maximise skin contact while protecting sensitive areola
Skin-like textured silicone
Moulds to the shape of your breast
Sterilisable case included
What to know
Some reviewers say the textured silicone leaves a mark on baby's face
What Mumsnet users say
“My lactation consultant recommended Mam nipple shields. They have cut outs to maximise skin contact with baby’s nose and chin. They have a dimpled texture so it feels more skin like. I used Medela shields with my last baby, but I’m getting on a lot better with the Mam shields this time.” (Loved by Mumsnet user FizzingWhizzBee123)
Our verdict
The butterfly shape of the MAM Nipple Shields allows your baby to feel and smell your skin during feeds and it seems to help the shield stick to the breast a bit more, too. Suitable for newborns, the SkinSoft silicone moulds to the shape of your breast. You’ll also get a sterilisable protective case included and the shields come in two sizes so you can get the best fit.
The MAM Nipple Shields are pretty popular with Mumsnetters, who recommend them for helping to protect sore nipples and, while it’s a bit horses for courses, many recommend them over the ever-popular Medela shields.
7. Best nipple shield to help with latch: Ardo Tulips Nipple Shields
Price: £10 | Latest deals from Amazon
Key specs
Material: Latex-free silicone | Size: 20/24mm | Number of shields: 2
What we love
Natural feel
Manufacturer is an NHS supplier
Protective case included
What to know
Might not suit women with smaller nipples
What Mumsnet users say
“They were a lifesaver for me - ds had a tongue tie and was only tiny. I was really struggling to get him to latch. Nipple shields worked and took the pain and stress out of breastfeeding for the first few weeks, and then he weaned off them with no issues once the tie was snipped and his mouth was bigger. I would use them again in a heartbeat.” (Recommended by Mumsnetter TofTheBe)
Our verdict
The manufacturer claims that the special tulip shape of this breast shield enables your baby to have maximum contact with you when feeding and can also correct their latch if they’re struggling. It does look fairly clever, with a scalloped edge at the top to let your baby sniff your skin rather than the shield, and a just a bit more silicone directly above the nipple to help the shield stay firmly in place.
The Ardo Tulips Breast Shield is made of clear, supple, latex-free silicone and gets positive marks from independent reviewers, who say that these nipple shields are more pliable than others on the market and therefore mould more easily to the breast. Available in medium and large, the larger size measures 24mm – ideal if your breasts and nipples are on the generous side. The pack also includes a storage case.
8. Best nipple shield for small nipples: Medela Contact Nipple Shields
Price: £9 | Latest deals from Amazon
Key specs
Material: BPA free silicone | Size: 16/20/24mm | Number of shields: 2
What we love
Maximise skin-to-skin contact
Super comfortable
Smallest shields we found
What to know
Some reviewers say the silicone is thicker than other shields
What Mumsnet users say
“I bought medela nipple shields last time but not until we were home. They helped me get through a difficult period where I had double severe mastitis and cracked nipples.” (Loved by Mumsnet user Lancs84)
Our verdict
These soft silicone nipple shields come highly recommended by breastfeeding mums and independent reviewers alike, and are available in three different sizes (small, medium and large) so you can get the best fit for you. Size small measures 16mm – the smallest nipple shields we’ve found.
The specially designed contour of Medela Contact Nipple Shields allows maximises skin-to-skin contact, and they’re odourless and tasteless too. Medela shields are specially designed for inverted, flat and small nipples and they also offer relief for dry, sore and cracked skin, too. Highly durable and supremely comfortable, Medela impresses Mumsnetters time and again.
9. Best nipple shield for dry, cracked nipples: Boots Maternity Silicone Nipple Shields
Price: £6 | Latest deals from Boots
Key specs
Material: 100% silicon | Size: One size | Number of shields: 2
What we love
Great value
Cutaway shape maximises skin-to-skin contact
Storage case included
What to know
One size only
What Mumsnet users say
“There isn’t necessarily one better brand than another, the most important thing to consider is the size of them, vs the size of your own nipple. Boots usually have some in, often a few to chose from, so it’s worth going and having a look and seeing which looks like they’d ‘fit’ you best.” (Advice from Mumsnet user BabyCatcher411)
Our verdict
Made from thin, soft, food-grade silicone, Boots Maternity Silicone Nipple Shields are, as you’d expect from the UK’s most famous high street pharmacy, excellent quality for the price. Each pack contains two nipple shields plus a storage case to keep them clean between feeds. Mumsnetters rate these nipple shields as being very soft and easy to wear – ideal if you’re suffering from dry, cracked and sore nipples.
Other reviewers, however, felt that it was a shame these shields are one-size only, which breasts are definitely not. If you feel you’re bigger, smaller or wonkier than the average mum, you might want to go for the MAM shields, where you can choose from three sizes.
10. Best nipple shield for premature babies: NUK Extra Thin Nipple Shields
Price: £9 | Latest deals from Amazon
Key specs
Material: Ultra-thin silicone | Size: 16/20/24mm | Number of shields: 2
What we love
Made from super-thin and comfortable silicone
Shape optimised for skin contact
What to know
Not all babies get on with such thin silicone
What Mumsnet users say
“The shields had no impact on my supply, and made the difference between them being able to feed and not. I too had no probs switching them from breast to bottles of expressed milk. I found NUK shields the best.” (Loved by Mumsnet user Katepol)
Our verdict
This is the second NUK shield we’ve included in this list. We felt these deserved a mention because of their ‘thinness’. It’s all a personal choice and depends what you get on best with but some babies do seem to suckle better where the silicone is quite flimsy and there’s the added benefit of them feeling closer to the breast, so perhaps more likely to go back to it eventually.
These are designed with a dip at the top for optimal skin contact and are made of ultra thin silicone, which feels really comfy. The nipple end has four openings to make it easier for your baby to get to the milk and they come in three different sizes so you can get a good fit for you. They come with a protective box to keep them clean.
How to find the best nipple shield
Finding the best nipple shields is a tricky business. They tend to be a panic purchase when you find you’re having trouble with breastfeeding, but it’s worth taking a moment to work out exactly which might be right for you.
To save you the legwork, we’ve carefully researched the best nipple shields on the market. We’ve vetted the reviews, checked with the experts and thoroughly assessed the shields to bring you a shortlist of the 11 best nipple shields for breastfeeding, but here’s how to pick from those to find the best pair for you.
What is a nipple shield?
A nipple shield is an ultra thin, usually clear layer of silicone which you place over your nipple during feeds. There are holes in the tip, allowing your breast milk to flow into the baby’s mouth as she suckles.
They are designed to help protect your nipples and lessen pain during breastfeeding, particularly during the early days. They may also encourage your baby to latch on and feed more effectively if they’re having breastfeeding issues due to things like flat or inverted nipples or tongue tie.
When should you use a nipple shield?
Nipple shields are intended as a temporary solution to help you overcome problems with breastfeeding. They’re most often used when a baby is premature and having trouble latching on, if a baby has a tongue tie or neurological issues, or if the mother has flat or inverted nipples. Sometimes they can help if a baby just needs a bit of stimulus to feed, too.
How to use a nipple shield
Nipple shields are simply placed over the breast right before a feed. Some women have issues with nipple shields moving or coming off mid-feed. To help it stay in place, moisten the shield’s edges with warm water or warm it with hot water before applying it to your breast.
Turning a nipple shield almost inside out before applying can help draw your nipple into it, which is particularly helpful if you’re using them due to flat or inverted nipples. Put the tip over your nipple and then smooth the edges onto your breast. To encourage your baby to latch on, you could hand express a bit of breast milk into the tip.
Should I sterilise nipple shields?
If you or your baby are in hospital, you should sterilise nipple shields before use. If you’re at home, it’s fine to wash nipple shields in warm soapy water or on a hot cycle in the dishwasher between uses. Nipple shields should be dried and then stored inside a container or bag.
How do I get a deeper latch?
Often, sore nipples occur because your baby isn’t getting enough of the breast into her mouth and is just suckling on the nipple itself. This compresses the milk ducts and means she won’t get enough to eat, as well as being quite sore for you.
You can help her get a bigger mouthful by flattening your breast slightly with your thumb and forefinger, so it’s the same shape as her mouth and popping it in as she goes to latch on.
La Leche League also suggests trying the exaggerated latch: “Place your thumb or finger near the base of the nipple where the middle of your baby’s upper lip will be, lined up with his nose. If you press, your nipple will tilt away from your baby, presenting him with your breast rather than your nipple. Avoid pressing your nipple into his mouth. As he opens wide, snuggle him in close and use your thumb or finger to tuck the breast into his mouth. Your nipple will be taken in last and unroll in his mouth. You can then slip your finger out.”
Does the baby get more milk with a nipple shield?
It depends very much on circumstance. Some research has shown that premature babies using shields actually intake more. However, many midwives or health visitors will tell you that shields can mean your baby can’t get as much milk. As long as you are using the shield correctly and it is correctly positioned, it shouldn’t have a negative effect on milk intake.
Why are nipple shields sometimes not recommended?
Some health practitioners advise against nipple shields. This is largely because it’s easy to have them incorrectly positioned, which can affect how successfully your baby feeds. They’re also meant to be a temporary solution, rather than a forever fix. Used for a short while, and used correctly, nipple shields can be really helpful in establishing or ensuring the continuation of breastfeeding.
Are nipple shields worth the money?
Nipple shields are designed to be a temporary solution until your baby learns to breastfeed without them.
They can’t correct underlying problems such as low milk production but, for some women, nipple shields can help to keep breastfeeding going, so in that sense, they’re an excellent investment. Most are not expensive, so it’s worth having a set in the cupboard before your baby’s born just in case you run into problems with breastfeeding.
How do I know my nipple shield size?
Just as breasts vary hugely from one woman to the next, so do nipples. You must ensure that you’re using the right size nipple shield because using the wrong size can hinder milk supply. You may even find that you need more than one size of nipple shield due to differences between your breasts.
Ensure you’re wearing the right size by using a ruler or measuring tape to measure the diameter of your nipple at the base in millimetres, not including your areola. Allow at least 4mm (2mm either side of the nipple) when selecting your breast shield size. For instance, if your nipple measures 16mm, you’d need a breast shield measuring 20mm.
How do I know if my nipple shield is too small?
If your nipple shield is too small, you may notice rubbing or pinching caused by your nipple being pulled against the sides of the tip. Your nipple or areola may become white or discoloured. You may also notice that milk extraction is painful or that you’re not producing as much milk during feeds.
Can I use nipple shields permanently?
Nipple shields are only really supposed to be used as a temporary measure. Of course, there are some mums out there who breastfeed long term using shields but it’s not ideal, and aside from anything, does mean breastfeeding is a bit more of a hassle than it needs to be.
Which nipple shield is best?
The best budget nipple shield is NUK Silicone Nipple Shields, which offers a pair of soft silicone shields with a unique triangle shape plus a storage case – all at a very reasonable price.
The best nipple shield for sore nipples is MAM Nipple Shields, which have a butterfly shape to encourage skin-to-skin contact and come in a sterilisable storage box.
The best overall nipple shield is Philips Avent Nipple Protector which is great for premature babies and is very popular with independent reviewers and parents alike. The butterfly shape maximises skin-to-skin contact and allows you to help hold it in place during feeds.
How we chose our recommendations
To ensure we are only showing you the best of the best, we always do our research thoroughly and make sure every product comes carefully assessed, evaluated and with a clutch of honest reviews to recommend it.
Recommendations from real parents
We believe that the best reviews come from mums who have tried the products in question, which is why, before recommending any new products, we always ask our trusted Mumsnet users, of which there are more than 7 million each month. We know we can rely on Mumsnetters for honest feedback, both positive and negative.
Expert advice
We always ensure our information represents the latest recommendations from experts so you can rely on it, and we research each product thoroughly to ensure it follows the latest expert advice and stands up to scrutiny. Here, we consulted La Leche League’s advice on nipple shields and also looked at what the NCT had to say about sore nipples and nipple shields.
Consumer feedback
We also scour the internet outside of Mumsnet, checking out real reviews from parents who have bought the products themselves, and given both positive and negative feedback to ensure every product we recommend comes with a clutch of good reviews.
Celebrated best products
Finally, we always check to see which products had won industry awards and accolades or received recognition from trusted sources and feed this into our analysis too to help us choose the best nipple shields on the market.
Why you should trust us
Mumsnet has been helping parents make their lives easier since 2000 and, in those years, we’ve seen, tried and reviewed thousands of products.We work hard to provide honest and independent advice you can trust and we spend hours scouring the Mumsnet forums and online bestseller lists to find products that real parents rate.
Transparency is really important to us and that's why we're always upfront about where we find our recommendations. We write about products that we feel offer the best value to most parents – the ones that our users would recommend to their own friends and family.