When you’re recovering from pregnancy and childbirth, you may be wondering how to most effectively recover from weight gain and slim down your midsection.

Women have been using compression garments during the postpartum period for centuries, in cultures around the world. Waist trainers work by stimulating heat and perspiration in your core. They also provide back support and even provide personal motivation for being healthy while your body recovers.

In other words, postpartum waist training is a no-brainer! The question is, what is the BEST waist trainer to use postpartum?

We have not just one, but several suggestions for effective postpartum waist training. You can pick which one is best for you, based on your postpartum needs and preferences.

Best No-Fuss Waist Trainer

When you’re caring for an infant, the last thing you want to worry about is getting dressed. The Squeem Waist Cincher 26PW is a classic customer favorite that reliably slims your waist. It features two rows of hook-and-eye closures that you can tighten when you’re ready to size down. The cotton inner lining keeps you cool and comfortable, while the latex core gets you maximum results—you can slim up to three sizes smaller!

This waist trainer is also one of our favorites to recommend for plus sizes. It comes in up to size 5XL, so you can get the waist-shaping results you want no matter what your size.

Most Comfortable Waist Trainer

When recovering from childbirth, comfort is key! The Defining Moment No Closure Waist Cincher by Leonisa 18450M is a seamless waist training option that you can gently pull on. At the same time, it provides powerful slimming for the midsection and keeps its shape using power net fabric and side boning. Wide bands at the top and bottom of the cincher hold it in place all day and prevent slipping.

It’s an easy and simple way to hide a tummy pooch and prevent love handles after pregnancy while you work on slimming down and being a healthy mom.

Best Waist Trainer for Postpartum Workouts

Once you get the go-ahead from your healthcare provider, getting active is one of the best ways to aid your postpartum recovery and to regain your shape. We recommend the Latex Workout Band Curve Creator by Hourglass Angel HA101 for postpartum women because it is so easy to use and provides stunning results.

This workout band fastens using a double Velcro closure, so you can take it on or off in seconds! You can also expect a perfect custom fit every time you wear it. It is reinforced with a maximum compression latex core that stimulates sweat so you can get the most out of your workout—including a brisk walk with a stroller. This is especially effective for new moms who don’t have a lot of time, as you’ll be able to get in a quick, powerful workout.

Best Waist Trainer for Extra Bust and Back Support

Pregnancy doesn’t just affect your waistline; it can put strain on your back when your core muscles are stretched out and your breasts are enlarged. You can still be dealing with enlarged breasts after pregnancy, especially if you’re breastfeeding.

While all high compression waist trainers provide excellent support, a vest-style waist trainer will provide even more support and coverage for your bust and your upper back. The Latex Waist Trainer Vest by Hourglass Angel HA103 uses adjustable straps and a high back to provide the extra support you need. Another great option for plus size women, we offer it in sizes XS to 5XL. With three rows of hook-and-eye closures, you’ll also have the room you need to size down to a tight fit in the months following your pregnancy.

Best Cincher for Petite Moms

Not everyone is built the same way, which is why we offer waist trainers for petite figures. If you have a short torso or are shorter than 5 feet, 2 inches, then a petite waist trainer is going to be your best option. The Petite Latex Waist Trainer by Hourglass Angel HA100 is an effective postpartum waist trainer for petite women. It is cut shorter than other waist trainers so that it is more comfortable, while creating firm compression using a combination of latex and steel boning. This powerful waist trainer also uses three rows and hook-and-eye closures, giving you the room to size down to your desired waist-slimming goals.

Extra Powerful, Seamless Slimming

Another favorite waist training option for new moms is the Zipper Latex Waist Trainer by Hourglass angel HA104. It uses a high-compression latex core as well as flexible steel boning for powerful slimming and support. In addition to two rows of hook-and-eye closures, it uses a zipper closure in the front for reinforcement and a seamless finish. The results is maximum waist-shaping power that is invisible under clothing. If you want dramatic results after pregnancy, we highly recommend this option.

Combine Your Favorites!

If you fall in love with waist training, the best strategy during the postpartum period and beyond is to have more than one waist trainer to rotate through your wardrobe.

If you’re just starting out, you’ll want to try and everyday waist trainer with a workout band. Wear the everyday garment at least eight hours a day for the best results (working up to this gradually if you are a beginner—see instructions on getting started with waist training.) In addition to this, wear a workout waist trainer whenever you’re active, so that you’ll sweat harder and get a more effective workout, even when going for a walk or cleaning the house.

Here are a couple of other tips for choosing the best waist trainer as a new mom:

• Consider how much you want to slim down over the next few months. If you plan on losing multiple inches from your waistline, choose a waist trainer with three rows of hooks instead of two.
• Choose the waist trainer that will make you feel most comfortable—whether you need extra support for your bust and back, or one that is best suited for your size.

Have any questions about postpartum waist training? Contact our expert stylists and we’ll be glad to help.