By Anh, the official Australian distributor of Silverette®, who has used Silverette® herself since 2014.

Tender nipples are one of the most common challenges in the early weeks of breastfeeding, and there's no shortage of products promising to help. Silver nursing cups or nipple creams are two the most talked-about options, but they're designed for very different jobs. In this guide, we explain what each one does, when it's used, and how to choose what's right for you.

The Quick Answer

• Silver nursing cups are worn between feeds to soothe and protect tender nipples, with no creams and no mess.
• Nipple creams are applied between feeds to moisturise and soothe dry or tender skin.

Silver Nursing Cups

What they are: small, dome-shaped cups worn inside your bra between feeds or pumping sessions. Silverette® nursing cups are made from solid 925 sterling silver and handcrafted in Italy since 2002.

How they work: the rim rests gently on the areola, creating a protected dome over the nipple. Inside the dome, silver's natural properties work with the skin's own moisture, while the cup keeps sensitive skin from rubbing against your bra or clothing.

Why mums choose them:

• No creams, no mess, and nothing to buy again
• Reusable for every baby
• Protect tender skin from friction against clothing
• Can be used before birth as a preventative step for sensitive nipples

Things to know:

• They're worn between feeds and removed before each feed.
• They work best on their own. Creams and oils create a barrier between your skin and the silver.
• They're an upfront purchase, but last for years.

Nipple Cream

What it is: a cream, balm or ointment applied to the nipples between feeds. Common types include lanolin-based creams and plant-based balms.

Why mums choose it:

• Easy to find and quick to apply
• Moisturises dry skin
• Lower upfront cost

Things to know:

• It needs reapplying regularly and replacing as you run out.
• Some creams can mark bras and clothing.
• Check the label for whether it needs removing before feeds, and for ingredients if you or your baby have allergies or sensitivities.

Can You Use Them Together?

• Silver nursing cups and nipple cream: we don't recommend using them at the same time. Silverette® works best on clean skin, because creams create a barrier between your skin and the silver.
• Silver nursing cups and nipple shields: these are used at different times, shields during feeds and cups between feeds. If you've been advised to use nipple shields, check with your lactation consultant about your full routine.

How to Choose What's Right for You

• If you want a reusable, cream-free way to soothe and protect tender nipples between feeds, silver nursing cups are a good fit.
• If you'd like a quick, low-cost option for dry skin, a nipple cream may suit you.
• If your baby is having trouble latching, speak to a midwife or lactation consultant, who can advise whether a nipple shield could help.

Whatever you choose, remember that a good latch is one of the most important parts of comfortable breastfeeding. If pain continues, or you notice redness, swelling or fever, see your doctor, midwife or lactation consultant promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are silver nursing cups better than nipple cream?

They work differently. Silver nursing cups are reusable and cream-free, and protect tender nipples from friction between feeds. Nipple creams moisturise the skin and need reapplying. Many mums choose silver nursing cups because there's no mess and nothing to buy again.

Can I use nipple cream with Silverette®?

We don't recommend it. Silverette® works best on its own, because creams create a barrier between your skin and the silver.

When should I start using silver nursing cups?

Many mums start from the first days of breastfeeding, or before birth as a preventative step for sensitive nipples.

How do I know if silver nursing cups are genuine?

Look for the 925 hallmark and CE certification, and buy from an official stockist. Genuine Silverette® cups are solid 925 sterling silver, handcrafted in Italy. See our Where to Buy page for official stockists.