How Do Silver Nursing Cups Work? A Guide to Silverette®
By Anh, the official Australian distributor of Silverette®, who has used Silverette® herself since 2014.
Sore, tender nipples are one of the most common challenges in the first days of breastfeeding. Silver nursing cups are a simple, cream-free way to soothe and protect sensitive skin between feeds. In this guide, we explain how Silverette® silver nursing cups work, how to use them, and what to look for when choosing a pair.
What Are Silver Nursing Cups?
Silver nursing cups are small, dome-shaped cups worn inside your bra between breastfeeds or pumping sessions. Silverette® nursing cups are made from solid 925 sterling silver and handcrafted in Italy since 2002. They naturally soothe, protect and support tender nipples, with no creams and no mess.
How Do Silverette® Nursing Cups Work?
The rim of each cup rests gently on the areola, creating a protected dome over the nipple. Inside this dome, silver's natural properties work together with the skin's own moisture. At the same time, the cup keeps sensitive skin from rubbing against your bra or clothing, which is often what makes sore nipples feel worse.
How to Use Silver Nursing Cups
- After each feed or pumping session, express a couple of drops of breast milk into each cup, then place a cup over each nipple, with the rim resting on the areola.
- Wear them inside your nursing bra, which holds them in place. No extra padding is needed.
- Remove the cups before the next feed and wipe your breast with a moist towel to remove any residue.
Which Size Do I Need?
Silverette® comes in Small, Medium and Large. Measure your areola across its widest point and match it to the chart below. If you're between sizes, choose the larger one. For full details, see our Size Guide.
When Should You Start Using Nursing Cups?
Many mums start using Silverette® from the very first days of breastfeeding, as a preventative step, when nipples are most sensitive. It's also worth working on your baby's latch and positioning, ideally with a midwife or lactation consultant, since a good latch is one of the most important parts of comfortable feeding.
What Makes Silverette® Different?
- Solid 925 sterling silver: genuine 925 silver, not silver-plated, handcrafted by licensed silversmiths in Northern Italy. Every genuine cup carries the 925 hallmark.
- Designed for the areola: the shape was developed with neonatologists, midwives and paediatricians.
- No creams, no mess: there's nothing to apply or wash off, and nothing to buy again.
- Lightweight and discreet: each cup weighs just a few grams and sits comfortably inside your bra.
- Reusable for every baby: with proper care, your cups last for every baby.
- Award-winning: Gold Medal, Best Breast Care Product, Bounty Baby Awards 2026.
- TGA registered in Australia.
Caring for Your Silver Nursing Cups
Rinse your cups with water after use and dry them well. Silver naturally tarnishes over time, which is completely normal. The Silverette® Cleaning Kit keeps them clean and shining. See our cleaning and care guide for step-by-step instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do silver nursing cups really work?
Silverette® has been used by mums worldwide since 2002 and was clinically tested at the University Hospital of Padua before launch. Many mums find them a comfortable, cream-free way to soothe and protect tender nipples between feeds.
Can I use silver nursing cups while pumping?
Yes. Wear them between pumping sessions, just as you would between breastfeeds.
Do I need to wash my breast before feeding?
Wipe your breast with a moist towel to remove any residue before the next feed.
Are silver nursing cups reusable?
Yes. Solid 925 silver cups can be reused for every baby with proper care.
Can I use nipple cream with Silverette®?
Silverette® works best on its own. Creams, oils and lotions create a barrier between your skin and the silver. Read our guide to silver nursing cups vs nipple cream vs nipple shields.
Can I use Silverette® if I'm receiving treatment for nipple pain or an infection?
Speak with your doctor, midwife or lactation consultant before use, and follow their advice.
When should I seek professional help?
If pain, cracking or latching difficulties continue, always seek advice from a health professional.
Shop Silverette®
- Silverette® Nursing Cups: the original 925 silver nursing cups
- Silverette® Cups + O-Feel™ Ring: the original cups with a soft silicone ring for extra comfort
- Silverette® Starter Set: the original 925 silver nursing cups, cup holder and cleaning kit
- Nurturing Essentials Bundle: cups, cleaning kit and bamboo nursing pads