Looking for a smooth, braless look under tees, dresses, gym fits, or swimwear? This guide breaks down CAKES nipple covers — what "grippy not sticky" means, how sizing works across 8/10/13 cm options, how to apply and care for them, and what they can and can't do. Plus: how they differ from silver nursing cups for breastfeeding moms.
CAKES nipple covers have become one of the most-searched reusable silicone cover brands, known for their "grippy" adhesive-free design. Whether you're going braless under a fitted top or looking for workout-proof coverage, choosing the right style, size, and application technique makes all the difference.
This guide covers everything you need to know — from sizing and application to care tips and how nipple covers compare to other options like silver nursing cups.
Disclosure: Go Mommy is not affiliated with CAKES. Brand names are used for descriptive purposes under nominative fair use.
What Are CAKES Nipple Covers?
CAKES nipple covers are reusable, circular silicone covers designed to smooth nipple show-through under clothing. They come in two main styles:
- Grippy (adhesive-free): Tacky silicone that gently grips skin — best under snug fabrics where light compression helps hold them in place.
- Sticky (adhesive): A light skin-safe adhesive layer for extra hold — useful under looser fabrics, light movement, or warmer days when sweat is a factor.
The key difference is how they stay on. Grippy models rely on the fabric pressing them against skin, while sticky models adhere directly regardless of fabric tension. For general skin safety guidance when using silicone products, the Mayo Clinic offers reliable dermatological resources.
Sizing Guide: 8, 10, and 13 cm
Choose the diameter that best covers your areola with a thin tapered edge for a seamless blend. The right size depends on your cup range, breast shape, and how sheer your clothing is.
| Model | Diameter | Suggested Cup Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Itty Bitty | 8 cm | AA – A | Minimal coverage; best under snug or thicker fabrics. |
| OG | 10 cm | B – DD | The most versatile size for everyday wear. |
| Plus | 13 cm | DDD+ (varies by band) | More surface area for a smoother transition under thin fabrics. |
Cup range is a starting point — band size, breast shape, and fabric weight change results. If in doubt, size up for a softer edge blend.
How to Apply Step by Step
- Prep skin: Clean, dry, oil-free and lotion-free skin. Sweat and skincare residues reduce grip and adhesion.
- Center and smooth: Stand straight. Center the cover over the nipple, then smooth outward from the center to remove air pockets.
- Dress smart: Start with a snug top for grippy models. For sticky models, press gently for 10–15 seconds to warm and activate the adhesive.
- Check edges: If an edge lifts, re-smooth or try a slightly larger size for better taper and blend.
- Removal: Peel slowly from one edge. Clean before storing.
Care, Cleaning, and Reuse
Proper care directly affects how many wears you get. Most users report dozens of uses with clean skin and gentle handling.
- Wash: Lukewarm water and mild soap after every use. Rinse well — avoid lotions, alcohol, and fabric softener contact.
- Dry: Air-dry adhesive side up on a clean surface. Do not towel-rub the tacky surface.
- Store: Return to the protective film or tray to keep dust-free and maintain tackiness.
- Rotate: If you wear covers daily, rotating two pairs extends lifespan significantly. Sweat, sunscreen, and fabric friction reduce grip over time.
Go Mommy® Silver Nursing Cups
$46.99 $52.99Different from nipple covers — silver cups protect sore nipples between feeds. 925 Sterling, 999 Fine Silver & Trilaminate. 90-day money-back guarantee. Code BESTSILVER20 for 20% OFF.
Get Your Silver CupsOutfit Pairing and Visibility Tips
Nipple covers aren't invisible under every fabric. Knowing which fabrics work best helps you avoid visible edges and get the smooth look you're after.
- Best fabrics: Snug knits, ribbed cotton, double-layer tees, thicker jerseys — compression helps grippy models stay in place and hides edges.
- Trickier fabrics: Very thin, sheer, or super-stretch satin — edges may show. Size up or add a light layer underneath.
- Color match: Choose a tone close to your skin or your lightest bra/tee color for the smoothest blend.
- Edge blend: Larger diameters (13 cm) often leave a softer, less visible edge transition under thin fabrics.
Sweat and Swim
For workouts, grippy models work best under snug sports tops — pat dry sweat before re-seating if they shift. For swimming, many users place covers inside the swimsuit's pad pocket for extra security. Rinse off salt and chlorine after every swim session, and avoid applying sunscreen directly under covers as it reduces grip.
Grippy vs Sticky vs Alternatives
| Option | Best For | Pros | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grippy (adhesive-free) | Snug tops, daily wear | Reusable, skin-gentle, no adhesive residue. | May shift under loose or slick fabrics. |
| Sticky (adhesive) | Looser fabrics, light movement | Extra hold, versatile across fabric types. | Adhesive care matters; avoid oils and lotions. |
| Adhesive bra / pasties | Strapless or low-cut outfits | Shape plus coverage in one piece. | Shorter lifespan; more adhesive contact. |
| Bralette | Comfortable modesty layer | Breathable, long-wear comfort. | Less "braless" effect; visible straps. |
Limits and Realistic Expectations
- Not shapewear: Covers smooth the nipple area — they do not lift or "push up."
- Not invisible everywhere: Ultra-sheer or tight light-color tops may still show an outline.
- Sensitive skin: If you react to silicone or adhesives, patch-test first. For guidance on contact dermatitis and skin reactions, consult the Cleveland Clinic.
Nipple Covers vs Silver Nursing Cups
These are two completely different tools designed for different purposes. It's worth understanding the distinction, especially if you're a breastfeeding mom shopping for nipple care products.
Nipple covers are cosmetic — they smooth nipple visibility under clothing. They're not designed for breastfeeding, milk collection, or nipple care.
Silver nursing cups are comfort accessories worn inside your bra between feeds. They reduce friction from clothing and use silver's natural antimicrobial surface properties to support sore or cracked nipples while your skin recovers. Express a few drops of breast milk inside the cup before wearing for a moist healing environment.
If you're currently breastfeeding and experiencing nipple soreness, remove nipple covers before nursing or pumping and keep skin clean and dry between sessions. For clinical breastfeeding guidance, consult the AAP.
Go Mommy® Silver Nursing Cups
$46.99 $52.99925 Sterling, 999 Fine Silver & Premium 999 Trilaminate. 90-day money-back guarantee. Code BESTSILVER20 for 20% OFF.
Get Your Silver CupsFinding the Right Cover for You
The best nipple cover depends on your fabric, activity level, and skin sensitivity. Grippy models suit daily wear under snug tops, sticky models offer versatility under looser fabrics, and sizing up often solves edge-visibility issues under thin materials.
If you're breastfeeding, keep nipple covers and nursing care separate — covers are cosmetic tools, while silver nursing cups are designed specifically for between-feed nipple protection. Using the right tool for the right moment keeps both your comfort and your skin in better shape.
For broader women's health and postpartum guidance, explore womenshealth.gov.
📋 Editorial Note
This content is educational and informational. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Product names are used under nominative fair use; Go Mommy is not affiliated with CAKES.
Sources: Guidance references resources from the AAP, Mayo Clinic, and WomensHealth.gov.
Last reviewed: March 2026 · Content by Go Mommy editorial team
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about CAKES nipple covers.