Silver Nipple Caps Guide: Comfort and Relief for Breastfeeding
Silver nipple caps are small sterling silver cups worn between breastfeeding sessions to reduce friction and support sore skin through silver's natural antimicrobial surface properties. This guide explains how silver nipple caps differ from nipple shields, walks through step-by-step usage and cleaning, compares solid versus plated silver quality, and outlines the warning signs that mean it's time to see a lactation consultant rather than reach for another product.
If your nipples sting, crack, or bleed, every feeding can feel hard to face. You might find yourself dreading the next latch, hoping for some miracle solution.
You're not alone — sore nipples hit almost everyone in the early weeks of breastfeeding. According to WomensHealth.gov, nipple pain is one of the most commonly reported challenges in the early weeks of breastfeeding. It's rough, and honestly, sometimes it feels like nobody warned you just how bad it could get.
Silver nipple caps are small, reusable cups made from sterling silver that sit over your nipples between feeds to reduce friction and use silver's natural antimicrobial surface properties to support skin comfort. Many moms use them as a soft shield inside the bra, especially when every brush of fabric makes you wince.
This guide gives you the real scoop: how silver nipple caps work, when they might help, how to use them without making things worse, and what to weigh before you spend your money. You deserve honest, no-nonsense info so you can pick what works for your body — no guilt trips. Explore the full range of breastfeeding comfort tools at Go Mommy.
Key Takeaways
- Silver nipple caps act as a protective barrier and use silver's natural surface properties to support sore skin.
- Place them over clean, dry nipples between feeds — skip creams while using them.
- Fit, safe use, and knowing when to call for help all matter for the best results.
What Are Silver Nipple Caps?
Silver nipple caps are small, dome-shaped covers that sit over the nipple inside the bra. They create a smooth barrier that reduces friction and use silver's natural antimicrobial surface properties to support skin comfort.
A lot of people call them silver nursing cups, silver nipple covers, or even silver nipple shields. Brands like Silverette nursing cups and Go Mommy silver nursing cups follow the same basic idea: protect sore nipples between feeds. For a broader overview of how silver fits into the breastfeeding experience, see our guide on how silver nursing cups can make breastfeeding easier.
Supporting Nipple Care During the Breastfeeding Journey
Silver nipple cups help with two things: they cut down on rubbing and use silver's natural surface properties to support skin comfort while your body does the actual recovering.
In the early weeks, nipples often feel tender, cracked, or raw. Poor latch, marathon feeds, and all that moisture? It's a recipe for ouch. Deep cracks that extend into the nipple tissue are called fissures — our guide to nipple fissure treatment and breastfeeding relief covers what to do when soreness becomes more serious.
Place the cups right over clean nipples and let a supportive bra hold them in place. Many moms add a few drops of breast milk inside the cup before wearing it — this helps maintain a moist environment that supports the skin's own repair process. The CDC's breastfeeding guidance provides evidence-based recommendations on skin care and hygiene during the breastfeeding period.
Skip creams or lanolin with silver cups. They create a barrier layer between the silver surface and your skin, reducing the direct contact that makes the cups effective. If your healthcare provider has prescribed a specific topical treatment, discuss timing with them — you may be able to alternate between the prescribed treatment and your silver cups at different feeding intervals.
Some midwives and lactation consultants suggest silver cups for short-term comfort, especially when nothing else feels gentle enough. You can find broader breastfeeding guidance from the Mother & Baby guide to silver nursing cups.
How Silver Nipple Caps Differ from Nipple Shields and Nursing Cups
Silver nipple caps are for between feeds, not during. Nipple shields are for use while feeding. This is the single most important distinction. The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM) protocols provide clinical guidance on nipple shield use and when supplemental tools may be appropriate.
These three products sound similar but serve very different purposes during your breastfeeding journey.
Nipple shields are thin silicone pieces you use during nursing to help with latch or flat nipples. They should be used under guidance from an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) or healthcare provider, since incorrect use can affect milk transfer.
Silver nipple cups? Strictly for after feeding. They're a comfort tool, not a latch aid. For a closer look at the differences, this overview of Silverette nursing cups from The Bump is a helpful starting point. If flat or inverted nipples are part of the challenge, our guide on flat nipple and breastfeeding solutions covers techniques and tools that can help.
How Silver Nipple Caps Work
Silver nipple caps support comfort by reducing friction and using silver's natural surface properties to help maintain a cleaner skin environment while your body recovers on its own.
Physical Barrier and Surface Properties
Sore nipples get worse from constant rubbing — bras, breast pads, even a soft shirt can feel like sandpaper on cracked skin.
Silver nipple caps sit right over your nipple inside your bra. Their dome shape keeps fabric off tender skin, giving you a little "do not disturb" bubble between feeds.
Silver naturally resists some bacteria and helps keep the skin environment a bit more balanced. Some lactation resources note it may help limit bacterial growth on the surface, which is useful when nipples are cracked or raw. Research indexed on the National Library of Medicine has documented silver's antimicrobial surface properties across various wound care contexts.
But here's the important distinction: silver caps don't treat infections. They're a supportive care accessory, not a cure. If you suspect infection — redness spreading, warmth, fever — see your healthcare provider. For a deeper look at how silver's surface properties relate to breastfeeding comfort, read our article on breastfeeding pain and antimicrobial solutions.
When to Use Silver Nipple Caps
Most moms reach for silver nipple caps in the early weeks when everything hurts and latch is still a work in progress. The American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes that addressing latch difficulties early is one of the most important steps for long-term breastfeeding success.
They're for between feeds — never during. After feeding, express a few drops of breast milk, let it dry a bit on the nipple, and then pop the cups inside a snug bra.
Don't apply creams or lanolin under the cups — as mentioned above, they block direct contact with the silver surface. If you're using a prescription treatment, alternate timing rather than layering.
Once your nipples feel comfortable and you're no longer wincing between feeds, stash the cups away. Many moms keep them on hand for the next baby.
Benefits for Sore and Cracked Nipples
Sore nipples make every latch stressful. Cracks? Even air hurts.
Silver nipple caps can help by:
- Reducing friction from clothing and bra fabric
- Covering cracks while skin repairs naturally
- Supporting a moist environment with a few drops of breast milk
- Offering reusable protection — no more burning through disposable pads
If your soreness has progressed to scabbing, understanding how to treat and prevent nipple scabs while breastfeeding can help you manage the recovery process.
Some moms notice relief quickly, others find it more gradual. It's not magic, but for friction-related soreness, it can make a real difference.
Creams soothe but get messy and need reapplication. Pads absorb leaks but still press on the nipple. Shields are for feeding mechanics, not between-feed protection. Silver nipple caps fill a specific gap as a between-feed barrier when friction is the primary enemy.
If pain persists even with good latch and careful care, that's your signal to check in with a lactation consultant or your healthcare provider.
Every nipple care method has trade-offs. Here's an honest look at the most common options — including where silver nipple caps fall short.
Using Silver Nipple Caps Safely and Effectively
Clean them right, wear them right, and know when to take a break.
Preparation and Cleaning
Start with clean hands. Always.
Wash the cups with warm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap before first use, then once daily. Rinse well — no soap film left behind. Pat dry with a clean towel. In between feeds, you can rinse with warm water and air dry.
Skip harsh cleaners, alcohol, or bleach. Those damage the silver and your skin. Don't boil unless the brand specifically says it's safe — heat can warp the shape. For a comprehensive cleaning walkthrough including tarnish removal, see our dedicated silver nipple shield cleaning guide.
If you spot tarnish, it's cosmetic, not a safety issue — in fact, it's a sign of real silver. Wash gently and dry fully. Store in the included pouch or a breathable case, not a sealed wet container. The NHS offers general hygiene guidance for breastfeeding accessories that applies to all reusable nursing products.
If pain keeps up even with good cleaning, get your latch checked. Silver cups support comfort, but latch is everything.
How to Use Silver Nursing Cups Step by Step
After a feed, express a few drops of breast milk and spread it gently over the nipple. Let it air dry for a moment. The Stanford Medicine Newborn Nursery offers visual guides on breastfeeding positioning and nipple care techniques that complement any between-feed protection tool.
Place the cup gently over the nipple and areola. It should sit softly, not dig in. Wear a supportive nursing bra to keep it in place — snug, not tight.
Most moms use cups between feeds in the early weeks when soreness peaks. Remove before nursing. Wipe away any collected milk, rinse if needed, and reapply after the next feed. Want the quick version? Our 3-step guide to using silver nursing cups breaks the process down to its essentials.
💡 Manufacturer's Tip: The Go Mommy Ritual
Our step-by-step usage and care guide — what we call "The Ritual" — covers the breast milk drop method, the nesting cleaning technique that prevents cup bending, and tarnish care instructions. It's designed to help you get the most out of your cups from day one.
Read the Full Ritual Guide →Avoiding Moisture Build-Up and Prolonged Wear
Silver cups can trap some moisture, which supports a moist environment — but too much makes skin soggy and vulnerable.
If your skin looks wrinkled, pale, or overly damp, let nipples air dry between feeds. Take breaks from the cups if needed.
Don't wear them 24/7 unless your healthcare provider advises it. Most moms use them between daytime feeds and skip overnight if skin looks okay.
Change breast pads often if you're leaking. Trapped milk plus warmth creates conditions for irritation. For guidance on recognizing early signs of skin irritation or infection, the Mayo Clinic provides detailed reference materials on common breastfeeding complications.
Watch for red flags:
- More redness or spreading discoloration
- Shiny, tight skin
- Burning pain that's getting worse, not better
If it's not improving after a week, or pain feels deep and sharp, reach out to a lactation consultant or your provider.
Choosing and Caring for Silver Nipple Caps
Fit and care matter — a lot. And knowing when pain means you need expert help, not just another product.
Types, Brands, and Materials
Most silver nipple caps are made from sterling silver (92.5% silver, 7.5% alloy for strength), shaped like small domes. They sit over the nipple and reduce friction inside your bra.
Brands like Silverette and Go Mommy silver nursing cups all serve the same purpose, but some are deeper or have softer rolled edges. That can matter if your nipples are larger or you're dealing with postpartum swelling.
Look for:
- A smooth rim that doesn't dig into tender skin
- A size that covers the nipple without pressing hard into the areola
- Clear material documentation — a "925" or "999" purity stamp
🤔 Still Deciding Which Silver Cups to Buy?
Size, material, edge finish, and depth all affect comfort and fit. If you're comparing options and want a side-by-side breakdown of what to look for — and what to avoid — our buying guide covers it all.
Read the Buying Guide →A Note on Silver Cup Quality: Solid vs. Plated
If you're shopping for silver nipple caps, understanding the difference between solid and plated silver helps you make an informed choice.
Not all products marketed as "silver" are solid silver. Look for clear material statements and purity hallmarks. Very low prices (under $15–20) are often a sign of plated construction rather than solid silver.
🔍 How to Verify Your Cups Are Solid Silver
Not sure if your silver nursing cups are solid or plated? There are a few simple tests you can do at home — including checking for purity stamps, weight differences, and the ice test. Our detailed guide walks through each method with photos.
Read the Solid vs. Plated Guide →Longevity and Eco-Friendly Considerations
Sterling silver cups can last throughout your breastfeeding journey and beyond — many moms reuse them with subsequent babies when properly cared for.
Disposable nursing pads? You can spend $60–$120 over six months on those, plus all the waste. Reusable silver cups cut that cost and environmental impact significantly. If you're weighing the investment, our guide to choosing the best silver nipple covers helps you compare options, features, and value.
If you keep them clean, dry, and properly stored, solid silver cups maintain their function well. But dents or rough edges mean it's time to replace them — damaged cups can irritate rather than protect.
Go Mommy® Silver Nursing Cups
$46.99 ($52.99)Available in 925 Sterling & 999 Fine Silver. 30-day money-back guarantee. Use code BESTSILVER20 for 20% OFF.
Get Your Silver CupsWhen to Seek Professional Help
Silver nipple caps support comfort and have antimicrobial surface properties, but they can't fix the root cause of nipple pain. No product can replace a proper assessment.
Contact an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant), your pediatrician, or your OB-GYN if you experience any of the following:
- Pain that lasts past the first week and isn't improving
- Fever, chills, or body aches — possible signs of mastitis or systemic infection
- Spreading redness, pus, or unusual discharge from the nipple or areola
- A breast area that feels unusually warm, hard, or swollen
- Nipples come out flattened, creased, or pinched after feeds — a sign of latch issues
- Cracks that bleed or keep reopening despite careful latch adjustment
- Baby can't stay latched, makes clicking sounds, or seems frustrated during feeds
- White patches inside baby's mouth — possible oral thrush
- Baby's weight gain is slow or feeds take an unusually long time
White patches may indicate thrush — our detailed guide on thrush on nipple while breastfeeding covers symptoms, causes, and care options.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that breastfeeding support begin during prenatal care and continue postpartum. Organizations like La Leche League International can help you find local breastfeeding support groups and trained leaders in your area.
You know your body best — if something feels off, trust your gut and ask for help.
📋 Editorial Note
This content is educational and based on current breastfeeding best practices. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
When to contact a professional: If you experience persistent nipple pain beyond the first week, fever or chills, spreading redness, pus, unusual discharge, or if your baby shows signs of oral thrush (white patches in the mouth), please consult an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant), your pediatrician, or your OB-GYN.
Sources and references: Guidance in this article draws from resources published by the CDC, American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), ACOG, and Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM) Protocols.
Last reviewed: February 2026 · Content by Go Mommy editorial team
Silver Nipple Caps: Your Questions Answered
What are silver nipple caps and how do they work?
Silver nipple caps are small, dome-shaped cups made from sterling silver that sit over the nipple inside your bra between breastfeeding sessions. They reduce friction from clothing and use silver's natural antimicrobial surface properties to support skin comfort. They are worn between feeds only — never during nursing.
Are silver nipple caps safe for breastfeeding?
Silver nipple caps made from solid sterling silver (925) or fine silver (999) are safe when used correctly between feeds. Always remove them before nursing so the baby has direct skin contact. Silver cups are a supportive care accessory, not a medical device. If you experience persistent pain, fever, or signs of infection, consult your healthcare provider.
Can I use lanolin or nipple cream with silver nursing cups?
No — creams, lanolin, and balms create a barrier that blocks direct silver-to-skin contact, reducing the cups' effectiveness. Instead, express a few drops of breast milk inside the cup before wearing it. If your healthcare provider has prescribed a specific topical treatment, ask about alternating timing rather than layering products together.
What is the difference between silver nipple caps and nipple shields?
Silver nipple caps are worn between feeds to reduce friction and support skin comfort. Nipple shields are thin silicone pieces worn during feeding to help the baby latch. They serve completely different purposes — silver caps protect between sessions, while silicone shields assist during active nursing.
How do I clean silver nipple caps?
Wash silver nipple caps with warm water and mild, fragrance-free soap before first use, then once daily. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel. Between feeds, a warm water rinse is sufficient. Avoid bleach, harsh chemicals, and boiling unless the manufacturer specifically states it is safe for their product.
How long do silver nipple caps last?
Solid sterling silver nursing cups can last throughout your breastfeeding journey and be reused with subsequent babies when properly cared for. Silver-plated cups may wear through over time, exposing the base metal. Replace any cups that develop dents, rough edges, or visible wear to avoid skin irritation.
Should I choose 925 sterling or 999 fine silver?
Both 925 sterling silver and 999 fine silver are safe and effective for silver nipple caps. Sterling silver (925) is more durable and scratch-resistant, making it a practical all-around choice. Fine silver (999) offers higher purity and may be preferred by mothers with known metal sensitivities. The right choice depends on your skin sensitivity and budget.
When should I stop using silver nipple caps?
Stop using silver nipple caps once your nipples feel comfortable and you no longer experience friction-related soreness between feeds. Store them properly for potential future use — many mothers keep them for a second or third baby. If pain persists despite using cups and correcting latch, consult an IBCLC for a full assessment.
When should I see a doctor instead of using silver nipple caps?
See your healthcare provider or an IBCLC if nipple pain persists beyond one week, if you develop fever or chills, if you notice spreading redness, pus, or unusual discharge, if the breast feels unusually warm or hard, or if your baby has white patches inside their mouth. Silver cups support comfort but cannot treat infections or correct latch problems.