13 Best Maternity Pajamas for Actually Getting a Good Night’s Sleep

checked mark Fact-Checked by Erin Cavoto  | January 18, 2024
Best Maternity Pajamas

Quick summary

The best maternity pajamas are the Stars Above Short Sleeve Top and Pants Pajama Set, according to moms on the What to Expect staff and in the What to Expect community, because of their comfortable loose-fit, extra-soft fabric and versatility to wear postpartum, too.

In This Article

When you’re pregnant, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with sporting oversized tees and baggy sweatpants to bed. But sometimes it’s nice to wear a pair of pajamas designed to fit and comfort your growing body. 

I hesitated to spend money on anything “extra” during my first pregnancy, and that included new pajamas. But once I reached my second trimester and too-tight sleep shorts kept me up at night, I realized maternity pajamas may be a necessity. Investing in sleepwear that catered to my changing body made me much more comfortable, allowing me to avoid the infamous pregnancy insomnia. Not to mention, I was able to wear my pregnancy pajamas postpartum, as they were suited for breastfeeding, too. 

Obviously, maternity pajamas won’t cure all your pregnancy sleep problems. But they can provide a little bit of comfort, which may be all you need to get some rest.  

How we chose the best maternity pajamas

When I could no longer tolerate my non-pregnancy sleep shorts, I tried on many, many pairs of pregnancy pajamas. My experience helped me define the criteria used for this list. All of the pajamas on it have:

  • A style that can accommodate a growing bump
  • Soft, comfortable fabric
  • A versatile design for wearing postpartum, too

The resulting winners won rave reviews from myself, but also from hundreds of moms in the What to Expect Community and What to Expect staff members, three of whom personally contributed to the research for this story.

Why Trust Us?

What to Expect is the world’s most trusted pregnancy and parenting brand for a reason. Our product recommendations are based on expert parent insight, advice from medical professionals and feedback from the millions of parents and parents-to-be in our community. Our editors adhere to the highest research and reporting standards and our team of vetted OB/GYNs, pediatricians and other health professionals ensure our recommended products are safe and effective for you and your baby.

Best Overall Maternity Pajamas

Stars Above Short Sleeve Notch Collar Top and Pants Pajama Set

Best Maternity Pajamas - Target Stars Above
Buying Options
Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Soft
  • Loose-fit
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Pants run long

Material: 95% modal, 5% spandex

Size range: XS-XXL

Colors available: 4

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

The classic style of this Target pajama set makes it instantly appealing, but it’s the design that makes it a go-to for many What to Expect moms. The button-down top is loose — not baggy — giving your bump and breasts plenty of room to grow. Similarly, the wide-leg pants are surprisingly roomy, and feature a waistband drawstring so you can adjust the fit with ease. 

“I practically lived in those during my last trimester,” says Leah Rocketto, What to Expect’s Associate Commerce Director. “The modal fabric is incredibly soft and lightweight, making it extremely comfortable. And because they're a loose design, they easily grow with your body.”

Because of the stretchy fabric and loose fit, Leah says you can purchase the Stars Above pajamas in your regular size, which increases their longevity. Leah continued wearing them postpartum, praising the button-down top for being breastfeeding-friendly. 

Some shorter women, including Leah, find the pants to be a bit longer than they would typically prefer. If that’s a concern, or you get hot while you sleep, there is a similar set that comes with shorts

Community Reviews
  • “I love the pajama sets from target! They are so light weight and comfy I wear them every day while at home lol”

  • “Stars Above from target is my FAVORITEEEE  so unbelievably soft!!”

  • “I’ve really been liking the Stars Above brand from target, they are super soft and stretchy!"

  • “The stars above are for sure the best IMO… I am pretty picky about pjs and I buy only them.”

Best Short Sleeve Maternity Pajamas Set

Uniqlo AIRism Cotton Short-Sleeve Pajamas

Best Maternity Pajamas - Uniqlo Airism Pajamas
Buying Options
Pros
  • Soft
  • Quick-dry
  • C-section friendly
Cons
  • Not stretchy so may need to size up

Material: 74% cotton, 26% polyester

Size range: XS-XXL

Colors available: 3

Why We Love It

Uniqlo’s AIRism Cotton Short-Sleeve Pajamas are designed so air flows through the fabric, keeping hot sleepers cool and comfortable. Plus, they’re quick-drying, which means they won’t absorb and retain any nighttime sweat. Made with a smooth, cotton-poly blend, these pajamas have an adorable contrast piping detail and  deep pockets, perfect for keeping your phone handy or to store pacifiers after your baby’s born. 

“I went up a size in Uniqlo pajama sets and they are the softest PJs ever,” says Melissa Bykofsky, What to Expect’s Executive Editor. “I lived in them while pregnant and postpartum, even at the hospital for days post C-section.”

Note that because the material lacks something extra stretchy like spandex or elastane, you may want to size up just like Melissa did, especially since these PJs aren’t maternity-specific.

Best Long Sleeve Maternity Pajamas

Nordstrom Moonlight Eco Long Sleeve Stretch Modal Short Pajamas

Best Maternity Pajamas - Nordstrom Moonlight Pajamas
Buying Options
Pros
  • C-section friendly
  • Long-lasting
Cons
  • Pricey

Material: 91% Tencel modal, 9% spandex

Size range: XXS-XXL

Colors available: 5

Why We Love It

The classic button-down top and soft, flowy shorts (or pants!) are only some of the reasons we love the Nordstrom Moonlight Eco Long Sleeve Knit Pajamas. Made of extremely soft tencel modal cotton and a touch of spandex for stretch for ultimate comfort, especially if you had a C-section. 

“I had a few pairs of the Nordstrom Moonlight pajamas and loved them,” says Olivia DeLong, What to Expect’s Senior Health Editor. “In fact, I still love wearing these PJs 4 years later! They are super stretchy and comfortable which was great as I recovered from a C-section. The button down tops made them perfect for exclusive pumping, and they washed extremely well.”

What’s more is that the stretch waistband has elastic and a drawstring, so you can easily adjust the fit as you grow, and then use them again after baby arrives.

Best Maternity Pajama Pants

Little Sleepies Women’s Pajama Pants

Best Maternity Pajamas - Little Sleepies Pajama Pants
Buying Options
Pros
  • Multiple colors and patterns
  • Soft
  • Bamboo is gentle on sensitive skin
Cons
  • Only bottoms

Material: Lanaluxe bamboo

Size range: XS-3XL

Colors available: Various options across site

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

Little Sleepies’ kids and baby pajamas are well-loved by parents, but moms in our What to Expect community say they truly love snuggling up in Little Sleepies pajama pants throughout pregnancy and beyond. 

Though not specifically made for maternity wear, the soft and gentle bamboo material has plenty of natural stretch and the pants come with an adjustable drawstring waistband. The pant legs have a relaxed fit that tapers into jogger-style ankle cuffs for feeling a little bit put together even if you’re just wearing them lounging around the house. The deep pockets are also great for holding onto your phone. Because Little Sleepies rotates their color and pattern options regularly, keep an eye on their website to see what’s in stock.

Community Reviews
  • “little sleepies brand! They make great stuff for moms and material is so soft”

  • “omggggg Little Sleepies brand (but for adults!!!) I live in them.”

  • “So my kids have had Little Sleepies pajamas for years, but my husband got me a pair for Christmas and omg. I’m hooked. They’re SO SOFT. And nice and stretchy.”

Best Maternity Pajama Shorts

Motherhood Maternity Sleep and Lounge Shorts

Best Maternity Pajamas - Motherhood Maternity Sleep Shorts
Buying Options
Amazon
Amazon
$30 for two
See Now Opens a new window Motherhood_Maternity
Motherhood Maternity
$20
See Now Opens a new window
Pros
  • Not just for sleep
  • Lightweight
  • Ample stretch
Cons
  • Short in length

Material: 57% cotton, 38% modal, 5% spandex

Size range: S-XL

Colors available: 3

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

Motherhood Maternity sleep shorts were my go-to when pregnant. The lightweight cotton material paired with the loose design was perfect for the Texas summer heat. The pajamas also had enough stretch to cradles and support my bump. I didn’t find them too short to wear out and about (on walks around my neighborhood, for example), but I’m only 5’2”, so taller moms might not feel comfortable sporting these anywhere but bed. 

Community Reviews
  • “I LOVED the motherhood maternity pajamas shorts and pants. I still wear them now even though they’re loose! They’re so comfy and stretch nicely with you as you grow and they don’t have any tight elastic in the waist.”

Best Maternity Nightgown

Kindred Bravely Lucille Maternity and Nursing Nightgown

Best Maternity Pajamas - Kindred Bravely Lucille
Buying Options
Pros
  • Lace top
  • Clip-down nursing access
  • C-section friendly
Cons
  • Runs small

Material: 95% modal, 5% spandex

Size range: XS-2X

Colors available: 5

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

Nightgowns are a game changer during pregnancy, as well as postpartum: because they are loose fitting and free form waistbands, you don't have to worry about any extra pressure on your belly. Unfortunately, very few nightgowns are as stylish as this option from Kindred Bravely. The top cinches to provide some structure, while the flowy skirt provides plenty of room and air flow to keep you comfortable. Not to mention the lace details add a little bit of style. As an added bonus, the top has a clip-down design for easy access when nursing.

Community Reviews
  • I ordered the kindred braverly nightgowns when they were on sale over Christmas. I was impressed with their comfort but order a size up as my boobies were kinda falling out of the small”

  • I love their nursing night gown, the one with the lace top makes me feel very pretty and put together.”

Best Maternity Pajamas for Hospital

Frida Mom Delivery and Nursing Gown

Best Maternity Pajamas - Frida Mom Labor and Delivery Gown
Pros
  • Tagless
  • Snap closures in front and back
  • Has pockets
Cons
  • Only one size and color available

Material: 100% Viscose

Size range: One size (XS-XL)

Colors available: 1

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

The Frida Mom gown is specifically designed to be worn during labor and delivery: Snaps run vertically down the back, giving doctors easy access for epidural or fetal monitor, while still providing you plenty of coverage. There are similar snaps along the chest, so you can easily unsnap and roll down for instant skin-to-skin contact. 

“The material is so soft, which provides the comfort you crave during labor and delivery,” says Leah, who wore this when giving birth to her daughter. “And it has pockets, so I was able to keep my phone on me.” Leah notes, however, that the Frida Mom gown is a bit heavy. Though Leah appreciated this during her daughter’s February birth, she says moms who run hot or give birth in the summer may not like it. 

Though it only comes in one size, the super soft jersey material stretches to accommodate a waist size from 36 to 48 inches and a bust of up to 50 inches, so there’s room to work with.

Community Reviews
  • “I wore a Frida Mom labor/delivery gown for my recovery in the hospital. It was perfect! Easy snaps for skin to skin, not too hot or too cold, super soft.”

  • “I bought the Frida mom gown and LOVED it for delivery, so comfy as my labor was 24 hours”

  • “I just wore the Frida gown yesterday! It was perfect and worked great with the monitor and placement of the epidural!”

Best Maternity Pajamas With Robe

Seraphine 3-Piece Jersey Loungewear Set

Best Maternity Pajamas - Seraphine 3-Piece Jersey Loungewear Set
Buying Options
Seraphine_Maternity
Seraphine Maternity
$135
See Now Opens a new window
Pros
  • Includes a 3-piece set
  • Versatile
  • Nursing-friendly top
Cons
  • Pricey
  • Lay flat to dry

Material: 95% viscose, 5% elastane

Size range: XS-XXL

Colors available: 1

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

Equal parts chic and cozy, this maternity pajama set from Seraphine is worth the investment. The loose-fitting tank top can accommodate your bump, and also offers convenient and discrete openings for nursing. The pants have a wide-leg design with a stretchy below-the-bump waistband and drawstring so you can customize the fit throughout the trimesters. To top it all off, the soft robe has contrast piping, so you’ll always look put together despite the chaos of pregnancy and postpartum life. 

One drawback to consider, however, is that you have to lay this pajama set flat to dry after it’s washed.

Community Reviews
  • “Seraphine has really pretty bamboo pj sets/nightgowns and robes. Its ok pricey but mine have held up perfectly for 3 kiddos now”

Best Nursing Maternity Pajamas

Ekouaer Maternity and Nursing Long Johns

Best Maternity Pajamas - Ekouaer Maternity and Nursing Long Johns
Buying Options
Pros
  • Easy breastfeeding access
  • Adjustable waistband
Cons
  • Fitted through arms and legs

Material: 95% polyester, 5% spandex

Size range: S-XXL

Colors available: 20

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

The quality of Ekouaer’s maternity and nursing pajamas is hard to beat, especially for the price. This long John pajama set has an adjustable waistband with elastic button extenders to ensure a perfect fit throughout your pregnancy. The top offers discreet pull-to-the-side nursing access without any snaps or buttons to worry about fiddling with or aggravating your skin. These PJs are also made from a soft and stretchy polyester-spandex blend that’ll keep you comfortable and warm. Both the top and bottom are fitted, so they’re also great for layering when it’s cold out.

Community Reviews
  • “I used these with my first and loved them. They have an adjustable band on the pants so they will fit all through postpartum. And they don’t have buttons, snaps, or zips that can get annoying.”

Best Plus-Size Maternity Pajamas

Stars Above Soft Short Sleeve Notch Collar Top and Shorts Pajama Set

Best Maternity Pajamas - Stars Above Pajamas Set
Buying Options
Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Adjustable shorts
Cons
  • Some said fabric can appear see-through on lighter colors

Material: 95% modal, 5% spandex

Size range: XS-4X

Colors available: 6

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

The popular Target pajamas are loved by plus-size moms in our What to Expect community. This particular Stars Above set includes a short-sleeve button-down shirt and pull-on drawstring shorts, so you’ll stay cool and comfortable throughout the night. But they’re also capri- and full-length pants sets available in plus sizes, too. 

The buttery soft modal fabric is soft and lightweight, and the pull-on design makes it easy to slip into relaxation mode after a long day. The touch of spandex in the material also offers the right amount of stretch to accommodate your bump. Moms also love that the piped edging gives the set a more upscale look for pregnancy or postpartum wear — it’s great for when guests drop by to meet the baby! For easy care, simply machine wash and tumble dry.

Community Reviews
  • “As for jammies, I sized up in these and they are super stretchy and comfy. I have the shorts/top and dress version and bonus they're both breastfeeding friendly if you plan to do that.”

Best Silk Maternity Pajamas

Eberjey Inez Washable Silk Short PJ Set

Best Maternity Pajamas - Eberjey Silk Pajamas
Buying Options
Pros
  • Machine washable silk
  • Extremely smooth
Cons
  • Expensive

Material: 100% washable silk

Size range: XS-XL

Colors available: 7

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

Though this silk sleepwear set from Eberjey is definitely expensive, they have several amazing qualities that make them worth the price. First, they’re made from 100% washable — yes, machine washable — silk. You will need to lay them flat to dry, but the fact that they don’t have to be dry-cleaned is pretty spectacular. Next, the mid-rise shorts have a relaxed fit and the elastic waistband can stretch to accommodate an expanding midsection. Finally, the button-down top is super convenient to breastfeed in, so you’ll likely wear them well beyond your baby’s birth. They come in several different color choices and can also be monogrammed for an additional fee.

Community Reviews
  • Eberjay!! Worth every penny. I got a pair for Christmas and plan on getting a few more. They seem like they would be great for BF too”

  • “eberjays!!! I lived in mine especially after my c section”

Best Bamboo Maternity Pajamas

Kindred Bravely Clea Classic Short Sleeve Maternity & Nursing Pajama Set

Best Maternity Pajamas - Kindred Bravely Clea Pajama Set
Buying Options
Pros
  • Super soft
  • Cooling bamboo material
  • Stretchy
Cons
  • Pricier than similar options

Material: 95% viscose from bamboo, 5% spandex

Size range: S-XXL/1X

Colors available: 5

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

Crafted from premium bamboo fabric, these ultra-soft pajamas are not only perfect for pregnancy but can seamlessly transition into breastfeeding-friendly pajamas, too. 

“A friend gave me these, and I found them quite soft and stretchy,” says Leah, who primarily wore them post-baby. “I like that the buttons were easy to operate with one-hand, for more seamless nursing. Plus, the shorts have pockets to hold my phone, which I was especially grateful for when dealing with new mom brain.” 

The shorts also feature an elastic waistband to accommodate size fluctuations and have a 3.5-inch inseam so they shouldn’t ride up or feel too short. They can be machine-washed and dried on a low-heat setting, which Leah found particularly helpful when she forgot to wear nursing pads. 

Though many find the pajamas to be light and cooling, Leah found them to be heavier than the Stars Above pajamas.

Community Reviews
  • “Kindred bravely, you can get them on amazon. They’re also nursing pajamas so you can continue wearing them after giving birth. Sooooo soft and stretchy!! I absolutely love it and will definitely get another set!”

  • “yesssss I have their bamboo short sleeve/shorts set and they are so soft and comfy!”

  • I’m obsessed with their pajamas! So comfy and soft!”

  • I loooove kindred bravely. I have so many of their things, so comfy!”

Best Luxury Maternity Pajamas

Lake Pajamas DreamKnit Kimono Set

Best Maternity Pajamas - Lake Pajamas Set
Buying Options
Pros
  • Super soft
  • Long-lasting
  • Stretchy
Cons
  • Lay flat to dry

Material: 95% modal, 5% spandex

Size range: XXS-XXL

Colors available: 6

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

Looking to treat yourself? Lake Pajamas are worth the splurge, according to the glowing recommendations from moms in our What to Expect community. The DreamKint Kimono Set, in particular, offers a luxurious — yet extremely comfy — look with a wrap top, flowy sleeves and wide-leg bottoms so you can feel a little glamorous even in sleepwear.

Though not specifically designed as maternity wear, the waistband offers plenty of stretch, and the wrap top has an adjustable interior tie to accommodate your belly and give you breastfeeding access. The set is machine-washable but should be laid flat to dry, which can be a drawback if you typically just throw all of your pajamas in the dryer.

Community Reviews
  • “THESE. I splurged my last pregnancy and am totally going to again.”

  • “I am OBSESSED. With this brand. They are the softest things ever and get softer with every wear and wash!”

  • 100% go with LAKE pajamas. The dream knit kimono set is to die for. I lived in it last pregnancy/postpartum and will again for this one. They fit me when I’m not pregnant too. They also have great maternity specific sets!”

How to Shop for Maternity Pajamas

Based on feedback from What to Expect staff and community members, as well as my own experience, here are the most important things to consider when shopping for maternity pajamas:

  • Comfort: Consider soft materials like bamboo, cotton, satin or modal fabrics which are designed to be gentle against your sensitive pregnancy skin. If you tend to get hot when you sleep, you should look into lightweight, cooling fabrics like bamboo or cotton. Also, you’ll want to look for pajama bottoms with an adjustable drawstring or a nightgown, as neither puts added pressure on your bump.  
  • Stretch: When looking at the fabric, you’ll want to make sure it has a bit of give to accommodate your growing bump. If it doesn’t, look for an adjustable waist. 
  • Fit: Most maternity clothes brands recommend purchasing your pre-pregnancy size. However, if you’re planning to buy pajamas that aren’t specifically designed for maternity wear, you may want to size up so they’ll continue to fit throughout pregnancy and during postpartum.
  • Functionality: If you plan to wear your maternity pajamas postpartum (which will be super handy in the first few months after giving birth), consider whether or not you’ll need access for breastfeeding. For pajamas that you pack in your hospital bag, a nightgown or delivery gown that offers easy access for doctors and nurses during labor and delivery is best.

FAQs

There are a variety of retailers that sell maternity clothes, and many of them also make pregnancy pajamas. You can shop online for a wide range of brands specializing in pregnancy and postpartum clothing like Kindred Bravely, SeraphineMotherhood Maternity and more. Big-box retailers like TargetWalmart and even Costco typically stock maternity pajamas that you can shop for online and in person. However, you can often shop for regular pajamas from these retailers as well and simply size up.

You do not need to buy maternity pajamas, as long as you’re comfortable. If, however, you find your non-maternity pajamas are too tight or you want a set that’ll work for breastfeeding, you may want to consider investing in maternity pajamas.