What are the best bras for a one-handed person to use?

Struggling with essential tasks (like dressing) due to injury or disability can be frustrating, and it’s often because the products or clothing being used aren’t as thoughtfully designed as they should be. 

For those with limited hand mobility or limb differences, finding the right bra that offers both support and ease of use is essential. 

Putting on a traditional hook and eye bra can be very challenging for those with limited hand or arm mobility, shoulder injuries, an amputation, a broken bone,or any other mobility impacting condition. The hooks in the back require a high degree of mobility and dexterity that is not always available. 

We’re going to look at one-handed adaptive bras and highlight the best options available when it comes to innovative features and comfort.

One-Handed Adaptive Bras

One-handed adaptive bras are specially designed to accommodate people who may have limited hand mobility or the use of only one hand. 

These bras feature innovative designs and functional elements that make them easy to put on and take off without additional assistance. From unique closure mechanisms to adjustable straps, these bras prioritize convenience and accessibility without compromising on support or, importantly, style. 

How To Put On A Bra One-Handed

At Springrose we have developed a bra for one handed people that is easy to put on, comfortable to wear, and beautiful in appearance. 

The primary goal of our one hand bra is to provide convenience and independence in the dressing routine. By incorporating thoughtful design elements, such as our innovative front closure with Velcro hook and loop, the one arm bra allows individuals to effortlessly don and fasten their bras with a single hand.

How to put a bra on with one hand: step-by-step 

Putting on a bra with one hand may seem daunting at first, but with the right technique and the help of adaptive features, it's achievable.

When we talk through the technique below we’re going to focus on the Springrose adaptive bra to show how effectively Velcro front fastens can simplify the dressing process.

It’s important that you dress in a suitable environment. If you are concerned about balance or avoiding injury or strain you might even want to dress sitting down. This isn’t a problem for putting on or taking off most adaptive bras.

Step 1

You should be aiming to put the bra on like you might put on a jacket. Keep the Velcro fastenings attached on one side and open up the front Velcro hook and loop strap of the side where you do have a mobile hand or arm. 

Step 2

Slide the non-mobile or missing arm (e.g., the amputated arm, paralyzed arm, limb difference) through the hole created by the shoulder strap. Rest the shoulder strap on your shoulder.

Step 3a

Reach back with your mobile arm. Slide your arm through the other shoulder strap hole and bring the strap up to your shoulder. 

Step 3b

If that movement isn’t possible for you, reach around the front of your body, over your non-mobile or missing limb, until you’ve grasped the hanging shoulder strap. Move your arm in a circular motion around the back of your head bringing the strap with you to the mobile side of your body. Slide your arm through the hole and bring the shoulder strap up to your shoulder. 

Step 4

Make sure the shoulder straps aren’t twisted and that the bra cups are in front of or next to your breasts. 

Step 5

Grasp the open, rigid Velcro strap and move it towards the metal rectangle on the other front strap. Loop the Velcro strap through the rectangle, grab from the tip from the other side and pull fully, attaching the strap to the Velcro on the bra underband.

Check in the mirror or with your fingers to make sure no Velcro is visible to reduce the chance that it could rub against your skin.

Tips for improving the one arm bra fit

1. Make sure to adjust the shoulder straps to an appropriate tightness to improve support. The straps should not feel like they are digging on your shoulders, but that they are supporting your breasts. 
2. Check to make sure the Velcro is properly aligned. If this is challenging, aim the strap downward when attaching. It’s better to have the strap exposed than the Velcro on the underband, because the strap has the loop part (e.g., soft part of the Velcro).
3. If the band feels too tight or too loose, adjust the back closure. Try to avoid loosening from the front, because this reduces the support (unless this does not matter to you, then do whatever you want). 

At Springrose, we seek to improve quality of life for individuals with limited mobility or disabilities. The creation of the one arm bra represents our first patent-pending innovation in the space and was co-created with hundreds of women and clinicians. It is a significant step forward in empowering those with limited mobility, enabling them to effortlessly dress themselves with grace and ease. 

Here is the entire one handed bra demonstration as a video:

The Best Bras For A One-Handed Person

Best One-Handed Bra Features

So what features are most important for a one-handed bra?

Velcro Fastens 

One of the most frustrating parts of a traditional bra for one-handed use is the hook and eye fastening mechanism. It can be an almost impossible task and often requires assistance. Velcro (or magnetic) fastens solve this problem. These adaptive fastens can be easily secured with just one hand.

The adjustable nature of Velcro also ensures a customized fit, accommodating fluctuations in swelling or joint sensitivity.

Additional O Rings 

Bra designs incorporating additional O-rings offer simplified fastening options. They’re accessible for those who find grip difficult or those who simply want to speed up their dressing routine.

These rings provide sturdy anchor points for straps or closures, making it easier to manipulate and adjust the bra for a comfortable fit.

Wireless Design

Wireless bras are often easier to wear if you have one hand or limited use of your hands. They’re more comfortable during the dressing process and more simple to adjust throughout the day if needed. 

Many adaptive bras use soft but stretchy materials to maintain support even though there isn’t any wire.

Front Adjusting Straps 

Front-adjusting straps eliminate the need to reach behind the back, simplifying adjustments with one hand. Being able to see fastens as you adapt them can make the entire process more simple, rather than removing the bra and having to readjust.

Multiple Ways To Wear 

Versatile bra designs that offer multiple wearing options cater to many different accessible needs. Whether they have O-rings or front fastens, these bras provide flexibility and ensure comfort.

More About Our One-Handed Bra Company

Springrose is a company committed to creating high quality intimates that are not only incredibly functional but also look and feel great.

Created in collaboration with over 500 women with limited mobility and perfected with insight from 30+ PTs and OTs, Springrose products are designed to make every day easier --- and to help you feel great whilst doing it.

Read more about Springrose.