It’s common to need a bra size check but not have a soft measuring tape handy. Don’t worry! There are still simple ways you can estimate your size at home — plus, our free Bra Size Calculator makes double-checking easy and accurate.
Use Common Household Items to Measure
1. Use String, Ribbon, or Yarn
- Find a string, shoelace, ribbon, or any flexible, non-stretchy material.
- Wrap the string around your body just under your bust (for band size). Pinch or mark where it meets.
- Lay the string flat and measure its length with a ruler, metal tape, or even a piece of printer paper (standard paper is 11 inches/28 cm long).
- Repeat the process around the fullest part of your bust for bust size.
Tip: For extra accuracy, use a non-stretchy item and keep it level around your body.
2. Use a Belt or Phone Charging Cable
- Belts (especially fabric ones) or standard phone charging cables work the same way:
- Wrap snugly, mark the overlap, and measure the length with a ruler or yardstick.
- Take measurements for both underbust and bust as you would with a tape.
3. Use a Ruler or Folded Paper Method
- If you only have a ruler (and it’s shorter than your body circumference), measure in sections. Mark where the ruler stops and continue from that mark.
- Or, fold a piece of standard printer paper lengthwise and use it to approximate your circumference. Count how many “papers” it takes, then multiply the paper’s length by the number.
What to Do Next
Once you’ve found your measurements (even if approximate), enter them into our Bra Size Calculator. Choose inches or centimeters based on your final estimate. The tool will give you a likely bra size and fit tips—remember, this is just a starting point, and it’s always best to try on for comfort.
Extra Tips for Best Results
- Make sure your measuring tool (string, belt, cable) is not stretchy.
- Keep everything level and snug to your body but not tight or compressing.
- Take multiple measurements for accuracy and average them if needed.
- When in doubt, round up for your bust and down for your band size.
- If you’re between sizes, our calculator can recommend which direction to try.
Final Recommendation
No tape? No problem! With a little creativity, you can still get a surprisingly good bra size estimate right at home.
Ready to check your result? Head to our Bra Size Calculator and enter what you found — you’ll get instant, personalized guidance on your best fit.