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Best feeding pillow for babies


Best Nursing Pillows 2022

The best nursing pillows give you the support you need while you feed your baby, whether that’s at your breast or from a bottle. They help you get comfortable with the new routine and prevent the back, shoulder, arm and wrist pain that can come along with it when you’re too sleep-deprived to think about things like posture.

The best nursing pillows help parents safely position baby for nursing or bottle feeding.

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After speaking with lactation and baby gear experts and testing nursing pillows myself with my 3-month-old daughter (who is in the midst of the dreaded triple feed as she perfects her latch—we’re nursing, pumping and doing bottles), I’ve found that the Boppy Original Feeding and Infant Support Pillow is the best nursing pillow for all types of feeding support, while the My Brest Friend Original Nursing Posture Pillow, with its buckle and foam filling, is the best adjustable pillow specifically for nursing. It’s especially helpful for first-time moms like me who are learning to breastfeed.

Just remember: When you’re using a nursing pillow for feeding, its purpose is to support you, not your baby. “The pillow is meant to be supportive for mom, to get you comfortable, support your wrist and help prevent back pain,” says Gina Signorelli, MS, RDN, CNSC, IBCLC, a lactation consultant and registered dietitian based in New Jersey. “In most of the pictures you see with them, babies are positioned on them, but they’re really for mom.”

Your breast size, body size, birth, and prior feeding experience help determine into the best nursing pillow for you, Signorelli explains. Read more about how to select right pillow for you after our top picks. With all of this in mind, we’ve rounded up the best nursing pillows to minimize your stress and maximize the snuggles. When you’re finished reading about these pillows, check out our recommendations for the best nursing bras, bottle warmers, nursery gliders and baby monitors.

  • Best Nursing Pillow Overall: The Boppy
  • Best Nursing Pillow for Large Breasts: Blessed Nest Nesting Pillow
  • Best Adjustable Nursing Pillow: My Brest Friend
  • Best Organic Nursing Pillow: Snuggle Me Feeding Support
  • Best Twin Nursing Pillow: Twin Z Pillow
  • Best Nursing Pillow for C-Section: Luna Lullaby
  • Best Travel Nursing Pillow: My Brest Friend Inflatable Nursing Pillow

Best Nursing Pillow Overall

Flexible, Lightweight Support For Mom And Baby

Amazon

Boppy Nursing Pillow

Boppy is the Kleenex of breastfeeding pillows—it’s synonymous with the category, and it’s great for a variety of purposes. The Boppy is a good choice for you if “you’re a seasoned pro at breastfeeding and can get by with a bit less support, are nursing an older baby, are mostly bottle feeding or simply don’t want a pillow that you need to clip into place each time,” says Jennifer LaBracio, senior gear editor for the baby registry service Babylist. com.

The Boppy is softer and more flexible than pillows designed specifically for breastfeeding, such as the My Brest Friend, our Best Adjustable Nursing Pillow pick (see below). “It’s also multipurpose,” adds LaBracio. “You can use it for supervised propping, tummy time and sitting support as your baby grows.”

This little U-shape pillow has earned its status at the top of most people’s registries, including mine. It’s just firm enough, machine washable and its cover comes in a zillion prints and colors. My husband even likes to put it behind his back when he’s giving our baby her bottle, because we have a deep sofa. I like to put it under my legs to draw my knees closer in when I nurse her. Now that she’s bigger, I’ll also prop her up in it on a blanket while I fold laundry. It’s essentially just a little prop pillow that can be used in a number of ways given its size.

The Boppy isn’t perfect for every parent, of course. It can be too small for many people to use around their waist. (This was true for me postpartum, and I was a size 6.) Also, because the top of the cushion is rounded, a small baby can slide into the gap between the pillow and your body while nursing, which can make it difficult to keep her in a comfortable position.

Best Nursing Pillow For Large Breasts

Flexible Filling Lets The Parent Customize The Fit

Amazon

The Nesting Pillow

This pillow resembles a large crescent-shaped bean bag and that means you mold it to fit you rather than wrangling it around your body. The nonallergenic organic buckwheat hull filling is easy to push around and reposition to make room for your baby (and boobs). The buckwheat hulls “lock” together in the position you squish them into, so your custom shape sticks.

The pillow and filling are totally organic, which earns it accolades from parents looking for a natural option. This differentiates it from pillows with a synthetic polyester fill (although those can be machine washed). The Nesting Pillow insert can’t be machine washed because of the dried hulls inside, but it can be spot cleaned and sanitized in the dryer; the preshrunk cotton cover can be machine washed and dried.

Attention, parents of frequent spit-uppers: Reviewers praise The Nesting Pillow for babies who have reflux and need to be fed at an angle given that it can be molded into a sloped shape.

Best Adjustable Nursing Pillow

An Extra Firm Pillow For Newcomers

Amazon

My Brest Friend Original Nursing Posture Pillow

“The Brest Friend is a generally good one that a lot of moms have success with,” says Signorelli. It has a foam filling instead of cotton, so it’s firmer and creates more of a “shelf” for your arms to rest on. If you’re nursing, especially for the first time, this is the pillow most lactation consultants recommend.

Other baby gear experts recommend it too. “During the newborn months and even a little beyond, a nursing pillow like the My Brest Friend that’s specifically designed for breastfeeding and has a firm, flat surface and full wraparound support to help it stay in place (and avoid a gap between you and the pillow) is best for most breastfeeding parents,” says LaBracio of Babylist. com.

This has been true in my personal experience: The My Brest Friend is the only pillow that has actually helped me with the tricky mechanics of nursing. Other kinds do help me feel more comfortable and less achy, but this pillow does one better and helps me with positioning. I have trouble keeping my babe level—especially her legs as they wrap around my side. This pillow takes care of that for me, so I can focus on her latch and swallowing; it frees up my arm and hand, so I can make adjustments if I need to.

The foam insert is spot clean only, but the outer cover is machine washable. You can also upgrade to a “deluxe” version with a pocket—perfect for a water bottle for you.

Best Organic Nursing Pillow

A Soft Brushed Cotton Cover in Beautiful Modern Colors

Amazon

Snuggle Me Organic Feeding Support

If you’re like me and have a palette for your baby’s room (mine is apricot, dusty rose and cream), you’ll love Snuggle Me. The soft organic cotton covers come in an array of muted pastel tones, stripes and florals the company achieves using gentle water-based dyes. If you’re really into coordinating, you can buy an infant lounger to match.

But the Snuggle Me isn’t all style and no substance: The moon-like crescent shape, with its tapered ends, also offers great support for arms and wrists and fits more easily around a range of bodies than many other nursing pillows. This nursing pillow “tucks nicely behind your back to hug your sides while nursing,” says Babylist.com’s Jennifer LaBracio. “I also love the modern design and beautiful color choices.”

Note to parents: Don’t use this pillow to prop up baby or for tummy time. It’s for feeding support only. You can, however, repurpose it as a pretty accent pillow.

Best Twin Nursing Pillow

An Extra ‘Arm’ For Double Feeds

Amazon

The Twin Z Pillow

Twin moms and dads rave about this nursing pillow, which basically can function as a command center for the first few crazy weeks. “We just had twins and this is the only way my wife can feed both at once,” says one reviewer. Another raves: “A lifesaver for twins! We still use it to this day, and the boys are 14 months.”

The center flips up for a backrest for mom, while babies lounge on either side. The buckle at the bottom closes the loops to better support smaller babies.

You can’t machine wash the pillow itself (it’s big), but the cover can go in the washer and dryer.

Best Nursing Pillow for C-Section

Support That Won’t Irritate Stitches

MOST POPULAR

Luna Lullaby

Luna Lullaby Nursing Pillow

The L-shape of this pillow is genius: It can lie across your lap and under your arm without hugging against your belly—perfect for C-section moms. But moms and dads of all shapes and sizes might find they prefer this more open, flexible shape, too. Another distinguishing factor is the cover’s unique fold-over closure—no Velcro, zippers, snaps or buttons to deal with here. The cover is also machine washable and can go in the dryer.

Best Travel Nursing Pillow

An Inflatable Pillow That Fits In Your Carry-On

Amazon

My Brest Friend Inflatable Travel Nursing Pillow

Like its stellar foam counterpart, this inflatable nursing pillow provides excellent support specifically for nursing, but it weighs less than a pound and packs flat to fit in your diaper bag or carry-on. Reviewers also note that it fits easily between armrests on most airplane seats and is excellent for supporting baby during the flight.

Some reviewers say it deflates easily or doesn’t get firm enough, but others refute that passionately and say they prefer it to the original foam version. I’m going to test it out on our upcoming flight to Ireland with babe in tow (she’ll be 5 months old) and will report back, so check back in soon.

Is A Breastfeeding Pillow Worth It?

“Nine times out of 10 you don’t really need a nursing pillow, but many first time moms can feel more comfortable with one,” says Signorelli. Feeding is one of the more stressful parts of parenting, and if gear helps you feel supported and prepared, then it can be useful.

Many breastfeeding pillows, like the Boppy, are versatile too. They can be repurposed as a seat or tummy time prop for baby. They’re also nice to place under your legs or behind your back for story time.

A nursing pillow that is washable or has a washable cover is also a great item to hand down to a family member or friend who is expecting.

That being said, you may find that a regular sofa or bed pillow works just as well—or even better—for you. It’s hard to know until you start feeding.

How Do I Use A Feeding Pillow?

The specifics depend on the type of pillow and how you’re feeding the baby. Regardless, use the pillow to get yourself comfortable, then add baby. “Most moms go wrong by laying the baby on the pillow and trying to figure it out from there,” says Signorelli. It’s tricky to reposition the pillow once you’ve got a wriggling baby lying on it.

If you’re nursing, settle in with the pillow around your waist, under your arm and wrist, or behind your back, then bring the baby to your chest.

If you’re bottle feeding, get your arm and wrist comfy, then place the baby at a 45 degree angle (not quite sitting up) to take the bottle.

How Do I Choose A Nursing Pillow?

Consider these factors: Your body and breast sizes, the pillow’s firmness and fill, its adjustability (some have an adjustable belt to hold it snug to your body), machine washability (the cover and the pillow itself), your budget and your baby (or babies). If you’ve nursed before or will be doing a combination of bottle feeding and nursing, you may not need as much structured support.

If you deliver by C-section, for instance, you may find a pillow that doesn’t rest on your stomach to be more comfortable in the early weeks. But if you have a long torso, you’ll want a taller pillow. First time parents may want a firmer pillow that buckles on to help keep it and their baby in the correct position. The most universal shape is the U-shape or C-shape. “If in doubt, get that,” Signorelli says.

One caveat: If you’re nursing, you may want to wait until your baby has nailed her latch and gotten into a good routine to introduce a pillow. Using one can tempt you to lean forward instead of bringing the baby to you, says Signorelli. That posture can result in a shallow latch, which can make feeding more difficult and even painful for you. “Just remember what the pillow is for,” Signorelli reminds. “The number one priority is Mom’s comfort.”

For twins, you’ll want an extra wide pillow or something like the Twin Z.

Do You Need More Than One Nursing Pillow?

If you find that you like using a nursing pillow, it’s a nice idea to have one in each of the areas of the house where you feed baby. You’ll save yourself from dashing back and forth when you’ve got a fussy, hungry baby in your arms. This is especially true if your home has more than a single level.

How Much Do Nursing Pillows Cost?

Pillows range from $30 to well over $100. You can buy something utilitarian or decorative—and, for many models, choose from dozens of designer covers.

Is It Safe For Baby To Sleep In A Nursing Pillow?

No. The only safe place for baby to sleep is on a flat, firm surface without any surrounding cushions, pillows, or blankets, such as in a bassinet or crib. If your little one drifts off while feeding, place her in her crib on her back to sleep. Never place a nursing pillow in a baby’s sleep space.

The Best Nursing Pillows for Feeding Baby

There aren’t many baby products that give you the amazing return on investment that you get from a nursing pillow. It’s one piece of baby gear you’ll use for hours a day, months at a time. Finding the best nursing pillow for you can save your back and shoulders, help you relax and get your milk flowing—all while keeping baby comfortable too. Even if baby gets a bottle instead of the breast, a feeding pillow helps cradle your little one in a comfy position so your arms don’t have to do all the work. Sound good? Here’s your handy guide to shopping for this handy must-have.

In this article:
What is a nursing pillow?
How to use a nursing pillow
How to choose the best nursing pillow
Best nursing pillows

What Is a Nursing Pillow?

A nursing pillow isn’t just any household pillow. Bed pillows are generally so soft that your child will sink down too low, and throw pillows aren’t always comfy against the skin. Both types, which are generally rectangular or circular, are also the wrong shape. The best nursing pillow is rounded just enough to snuggle against your abs; it’s also firm enough to keep baby positioned up where they need to nurse. And it’s not just for nursing moms—any parent can attest to how tiring it can be to hold baby up in the proper position while they feed, even from the bottle, and a great feeding pillow will maximize your and your child’s comfort.

How to Use a Nursing Pillow

Most feeding pillows are designed to curve around your waist while supporting baby at the right height to reach the breast or bottle. That said, there are many different nursing positions you can try, so definitely experiment and move baby and the pillow around to find a spot that works for both of you. Ideally, baby will be tilted toward you, slightly on their side (not flat on their back), and the pillow should be as close to your body as possible to avoid slipping out. You can also use the pillow to give baby a boost when trying upright breastfeeding positions, like the koala hold. Once you’ve found the sweet spot, your elbows should be comfortably supported, your back straight (remember, slouch = ouch!) and baby’s mouth should be level with your nipple.

But don’t stop there: The best nursing pillows can be used for more than just feeding. If you’re still pregnant, try using it as support while you’re sleeping. And after baby arrives, some pillow shapes are good for propping baby up during tummy time or helping a young child hold baby for the first time.

How to Choose the Best Nursing Pillow

You can nestle baby in your arms while you breastfeed (or bottle feed), but the weight of even an 8-pound baby, held for hours a day, begins to drag on your shoulders and cause you to hunch your back. The beauty of a good nursing pillow is that it effortlessly lifts baby up to the right height for feeding so you don’t have to throw your posture off. You can trust the pillow to do its work and concentrate on other things, like perfecting baby’s latch, breathing deeply to help letdown and chilling out while you breastfeed. When shopping for the best nursing pillow, you’ll want to consider:

  • Size. Some moms prefer a sizable nursing pillow so baby has a wide spot to lie on while feeding. Others want a more compact, travel nursing pillow that’s easy to carry from one nursing spot to another and just as easy to pack for trips. Then there’s the twin nursing pillow designed specifically for moms of multiples.

  • Price. The average breastfeeding pillow costs between $25 to $50. For about $70, you can upgrade to a plush, monogrammed slipcover. Looking for an organic nursing pillow or a twin nursing pillow designed to accommodate multiples? Then you’re looking at closer to $100.

  • Washability. Will you wipe the pillow down, or does it come with a removable slipcover that can be tossed into the washer? While the former is less expensive, if baby is prone to spit-up or reflux, you may want to opt for the latter.

  • Design and style. Nursing pillows are fabric-covered, so there are plenty of looks to choose from: solid colors, prints and even two-sided pillows featuring different patterns on either side. The variety makes shopping for one more fun!

Best Nursing Pillows

A great nursing pillow is a true game-changer, making those countless hours of breastfeeding that much easier on you and baby. Take a look at our best nursing pillow picks to see which one’s right for you.

Best Classic Nursing Pillow

Boppy Original Support for Feeding and Milestones

Boppy kicked off the nursing pillow trend in the 1990s when a mom realized that the pillow she had sewn to prop up her sitting baby was actually ideal for breastfeeding. The c-shape of this baby feeding pillow wraps around your waist and the firm inner pillow provides perfect support to baby. The cotton slipcover can be thrown in the wash. And, after the first few months, it transitions into a support pillow for when baby is ready for tummy time or sitting up.

What We Love

  • Multi-use
  • Removable cotton cover
  • Hypoallergenic fiber fill

Things To Consider

  • Small size

Best Wrap-Around Nursing Pillow

My Brest Friend Deluxe Nursing Pillow

The wide, flat top of the My Brest Friend nursing pillow wins major points with moms who feel baby can roll off of other nursing pillows that don’t have a level surface. This popular breastfeeding pillow attaches around your waist, providing lumbar support for your lower back. A discreet side pocket can hold a burp cloth, a binkie, your cell phone or even a bottle of water.

What We Love

  • Flat top
  • Ties around waist
  • Side pocket

Things To Consider

  • Cover could be softer

Best Twin Nursing Pillow

Twin Z Pillow for Nursing

Two babies might be able to fit on a regular nursing pillow when they’re newborns, but it quickly becomes a tight squeeze as they grow. Enter the Twin Z Pillow, which was featured on Shark Tank. It’s a large breastfeeding pillow but flexible enough to wrap around in different configurations so you can feed one baby at a time or both at once. One mom of twins says, “We use this pillow all day, every day. It’s a must for breastfeeding simultaneously and it can work for bottle-feeding.”

What We Love

  • Multiple configurations
  • Suitable for twins

Things To Consider

  • Some customer's report it's difficult to position small infants while using this pillow

Best Travel Nursing Pillow

Humble-Bee Nurse Sling Nursing Pillow

Whether you have to feed baby on the go or stuff your breastfeeding pillow into an already-crammed suitcase, this is one of the best nursing pillows for travel, We’ve never seen anything quite like this innovative nursing sling before, but the design is genius. The adjustable shoulder strap and padded sling hold baby’s head to your breast so you can feed hands-free. It’s compact shape and convenient pocket mean it can double as a cross-body bag on the go, or you can stash it away in the included travel bag.

What We Love

  • Travel bag
  • Parent pocket
  • Innovative sling design

Things To Consider

  • Spot-clean only

Best Organic Nursing Pillow

Nook Niche Organic Cotton Feeding Pillow

If natural materials are important to you, Nook’s Niche feeding pillow is a great option. It’s made from organic cotton and kapok fiber fill to offer just the right amount of support. Bonus: The wide, square shape makes this a perfect tummy time pillow as well.

What We Love

  • Organic cotton fill
  • Machine-washable cover

Things To Consider

  • High price point

Best Adjustable Nursing Pillow

Infantino Elevate Adjustable Nursing Pillow

Like the pages of a book, the six layers of pillows in Infantino’s Elevate Adjustable Nursing Pillow flip back and forth so you can adjust baby to the height of your torso—how genius is that? It’s a great breastfeeding pillow for tall or petite women who haven’t found the right fit for their height.

What We Love

  • Good option for tall or petite moms

Things To Consider

  • Not suitable for tummy time or other uses

Best Multi-Use Nursing Pillow

Leachco Cuddle-U Nursing Pillow

This thick, firm, sturdy nursing pillow offers great versatility. It features a click-in strap that keeps baby securely fastened to the breastfeeding pillow, plus a concealed pocket. It can also be used as a baby lounger, with the seat wrap helping to keep reclined babies in place. Tuck the seat wrap in when you want to use the pillow for tummy time or as a support for your sitting baby. One caveat: There’s no removable slipcover, so you’ll have to wipe the fabric clean.

What We Love

  • Multi-use

Things To Consider

  • Spot-clean only

Best Inflatable Nursing Pillow

My Brest Friend Travel Nursing Pillow

Sometimes you need a second nursing pillow, whether you want to use it for travel or to keep it at Grandma’s house. The inflatable version of the My Brest Friend has the same design as the original, but you can inflate it and deflate it as needed, so it can be easily stowed away when not in use.

What We Love

  • Handy travel option

Things To Consider

  • May begin to deflate while you nurse baby

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

Plus, more from The Bump:

Best Maternity and Nursing Bras

Best Nipple Creams for Breastfeeding Moms

Breastfeeding Tips Every Nursing Mom Should Know

Best Nursing Pillow Rankings 2021: Milk Rivers, Chicco

Last updated: | Author: Maria Petriv

When breastfeeding, the mother's lower back and arms experience significant stress. Pillows of a convenient form with special fillers help to reduce the load. To choose your "perfect" nursing pillow, check out our rating. When creating it, we studied in detail the characteristics of the most popular pillows. After the study, we identified the features, pros and cons of each of the models. nine0007

Our favorite is the Red Castle Big Flopsy Nursing Pillow. It is created from hypoallergenic organic materials, used during pregnancy and for the needs of the child. There are also non-standard models in the rating - a pillow for twins from Milk Rivers and an orthopedic model TRELAX Nanny.

Top 7 best nursing pillows

1. Milk Rivers Twins

Best twins nursing pillow

Shape : U-shaped | Filler : foam rubber | Cover material : knit or plush | Dimensions : 66 x 52 x 15 cm

Very comfortable pillow for feeding two babies at the same time. Filled with dense and elastic foam rubber, which is not deformed during use. The pillow has a removable cover made of non-slip fabric. For more comfortable and safe feeding, the kit includes a soft back for mom and a fixing strap on the baby pillow.

  • Certified high density safety foam. nine0032
  • Horseshoe shape. Possibility of fixing the pillow around the waist.
  • Mom's pillow included.
  • The pillow has a special inward slope so that babies lean against their mother during feeding.

Pros and cons

  • Foam rubber does not sag, children do not move out during feeding.
  • Knitted or plush fabric cover.
  • Small pocket.
  • Possibility of feeding twins at the same time. nine0032
  • The baby can only fit completely on the pillow until 3-4 months of age.

2. Chicco Boppy

The most comfortable nursing pillow

Shape : U shape | Filling : microfiber | Cover material : cotton | Dimensions : 58 x 46 x 15 cm

Chicco has been making this pillow for 25 years. Chicco Boppy has earned not only the love of many mothers, but also a number of awards for quality. A soft pillow will allow the baby to comfortably sit at the mother's breast during feeding. Chicco Boppy is filled with high-quality hypoallergenic microfiber that does not deform with prolonged use. nine0007

In addition to its main function, the pillow serves as a “cocoon” in which the baby can safely rest (from 2 months), play (from 6 months) or sit (from 9 months).

  • Options for using the Chicco Boppy pillow. Click on image to enlarge.
  • Filled with soft and resilient microfibre. The filler does not go astray, the pillow keeps its shape for a long time.
  • Removable cover in natural fabric.
  • Bagel shaped. Multifunctionality (feeding, sleeping, playing, developing with a pillow). nine0032

Pros and cons

  • Proven convenience and quality over the years.
  • Breathable materials prevent baby from overheating.
  • Comfortable feeding, the baby is located right next to the breast.
  • May be narrow if the mother has a large waist.

3. Milk Rivers Support

Secure cushion with closure

Shape : G-shaped | Filling : foam rubber | Cover material : cotton | Dimensions : 55 x 40 x 15 cm

Cushion made of dense certified foam rubber. It has a removable cotton cover that is washable. The filler does not sag under the weight of the child, does not deform during use. The pillow is securely fastened with a fastener and Velcro on the side. At the back there is a small pillow that relieves stress from the mother's lower back.

  • Certified baby safe foam. nine0032
  • Removable cover made of natural material. The presence of a pocket for small things.
  • G-shaped, lumbar cushion for mum, comfortable to lean on back.

Pros and cons

  • Safe materials.
  • Will not deform under pressure.
  • Securely fastened with velcro or fastex.
  • Clasp latch too tight.
  • Wide for a narrow waist.

4. Sonvol C-170

Best 2 in 1 Maternity & Nursing Pillow

Shape : C Shape | Filler : holofiber | Cover material : teak | Dimensions : 50 x 47 x 25 cm

The pillow has a cover made of wear-resistant dense natural fabric (teak). The holofiber filler makes the product very soft. Given the peculiarity of the filler, the pillow can be washed without fear of knocking down the holofiber. Thanks to the month-shaped form, it is convenient to use during pregnancy and lactation. nine0007

  • Holofiber filler, does not deform over time.
  • Cover made of natural material, soft, easy to wash.
  • Crescent-shaped, comfortable flowing design.
  • Can be used during pregnancy to relax the lower back and for breastfeeding.

Pros and cons

  • Hypoallergenic materials.
  • Does not lose shape after washing.
  • Good value for money. nine0032
  • The filling collapses under the weight of the child without supporting him.

5. TRELAX Nanny

The Best Nursing Pillow

Shape : Rectangular with notch | Filler : polyurethane foam | Cover material : cotton | Size : 19 x 16 cm

Small foam cushion with an orthopedic shape. When feeding, the neck and back of the baby's head are located in a special recess, thereby taking the correct position. This pillow is recommended for premature babies or in the presence of anomalies of the skull. It can be worn on both hands and fixed to any size with Velcro. nine0007

  • Orthopedic cushion made of polyurethane.
  • Cotton pillowcase. Breathable hypoallergenic materials.
  • Reliable Velcro fastener for any arm thickness.
  • Is a medical device (registration by Roszdravnadzor). Recommended for premature or weakened babies, with anomalies of the skull.

Pros and cons

  • Keeps baby's head in the correct position.
  • Relieves tension in baby's neck muscles. nine0032
  • Lightens the burden on mom's hand.
  • Does not move out during use.
  • The pillowcase is not removable, the pillow needs to be washed completely.

6. CebaBaby Duo

Best anatomic pillow

Shape : C-shaped | Filler : polystyrene | Cover material : jersey | Size : 300 x 25 cm

Ceba Baby Duo is a real find for the expectant mother. During pregnancy, a pillow helps to find a comfortable sleeping position. Filler - polystyrene microballoons (diameter 0.5-1.5 mm). They are elastic, provide anatomical position of the body. At the same time, the filler is wear-resistant, does not deform and does not rustle. The pillow will also provide comfort and safety while feeding or resting your baby. nine0007

  • C-shaped pillow, comfortable for most mums.
  • Polystyrene filling. Will not deform after prolonged use.
  • Knitted pillowcase, pleasant to the touch, non-slip. Hypoallergenic, breathable materials.

Pros and cons

  • Takes an anatomical shape.
  • Multifunctional.
  • Helps to relax the muscles of mother and baby.
  • Not all mothers like the shape of the pillow. nine0032

7. Red Castle Big Flopsy

Best hypoallergenic pillow

Shape : C-shaped | Filler : polystyrene | Cover material : cotton | Size : 170 cm

Cushion in the shape of a crescent. Filled with elastic microballoons that give an anatomical position during use. The pillow is used during pregnancy and lactation. You can also form a cozy "nest" for the child to rest or substitute under the back when the baby tries to sit. nine0007

Cushion cover made of high quality organic cotton. The latter is assembled by hand, so it is of higher quality, cleaner and softer. It can be easily removed and washed when needed.

  • Made in the shape of a crescent. Can be used during pregnancy, feeding, rest and child development.
  • Filled with hypoallergenic microballoons.
  • Cover made of high quality organic cotton. Can be removed and washed.

Pros and cons

  • Hypoallergenic, eco-friendly and breathable materials.
  • Helps to relax, molds to the body.
  • Very light, the filling does not rustle.
  • Promotes the child's sensory development.
  • Some say the pillow is too big.

What to look for when choosing a nursing pillow

Pillow shapes:
  • C-shaped - the classic nursing pillow. The most common variations of this shape are "bagel" or "banana" (half-moon). nine0032
  • U-shaped - similar to the previous shape. Often these pillows are oversized.
  • G-shaped - shaped like a boomerang. Often has a pillow for mom in the lumbar region.
  • Rectangular pillows, as a rule, serve as an orthopedic cushion for the child's head. They are fixed on the mother's hand.
Cushion functions:

The main purpose of pillows is to create conditions for comfortable feeding. The most convenient form for this purpose, according to many mothers, is a “bagel”. Such pillows tightly fit the mother's waist and do not slip. Often, "bagels" have straps or ties at the ends, allowing you to fix the pillow even more tightly. They can also be used to create a "cocoon" for the baby to sleep or use as a support when the baby is sitting. nine0007

Rectangular pillows with orthopedic design are designed to properly position the baby's head during feeding. They are also recommended for medical purposes - for developmental disorders or prematurity.

Multifunctional - these are G-, U-shaped pillows. They are longer than bagels. Used to support the abdomen and unload the muscles during the sleep of the expectant mother. These pillows are good for feeding. Due to the increased size, you can feed the baby both sitting and lying down. It is convenient to make bumpers from them during the child's sleep, use them for learning to sit and sensory development of the child. The U-shape is also characteristic of twin feeding pillows. nine0007

Filler:
  • Sintepon is a hypoallergenic, soft and cheapest filler. But it is also the shortest. The synthetic winterizer is quickly knocked down in lumps. Under load, it collapses, unable to withstand the weight of the child.
  • Holofiber is easy to care for, does not cause allergies, durable and inexpensive. Like a synthetic winterizer, holofiber sags and springs under load.
  • Foam rubber - retains its shape, elastic, does not cause allergies. It is necessary to choose both dense and soft material. Otherwise, the child will fall through (if the foam rubber is loose) or roll down (if it is too hard). nine0032
  • Microfiber - soft, long lasting. It is breathable and hypoallergenic. Well "adapts" to the child, supporting him during feeding.
  • Polystyrene - breathable, anatomical material. It consists of polystyrene microballoons. When used, they roll smoothly, envelop the body well, relaxing the muscles as much as possible.
  • Polyurethane foam - dense, holds its shape well, does not sag. Most often used for orthopedic pillows. nine0032

When choosing a pillow made of polystyrene, pay attention to the size of the balls. They should be no more than 1.5 mm. Larger filler may rustle and deform during use.

Size:

The size of the wrist nursing pillows is 15-20 cm. Bagels are made about 50 cm in size. Pillows for pregnant women have a length of 120 cm to 3 meters. Therefore, before buying, think in advance for what purpose you are purchasing a pillow.

Removable cover:

Many pillow fillings can be washed on a gentle cycle at low water temperatures. But it is not recommended to do this often. But a removable cover is a way out of the situation. It can be washed much more often than an entire pillow. It also dries faster. Most manufacturers complete their products with covers with zippers or Velcro.

Nursing pillow FAQ

How to use the nursing pillow?

First you need to choose a comfortable position and place for feeding. Practice fixing the pillow on yourself without the baby. Then place your child safely next to you. Take a comfortable position, fix the pillow. Lay the child on the pillow. It is important that you have all the necessary items at hand (a bottle, napkins, a rattle, etc.) and nothing distracts you during the feeding process. nine0007

How to sew a pillow with your own hands?

Decide on the shape of the pillow, make a pattern on paper. Choose a natural fabric for your pillowcase. It is desirable that it be removable - with a zipper or Velcro. You also need to sew a cover for the filler itself. Also decide on the type of filler. Transfer the pattern to the fabric, cut it out. After the pillowcase and cover are sewn, you can fill the pillow.

Is a nursing pillow really necessary?

The pillow definitely makes feeding more comfortable; The nursing pillow relieves mom's muscle tension, frees her hands, and also creates a "safe place" for the baby. nine0007

In addition, the pillow allows you to conveniently change the position of the baby for feeding, find a more comfortable angle, so as not to feed the baby in only one position. This is necessary to prevent the formation of lactostasis, that is, milk stagnation. You can learn more about this complication from the article on lactostasis of the Siberian Medical Review, which will tell you about the causes of lactostasis and which doctors to contact with this problem.

Conclusion

Feeding a baby is a very delicate process. It is important that it is as convenient and safe as possible for mom and baby. In our opinion, a breastfeeding pillow is one of the must-have items for a young mother. We hope that our article will help you make your choice. If you have already purchased a pillow, share your experience with us in the comments. nine0007

Your baby may need to be bottle fed if breastfeeding is not possible for you. To choose the right first utensils for your baby, take a look at our rating of baby bottles.

Maria Petriv

My name is Maria. I am a practicing psychologist. Not so long ago I tried myself in a new role - mothers. It's an incredible experience! Together with my husband, we meet every day with all the trials and joys of parents. Of course, the experience of a psychologist helps a lot in raising a child and in his attitude to life in general. I hope that I can share usefulness with you in the articles. nine0007

Nursing pillows - how to choose?

Nursing pillow is often not considered by expectant mothers as an essential item after the birth of a child - and very much in vain! In the first months after birth, the baby (with on-demand feeding recommended by specialists) can literally spend hours on the chest. Many babies refuse to sleep in the crib at all and sleep only at the breast. In such a situation, a sling can help, as well as correctly fitted nursing pillow .

Do I need a breastfeeding pillow?

Definitely yes! And here's why:

1. Learn to latch on properly

In the first few months it's very important to learn how to latch on to your breast properly. You can use sofa cushions, a rolled-up blanket or just your knees to raise your child to the right height, but it is the use of a special pillow that is most comfortable and has many other advantages. nine0007

2. Relax your back and arms

On average, it takes about 15-30 minutes to breastfeed a baby, and during the day you can breastfeed about 4 hours a day , and often much more more. Without the use of ergonomic devices, pain in the spine, arms, and neck muscles very quickly occurs. A good nursing pillow will save you from all these problems.

3. Free hands during feeding and sleeping at the breast

In an ideal world, newborns will sleep soundly and for a long time in their crib immediately after feeding. But in the real world, as a rule, this never happens! Babies sleep well in their mother's arms, at the breast, but as soon as they are moved, they wake up immediately. A sling can be used to do chores around the house, and a pillow with a flat surface is perfect for tasks that can be done while sitting. The child will sleep perfectly on it, without rolling anywhere.
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Nursing pillow is not a luxury! This is one of the most necessary and important devices for a nursing mother.

Types of nursing pillows

All nursing pillows can be divided into 2 types: universal (for pregnancy and nursing) and specialized (for nursing only).

1. Universal pillows (pregnancy + breastfeeding)

Most pillows on the market are universal. Their main advantage is budget savings, because You don't have to buy two different pillows. But that's where the benefits end. It is impossible to create a device that will equally ideally serve both purposes - supporting the growing belly of the expectant mother for her comfortable sleep and rest (at the pregnancy pillow) and breastfeeding, convenient for both mother and baby (at the feeding pillow).

However, let's take a look at the different maternity pillows that can also be used for breastfeeding. nine0007

Reversible pillows: U shape, G

Reversible maternity pillows support both the belly and the back of the expectant mother.

When breastfeeding, these pillows are placed around the mother and baby. As you can see from the photo, such a pillow performs the function of lifting the baby to the chest, however, cannot provide good support for the child, has to be supported, it easily slides down the pillow, the goal of "relieving stress from the mother's back and arms" is not fulfilled. In addition, such pillows take up a huge amount of space and are not suitable for small apartments. nine0007

One-sided pillows: C, D, I

Such pillows take up much less space, their advantage is that such products can also be used for other purposes - as a limiter and a nest for the baby, a knee roll .

However, we see the same shortcomings as other universal pillows - the surface is too soft, so that the child rolls off of it towards the mother; lack of back support for mother, lack of fixation of the pillow on the mother's body.

The most famous brands of these pillows are: Theraline, Trelax, Red Castle and many Chinese and Turkish copies No Name

They are usually

smaller than any maternity pillows . does not require the support of the entire body of an adult.

There are now a huge number of brands and designs of specialized pillows. Let's look at the different options and evaluate their comfort, as well as list the factors that you need to pay attention to when choosing a pillow. nine0007

Types and brands of special nursing pillows

1. Non-ergonomic round pillows

The cheapest and most common option is round horseshoe pillow.

Variations possible - add to the pillow:

  • tie or Velcro at the back to fasten it around the mother's waist;
  • extra head pillow (to be put on the pillow, so you can change sides)

Pillows with these variations are better than pillows without them, but in any case, this design has only one advantage - the price. They are easy to manufacture and therefore cheap for buyers. However, the disadvantages of are the same as those of pregnancy pillows:

  • soft round surface, from which the baby rolls;
  • lack of support for the mother's back and arms;
  • lack of a strong fastening around the waist, the pillow slips; nine0032
  • very often the cover of the cheapest pillows is not removable and you have to wash it together with the pillow.

This pillow is better than nothing, but there are other, more comfortable and ergonomic options. The most famous brands of : Chicco, Boppy and many Chinese and Turkish copies No Name

2. Ergonomic pillows

both. As a rule, they have a flat dense surface. nine0007
Ergobaby pillow

The pillow from a well-known manufacturer of ergo backpacks has a semi-circular shape, a flat, dense surface slightly at an angle to the mother. It provides comfort for the mother's hands and helps to position the baby high against the chest. The disadvantages of this pillow is that the baby needs to be supported (surface at an angle), there is no back support.

Cushion Bebe Au Lait

Has a dense, even surface on which it is convenient to place the child; belt fastening around the waist. It is quite high, has a small pocket for small things. nine0019 The disadvantage of of this pillow is the lack of support for the mother's back.

My Brest Friend Pillow and similar

My Brest Friend Pillow was developed almost 20 years ago in the USA. It is rightfully considered the best pillow for nursing mothers, thanks to:

  • an even elastic surface, so that the baby does not roll down to the mother;
  • special back support mom;
  • tight fixation around the waist on a carabiner;
  • bumps on the cushion surface;
  • handy pocket for small items;
  • removable cover, easy to wash.

This pillow not only lifts the baby to the breast, but also relieves tension from the mother's back, neck and arms, and also frees her hands for other things if the baby falls asleep at the breast. Unlike all other pillow options, the filler of this one is not holofiber or polystyrene foam balls, but foam.

The My Brest Friend pillow has only one big disadvantage - the price. That is why several of its analogues are produced in Russia and the CIS, we will briefly talk about them.

Pillow Milk Rivers

The Russian brand of clothing and accessories for nursing has been producing pillows for several years. They have the same construction as My Brest Friend, but have a smooth surface without bulges and use one type of foam rubber, rather than two, like the original and other analogues. The used fabric of a cover - jersey. nine0019 This is a good, inexpensive analogue of a well-known brand. It looks very simple, does not have packaging, the pillow itself may not be completely flat, but this is the cheapest option.

Pillow Ergofeed

Pillow brand is a complete copy of My Brest Friend, pillows are made in Russia. The company appeared at the end of 2019, but after a couple of months the Internet was littered with a huge number of the same type of reviews (obviously fake), forum discussions and comments praising this pillow. nine0019 This is a good product, but the business ethics of this company raises big questions. Therefore, we cannot recommend this brand for purchase.

Loona Baby Pillow

Pillow brand has the same pillow shape as My Brest Friend, but has a few improvements: "Memory Foam" upper part of the pillow, microfiber plush for the cover, much better stitched cover, silent transparent fastener.

Benefits of an ergonomic cushion

In our store we offer several different types of nursing pillows, in different price categories, universal and specialized. But is the pillows of ergonomic design, with back support and a smooth elastic surface, which we consider the best and recommend for purchase.

1. Back support: hard back means close to mum; it provides comfortable support and relieves back and neck pain. The breastfeeding woman does not get numb hands, neck and back. The child lies on a pillow at the level of the mother's chest - and rightly so. It does not matter what position you take (if you need to suck the breast from different sides) - in any position the baby will be held correctly. nine0007

2. Flat surface with "knolls": thanks to the flat, flat surface, the baby does not roll off the pillow, while the rounded edges of other pillows can cause the baby to roll and have to be constantly held and controlled. At the same time, soft bulges on the surface of support his head and your hand.

3. Memory Foam Filler: The soft but resilient surface of two-layer hypoallergenic PU foam ensures the correct position of the baby and its comfort, and also retains its shape, unlike all other fillers (styrofoam balls or holofiber). nine0007

4. Removable cover made of the softest plush microfiber, easy to remove and machine wash. Minky plush is a soft, velvety material most commonly used for newborn blankets and bedding.

5.

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