According to a study by the CDC, 1 in 3 mothers will quit breastfeeding early due to a lack of support. Proper support begins in the hospital after birth but continues at home. A nursing pillow can make breastfeeding a more comfortable experience for both mom and baby. Below we have listed the best nursing pillows you can buy in 2022.
Best Breastfeeding Pillows
Most of the pillows below are a standard circle or “C” shape. For a pillow that you can use during pregnancy and after, the One Z and Bamibi pillows are great choices. The Borje pillow features an adjustable baby pillow whereas the Nurse-Sling is a portable breastfeeding pillow.
Bamibi Multifunctional Breastfeeding Pillow
The Bamibi Multifunctional Breastfeeding Pillow is a pillow that grows with your baby.
Are you pregnant as you read this list? Then run, do not walk, and add this to your cart.
If you are in the early months of pregnancy, you’re probably sleeping okay still. However, soon, your belly will expand, and sleep will be hard.
A pregnancy body pillow helps you get a good night’s rest. This Bamibi pillow is such a pillow.
But wait! It’s also a nursing pillow. Once your little one is earthside, you can use it as a positioner during feedings.
What about post-babyhood? Then is it useless? No. You can then use this pillow as an anti-roll cushion for your toddler’s big kid bed.
PROS
- Pillow transitions as baby grows
- Made with 100% cotton and is hypoallergenic
- Cover is machine washable
CONS
- Cover can be difficult to put on
Bamboo Nursing and Breastfeeding Pillow
The Bamboo Nursing and Breastfeeding Pillow is an excellent budget option!
Some nursing pillows can be pricey. In the first year of an infant’s life, the expenses can really pile up. An affordable nursing pillow can be a lifesaver.
This simple pillow is uncomplicated and does the job. It’s the mom-approved C-shaped pillow.
It still helps mommy beat arm strain. It still positions baby for an ideal latch. Above all, you’ll be grateful for its support!
Both the pillow itself and the bamboo-printed cover are machine washable. Easy!
You can’t purchase a separate cover from the company. Reviews do state, though, that other C-shaped covers do fit this pillow.
PROS
- Affordable
- Cover and pillow are machine washable
CONS
- Lower in height than most nursing pillows
NurSit Basic Nursing Pillow and Positioner
The NurSit Basic Nursing Pillow and Positioner is a cute affordable nursing pillow.
The bamboo pillow above is an affordable nursing pillow but doesn’t offer decorative designs like most nursing pillows on the market.
NurSit is our choice for a budget nursing pillow. It has the tried and true C-shape that moms love, along with your choice of 6 different patterns.
If you have a little girl, the pink pillow with metallic gold hearts is to die for. I personally love the gender-neutral black with white rings. It’s a sophisticated look.
As for cleaning, this pillow does not have a cover. The company mentions in their description that they used to provide covers and no longer do.
The pillow designs are cute without being covered up. If you prefer a cover, most standard C-shaped slipcovers will work.
The pillow itself is machine washable so the whole thing can go right into the washing machine when it gets dirty. It does retain its shape after washing!
PROS
- Affordable
- Comes in several different patterns
- Pillow is machine washable
CONS
- Smaller than other pillows
- No cover
The Nesting Pillow – Organic Nursing Pillow
The Nesting Pillow is a unique and natural take on the nursing pillow.
Most pillows, nursing or not, are filled with something like foam. This nursing pillow is filled with buckwheat hull.
If you aren’t familiar, buckwheat is a seed. Despite the name, it isn’t wheat at all. It’s a tear-shaped seed that can be consumed.
For stuffing pillows, the seeds are removed from the hulls. The hulls are then cleaned before they fill any pillows.
Many people love buckwheat hull pillows because they are 100% organic. It also gives you flexibility because the filling can shift to fit any position or contour.
With proper care, a buckwheat hull pillow can last 10 years. If you are on baby one of several, this pillow may be a good option for you.
For the most natural pillow, this is your go-to. The downsides? It’s pricey compared to other nursing pillows and it’s also heavier.
PROS
- 100% organic
- Can shift filling to preferred position/contours to baby
- Cover is machine washable
CONS
- Heavier than most nursing pillows
Leachco Cuddle-U Nursing Pillow
The Leachco Cuddle-U Nursing Pillow is a savior for moms of wigglers!
Can’t get your baby to sit still? Me either. This Leachco pillow includes a seat wrap that prevents any slipping out. One funny reviewer called it “baby panties.”
When you don’t need the seat wrap, it conceals easily into a pouch. Then, you can throw the whole cover in the washing machine!
You can get this pillow with a pink or sage green polka dot slipcover.
Honestly, I wish I had known about this particular pillow when my son was younger. He tended to wiggle himself right off of every pillow. So much for propping!
If you gave birth to a wiggler too, this pillow will be more helpful than you know.
PROS
- Prevents sliding out
- Seat wrap can be tucked away in a pouch
- Cover is machine washable
CONS
- Seat wrap is too loose for smaller infants
Nook Sleep Niche Feeding Pillow
The Nook Sleep Niche Feeding Pillow is a modern take on an old classic.
Take a look at the pebble pattern of this fabric. It’s more than a fun look. This patented fabric is water-resistant. Leaks and spit-ups? Not a problem.
This pillow is considered to be squared-shaped because it wraps all the way to the back of mom’s body. It’s a great choice for tandem feeding as well.
Images can be deceiving with no reference point. Case in point, this pillow is generously sized. Could you tell?
If the size intimidates you, don’t let it. With its funky pattern, it works well as a decorative pillow when not in use.
With 11 different color options, you’re sure to find one that suits your particular home decor!
PROS
- Fabric is organic, water-resistant, and hypoallergenic
- Comes in several colors
- Cover is machine washable
CONS
- Not ideal for plus-sized moms
- Pricey
Boppy Anywhere Nursing Pillow
The Boppy Anywhere Nursing Pillow is another quality baby product from a well-known name.
Boppy is best known for its traditional nursing pillows. The brains at Boppy did their research and listened to complaints moms had about breastfeeding.
In response to this feedback, the Boppy Anywhere Nursing pillow was born. This firm pillow cradles your baby and positions his or her head above the tummy. This is believed to help infants digest.
The interior of this pillow is a dense foam that resists moisture. It also helps this pillow keep its shape at all times.
You’ll especially love how portable this nursing pillow is, thanks to its easy-to-reach handle.
PROS
- Positions baby tummy-to-tummy
- Handle for easy carrying
- Cover is machine washable
CONS
- Doesn’t work well with all feeding positions
The One Z Nursing Pillow
The One Z Nursing Pillow is a dream come true – in a couple of ways!
Two words, moms: back support.
The creator of this pillow was originally on the reality show Shark Tank with the Twin Z Pillow. They received funding for their product.
Subsequently, mothers of single babies started requesting a pillow for them. In 2014, the One Z nursing pillow was released.
Moms love the back support this plush pillow provides. It’s just as comfy for mom as it is for baby!
This pillow is eco-friendly. It’s hypoallergenic. It’s made without fire retardants or any other toxic chemicals.
It does have the expected adjustable body strap for the best fit. This pillow comes in two sizes: original and plus. If you’d like to check out the plus pillow, click here.
PROS
- Full back support for mom
- Adjustable body strap
- Cover is machine washable
CONS
- Can be too large to fit in some chairs
Ingenuity Plenti+ Relax-Fit Nursing Pillow
The Ingenuity Plenti + Relax-Fit Nursing Pillow is the pillow that has it all!
From one mom to another: if you can get a product that pulls double duty, do it.
Soon, your house will be unrecognizable as it is overrun with toys and baby gadgets. A 2-for-1 product saves just a tiny bit of space.
This nursing pillow doubles as a nursing pillow and a baby gym. Included is a removable toy bar that takes tummy time up to the next level!
Beyond that, Ingenuity had the genius idea to include reminder tabs. On the “breast-side” of the pillow is a tab on the right and a tab on the left.
What’s significant about reminder tabs? You can use it to remember which breast you fed from last. As a result, you always get to use the fullest breast.
Life gets hazy in those first sleep-deprived months. We all need a reminder. Or two. Or three.
PROS
- Includes toy bar
- Includes reminder tabs
- Cover is machine washable
CONS
- Not ideal for plus-sized moms
Borje 45Angle Breastfeeding Adjustable Pillow
The Borje 45Angle Breastfeeding Adjustable Pillow is a nursing pillow made with your little one in mind.
This is one of, if not the only, nursing pillow available that includes a tiny head pillow just for your baby. The pillow has velcro straps, allowing you to move it from either side.
If you like, you can always velcro the head pillow to your arm for a quick travel nursing pillow. The head pillow does not have a cover, so the pillow itself will have to be washed.
The pillow places your baby at a 45-degree angle, which is perfect for teeny newborns learning to feed.
It’s made of 100% cotton, which you’ll appreciate. It ships to you with its own carrying tote bag.
The entire pillow can be thrown into the washing machine. It does have a removable cover if you prefer to wash them separately.
For emphasis, one review tells moms to not buy a Boppy but to buy this pillow instead. That’s a confident recommendation if I ever heard one!
PROS
- Includes removable baby head pillow
- Comes in several patterns
- Pillow and cover are machine washable
CONS
- Smaller than most nursing pillows
Nurse-Sling by Humble-Bee
The Nurse-Sling by Humble-Bee is the Honorable Mention of this list. Is it truly a nursing pillow? Not quite, but you may prefer it.
The Nurse-Sling promises a true hands-free feeding experience. The sling holds your infant in place, leaving your hands free to sip some water or shoot a text.
For baby, the sling holds them snugly in a natural cradle position. The football hold is also possible with this sling.
It’s fully adjustable and has no weight limits. However, moms with larger breasts found it less than ideal.
Once you’ve finished your breastfeeding journey, the sling can be used as a cross-body bag for when you’re on the go.
PROS
- Doubles as a baby carrier
- Zippered exterior pocket
- Comes with travel drawstring bag
CONS
- Not ideal for larger breasts
Best My Brest Friend Nursing Pillows
My Brest Friend Original is 23.62″ x 16.54″ compared to My Brest Friend Travel Pillow which is much smaller at 7.75″ x 6.5″.
My Brest Friend Original Nursing Posture Pillow
The My Brest Friend Original Pillow is the breastfeeding mom’s best friend. Pun intended.
My Brest Friend may not be the “original” nursing pillow but it definitely has its advantages. In fact, it’s a top choice of lactation consultants.
It offers a flat surface for the baby to rest on for feeding without rolling off. It also encourages better posture for mommy!
This pillow has an adjustable buckled strap that fits around mom’s body. This keeps the pillow where it needs to be for the best feeding experience.
Also, met your new secret weapon: this pillow has a pouch. It can hold your baby’s bottle or gas drops, for example. It can also hide your snacks so you can eat while the baby does!
By the way, moms with larger breasts give this pillow a thumbs up.
PROS
- My Brest Friend is recommended by lactation consultants
- Wraps around body for a snug fit
- Includes pouch for materials
CONS
- Interior pillow is foam and hard to clean
- Not ideal for use with c-section incisions
My Brest Friend Inflatable Travel Nursing Pillow
The My Brest Friend Inflatable Travel Nursing Pillow is a fan favorite nursing pillow, travel-style.
Maybe you’ve considered a My Brest Friend nursing pillow, but have thought it would be inconvenient for your lifestyle.
Frequent travelers don’t exactly want to pack up a large pillow for every trip. After all, most nursing pillows would take up an entire suitcase.
The image above may look like a normal My Brest Friend pillow. Actually, inside the printed cover is an inflatable pillow!
When deflated, the pillow lays flat, making it easy to throw in any carry-on bag or purse.
As with anything inflatable, you will need to take any precautions to not puncture the plastic.
This travel pillow has the standard My Brest Friend design that mothers the world over love. It’s the same size as well when inflated.
This square-shaped pillow buckles around your waist with an adjustable strap. There is a handy pouch for teething toys or snacks.
PROS
- Inflates and deflates for travel
- Wraps around body for a snug fit
CONS
- Have to be careful to not puncture the plastic
My Brest Friend Nursing Pillow for Twins
The My Brest Friend Nursing Pillow for Twins is just what the doctor ordered for newborn twins.
This twin nursing pillow is just like the original My Brest Friend pillow but in a larger size.
But don’t just take my word for it. One twin mother had this to say: “This product saves me so much time, and actually allows me to get more sleep than I otherwise would.”
Take heed, those pregnant with twins. Sleep is about to become a valuable resource. Make sure you get enough of it with the right nursing pillow.
Bonus: even if you don’t have twin babies, some moms have found this particular pillow useful. Large-breasted moms found it easier to nurse in the football hold with this larger version.
PROS
- Provides flat surface large enough for two babies
- Includes pouch for materials
- Straps around body for a snug fit
CONS
- Interior pillow is foam and hard to clean
Best Nursing Pillow for Tall Moms
The Infantino Elevate offers 3 height options (flat, middle, highest) whereas the Leachco pillow offers just 1 height option (with boost pillow).
Infantino Elevate Adjustable Nursing Pillow
The Infantino Elevate Adjustable Nursing Pillow is just what a tall mom needs.
There isn’t a standardized size chart for nursing pillows. If you happen to be a tall mom, you can’t search for an XL pillow. Often, height-advantaged moms have to go through trial and error.
Ladies, consider this your “tall” pillow. If you are tall or have a long torso, this pillow with adjustable heights will cradle your baby right where he or she needs to be.
This layered pillow gives your baby the height it needs without straining your back. As the little one grows, you can remove a layer of the pillow.
This pillow does support upright feeding, which is a big help for babies suffering from reflux or GERD.
In terms of cleaning, this pillow isn’t the most convenient. It does not include a cover. You will have to spot clean or place the entire pillow in the washer.
PROS
- Adjustable heights
- Great for tall moms or moms with long torsos
- Machine washable
CONS
- No cover, must wash spot clean or wash whole pillow
Leachco Natural Boost Adjustable Nursing Pillow
The Leachco Natural Boost Adjustable Nursing Pillow is a wonderful adjustable height nursing pillow.
Unlike the Infantino pillow listed above, this adjustable pillow does not feature varying layers. Rather, this pillow features a “boost” pillow that is attached with a velcro strap.
While nursing, you prop the boost pillow on your arm to create a cozy nest for your baby. The pillow flips from side to side, so it can be used with either arm.
The boost pillow can be removed to accommodate a growing baby. If you’re going on a trip, the boost pillow by itself makes a great travel nursing pillow.
All the above makes for a great pillow. What’s the catch? This pillow is not machine washable and it does not have a cover. This polyester-cotton blend is spot clean only.
PROS
- Boost pillow can alternate sides and detach
- Fits around body for a snug fit
CONS
- Not machine washable
- Does not include cover
Best Frida Mom Adjustable Nursing Pillow
Frida Mom Adjustable Nursing Pillow
The Frida Mom Adjustable Nursing Pillowis an unexpected hit in the world of nursing pillows!
Frida decided to do what other nursing pillows could not: make a pillow that is adjustable from the inside for comfortable nursing. Also, this neat pillow attaches around your waist for security and has a removable backrest.
An inclined armrest makes it easier to keep your baby or your arms comfortable. Next, a built-in cradle retainer dent keeps your baby well situated too.
That’s not all, Frida added heat pack pockets to keep you cozy and storage pockets on the front too. However, your favorite feature will be the firm to soft cushioning with removable layers. Take them out as your baby grows for the right amount of space.
Finally, the very soft gray tee-shirt material will work perfectly for both you and baby. It’s designed with mom in mind to reduce tension and keep babies from sliding. It’s everything you want in a breastfeeding pillow.
PROS
- Unique curved indents
- Removable layers
- Back rest
CONS
- Pillow is not ideal for tummy time
Best Baby Boppy Pillows
Boppy Bare Naked Nursing Pillow
The Boppy Bare Naked Nursing Pillow is the simple version of the original Boppy pillow.
This Boppy nursing pillow has no unnecessary frills. It’s a C-shaped pillow and just as comfy as any other Boppy pillow, it just doesn’t happen to have a decorative pattern.
It runs cheaper than a decorated Boppy. Still, it offers all the comfort and versatility of the colorful patterned ones.
Mothers especially love the “propping” feature of Boppy pillows. It’s a strange term, but it’s exactly what it sounds like. Sometimes, you just have to place a baby down in a safe spot! Enter Boppy.
You can always choose to buy a cover later on to protect your pillow. On the other hand, this is also a great choice if you just need to replace an old Boppy pillow and already own slipcovers.
PROS
- From the award-winning Boppy brand
- Machine washable
CONS
- No cover
Boppy Original Nursing Pillow
The Boppy Original Nursing Pillow is the original nursing pillow.
Believe it or not, Boppy, the brand, is responsible for producing the world’s first nursing pillow. This baby product is now 31 years old, making it practically middle-aged!
31 years have brought loyalty and trust from a large fan base. People swear by Boppy pillows. At the first sign of a baby registry creation, someone immediately recommends a Boppy pillow.
Boppy’s fans aren’t unearned. Certainly, this C-shaped pillow is great for feeding, but also for tummy time, propping, and sitting.
Most Boppy pillows, like this one, include a decorative slipcover. Boppy produces an entire line of fun covers to suit any mom or nursery theme.
Plus-sized mommas do have some issues with the traditional Boppy fitting them. Some moms have found it works better propped on their side instead.
In the end, Boppy may be the original but does that make it the best? The rest of our list will determine this.
PROS
- From the award-winning Boppy brand
- Comes in several different patterns
- Pillow and cover are machine washable
CONS
- No additional features, such as pockets or a body strap
Want all the best nursing gear? Check out the best nursing nightgowns, best nursing bras, and best nursing covers.
Best Nursing Pillow for Twins
Twin Z Pillow
The Twin Z Pillow is the answer to every twin mom’s prayers. This is the product that put the Z Pillow company on the map – and on Shark Tank.
Traditional nursing pillows don’t usually accommodate twins well. It’s easier when the twins in question are newborns. Two newborns can fit on a normal nursing pillow pretty well.
Still, most mothers want to breastfeed past the newborn stage, so moms deserve a pillow that can fit their growing twin babies.
For mom, you get to enjoy strong back support that helps encourage better posture. You also have a body strap for a secure fit.
For babies, little newborns get a cozy little nest that is hypoallergenic and free from any harmful chemicals.
As with most pillows, this pillow can be used in variable ways. Tiny twin babies can also play in tummy time right next to each other in the Twin Z Pillow.
The cover is removable and machine washable. The company does sell covers if you would like an extra.
PROS
- Allows for tandem feeding of twins
- Provides full back support for mom
- Cover is machine washable
CONS
- Not ideal for petite moms
- Pricey
2 Pack Nursing Pillow and Positioner
The 2 Pack Nursing Pillow and Positioner is a 2-for-1 deal!
This is a 2-pack of basic white C-shaped nursing pillows. If you need two nursing pillows, this is an affordable deal.
Why would you need two nursing pillows? Firstly, twin moms don’t always opt for large twin pillows. Some prefer to have two separate pieces.
Secondly, having a spare nursing pillow is never a bad thing. For example, having one in the bedroom and one in the living room can save you a couple of trips up the stairs!
Lastly, maybe you want to gift a pillow. One for you, one for your friend. It is a good deal, after all.
Both pillows are machine washable. The fabric is soft and breathable. This pack does not include covers. They must be purchased separately.
PROS
- Includes two nursing pillows
- Breathable fabric
- Pillow is machine washable
CONS
- Does not include covers
Best Travel Nursing Pillow
The Feeding Friend pillow is the most compact nursing pillow since it self-inflates and self-deflates. The Lansinoh pillow is the best portable nursing pillow that slips on the arm compared to the others.
Lansinoh Nursie Nursing PillowB079VV7521
The Lansinoh Nursie Nursing Pillow is a breastfeeding pillow that slips on your arm!
A large body-wrapping nursing pillow is not for everyone. Recovering C-section moms may not be able to tolerate a nursing pillow that wraps around the waist.
This Lansinoh arm pillow is a wonderful alternative. Because it is worn on the arm, it doesn’t add pressure to a healing incision.
It couldn’t be easier to use this pillow. There are no body straps or maneuvering. It just slips onto either arm and allows the baby to be positioned.
It’s compact too! This small pillow can slip right into a diaper bag or purse.
The soft star-patterned cotton of the exterior is easy on baby’s sensitive skin. The interior is made of silky fabric for the comfort of mommy’s arm.
The cotton exterior is easy to spot clean, but the entire pillow can be put in a washing machine.
PROS
- Worn on either arm with no straps
- Ideal for use with c-section incisions
- Pillow is machine washable
CONS
- Can position baby too high
Milk Boss Breastfeeding and Bottle-Feeding Pillow
The Milk Boss Breastfeeding and Bottle-Feeding Pillow is a boss at this nursing pillow thing.
This pillow slides right onto your arm to create a perfect feeding incline for nursing. It can be worn on either arm.
Other arm nursing pillows feature a plush inner lining. It’s nice for a cozy fit but tends to be warm. The Milk Boss has a stay-cool inner lining for turning down the heat.
It comes in a gender-neutral beige pattern, therefore you can keep it to use with multiple kids.
When it’s not feeding time, this egg-shaped pillow does offer a cozy little perch for a baby. In case of a spit-up accident, the coverless pillow is machine washable.
This is a one-size-fits-all deal, so not every arm may fit. Some dads have found that it didn’t accommodate their larger arms. Keep this in mind if you want your husband to share feeding duties.
PROS
- Worn on either arm with no straps
- Stay-cool inner lining
- Pillow is machine washable
CONS
- Armhole may be too tight for dad’s arm
Feeding Friend Self Inflating Nursing Pillow
The Feeding Friend Self-Inflating Nursing Pillow is a different kind of nursing pillow.
This unique pillow doesn’t resemble most nursing pillows. It’s not C-shaped, or O-shaped, or even crescent-shaped.
Instead, this lightweight pillow is shaped like a wedge. The pillow gently props up the baby and works for any breastfeeding position. The incline of this wedge can help combat infant reflux and GERD.
Feeling unconvinced? What if I told you this pillow is self-inflating? Yes, mama! Save your breath!
When you’d like to inflate the pillow, simply twist the valve found on the back of the pillow. It will begin to inflate itself.
If you want to deflate, you just tighten the valve again and roll up the pillow. Now it’s travel-sized!
The slipcover is made from a soft plush fabric. It is also removable and machine washable.
PROS
- Self-inflating
- Unique wedge shape
- Cover is machine washable
CONS
- Pillow is high and not ideal for petite moms
Best Breastfeeding Pillows Compared
The table below compares only the recommended products on this page. A low or high Price means it is low or high compared to the other products listed. The Popularity Score reflects how often readers click on and buy the product. The Quality Score is our assessment of the overall performance and satisfaction with the product compared to others in the table.
How We Selected the Nursing Pillows
Value and Budget
There’s no way around it- babies are expensive. Whether you breastfeed or bottle-feed, it’s pricey. Whether you use disposable diapers or cloth diapers, you’re shelling out a small fortune.
Most choices we make as moms cost us money. I realize that you probably can’t spend a small fortune on a pillow.
On one hand, nursing pillows serve an important function. Unfortunately, so do all the other dozens of baby products out there that parents also have to budget for!
For this list, I took into consideration price and value. I looked at affordable options that were still of high quality. I debated what pillows gave the most bang for the buck.
Shape
Most nursing pillows come in 4 basic shapes:
- C-shape, i.e. Boppy, NursIt, Borje
- O-shape, i.e. My Brest Friend, One Z
- Crescent shape, i.e. Luna Lullaby, The Nesting Pillow
Of course, there are the outliers that aren’t any of these shapes (looking at you, adjustable height pillows). Arm pillows and travel pillows are also gaining popularity.
What shape of nursing pillow is best really depends on the shape of mom. Not every shape works for every woman. Luckily, there’s plenty of options.
For reference, C-shapes work for most body types. Crescent shapes work well with plus-sized moms.
O-shaped pillows are good for petite moms. Adjustable height pillows are best for tall moms.
Material
Material, in this case, refers to both the exterior and the interior of the nursing pillow.
I’ll be honest. Before having a baby, I didn’t truly realize how messy they were. Of course, I had some idea. As a whole, though, I was unprepared for the constant onslaught of bodily fluids.
That said, in a world full of spit-up, vomit, and other unidentified fluids, you need a nursing pillow that you can clean.
For exteriors, some cases or even pillows can only be spot cleaned. Ideally, you want something that can be thrown in the washing machine.
Interior-wise, a foam pillow can be hard to keep clean. Some moms notice foam can trap odors as well.
Meanwhile, a buckwheat hull pillow is completely organic. It can last 10 years with proper care.
Before purchasing a pillow, consider the materials of the interior and exterior.
Covers
Having a cover can be a make or break situation with nursing pillows.
Some moms aren’t comfortable with waiting for their nursing pillow to make it through an entire wash cycle and the dryer before they can use it again.
If this is you, I made sure to oblige you by featuring pillows with included covers or the option to buy back-up covers.
Portability
As nice as it would be, not every feeding can occur at home. Sometimes, you just have to leave the house.
What makes a nursing pillow portable? Size, for one. The larger a pillow is, the harder it is to drag it around from place to place.
Meanwhile, some pillows come with convenient carrying cases, like tote bags. Others have handles.
If you are out of the home more than it in, a travel nursing pillow gives you the most freedom. Arm pillows also tend to travel well.
Ease of Cleaning
Some pillows are machine washable. Some pillows aren’t and only their covers can go in the washing machine.
Babies are messy. Spit-up from one end, dirty diaper blowouts from the other. In other words, nursing pillows get dirty.
In my pillow review, I looked into how easy each pillow was to clean and whether it was machine washable or spot clean only.
FAQs – Nursing Pillows
What exactly is a nursing pillow?
Breastfeeding is the most natural thing in the world. So it has to come easy, right? Actually, no.
Here’s the thing. Yes, breastfeeding is a beautiful and natural process, but it is still something that has to be learned.
A nursing pillow is a specialized cushion that can support both you and your baby with breastfeeding. Such a pillow will truly benefit you in the early months when breastfeeding is still new.
These pillows sit in your lap and often wrap around your waist to provide a safe surface for your baby to rest while feeding. It also helps reduce back and neck strain for you.
Moreover, certain pillows can also position the baby in an incline, which helps with reflux and GERD symptoms.
Do you really need a nursing pillow?
When you first find out you’re pregnant, you can be overwhelmed with the millions of things you just “must-have!” I certainly was.
I found myself trying to narrow it down to the absolute necessities. No easy task, for sure. I realized though that “must-haves” are a very personal choice.
Simply put, no. You might not need a nursing pillow. It’s a matter of comfort.
A lot of moms find breastfeeding easier with a nursing pillow. It’s okay if you’re not one of them.
To decide if you need a nursing pillow, ask to borrow a friend’s pillow and try it out for yourself. You may find you like the way it feels. You may not.
Remember, all your baby truly needs is clothing, shelter, food, and love. The rest is up to you.
Is a nursing pillow just a Boppy?
It’s a bit of a misnomer. Boppy has fallen victim to the same fate as Kleenex, Band-Aid, and Chapstick. Boppy was the first in its respective market, as was Kleenex and the others.
You might ask for a Kleenex, but if it’s not Kleenex-branded, then it’s just a facial tissue. Boppy was the first mass-produced nursing pillow. However, it is a single brand.
Since Boppy’s advent in 1989, hundreds of brands have produced their own nursing pillows.
To summarize: all Boppy pillows are nursing pillows but not all nursing pillows are Boppys.
What are the different breastfeeding holds and do nursing pillows work with them?
The most common breastfeeding positions are:
- The cradle position
- The cross-cradle position
- The clutch position (or the football hold)
- Side-lying position
Technically, all of these holds can be helped with a nursing pillow.
The cradle position, the most common position, is where you cradle the baby in the bend of your arm on the same side that you are breastfeeding. A pillow can keep your arm propped up and prevent strain.
The cross-cradle position is the exact opposite. The baby is supported across your body with the opposite arm. A pillow helps to put the baby at the proper height.
In the clutch position, also called the football hold, the baby’s body is tucked down beside the breast while the head is supported at breast level. A pillow can be used in this position for extra support of the head and neck.
The side-lying position is the least likely to require a nursing pillow. In this position, the mother is laying down and the baby is next to her.
At best, a nursing pillow can be used behind the baby to prop him or her up. It’s especially useful for nighttime feedings.
It’s a great position to have in your maternal toolbox, but most of your daytime feedings will take place in one of the other three positions.
