Find Your Comfort Level With The Best Nursing Pillow (2020 Guide)
Who doesn’t want a little help when acclimating to life with a new baby?
I know I never turned down an opportunity for my parents to come over to sit, do laundry, cook dinner, or let me nap for a bit.
I also know that I never passed up on the opportunity to buy products that also lent a hand in some way, shape, or form.
That’s why I went out and bought a nursing pillow (and recommend you do the same) once I decided to breastfeed.
A nursing pillow helped me after my c-section, got me through many midnight feedings, and helped me get the hang of breastfeeding overall.
Read on to learn all about why you need a nursing pillow and how to choose the best one!
What Is a Nursing Pillow?
A nursing pillow is basically a pillow that assists with the breastfeeding process.
It helps your baby latch on, based on the way the pillow props them up, and it also helps support your little one’s lack of head and neck strength and control.
Nursing pillows virtually do all the “holding” and allow you to remain stress-free and pretty much weight-free during the feeding session.
They sit on you comfortably and gently wrap around your body.
Do You Need a Nursing Pillow?
A nursing pillow is certainly not a necessity. But, it is a much-appreciated luxury.
And, I deemed myself worthy of a few “want” items over “need” items—after all, I was sliced open and a baby was removed from my body.
If that doesn’t warrant a little TLC, I don’t know what does!
Even if you don't have a c-section, I would still highly recommend investing in a nursing pillow because it helps first time, breastfeeding moms get the hang of nursing in general, and it helps their baby relax and learn to latch properly.
When Do You Need a Nursing Pillow?
Since you’ll be breastfeeding right from the get go, it’s wise to have a nursing pillow washed and ready to go, waiting in your nursery until you bring home baby.
But, some moms like to be ultra-prepared and have their partner bring it to the hospital, so they have nursing assistance and comfort immediately.
It just depends on your personal preference.
My Breast Friend vs Bobby Pillow
Two of the most popular and sought-after nursing pillows are the My Breast Friend and the Boppy Pillow.
Let's break down the pros and cons of each.
My Breast Friend
The My Breast Friend nursing pillow goes all the way around a mom’s waist and is composed of a rectangular shape on the back and a half moon shape on the front.
- FEEL THE SUPPORT: Encourages better posture during breastfeeding, alleviating strain in your back, neck, and arms
- FIRM AND FLAT: Prevents baby from rolling out of position during nursing
Pros
Cons
Boppy Pillow
The Boppy nursing pillow is one piece and it has a C-shape design. It has a stretchy panel and it goes around your waist. (See also: 13 Ways You Can Use a Boppy Pillow).
- VERSATILE AWAKE-TIME SUPPORT: Feeding (0+ months), propping (3+ months), tummy time (6+ months) and sitting (9+ months). For baby’s awake time only. Not for sleep
- CREATED FOR COMFORT: Designed by a mom, the Boppy Pillow provides relief to your arms and back by lifting your baby to a more ergonomic position when breastfeeding or bottle feeding
Pros
Cons
Benefits of Using a Nursing Pillow
Using a nursing pillow has many benefits.
One of the most important benefits is that it helps a baby latch.
The pillow gets them closer to the breast and helps “guide” them to the proper nursing position. And, this is really helpful to new moms (who have no idea what they’re doing at first!)
A nursing pillow also provides comfort to all, since the pillow is soft yet firm.
It takes pressure off a mom to fully support her baby’s head and neck, and also relieves her back and abdomen pain, which can be prevalent during postpartum recovery, especially if she has had a c-section.
Important Features to Look For
Some nursing pillows are better than others.
Here are some features you may want to consider before diving in and making an impulsive purchase:
Tips for Using a Nursing Pillow
Using a nursing pillow isn’t overly difficult.
I watched a few videos that demonstrate how to use it before my son was born.
I also brought mine to the hospital so my nursing attendant could make sure I was using it properly.
But, if you aren’t planning on doing that, just remember the following tips:
Can Non-Breastfeeding Moms Use a Nursing Pillow?
Yes! Botton line: if you’re feeding your baby, you can use a pillow.
I have many mom friends who chose to bottle feed their baby, but who wanted extra comfort and support during the process.
In fact, many nurses recommend having a pillow on hand because if you do have to have a c-section, it's just another way to get comfortable and take less stress and weight off your body while trying to handle your infant.
Postpartum recovery takes awhile, and everyone (whether you’re nursing or not), deserves to be comfortable and be able to ensure proper placement during feeding sessions.
Best Nursing Pillow
#1. Boppy Nursing Pillow
Boppy has been creating their versatile, award-winning Nursing Pillow (click here to check the price on Amazon) for twenty-five years. From breastfeeding, bottle feeding, propping, tummy time and learning to sit, this pillow has you covered.
We like
It's comfortable. The ergonomic design lifts and positions baby in maximum comfort and supports your back while giving relief to arms and shoulders. The soft, silky fabric is soothing for both of you.
Easy to clean. The cover is easily removed, and machine washable, making cleaning up simple. It's also water resistant, so spills and spit-ups are not absorbed. Simply wipe up those little messes after feeding times to keep it fresh.
Good for different stages of development. As your baby grows, this pillow will continue to be one of mommy's favorite little helpers.
Keep in mind
Moms come in all shapes and sizes. Depending on where and how you carry your weight, there's a chance this pillow might not be the best fit.
The frontal design. Although The Boppy has a high comfort rating, it does not have a back, which may be a drawback for those moms with chronic back pain or those who need some additional support.
Best Nursing Pillow for Bottle Feeding
#2. My Brest Friend
This 100% cotton pillow from My Brest Friend (click here to check the price on Amazon) not only has a catchy name, but it offers a few features that many other pillows don't.
We like
Comfort and support. The wrap around design of this pillow offers good lumbar support while holding your baby in the perfect position. Arm and elbow rests eliminate shoulder stress. The firm flat cushion prevents your baby from rolling into the gap other pillows create.
Adjustable back strap. My Brest Friend securely fastens around your body and stays in place. You can use it while standing up, moving around and doing chores.
Convenient pocket. The side pocket is a great feature, ideal for keeping your cell phone within reach or tuck in a water bottle, burp cloth or bib so it's there when you need it.
Keep in mind
The smell. This clear plastic cover has been found to have a strong odor that some find offensive during the first few uses. Although it's said to be non-toxic, give this some thought before you take a chance.
The fit. The adjustable strap is suitable for many mothers, but everyone carries weight differently. Consider your body shape before choosing this nursing pillow. You might find a better fit elsewhere.
Best Nursing Pillow for Twins
#3. Boppy Best Latch Breastfeeding Pillow
If you need a breastfeeding support pillow to keep both you and your baby comfy while it feeds, the Boppy Best Latch Breastfeeding Pillow (click here to check the price on Amazon) is a nice option to keep in mind. It’s designed for ease of use, as it is simple to put on and take off, it’s easy to clean, and it’s adjustable too.
We like
Adjustable – This product features an adjustable belt to help keep the pillow firm and snug against your body, thus making it comfy for you and supportive for your baby.
Easy to Clean – As long as you remove the foam insert, the cover can be machine washed, or you can just wipe it down too.
Contoured Design – This breast feeding pillow features a contoured design that helps turn your baby into you, thus making feeding easier.
Comfy – the soft fiberfill filling that the Boppy Best Latch Breastfeeding Pillow features is very soft and comfy, yet provides plenty of support too.
Keep in mind
Durability – The only downside that we can see with this breast-feeding pillow is that it just isn’t all that durable. You need to be careful with it, or else the stitching may come undone.
Best Travel Nursing Pillow
#4. Lansinoh Nursie Nursing Pillow
If you are on the hunt for a good nursing pillow that makes life easier for you and more comfortable for your baby, the Lansinoh Nursie Nursing Pillow (click here to check the price on Amazon) is a good option to check out. It’s made to be both comfortable and supportive and it’s super portable too. Keep in mind that this pillow was made by moms and for moms, and the Lansinoh company is also parent led.
We like
Dual Position – This nursing pillow can be held in two ways. It can be held using a cradle hold, or a football hold.
C-Section – The Lansinoh Nursie Nursing Pillow works well for mothers who had a C-section, and yes, one size fits all.
Compact – This particular nursing pillow is designed to be compact, so that it is easy to take with you on the go.
Soft & Supportive – The Lansinoh Nursie Nursing Pillow is made to be soft enough to comfy for both mommies and babies, yet also rugged enough to offer good support.
Keep in mind
Heat – Due to the thick and plush nature of this product, it can make your arms and body quite hot while in use.
Best Organic Nursing Pillow
#5. The Nesting Pillow
This 100% organic nursing pillow from The Blessed Nest (click here to check the price on Amazon) is ideal for sensitive baby's skin. The quarter moon design makes the perfect nest at feeding time.
If organic is what you want, you might not need to look any further than The Nesting Pillow.
We like
The filling. 100% organic buckwheat hulls conform to baby's body and adjust to each movement. Similar to a beanbag, creating great support for both of you.
Cool and comfortable. Air easily circulates within the buckwheat filling keeping you at a comfy temperature. The 100% cotton cover helps keep you both feeling cool and fresh.
Clean up is simple. The slipcover removes easily and is machine washable. An bonus, the inside pillow can be heat sanitized by tossing in the dryer for 20 minutes.
Keep in mind
Buckwheat has pros and cons. A totally organic material means with time and normal use, you may find the buckwheat has a tendency to crush and degrade. Also, this filling can be a bit noisier than some.
Weight. The Nesting Pillow is heavier than most of its competitors. This can be an issue when moving it around or traveling. Keep in mind that the weight might be uncomfortable if you've just had a c-section.
Best Nursing Pillow for Plus-Size
#6. Mila Millie Premium Quality Nursing Pillow
The Mila Millie Premium Quality Nursing Pillow (click here to check the price on Amazon) is a very simple yet effective nursing pillow that offers both you and your baby comfort and support. It’s designed to be quite durable, simple to use, and easy to clean as well.
We like
Hypoallergenic – The cover of this nursing pillow is made with hypoallergenic materials to prevent both you and your baby from suffering from allergic reactions.
100% Cotton – This pillow is made with 100% cotton, which is nice because it is soft and plush, plus it is breathable too, so neither you or your baby will get too hot.
Machine Washable – To help make life a bit easier for you, the cover on this nursing pillow is machine washable. Moreover, the zipper is hidden in such a way that it cannot possibly scratch or hurt you and your baby.
A Friendly Design – Many people really like the friendly flower design that this nursing pillow features.
Keep in mind
Shrinks – The Mila Millie Premium Quality Nursing Pillow appears to shrink when washed.
Smell – The pillow needs to be washed first, as it has a rather strong and unpleasant odor when it first arrives.
Wrapping Up
A great nursing pillow makes a huge difference when a new mommy breastfeeds her newborn.
It helps the days and nights more comfortable and provides lots of assistance when learning the basic mechanics of breastfeeding.
Because you’ll be nursing quite a bit throughout your baby’s first six months of life, it’s wise to invest in a product that brings calmness and comfort to everyone.
Consider the types of pillows on the market and the features that separate a good pillow from a great one, so you can feed with ease and confidence!
