The Best Nursing Pillows

Buying Guide for Nursing Pillows

Why buy a nursing pillow?

For breastfeeding mothers, a nursing pillow is a must. It adds a level of comfort to feeding your baby that even the best standard pillow cannot duplicate. Nursing pillows also serve several feeding and comforting functions throughout your baby’s development. These pillows are specially designed to keep the baby positioned correctly and give your arm and back a bit of a break from holding your little one for that long. And if (or when) they fall asleep, it can offer you both a bit more comfort.

What should you consider in a nursing pillow?

• Size: Choose a nursing pillow that fits your torso and keeps your little one’s head at just the right angle for feeding.
• Style: Choose a pillow style that feels most comfortable for you and your baby. From fluffier to elongated, there’s one for almost every preference.
• Multipurpose: Some nursing pillows will double as a positioner for your baby to allow them to look around and a prop as they begin tummy time to encourage neck strength.
• Duration: A nursing pillow will generally be an investment you will lose the entire time you breastfeed, so make sure it works for you and your baby.

How do you keep a nursing pillow clean?

Let’s face it: babies are messy. That’s why most nursing pillows come with covers or have covers available for purchase. You can easily spot-clean the nursing pillow if anything leaks through the cover with gentle soap and water. It’s a good idea to wash your nursing pillow cover as often as possible, at least two times a week. Many parents keep two to three nursing pillow covers handy for exactly this reason.

Our Picks for the Best Nursing Pillows

Pros: If you’re a new mom with a C-section, this pillow is comfortable enough to use without rubbing or causing additional soreness. It cradles your baby in one safe place without sliding or slipping. This is also an excellent choice for small babies or preemies.

Cons: The buckle can be a little tricky to use.

Bottom Line: This nursing pillow is a fantastic choice for moms with new delicate newborns. It’s made to cradle any size baby without moving around, and it’s very firm and flat.

 

Pros: First, this nursing pillow is super easy to carry around wherever you go. You can use several different covers, and they’re all machine washable and dryer safe. Plus, the pillow is durable, made with high-quality materials and good stitching.

Cons: This nursing pillow doesn’t fit all bodies and frames.

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a versatile nursing pillow that will work for newborns up to a year and beyond, this is a great choice. Plus, the pillow and its additional covers are easy to clean in the wash at home.

 

Pros: Light and breathable, this nursing pillow is great for bottle feeding and breastfeeding. The convenient zipper makes it easy to wash away messes fast. Plus, it’s made from high-quality, machine washable materials.

Cons: This pillow may flatten over time.

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a softer nursing pillow, this may be an excellent option for you. This is the select less firm option for parents who don’t like a super firm nursing pillow.

 

Pros: This nursing pillow has a wide, comfortable frame to fit more bodies comfortably. The mini head support pillow is wonderful for newborn babies and bottle feeding. Plus, the firmness and shape of this pillow are great for tummy time.

Cons: This pillow is on the thinner side.

Bottom Line: Made from 100% cotton, this light, and portable nursing pillow is fantastic for new parents. It’s machine washable, and so are its well-designed pillow covers.

 

Pros: This pillow is taller than a U-shaped nursing pillow for better back support. It’s a great option for babies with reflux since the angles are customizable. Plus, it’s firm and won’t sag during a feeding.

Cons: This pillow may add pressure to a postpartum belly and C-section scar.

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for an adjustable pillow that can be passed from mom to dad to grandma and work for everyone, this is a great choice. It’s machine washable for those oopsie moments. Plus, it helps frustrated new moms get a comfortable breastfeeding latch.

Final Thoughts

Each nursing pillow is made with a different set of circumstances in mind. While some nursing pillows offer better support for infants, they may not be the best choice for a newborn or preemie. Many parents have a few different nursing pillows at their disposal if one doesn’t work for one of the parents in a particular way. Consider our recommendations as you decide which one works for you and your baby’s needs.