As a new mom, you’re likely to face many challenges, and one of them is breastfeeding. However, with the right equipment, this experience can be made much easier. One piece of gear that has become increasingly popular among breastfeeding mothers is a nursing pillow.

A nursing pillow is a cushion placed on your lap to support your baby while you breastfeed. It’s a great investment because it can help you maintain proper posture, saving you from a sore back and neck. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the best one?

First, consider the shape of the nursing pillow. The most common shape is a crescent, which fits well around your waist, but there are also U-shaped and C-shaped pillows. The latter two offer more support and can be used for tummy time as your baby grows.

Next, think about the filling. Nursing pillows can be filled with foam, polyester, or microbeads. Foam is the most popular filling as it provides firm support, but it may be too hard for some moms. Polyester is softer, but it tends to flatten over time. Microbeads are the least common filling but they offer adjustable support to meet your needs.

Another critical factor is the pillow cover. Most covers are made with cotton and are easy to remove and machine wash. However, some covers are designed to be water-resistant to prevent leaks and spills. You may also want to consider a cover with a unique texture to keep your baby entertained while feeding.

When considering the cost, keep in mind that a nursing pillow can be used for several months, making it a worthwhile investment. Prices can range from $20 to $60, with more expensive models offering increased durability and features such as pockets or straps.

Now that you know what to look for let’s dive into some of the best nursing pillows and what makes them stand out.

1. Boppy Original Nursing Pillow: This crescent-shaped pillow has become a household name among nursing mothers. It’s made with a firm foam filling that provides great support and has a removable cotton cover for easy cleaning. The Boppy pillow comes in many colors and designs to fit any mom’s style.
2. My Brest Friend Deluxe Nursing Pillow: This kidney-shaped pillow is contoured to fit your waist and has a firm foam filling to offer maximum support. The wrap-around design keeps your baby in place, and the adjustable strap ensures a secure fit. The My Brest Friend pillow also has a pocket to store nursing essentials, making it an excellent choice for moms on the go.
3. Dr. Brown’s Gia Nursing Pillow: This pillow has a unique angled design that promotes better digestion and helps prevent reflux. Its innovative filling is comprised of tiny microbeads, offering a customizable fit to match your preferences. The Gia pillow also has a removable and machine-washable cover, making it easy to clean.
4. Luna Lullaby Bosom Baby Nursing Pillow: This C-shaped pillow offers excellent versatility. It can be used for nursing, tummy time, or even as a baby lounger. It’s filled with hypoallergenic polyester and has a removable, machine-washable cover. The Luna Lullaby pillow also has a unique V-shape in the middle to promote proper breastfeeding positioning.

A nursing pillow is an essential tool for breastfeeding mothers. It can provide comfort, reduce pain, and promote proper feeding positioning for both mom and baby. When selecting a pillow, consider its shape, filling, cover, cost, and additional features. No matter which model you choose, a nursing pillow can make your breastfeeding journey just a little bit easier.