How to Choose the Perfect Nursing Pillow

Are you looking for the perfect nursing pillow for you?
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, your pillow will be your daily companion. That's why it's so important to choose it well!

In this guide, I'll explain how to choose the ideal pillow and make the most of it!

Contents

• What is a nursing pillow?
• When should you use it?
• How to choose the right nursing pillow?
• Where to buy it?
• How to sew your own nursing pillow
• How to care for your pillow
• Travel nursing pillow

Nursing Pillow: What's that?

If you've never seen a nursing pillow, you're probably wondering what it looks like.

Nothing too extraordinary: it's usually a U-shaped or large kidney-shaped pillow.

Unlike your couch pillows, it's not filled with foam but with small elements (microbeads, seeds) that can move around inside the pillow.

The feeling is similar to those beanbag chairs that were all the rage in the 90s.

The nursing pillow is soft, adapting to your needs and offering support where you need it most.

Nursing Pillow vs. Pregnancy Pillow

Sometimes these two terms refer to the same thing... and sometimes they don't!

There are indeed several shapes of nursing pillows: long, short, crescent-shaped, U-shaped, or even butterfly-shaped...

The key takeaway is that a pregnancy pillow can always be used for breastfeeding, but the reverse isn't always true.

Some nursing pillows won't be of any use before your baby is born.
For example, this model won’t help relieve your back or improve your sleep.

Why Use a Nursing Pillow?

The important question to ask, if you don’t want your house to quickly turn into a showroom of baby gear, is this: is it a gadget or a real essential?

The nursing pillow easily falls into the category of maternity essentials.
Whether you plan to breastfeed or not, it will provide countless benefits...
You'll even be happy to have it the day your partner throws out their back playing golf!

When to Use a Nursing Pillow

Pregnancy, breastfeeding... Choose the right model and your nursing pillow will accompany you for many months!

During Pregnancy

The body changes that occur throughout pregnancy can make everyday life a bit more challenging.

Of course, you need to consider the added volume of your belly.
It’s a bit like trying to drive a large sedan when you’ve always been used to a mini cooper! Be careful with those tight turns!

But the presence of your little passenger will also cause back pain, and, by the end of pregnancy, it can be difficult to find a comfortable position.

This is when your nursing pillow becomes your best friend!

Relieving Back Pain

During pregnancy, your pelvis tilts forward to make room for the baby.
Your lower back might not appreciate the new load it has to bear!

Lower back pain is common among pregnant women.
That’s why it’s so important to have good support when you’re sitting.

Flexible and malleable, your nursing pillow is ideal for this job: just adjust the filling to find the perfect support!

You can also place it under your knees to relieve the feeling of heavy legs!

The nursing pillow adapts very easily to your needs.

How to Sleep with a Nursing Pillow

Sitting isn’t the only position where the nursing pillow can help.

Difficulty breathing while lying on your back, pelvis and belly pulling when you’re on your side... And of course, lying on your stomach is impossible!
As your pregnancy progresses, it becomes harder and harder to find a comfortable sleeping position.

The solution? Your nursing pillow, of course!

Placed between your knees, it keeps your pelvis aligned and supports your belly.

You can finally relax and enjoy a restful night’s sleep!

For Breastfeeding

Of course, your pillow will also prove invaluable during breastfeeding.

To feed your baby comfortably, you should never be hunched forward... or you'll pay for it with back pain after the feeding!

Your baby should always be positioned at breast height.

The malleability of the nursing pillow plays an essential role in properly positioning your little one.
If your baby is a bit too low, simply shift the filling in strategic areas to bring them to breast level without effort.

What Positions with a Nursing Pillow?

There are many breastfeeding positions to choose from.

To avoid soreness or discomfort, it’s crucial to have your baby positioned at breast height, with their head aligned with their body.
They shouldn't have to stretch their neck or turn their head to nurse.

 Check out the 5 golden rules for proper breastfeeding positioning here.

But this doesn’t mean you should lean forward to bring your breast down to their level. If you try, your back will quickly remind you that it’s not a good idea!

That’s where your nursing pillow comes in. Thanks to its malleable texture, it allows you to position your baby optimally without any effort.
If you need more volume, simply tilt the cushion so the beads flow to the strategic spot.

Once Baby is at the right height, just make sure to position them facing your breast, and you're all set!

Breastfeeding Pillow: Until What Age?

The breastfeeding pillow usually accompanies you until Baby can sit up on their own.
Around 6 to 8 months, they will increasingly try to sit up when lying down.
Feeding positions then evolve to allow more freedom and independence.

No worries: at this age, breastfeeding is well-established, and Baby knows how to find the perfect position to nurse.

A Breastfeeding Pillow Without Breastfeeding?

If you're not planning to breastfeed, you might think a breastfeeding pillow is unnecessary.

However, I highly recommend keeping one handy.
As we've seen, it can be very useful during pregnancy.

But the breastfeeding pillow can also help you easily find a comfortable position for bottle-feeding.

Comfort for Bottle Feeding and Naps

Feeding sessions can be long. Baby will probably even fall asleep in your arms once they're full.
If you hastily stuffed a flimsy pillow under your arm at the start of the bottle, you may bitterly regret it when Baby drifts off to sleep!

Of course, you always have the option of trying to transfer them to their crib, praying they don't wake up...
But if you want to take advantage of their milk-induced nap to catch a little rest yourself, it's best to set yourself up for success!

Get cozy in your bed during bottle feeding, well-supported by your breastfeeding pillow, and relax!

Helping Baby Sleep

One last tip to get the most out of your breastfeeding pillow: it can also serve as a baby lounger.

Some models even come with cords to keep the pillow in a cocoon shape.
There are even versions with a harness to secure your little one.

Of course, if you're using your pillow for Baby's nap, always keep an eye on them. Safety first!

Choosing the Ideal Breastfeeding Pillow

Shape

As I mentioned earlier, there are different shapes of breastfeeding pillows.

The ideal model depends entirely on how you plan to use it.

• If you're purchasing your pillow during pregnancy, it's better to opt for a U-shaped pillow. The cushion can be more or less long depending on the brand (see below).
• On the other hand, if you're looking for a pillow just for the breastfeeding period, you might prefer a crescent-shaped model.
  Smaller and easier to carry when traveling, this type of pillow is ideal for moms who have already mastered breastfeeding or are looking for an extra cushion.
• Finally, if you're expecting twins, it's best to choose a pillow designed for feeding two babies at once.
  Some models feature a shape specifically for this purpose, called the butterfly shape.

Size

There are different sizes suited to various needs.

As mentioned earlier, if you're looking for a pillow for comfortable breastfeeding, you can opt for a shorter, crescent-shaped model.

If you also want to use the pillow for comfort during pregnancy, you might choose a much larger model (but also more expensive). While there’s no standard size, it's generally recommended to choose a pillow between 1.5 to 2 meters long for comfortable sleeping.

Filling

Breastfeeding pillows consist of two parts: the pillow itself and the cover.

The pillow is much more technical than it seems.
On one hand, its shape must be adapted to the baby.
On the other hand, it must be designed and filled with material that allows it to properly support the newborn and retain its shape over time.

With good design, the best breastfeeding pillows can last a long time and be useful over 2 or 3 pregnancies.

Polystyrene Microbeads

The filling is often made of ultra-fine microbeads, whose physical properties allow them to retain elasticity and durability.

Microbeads, which are light and inexpensive, give the breastfeeding pillow its flexible consistency.

However, they are very harmful to the environment.
If you prefer a microbead-filled pillow, consider opting for a second-hand pillow to reduce pollution.

You can also choose a more eco-friendly filling.

Natural Nursing Pillow

You can find a natural and eco-friendly alternative to microbeads with spelt hulls.

Very lightweight, spelt hulls are often used to fill pillows, poufs, bolsters, etc. They are stable, well-ventilated, and make an excellent material for nursing pillows that are more environmentally friendly.

Fabric Choice

There are options for all tastes, from classic to whimsical.
Since your pillow will be with you for a while, we recommend choosing one that you fall in love with!

The cover is just as important as the pillow and its filling.
After all, it will be in contact with both your skin and your baby’s.

It should be removable and easily machine washable so you can keep it clean at all times.

It’s best to choose a cover made from 100% cotton to avoid synthetic materials touching your baby.

A fabric labeled Oeko-Tex guarantees that it does not contain substances harmful to your baby’s development.

This way, you can also use your nursing pillow as a little seat where your baby can rest.

Buying Your Nursing Pillow

Now that you know all about the features of a nursing pillow, you’re ready to find the perfect pillow for you.

Here are some helpful tips to guide you in your search.

Insurance Coverage

Since buying a nursing pillow can be a bit of an investment, many new moms wonder, “Is this essential pregnancy and breastfeeding item covered by insurance?”

Unfortunately, there’s no need to rush to your doctor for a prescription: as of now, nursing pillows are not covered by Social Security.

You won’t find them in pharmacies either—they are a comfort item, not a medical device.

Despite their great utility in alleviating back pain and preventing nipple soreness from poor positioning, nursing pillows are not yet available by prescription!

When to Buy Your Nursing Pillow

As we've seen, nursing pillows can be very useful during pregnancy.
They help relieve back pain and allow you to easily find a comfortable position.

That’s why I recommend buying your pillow as early as possible: this way, you’ll have it on hand when you need it!

Where to Buy Your Nursing Pillow

You know exactly what kind of pillow you want? Now all that's left is to buy it!

You have several options, both in-store and online.

Baby Stores

An almost unavoidable stop for expectant parents, baby stores let you discover the best items to care for your little one.

Strollers, cribs, baby seats... These items, once far from your mind, will soon be part of your daily life.
Seeing the full range of essentials (and gadgets!) for your baby allows you to narrow down your options.

Reading descriptions online is helpful, but nothing beats being able to see, touch, and feel the items in person...

This is especially true for nursing pillows.

• Does the cover fabric feel soft or a bit rough under your fingers?
• Does the pillow seem lightweight enough to you?
• Does the filling make noise when you move it?

These and other criteria can only be evaluated in person.

So, a quick trip to the store is a good idea, at least to determine the brand and model that interests you.
After that, nothing’s stopping you from finding the best price online, while keeping delivery fees in mind.

Online

The undeniable kingdom of good deals, the internet is, of course, your best ally in finding your perfect nursing pillow at a reasonable price.

However, don’t forget the essential criteria mentioned earlier: the choice of filling, materials used, shape, size, whether the cover is included, origin, and more...

Keep all your requirements in mind and make sure you order from a reputable site with clear exchange and return policies.

Second-Hand

The nursing pillow is a temporary item. You’ll need it during pregnancy and breastfeeding, of course. It can also serve for multiple pregnancies and accompany you during each nursing journey.

But there comes a day when it simply becomes unnecessary. This means other moms are likely trying to resell theirs right now!

So don’t hesitate to check out second-hand stores, either nearby or online.

Again, keep in mind what you're looking for and don’t get swayed by an overly attractive price.

Seeing the pillow before purchasing is a bonus (since bad odors are hard to detect through a screen!).

Check resale sites, limiting your search to your local area so you can evaluate the pillow’s actual condition before making your decision!

French-Made Nursing Pillows

If you’re mindful of the environmental and social impact of your purchases, you can find French-made pillows online.
For example, check out the Noenza Maternity brand.

You can also choose to sew your own nursing pillow using 100% eco-friendly materials.

Sewing Your Own Nursing Pillow

Want a nursing pillow that meets all your needs? Why not sew your own?

It’s easier than it looks! In fact, sewing a pregnancy pillow is perfectly doable for beginner seamstresses.

Not only will this significantly reduce your budget, but sewing your own nursing pillow allows you to design the perfect one for you.
Size, shape, materials, fabric: you get to decide!

 This article explains how to easily sew your own nursing pillow.

Don’t know how to use a sewing machine?
Why not ask your mom (or a crafty friend) to show you?
You can then use your new skills to sew some adorable items for your baby!

I’m sewing my nursing pillow

Caring for Your Nursing Pillow

Life with Baby is full of little accidents: spit-ups, diaper leaks, milk spills...

To prevent your nursing pillow from quickly becoming a breeding ground for bacteria, you'll need to wash it regularly.
No need to set a weekly alarm on your phone—the stains that will regularly appear on your pillow will be enough of a reminder!

How to Clean Your Nursing Pillow

The way you clean your pillow will depend on the type you’ve chosen: with or without a cover, waterproof, etc.

Nursing Pillow Without a Cover

Some nursing pillows are sold without a removable cover.
If it’s a waterproof pillow, a simple wipe with a sponge will be enough to clean up daily messes.

However, if it’s a regular pillow, I strongly recommend you sew a protective cover.

Nursing Pillow with a Washable Cover

Most nursing pillows come with a removable cover.

Make sure to machine wash your cover regularly (at least twice a week during the first few months, especially if Baby tends to spit up a lot).

If you worry you won’t have the time (or energy) to wash your cover that often, why not sew one or two extra covers?
It’s quick and easy, and you can follow our illustrated tutorial.

Not into sewing?
Ask your mom or best friend with sewing skills for help!
You can also hire a professional seamstress—the time you’ll save will be well worth the small investment!

Waterproof Nursing Pillow

If your little one suffers from GERD, a waterproof nursing pillow can make your life much easier.
The filling of your pillow will stay dry without any hassle!

Waterproof pillows are primarily designed for professional use (like in maternity wards). They are much easier to clean and more hygienic!

But you can now easily find them online.

You can also sew your own waterproof nursing pillow using PUL fabric for both the outer cover and the pillow itself.

When Your Nursing Pillow Flattens

Over time, your nursing pillow may lose its shape. The filling compresses gradually, and the pillow becomes too soft.

The solution? Add fresh filling!

Refillable Nursing Pillow

Some brands anticipate this problem and include the option to refill the pillow.
Usually, a small zipper is placed at the end of one of the pillow's arms, allowing you to add filling as needed.

Simply buy some polystyrene microbeads (available at craft stores) or spelt hulls, and you’re all set!

How to Refill Your Nursing Pillow

If your pillow doesn’t have a refill option, don’t panic!

Just carefully unpick the seam at the end of one arm to fill your pillow.

You can then sew the opening closed again or, better yet, attach a large Velcro strip.
Refilling (or emptying) your pillow will be a breeze!

This trick also works if you prefer a firmer nursing pillow. You can fill your pillow to the max for an extra-firm feel.

Once Baby is weaned, you can even turn your pillow into a punching bag for those days when you need to blow off some steam!

Traveling with Your Nursing Pillow

Heading on vacation and wondering how to take your nursing pillow with you?

Here are a few options!

Inflatable Nursing Pillow

Aware of how bulky traditional nursing pillows can be, some brands have come up with the idea of creating an inflatable pillow.

Space-saving guaranteed!

Once you’ve reached your destination, simply inflate your pillow like a beach ball, then slide it into its cover for added comfort.

Arm Nursing Pillow

This is a kind of fabric armband filled with wadding. You slip it around your forearm to create a sort of cushion under Baby’s head.

It’s more practical for bottle-feeding than for breastfeeding, but it can still be useful when traveling (on a train or plane, for example).

Sewing enthusiasts will find a simple tutorial here.

My Travel Nursing Pillow

If you're going away for several days, you might need to bring your pillow with you.

The easiest way is probably to slip it into a custom-made bag for easy transport.

I’ll soon post a tutorial here on how to sew your own travel bag.
If you're interested, feel free to follow me on Instagram (@glamformum) to be notified when it’s ready!