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7 Best Nursing Pillows of 2024

Updated
Get the breastfeeding support you need with one of these top nursing pillows.

Finding a comfortable position when breastfeeding is a lot harder than it looks! From a numb arm to a sore back, poor positioning can make things extra difficult. A good nursing pillow can make a world of difference, just as much as a bad one can hurt.

We’ve spent several hours looking into the best nursing pillows on the market and selecting the creme de la creme. We considered the snugness of the fit, pillow height, and how easy the pillow is to clean.

Whether you need a nursing pillow for a plus-sized mom, one portable enough to travel with, or one for twins, we’ve got a product for you.

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the My Brest Friend Super Deluxe
Best All Round
My Brest Friend Super Deluxe
  • Wrap-around design for extra comfort
  • Baby stays at right height
  • Stops baby from rolling out
Product Image of the Boppy Best Nursing Pillow
Best for Bottle Feeding
Boppy Best Nursing Pillow
  • Affordable and versatile
  • Soft fabric
  • Provides head and neck support
Product Image of the Blessed Nest Organic
Best for Plus Size Women
Blessed Nest Organic
  • Won't irritate incision area
  • Support variety of body types
  • Organic cotton materials
Product Image of the The Nursie Slip-on Arm
Best for Traveling
The Nursie Slip-on Arm
  • Easy to use
  • Fits in a diaper bag
  • Easy to clean
Product Image of the Twin Z Nursing Pillow
Best for Twins
Twin Z Nursing Pillow
  • Specifically designed for twins
  • Plenty of back support
  • Works well for larger women
Product Image of the Ergobaby Natural Curve
Best Ergonomic Design
Ergobaby Natural Curve
  • Contoured design
  • High quality foam
  • Used for baby’s tummy time
Product Image of the All American Collection
Best Hypoallergenic Pillow
All American Collection
  • Soft yet firm
  • Washes easily and dries fast
  • Great for allergy sufferers


The Best Nursing Pillows of 2024

Here are 7 great nursing pillows to consider.

My Brest Friend Super Deluxe Nursing Pillow

Best All Round Breastfeeding Pillow

The My Brest Friend nursing pillow has a super soft slipcover that moms love, and the best part is that it stays soft after multiple rounds through the washing machine.

The pillow also has room for your arm and elbow to rest, which alleviates fatigued shoulder muscles if you’re holding your baby for extended periods.

Since the My Brest Friend pillow wraps around you, it stays put, thanks to its fastening strap and latch. Women may especially appreciate the backrest that gives them added support when they need it most.

Pros

  • Relieves shoulder, arm, and back strain — common areas of pain a new mom feels from breastfeeding.
  • It helps the baby stay at just the right height for breastfeeding.
  • The flat surface stops the baby from rolling out of position.
  • Wrap-around design for extra comfort.

Cons

  • Difficult to put on with one hand.
  • It doesn’t fit plus-sized women as well.

Our Ratings

Support
4.5 / 5
Comfort
4.5 / 5
Material
4 / 5
Machine Washable
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

User Experience

I'm really enjoying this nursing pillow and have found it to be a major help in my breastfeeding journey. The waterproof plastic cover in the middle is great for protecting the foam from any spit-up mishaps, and the cantaloupe yellow color, though different from the picture, doesn't bother me. I appreciate the softer texture of the polyester cover, and when it comes to temperature regulation, I just use a light cotton burp cloth on top for added sweat absorption. Figuring out how to position my arms and baby on the pillow took some adjustments, but once I got the hang of it, it became very supportive and comfortable. The back support it provides has been a game-changer for alleviating my lower back pain from pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Boppy Best Nursing Pillow

Best Nursing Pillow for Bottle Feeding

Made of polyester and cotton, the Boppy Best Nursing Pillow can be used to position bottle-fed babies in a way that takes the strain off of their mother’s sore arm, shoulder and back muscles. It doesn’t just help moms – it can provide neck and head support for babies, too.

Slipcovers for the pillow can be bought separately and are machine washable. Mothers may appreciate how versatile this pillow is, since it can be used for years, and not just the short time your baby is drinking from a bottle. The Boppy pillow can even be used to prop up your newborn during those all-important picture times.

Pros

  • Affordable, won’t fit most budgets.
  • The soft fabric makes it good for soft, sensitive baby skin.
  • Can help babies learn to enjoy tummy time.

Cons

  • There is no back support with this pillow.
  • The rounded top of the pillow can cause your baby to roll or turn inward during feeding.
  • Not a good choice for plus-sized women.

Our Ratings

Support
3.5 / 5
Comfort
4 / 5
Material
4 / 5
Machine Washable
5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Personal Perspective

These nursing pillows provide great support and comfort for both moms and babies during feeding time, as well as being versatile for other uses like tummy time or even holding a laptop. The cushion is made of good quality material, with a removable and washable cover that has a zipper on the back. However, the carrying case that comes with the pillow is not as practical as expected, so you might want to consider purchasing an additional bag for easier transportation.

Blessed Nest Organic Baby Nursing Pillow

Best Nursing Pillow for Plus-Size Moms

Moms who wear a larger size may want to consider this nursing pillow, which is designed in a completely different shape than many other popular nursing pillows.

Shaped more like a boomerang, this pillow doesn’t have a back end that fastens. Women who have had a C-section may also like that this pillow doesn’t sit too close to their bodies, which can irritate the sensitive incision area.

Made in the U.S., these nursing pillows use 100 percent organic cotton both mothers and babies will enjoy. The pillowcase comes prewashed. Nevertheless, the pillow makes it safer and comfier for delicate baby skin.

Pros

  • The slipcovers comes pre-washed.
  • Won’t irritate incision area.
  • Organic cotton materials.

Cons

  • Its heavy so it doesn’t work well for travel.
  • Pricier than many other nursing pillows.

Our Ratings

Support
4 / 5
Comfort
4.5 / 5
Material
5 / 5
Machine Washable
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Community Feedback

Got this nursing pillow as a gift and I must say, its unique boomerang shape is ideal for larger moms and those who had C-sections, as it doesn't irritate sensitive areas. The 100% organic cotton material is gentle on both mother and baby's skin, and the pre-washed slipcover is a nice touch. However, this pillow is quite heavy, making it less suitable for travel. Additionally, it is pricier than many other nursing pillows on the market.

The Nursie Slip-on Arm Nursing Pillow

Best Nursing Pillow for Travel

Just when you thought there weren’t any good options for a travel nursing pillow, this one proves you wrong.

This pillow is perfect for moms, but dads won’t feel foolish using it either. It’s a pillow designed much like those swim floaties for toddlers – it just slides over your forearm to give support to your feeding baby without you having to strain your muscles.

It also props your baby’s head up high enough to prevent acid reflux in case you find yourself in an awkward feeding position. The small, convenient travel nursing pillow is also machine washable.

Pros

  • Easy to use, baby gets to eat faster.
  • Fits in a diaper bag so it travels easier.
  • Easy to clean, less stress for mama.

Cons

  • It doesn’t provide any back support.
  • The pillow doesn’t have any other uses.
  • The fleece lining might make this too warm for feeding during summer.

Our Ratings

Support
3 / 5
Comfort
3.5 / 5
Material
3.5 / 5
Machine Washable
5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

First-Hand Impression

Excellent nursing pillow for both breastfeeding and bottle-feeding moms! This Nursie pillow is soft, easy to use, and provides great support for my baby's head, neck, and shoulders. It's especially helpful when I'm multitasking around the house or traveling, as it's not as bulky as traditional nursing pillows. The only downside is that it tends to slide down my arm, but it's still a great alternative to other pillows on the market.

Twin Z Nursing Pillow

Best Nursing Pillow for Twins

The Twin Z Pillow is specifically designed for twins and the unique situation they create when it comes to feeding time.

Parents of twins will appreciate how much back support this pillow provides for a nursing mother who is often struggling under the weight of holding two wriggling babies. The pillow helps you to position each baby along either side of you, under each arm, so they can both nurse comfortably.

Mothers of twins will be able to breastfeed in any position that a mother of a single would with the Twin Z Pillow. It isn’t a lightweight pillow – it weighs about 6 pounds – but it gets the job done.

The outside of the pillow is made of quality organic cotton, which feels soft, and it has a buckle to keep it securely in place.

Pros

  • Babies can be positioned on the floor side by side on their backs after feeding time is over.
  • Plenty of back support so you can relax.
  • Works well for larger women.

Cons

  • Because most chairs won’t be big enough for feeding twins, you’ll need to use this while on the floor, sofa or bed.
  • Because of its size, this pillow isn’t ideal for traveling.
  • It’s expensive: about twice the price of a single nursing pillow.

Our Ratings

Support
4.5 / 5
Comfort
4.5 / 5
Material
4.5 / 5
Machine Washable
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

User Experience

Love this twin nursing pillow for its comfort and versatility! I found it incredibly helpful for tandem feeding my twins, providing me with excellent back support and a secure space for my little ones. However, it's not just for breastfeeding - it's also great for propping them up on the couch or for snuggling together. The removable cover is a fantastic feature, making it easy to clean up inevitable messes. My only concern was some fabric strain near the buckle, but the issue was quickly resolved with great customer service.

Ergobaby Natural Curve Nursing Pillow

Best Ergonomic Nursing Pillow

The Ergobaby is a wrap-around nursing pillow that is carefully shaped and contoured with nursing moms and babies in mind. The clever curves position your baby tummy-to-tummy for the perfect latch, and you can feed in a range of different positions.

This pillow is well made, and the foam is a lot firmer than others on the market. You won’t be slouching over to cradle your baby, and that support means you can really lean back and relax.

The foam is designed not to absorb any spills, and the cover is machine washable. Both mom and dad can use it for breast- or bottle, and the pillow makes a great prop for tummy time.

Pros

  • The contoured design really works for supporting you during feeding.
  • The foam is high quality and won’t distort.
  • It can be used for baby’s tummy time or to assist in early sitting.

Cons

  • The downward slant may be too much for some, and have the baby rolling inwards.
  • Too wide and stiff to fit into chairs with fixed armrests.
  • Not ideal for very small babies as the foam may be too hard.

Our Ratings

Support
4 / 5
Comfort
4 / 5
Material
4 / 5
Machine Washable
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Personal Perspective

Got this nursing pillow as it was recommended for plus size moms, but found it to be a bit too firm and inflexible for my liking. The free shape design does allow for versatile positioning with various nursing holds, and I believe it may be more suitable for older babies. Although the patterned cover I ordered was not what I received, the pillow itself still serves its purpose. As a slightly plus sized mom, I found that it didn't quite reach my elbows, but it might work better for smaller framed individuals.

All American Collection Bamboo Nursing Pillow

Best Hypoallergenic Nursing Pillow

This gorgeously soft pillow from All American Collection is allergen protected and light as a cloud, making it a cozy choice for breastfeeding or bottlefeeding. The texture is hard to describe: firm but somehow soft and lightweight. Just right for propping your baby up at the best angle!

The filling is 100 percent polyester which won’t aggravate your or your baby’s allergies, and the cover is made from a light bamboo-polyester blend. This also means it’s a dream to wash and dries fast so you can get right back to using it again.

The pillow is medium-sized, so you just might be able to bring it along on a road trip. Another plus is the calm, low-key design. If you’re not keen on bright kid colors or gaudy printed animals, you might like this pillow.

Pros

  • Soft yet firm — provides proper support.
  • The cover washes easily and dries fast.
  • Light, breathable, and great for allergy sufferers.

Cons

  • Some moms have found daily use leaves the pillow flat.
  • While soft, the filling and the cover are not particularly durable.
  • The plain, fluffy cover may pill or fray and need an additional cover.

Our Ratings

Support
3.5 / 5
Comfort
4 / 5
Material
4.5 / 5
Machine Washable
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Community Feedback

I've recently tried this pillow for my husband who is confined to a wheelchair and recliner, and I must say it has worked wonders for his comfort. The shape, softness, and sturdiness are just right - not too soft and not too hard. However, I've noticed that without a cover, the pillow can get a bit hairy and stringy, so a cover is definitely needed. On the other hand, some users might find it too small for their needs, as it barely fit around my waist and wasn't suitable for my baby to sleep on. Despite this, the overall quality and comfort provided by the pillow are impressive.

Types of Nursing Pillows

There are several different shapes and sizes of the best nursing pillows to help moms with their aches, pains and feeding issues.

Boppy Style Pillows

The boppy style nursing pillow is one of the most common types that look like the letter C, or like those travel pillows you see in airport stores.

Many women call these “boppy pillows” whether they’re made by that brand or not.

They’re perfectly shaped to help your baby when they are almost ready to sit up on its own. These nursing pillows are multipurpose and flexible, these are popular for a reason!

Flat/Shelf Style Pillows

These are stiffer ledges that you attach around yourself and fasten, like the “My Brest Friend” pillow.

Shelf nursing pillows are large, stable, and have a backrest, unlike Boppy style breastfeeding pillow.

This kind of pillow won’t go flat or shift around as you feed. It really stays put!

Other Shapes

Some nursing pillows are shaped like the number 3 especially for feeding twins.

Some are simply large, soft rectangles for maximum reshaping depending on your needs.

There are also extra-large size nursing pillows or those with a boomerang shape, which are ideal for plus size moms or those who’ve had a C-section and want to keep pressure off their bellies.

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How to Choose a Nursing Pillow

The main things to consider when searching for the perfect nursing pillow are:

The Fit

You want the pillow to fit you comfortably, particularly if it’s a wrap-around pillow. You don’t want it pressing uncomfortably against your back and causing more discomfort than it relieves.

To ensure that your pillow is the right fit, check the sizing. Some nursing pillow brands come in more than one size. This is especially important for plus-sized mamas because comfort will improve your breastfeeding experience.

The Height of the Pillow

If you’re using it for breastfeeding, it needs to be the perfect height for your baby to find a proper latch. If it goes up too high or too low on your midsection, it won’t work. You need to find that just-right Goldilocks zone.

Check the pillow dimensions, if available, online to be sure it will work for you.

How Easy It Is to Clean

If you’re using it for nursing, at some point, it’s going to get a bit nasty and will need a good washing. If it doesn’t have a cover you can take off and throw in the washing machine, keeping it clean is going to be tricky.

We recommend fabrics like cotton or polyester. Better still, choose a pillow with a slip cover so you don’t have to worry about washing the actual pillow every time. Fabrics like velvet would definitely be harder to keep clean.


Do You Need a Nursing Pillow?

Nursing pillows are used for a range of reasons, both before and after your baby is born.

The best nursing pillows can provide a lot of relief for your aching back both during pregnancy and once your baby arrives. They can also be used to facilitate baby tummy time, to keep you sitting comfortably, and more.

A Worthwhile Purchase

If you have the extra money and you can afford to buy one, they’re a great purchase to make because they take the strain off of your lower back, arms, and shoulders while you’re holding your baby. They are very helpful when your baby is small, as the baby gets larger and longer it’s easier to nurse without a pillow.

A good, supportive pillow can help you find a cozy position that works for both you and your baby as you nurse, and work just as well for breastfeeding or bottle feeding.

How Do You Use a Nursing Pillow?

The way you use a nursing pillow depends on how you position yourself during breastfeeding.

  • If you’re sitting down on a comfortable chair while breastfeeding and your child is positioned across your lap, you can use the pillow to give your baby’s head and neck support. This is particularly important for newborns and young babies who don’t have much neck strength.
  • If you feed your baby in the football hold, they are positioned on your side and you’re holding them under your arm like a football, a breastfeeding pillow will help place you or your baby comfortably and correctly.
  • If you opt to feed your baby while you’re lying on your back, your body will be your baby’s pillow so you don’t need to have a nursing pillow in this case, unless it makes you more comfortable.
  • Even if you choose to bottle feed, a feeding pillow can help support the baby, so you don’t constantly strain your muscles to hold the baby up for feedings. That’s particularly useful if mom had a C-section delivery.

Some nights my shoulders, neck, and arms were so tight and painful from trying to hold my baby in position that I felt like I was participating in some kind of physical endurance challenge. It hurt, and I wasn’t prepared for that as a new mom.

Nursing Pillow FAQs

Can My Baby Sleep on a Nursing Pillow?

No. While sleeping on a nursing pillow may seem like a good idea; the fact is that babies can easily slip down off a nursing pillow, which can close their airways and cause them to suffocate. Babies should be put to sleep on a firm surface on their backs, and be supervised when in car seats or on pillows, bumpers or soft bedding (1).

Can I Bring a Nursing Pillow on a Plane?

This depends on how large your pillow is! If you have a smaller size and need support on a longer flight, by all means, bring it along. Consider a pillow designed especially for travel, or experiment with soft or inflatable C-shaped neck pillows.

Can You Wash a Nursing Pillow?

Typically, you want to avoid submerging any stiff foam pillow in water; instead, wipe the surface clean or wash the removable cover only. For pillows with softer filling, choose a gentle cycle on your washing machine and air dry, fluffing it a few times to preserve the shape. When in doubt, check the laundry tag or simply spot clean with a damp cloth.

When Do I Need a Nursing Pillow?

When it comes to mothering, you’re the final authority! Some women can’t nurse comfortably without one, some need one only as their baby grows in size, and others never bother with them, or simply get by with ordinary bed pillows. It’s really about what works for you and your baby.

See how you fare without one first. If you notice yourself needing some extra support, introduce the pillow and decide whether it’s truly helping your comfort levels. You can use a nursing pillow for as long as you nurse, and if you’re like me, you’re bound to find a use for it long after your baby is weaned.

Which Nursing Pillow is Best?

One of the most important tools for breastfeeding moms (and babies!) is a good nursing pillow.

A good nursing pillow can help you get and hold the right position, relieve constant strain on your back and arms while feeding, and provides your sweet baby with the perfect angle to latch onto your breast.

There are many different types of nursing pillows you can buy, so it can be tough to choose the best one. But the Boppy Original Nursing Pillow and Positioner have been a leader in this category for years.

Is Boppy the Best Nursing Pillow?

The Boppy is definitely one of the most popular nursing pillows on the market. It’s got a unique C-shape that wraps around your waist, giving you a comfortable surface for your baby to rest on while breastfeeding.

The Boppy pillow is also super versatile because you can also use it for tummy time and as a support pillow for your baby while they learn to sit up.

but, the Boppy isn’t the only good nursing pillow out there. Other popular options include the My Brest Friend pillow, the Twin Z pillow, and the ErgoBaby pillow.

Each of these pillows has its own unique features to offer breastfeeding moms, so take a look and find the one that best meets your needs.

Is a Nursing Pillow a Must?

While a nursing pillow, or support of any kind, isn’t essential for breastfeeding, most moms find that it makes the experience more comfortable and enjoyable for both them and their baby.

Using a proper nursing pillow can help you maintain a good posture, which helps to prevent back and neck pain over long periods of time. It also reduces strain on your arms and shoulders, making breastfeeding less tiring.

When raising a newborn and breastfeeding several times a day for months and months, you should do everything you can to make the experience easier and more enjoyable.

How Long Do You Use a Nursing Pillow For?

You can use a nursing pillow for as long as you find it helpful. Some moms continue to use their nursing pillow throughout their entire breastfeeding journey, while others find that it’s easier to breastfeed without it once their baby reaches a certain size and weight.

As your baby grows and becomes more skilled at breastfeeding, it won’t need the support of a nursing pillow as much because it can support itself in your lap.

Do Babies Outgrow Nursing Pillows?

Babies don’t necessarily outgrow the use nursing pillows, but as they grow stronger and become more active, they can become less interested in using them.

Also, once your baby is able to sit up on their own, they might prefer to nurse in a more upright position, which obviously doesn’t require a pillow.

How Many Nursing Pillows Should I Buy for My Newborn?

It’s a great idea to have at least one nursing pillow available when your baby is born. This’ll give you the support you need to breastfeed comfortably right from the start.

Some moms find it helpful to have a second nursing pillow, especially if they plan to nurse in different locations around the house. A second pillow is great as a backup in case your primary pillow is in the wash or if you lose it.


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Headshot of Katelyn Holt RN, BSN, BC

Reviewed by

Katelyn Holt RN, BSN, BC

Katelyn Holt RN, BSN, BC is a cardiology nurse and freelance medical writer. Katelyn has 8 years of nursing experience inpatient and outpatient, primarily medical-surgical and cardiac. After having two children she has a passion for Women’s Health and Lactation teaching and support.