10 nursing pillows that make breastfeeding a little easier

Boppy is to nursing pillows as Band-Aids are to bandages. The OG nursing pillow is the go-to for many reasons. For one, the versatile design comes in handy for far more than breastfeeding. It easily serves as a lounger, tummy time prop, or added security once they start to practice sitting up unaided. What’s more, there are countless cover options that fit any aesthetic and can easily be washed and swapped.

Twin mamas we know say this is the one thing every twin parent needs , hands down. Created by a mom who couldn’t find a pillow that would allow her to feed both babies at once, it became an instant hit after a successful Shark Tank pitch. The middle section can be folded upward to support your back while the waist clip brings the pillow together in the front, making it easy for football and cradle hold feedings. Or, if you’re just looking for a place to prop them up or bottle feed, they can comfortably nest side-by-side. The only drawback? Some reviewers note its above-average size makes it a tricky one to use in a glider. It’s best to use in bed or on a couch, (but you’re probably used to needing all the space these days, right mama?)

In researching this article, My Brest Friend’s original nursing pillow came up many times as a favorite among Team Motherly staffers. Firmer than other nursing pillows, the wraparound design provides the much needed back support moms love while also making it easy to keep baby from sliding around or slipping in between your belly and the pillow. On the curved side you’ll find two distinct bumps called feeding risers, which help raise your babe’s head and aid in digestion–a design the brand incorporated on recommendations from lactation consultants. A super-convenient side pocket makes it easy to keep burp cloths, a water bottle or even your phone close at hand.

If you’re looking for support without the bulk, the Lansinoh Nursie is a sleek and clever alternative to your standard lap-centered nursing pillow. Unlike the traditional set up where you inevitably lean over to bring breast to baby, this cuff-style pillow slips over your arm and allows you to naturally lift them into position. Not only is it super portable and great for travel, it’s also ideal for c-section mamas since it avoids pressing into your belly.

The uniquely-constructed adjustable nursing pillow from Infantino is a favorite among moms who are on the taller side or have a long torso. Its three flap design allows it to be used at multiple heights, flipping them back and forth to find the perfect position. It also is one of the few pillows that can accommodate elevating baby’s head making it a great option for little ones who struggle with acid reflux.

From the backseat of the car to the top of a mountain, breastfeeding mamas know the job can and will be done anywhere. However, that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice at-home comfort. This design from Boppy offers all the support of a standard nursing pillow in a design that easily fits into your diaper bag or stroller basket. It’s more compact that the original but a bit firmer and thicker with a sash-style tie to keep it in place. And not only is it easy to bring along on-the-go, it’s also incredibly versatile. Use it around your waist or even around your arm to nestle baby’s head in just the right position.

Any mama who has ever traveled with a baby knows the struggle of bringing all. the. things. And while you might be able to do without bringing along a bouncer, activity center, and your nursery glider, there are some bulky items that you just can’t leave behind—like a nursing pillow. Consider My Brest Friend’s inflatable travel pillow the weekend warrior you need for breastfeeding away from home. Uninflated, the lightweight design packs flat into luggage or diaper bags and when you’re ready to use, it blows up easily and takes on the same classic wrap-around shape as the original My Brest Friend.

Like their equally versatile and comfy pregnancy pillow, the tube-like bbhugme Nursing Pillow features two silicone tabs that can slide up or down to increase or decrease firmness. Inside, it’s filled with BPA-free EPS beads, which gives it a beanbag-like feel that instantly contours to your body as well as your baby’s to provide as much or as little firmness as you need. The exterior is made from super high quality jersey spandex that’s not only machine-washable, but also meets OEKO-TEX standard class 1, which means it’s free from toxic chemicals and feels absolutely dreamy. Tie the extra length on each side around your waist to secure it in place, or untie it and use it as lumbar support when you’re just taking a much needed rest.

Blessed Nest’s crescent-shaped nursing pillow is made of 100% organic cotton canvas, and filled with organic buckwheat hulls which makes it the nursing pillow that’s most capable of conforming to your body. Unlike foam or cotton batting, the insides act more like a beanbag so you can easily shift into a comfortable position. And since it doesn’t wrap around your waist, it’s a fantastic design for moms who have had a c-section.

The luxe wedge pillows from Dock-a-Tot are arguably the most gorgeous on the market. From the thick, velvety and chambray fabrics to the oh-so-adorable tassel detail, it’s honestly hard to believe it’s actually baby gear. But just because it’s gorgeous, that doesn’t mean it sacrifices function. The firm construction makes it easy to keep baby in place without sinking and many mamas find the stubbier half moon shape easier to navigate than the traditional styles. (Note that this style is spot clean only, so you may want to use a swaddle if you’re prone to leaks or spit up!)