Best nursing pillows 2024: Jump Menu
1. The list in brief ↴
2. Best overall: Chicco Boppy Pregnancy and Baby Nursing Pillow
3. Best budget: Widgey 5-in-1 Nursing Pillow
4. Best premium: My Brest Friend Deluxe Nursing Pillow
5. Most stylish: DockATot La Maman Wedget
6. Best after C-section: Lansinoh Breastfeeding Pillow
7. Most mouldable: bbhugme Nursing Pillow
8. Best for both pregnancy and nursing: Dreamgenii Pregnancy Support and Feeding Pillow
9. Best budget pregnancy and nursing: Niimo Pregnancy and Feeding Pillow
10. Best multi-purpose: ClevaMama ClevaCushion 10-in-1 Nursing Pillow
11. Best for breathability: Purflo Breathe Pregnancy Pillow
12. Best for simplicity: Mamas & Papas Pregnancy and Nursing Pillow
13. How to choose the best nursing pillow for you
14. How we tested the best nursing pillows
The best nursing pillow is the one that closest meets your individual needs and preferences. Because – as with so many things in early motherhood – what works for one mum won’t necessarily suit another.
One thing that we find to be universal, however, is the sense of bewilderment new parents feel when faced with all the different options.
If that’s the case for you, we’re here to help with our round-up of the best feeding pillows on the market right now – all tried and tested by the GoodtoKnow team and our network of parent testers.
Throughout this guide you’ll find insights into important factors such as the different shapes, uses, levels of firmness and potentially helpful extras you might not have thought about (hello, handy pocket for stashing your phone).
We’ve also updated this guide to include newly tested pillows from the likes of Purflo and DockaTot, both of which prove that nursing pillows can be pretty as well as practical – as our baby gear expert outlines below.
I'm so excited to update this list with the beautiful feeding pillows from both Purflo and DockATot. One complaint I hear a lot from mums is just how boring and functional baby equipment can be – so it's great to see brands are finally cottoning on to the fact that items such as feeding pillows can be pretty as well as practical!
The quick list
Below you'll find a brief summary of the products that have made the cut for our list of the best feeding pillows. Click on the jump-links for each item to read more about why our parent testers loved it.
The best nursing pillow overall
This award-winning nursing pillow from tried-and-trusted brand Chicco not only aids comfortable feeding, but can also be used for assisted sitting and tummy time. We love the cute nursery-friendly designs, too.
Another great value nursing pillow
This basic-but-brilliant option does a great job at supporting your baby, and can be used as a lower back support for mum too. A range of chic colours and cute prints offer options to match your nursery’s colour scheme.
The best premium pillow
This luxe pillow provides ultimate comfort, softness and support for both mum and baby. Helpful extras such as an adjustable strap and handy pocket sweeten the deal.
The most stylish nursing pillow
If you want a nursing pillow that looks as good as it performs, this could be The One. Its neat, perfectly-proportioned design comes in a range of striking patterns – including this sumptuous William Morris print.
The best pillow for C-section mums
Designed to be worn on the arm, this pillow allows baby to be brought up to the breast – avoiding any potentially painful hunching. This is particularly beneficial for those who gave birth via C-section as it places less pressure on the scar.
The most mouldable nursing pillow
This pillow feels more mouldable than most, thanks to its microbean filling and adjustable firmness. The soft jersey-cotton ties also help get baby into the most comfortable position for you. Another particularly great choice for those who had a C-section.
Load the next 6 products ↴
The best dual purpose feeding pillow
Looking for a pillow you can use during pregnancy and for feeding once baby arrives? This is our top pick, thanks to its thoughtful design that features a comfortable flat back section.
The best budget dual-use pillow
Another pillow that doubles as a pregnancy and breastfeeding support, with a slightly lower price tag to boot. The quality might not be as good as others, but it will certainly do the job for those who don’t want to spend a fortune.
The best multi-use nursing pillow
With no less than 10 uses, ranging from feeding support for baby and back support for mum, through to a handy buggy insert, this nifty buy ticks a lot of boxes. Great if you’re after real value for money.
The best breathable nursing pillow
The U-shaped curve of this pillow gently hugs the tummy, making it a little less restrictive than some other designs. It’s a great option for anyone prone to overheating thanks to its breathable mesh panel. Available in two nature-inspired prints, it's possibly the prettiest option on our list.
The best for simplicity
Its simple shape and design make this pillow a great fuss-free option. It's well made and less bulky than others on the list. It's also suitable for use during pregnancy.
The best nursing pillows we recommend in 2024
Why you can trust GoodtoKnow. Our experienced Consumer Editor & parent reviewers spend hours testing products to help you make the best choice. Find out how we test and review products.
Best nursing pillow overall
Buy it if:
✅ You like the idea of multiple uses. If you plan on trying tummy time with your baby, or you get anxious at the thought of them toppling over as they’re learning to sit, this pillow will come in handy.
✅ You’re looking for firm support. Our tester found this pillow to be firmer than other nursing pillows on the market, whilst still being soft enough to cushion a fall when used for assisted sitting.
✅ You’re concerned about your feeding pillow staying clean. Both the cover and the pillow itself are machine washable.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You want more colour options. If you're not feeling the Boppy's design, check out the Widgey, a similarly-priced pillow with more print and colour options.
❌ You want back support. Unlike, say, the My Brest Friend nursing pillow (our best premium choice), the Boppy doesn’t come with any back support or a wraparound strap.
❌ You like having back-up covers to hand. Spare pillow covers aren’t currently available to buy for the Boppy.
The bottom line
🔎 Chicco Boppy Pregnancy and Baby Nursing Pillow With its comfortable ergonomic design, multiple uses and selection of designs to choose from, this feeding pillow will prove invaluable for nursing mothers long beyond the newborn phase. ★★★★★
Tested by: GoodtoKnow parent tester Sophie Lowe and her seven-month-old son, Albie.
This award-winning nursing pillow has many uses rolled into one. Not only can it help while feeding a young baby, but it can also be used during pregnancy to help support your back, or knees and bump if you’re sleeping on your side. Alongside this, the breastfeeding pillow also can be used as a nest for relaxation when a baby gets a little older (from three months), as well as for tummy time and to help maintain their balance when sitting alone.
The soft and stable pillow is designed to keep your body in a correct position and help your baby peacefully by sitting around your waistline. It also features removable cotton covers and both the pillow and the covers are machine washable.
Our baby gear expert says: "Mums absolutely love this pregnancy and nursing pillow and I can see why – it’s affordable, versatile, and compact. It’s not going to take up lots of room on the sofa, like some nursing pillows do, and I love that you can use it throughout pregnancy too. There aren’t many baby products that represent such great value for money, which is why this is GoodtoKnow’s pick for the best breastfeeding pillow overall."
Our tester says: Sophie loved the multi-use aspect of this nursing pillow, confirming “it's really helpful for feeding, tummy time, and assisted sitting.”
She also praised its use following delivery by cesarean, saying: "I wish I'd got my hands on this sooner after my c-section. I think it would really have assisted with holding my baby comfortably at the time." This sentiment is echoed by online reviews, with one mum writing: "Bought it while I struggled to breastfeed after c-section. Couldn't do it without this pillow, absolute life lifesaver. Would recommend for any new mum."
Read more: Chicco Boppy Nursing Pillow review
Best-looking budget buy
Buy it if:
✅ You’re looking for colours to match your nursery. It’s available in a range of muted shades, such as olive green and terracotta, as well as cute star prints in the classic nursery colours of pink, blue and grey.
✅ You’re keen to have spare covers. Additional covers can be bought separately via the Widgey website for just £12.99 each.
✅ You’re looking for something that doubles as a support. The Widgey pillow can be used by feeding mothers as a lower-back and between-knee support too.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You’re concerned about fit. Some of our testers noted that the Widgey’s horseshoe shape and firm inner cushion didn’t mould particularly well around their waist (the similarly priced Chicco Boppy just has the edge here).
❌ You want a pillow you can 'wear'. Much like the Chicco Boppy, the Widgey doesn’t come with a wraparound strap. Consider the bbhugme or My Brest Friend pillows if this is an important factor for you.
The bottom line
🔎 Widgey 5-in-1 Nursing Pillow As one of the cheapest items on our list, the Widgey offers great value for money. In return, you get midwife-approved support – for both baby and mum – and a wider-than-most selection of prints and colours to choose from. ★★★★
Tested by: GoodtoKnow parent tester Kirsty Fife.
This best-selling breastfeeding pillow has glowing reviews and comes in no less than 13 different cover options. As with many other products on the market, this pillow can be used for feeding, but also to provide back, between-knee and under-bump support during pregnancy and beyond.
Our baby gear expert says: "This is another great value option and our pick as the best budget breastfeeding pillow. It’s firmer than other nursing pillows so not quite as easy to mould around your baby or your body, but if you’re looking for an inexpensive option from a reliable brand, this is it."
Our testers say: Our reviewers reported that this pillow is nice and stable, helping baby stay in the right position for feeding.
One mum said, "Soft cushion which has a lovely warmth to it. Very soft but also very stable so baby stays in the right position. The cover washes very well and goes in a dryer."
Another reviewer said it was her pick as the best breastfeeding pillow, as it was the perfect shape for their baby to sleep in. They commented, "This is our second pillow as we have one downstairs and one in our bedroom. It's the perfect size and plumpness for keeping our little one at the right height and the cover is super soft as well. The case it comes in acts as a great carry case if we're visiting family, too."
Best premium nursing pillow
Buy it if:
✅ You need back support. A sturdy raised backrest provides more support than most other pillows on the market.
✅ You want to feed hands-free. The handy pocket is big enough to hold a phone, snack or bottle – freeing up your hands during feeds.
✅ You find curved cushions frustrating. Unlike most nursing pillows, the My Brest Friend has a flat cushion, helping to avoid baby rolling-in towards your chest.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You don’t want to pay for extras. If the strap, back support and pocket feel like overkill for you, then it’s probably not worth splurging on this pillow.
❌ The price puts you off. If you like the design of this pillow but can’t justify the spend, consider the My Brest Friend Original, which comes with a cotton cover instead of a plush one – and a lower price tag. We’ve seen it on Amazon for as little as £62.
❌ You don’t like the feel of plush fabrics. Super-soft fabrics aren’t for everyone. If that’s the case for you, consider one of the cotton-covered options on this list, such as the bbhugme Nursing Pillow.
The bottom line
🔎 My Brest Friend Deluxe Nursing Pillow A true bad-back saviour, this pillow offers unbeatable support and a luxuriously soft fleece-like cover to boot. Its flat design sets it apart from other pillows on the market – although so does its considerable price tag. The adjustable strap and handy pocket are useful add-ons though, and we agree with our testers that this is the best premium pillow around. ★★★★★
The first thing our testers noticed about this pillow is its flat shape, which helps to ensure that your baby doesn’t slide into the space between the cushion and your breast. Second was the built-in backrest, which promotes good posture and helps prevent aches and pains.
A winner at the 2019 What To Expect awards, the wraparound design also includes an adjustable strap which can be fastened around your waist to help the pillow stay in place and further take the strain off. Helpfully, the strap has also been designed so it can be adjusted with one hand as, which our testers found particularly helpful, leaving one hand to help hold baby in place. The silent release clip also lets you remove the pillow without waking your baby.
There’s also a nifty storage compartment, which we found great for keeping bits and pieces to hand during feeds, such as snacks or a phone.
Our baby gear expert says: “Based on our testers’ feedback, I’d recommend this nursing pillow if you suffer with a sore back, as the design genuinely seems to support good posture, helping to prevent the aches and pains that easily develop during long feeding sessions.
"The adjustable strap makes it easy to get comfortable. The pocket is my favourite feature though – never find yourself without snacks whilst feeding again!"
Our testers say: There’s no escaping the fact that this pillow will set you back quite a bit more than others on our list – but, according to our testers, it’s well worth it.
One commented, "Fantastic feeding pillow. Worth every penny. I started with a very cheap one, which didn’t help at all. This one is supportive for your back, so baby and mum are comfortable."
She added: "Because it straps around the waist, it doesn’t move, the baby does not fall between the pillow and mum, and the baby stays in the right position. I have recommended it to all my friends."
Best for style-savvy mums
Buy it if:
✅ You want a pillow that doubles as decor. Forget cutesy colours and prints – the La Maman Wedge wouldn’t look out of place on the most sophisticated of sofas.
✅ You appreciate good design. Quality fabrics, a pleasingly neat shape, and subtle details, such as a concealed zip and handy carry handle, all up the luxe factor.
✅ You gave birth by caesarean. Our tester found this pillow gentle enough against her C-section scar – although also consider the Lansinoh Nursing Pillow if this is a key consideration for you.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You don’t care about looks. This pillow packs as much style as it does substance – but if that’s not a key concern, then a more affordable option would likely suffice.
❌ You want a bigger pillow. Whilst our tester praised this pillow for being slightly more compact than others, some mums might prefer a more substantial style.
❌ You want a closer fit. Whilst the curved design fits nicely around the body, this pillow is strap-free.
The bottom line
🔎DockATot La Maman Wedge Whilst this feeding pillow is towards the more expensive end of our list, our tester felt it was worth the money – especially if the sophisticated designs appeal. It provides ample support for baby and feels soft against C-section scars. It also spot-cleans well and can be machine washed. A style-meets-substance buy that won’t look out of place in your home long after baby stops feeding. ★★★★★
Tested by: GoodToKnow's Editor in Chief, Anna Bailey, and her newborn daughter, Freddie.
Is it an accent cushion? No, it's a nursing pillow!
The La Maman Wedge by DockATot is easily the most stylish nursing pillow on our list. Thoughtful design touches, such as a concealed zip, subtle pleating and carry handle, point to the care that's been taken when crafting this cushion.
And if the traditional-with-a-twist William Morris print doesn't suit your style, there's no less than 16 designs to choose from.
Our baby gear expert says: "Anna couldn't stop raving about the La Maman Wedge when we caught up during her maternity leave, and it's easy to see see why the beautiful pillow has won a hard-earned spot on her sofa.
"But it's not just a pretty print. This nursing pillow scored practicality points thanks to its curved design that gently hugs the body (making it great for C-section scars), and a handy hidden carry loop."
Our tester says: Anna describes the La Maman Wedge as a "high quality pillow that's super durable and will last for years to come."
As a William Morris fan, she loved the gorgeous velvet 'Strawberry Thief' pattern – but this isn't a case of style over substance or practicality.
Anna found the pillow easy to spot-clean after an inevitable case of chuck-up, and the cover is also machine washable.
She also praised how comfortable the pillow is. "It curves around my body just perfectly and it kept Freddie at the right height when we were breastfeeding. It’s also been really comfortable when bottle feeding too."
She adds: “I had a C-section, and this pillow has been really nice for protecting my scar. When I would turn Freddie around to burp her and she was kicking or wriggling around, I felt really protected having this in place.”
Anna's only gripe was with the tassel that comes attached to the pillow, which she could have done without. "I have a dog, so often when I was nursing Freddie he would jump up on the sofa and think it was a toy!"
Read more: DockATot La Maman Wedge review
Best nursing pillow after a C-section
Buy it if:
✅ You want to avoid pressure on your stomach. This pillow is designed to be worn over the arm, rather than resting on your lap or strapped around your waist, helping to avoid pressure on mum’s tummy.
✅ You’re looking for a compact nursing pillow. This is the smallest pillow on our list, and can easily be popped into a nursing bag.
✅ Budget is a concern. With an RRP of £24.99, this is one of the cheapest pillows on our list.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You don’t like the idea of having to hold the pillow in place. This pillow’s unique armband-like design won’t be to everyone’s liking.
❌ You like a pillow to have ‘heft’. Our testers have noted that this pillow feels less-full than others on the market.
The bottom line
🔎 Lansinoh Nursing Pillow The unique over-arm design of this pillow sets it apart from its competitors, providing an alternative option to the usual U-shaped and wraparound pillows. It might particularly appeal to mums with C-section scars who want to avoid pressure on their tummy. It’s also easy to transport, fitting neatly into our tester’s changing bag. ★★★★
This breastfeeding pillow is a more compact option for those who don’t want a pillow that takes up lots of the space. Ideal for C-section tummies, this product slides onto the arm, rather than around the waist. This allows mum to bring baby up to the breast when nursing, rather than leaning over. This is the ideal positioning for latching and to avoid back pain. It’s also super lightweight and portable, fitting in to our reviewer's changing bag easily. It can be used in multiple hold styles including cradle hold and rugby hold.
Our testers said: “This cushion was a god-send! I had a standard U-shaped nursing pillow previously, but found them uncomfortable to use as my baby increased in size (as she grew > 7 lb - she was a premature baby).
"I also had backache from breastfeeding. This pillow took all the awkwardness of breastfeeding in the cradle hold position away. You can also do a rugby hold with this pillow but I preferred the standard cradle hold. Overall, it was so soft, comfortable and easy to use.”
Our baby gear expert says: "We love this innovatively-designed nursing pillow. Some mums just find they don’t get on well with the crescent-shaped ones that you pop on your lap, and this tends to impress them. It’s machine washable and small enough to pop in your change bag – a major plus!"
Most mouldable nursing pillow
Buy it if:
✅ You want a pillow that’s mouldable to you and baby. This pillow is filled with microbeans, which makes for a snug and comfortable fit. You can alter the firmness using the adjustable “pebbles” too.
✅ You’ve found other straps too restrictive. The jersey-cotton fabric ties mean that this pillow feels super comfortable when fastened around the waist.
✅ You plan on travelling. The bbhugme nursing pillow comes with a handy travel case – picture a yoga mat bag and you’re on the right track.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You want a pillow that can be easily hidden away when not in use. Thanks to its size, the bbhugme pillow doesn’t stow away as well as some other options.
❌ You’re worried about stains showing. We found that milk stains showed on the “grey melange” colourway we tested – although do note that the cover is removable and machine washable.
The bottom line
🔎bbhugme Nursing Pillow Overall, we think this feeding pillow represents good value for money – even with the £82 price tag. We love that the microbead filling adapts to both baby and mum, providing support exactly where you need it, and that the pillow’s firmness can be adjusted to your preference. The plain soft colours might show stains more easily, but the cover is machine washable and cleans well. And whilst it can be an awkward shape to store, its length does make it a little easier to grab from the comfort of your feeding chair. ★★★★★
Tested by: GoodtoKnow contributor Stephanie Wood and her baby son, Woody.
Designed by a chiropractor, this pillow sports a beanbag texture that’s designed to mould around the body to help keep mum and baby comfortable during feeding. It features ties at either end, so can be secured around the waist to help hold it in position.
There’s also two “pebbles” at either end that can be adjusted to make the pillow firmer or softer, depending on your preference. This function is great if you’ve had a C-section birth as the pillow can help protect the scar, while also helping to distribute the weight of the baby around the body.
It’s available in eight subtle shades, including "pink melange" and "feather blue", and comes with a handy travel bag.
Our baby gear expert says: "Our parent testers are huge fans of this stylish, versatile nursing pillow. It ticks so many boxes – it’s eco-friendly, you can adjust the firmness, and the cover is machine washable. If you’ve had a C-section, this is definitely the nursing pillow you need."
Our parent tester says: "I'm so glad I splashed out on this nursing pillow. We struggled to get Woody to latch for five exhausting weeks after he was born, so consulted a lactation expert – it was actually her who recommended this pillow to me.
"One issue I'd had with the cheaper horseshoe-shaped pillows was that I couldn't get them to fit tightly enough around my waist.
"This is where the bbhugme pillow excels. The tie-ends allowed me to get the pillow to fit just so, and because they're made of a jersey material (as opposed to a strap, as found on rival pillows), it didn't feel restrictive. I could also tug on the pillow to loosen the ties whilst wearing it, rather than having to fiddle with buckles.
"I loved that I could adjust the "bulk" of the pillow using the pebbles, too. This allowed me to find the right level of plumpness to get Woody into position.
"There were just two minor downsides I found with this pillow. One was that the pale colour (I had the "grey melange") meant that milk stains were quite visible, although it did wash well when I found time to do so.
"My other gripe was that it's quite an awkward shape to store. Whilst a horse-shoe shaped pillow tucked easily under my feeding chair, the length of this pillow meant it wasn't so easy to conceal. But I learned to live with that given what a good job it did of keeping Woody comfortably supported."
Read more: bbhugme Pregnancy Pillow review
Best feeding pillow for use in pregnancy
Buy it if:
✅ You want a pillow you can use in pregnancy. This is our top pick of the pillows that double as a pregnancy and feeding support.
✅ The flat-back feature appeals. The Dreamgenii’s unique design allows the pillow to wrap comfortably all the way around your body without any straps or uncomfortable bulkiness.
✅ You’re looking to save money. The fact that his pillow doubles as a pregnancy and feeding pillow means you’ll only have to shell out once.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You’ve already given birth. If you won’t make use of the pillow as a pregnancy support, you might prefer a product designed exclusively for breastfeeding. Similar ‘wraparound’ options on this list include the My Brest Friend and bbhugme pillows.
❌ You want a range of designs to choose from. This pillow only comes in three colour options: white, grey marl and beige marl.
❌ You want a bulkier pillow. Our tester noted that this pillow comes up a little on the thin side compared to some other pillows on the market. Consider the bbhugme Nursing Pillow as an alternative, which allows you to control the plumpness.
The bottom line
🔎 Dreamgenii Pregnancy Support and Feeding Pillow Our tester raved about this pillow’s ability to keep her and her bump comfortable and supported during pregnancy – and the fact that it can be used for feeding too is a real boon. Its unique flat-back design helps it to comfortably wrap around the body during feeds without the need for straps. ★★★★★
Tested by: GoodtoKnow contributor Jamie Karr
Baby not arrived yet? This dual-use pillow will see you though pregnancy and breastfeeding, making it a sound money-saving option.
From 20 weeks onwards, it can be difficult for pregnant women to sleep comfortably - especially with a big bump. But this pillow can help. Its unique design aids left lateral sleeping (the optimal foetal position), providing support around the bump and between the knees. Meanwhile, the unique flat centre panel feature allows space for the upper body to lie comfortably too.
Our testers say: It's the flat-back feature that mums loved when using the pillow for feeding, essentially creating a cosy cocoon around the body. One explained, "The flat part in the middle is where your back rests and you wrap the rest around your body [for feeding]."
The soft cotton jersey cover also won high praise, providing a comfortable material for both mum and little one to nestle into.
One reviewer commented: "This pillow is so comfy, it’s like a hug that lasts all night. It doesn’t take up loads of room in the bed or make you too hot and it does the job."
Our baby gear expert says: "This is one of our favourite pregnancy-cum-nursing pillows because mums who test it out rave about it so much. It’s incredibly comfortable and supportive during pregnancy, and although it seems quite big for use during feeding, it’s easy to squash into the perfect shape, creating a little cocoon for your feeding times."
Read more: Dreamgenii Pregnancy Support and Feeding Pillow review
Best budget pregnancy and nursing pillow
Buy it if:
✅You’re on a budget. With an RRP of £35.99, this pillow represents great value – especially as it’s specifically designed to be used during pregnancy as well as for feeding.
✅ You want a choice of designs. There are no less than 12 colours and prints to choose from, including stars, polka dots and hearts.
✅ You want a pillow that wraps around you. This pillow can be fastened with a loop, providing additional back support whilst feeding.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You’re eco-minded. The fact that this pillow features a siliconised polyester fibre filling might be off-putting for some.
❌ You can afford to spend a bit more. If you can stretch to an extra £18, the Dreamgenii Pregnancy Support and Feeding Pillow might prove a better investment.
The bottom line
🔎Niimo Pregnancy and Feeding Pillow A cheap and cheerful option, this pillow is designed to provide comfort and support both during pregnancy and during feeding after baby’s arrival. There’s a better range of designs to choose from compared to other pillows on this list. It also won the Platinum Award for Best Feeding Accessory in the Loved By Mums Awards 2022. ★★★★
This is another dual-use pillow that offers support during both pregnancy and while breastfeeding after baby's arrival. Made of 100% breathable cotton, the Niimo pillowcase can be removed through a hidden zip and popped in the wash.
It’s filled with polystyrene microspheres, which allow you to adapt the shape of the cushion to different positions, making it a versatile pillow. It also fastens together via a loop to provide a large cushion for back support or when breastfeeding.
Our tester says: "This pillow has been a lifesaver for me. I was determined to breastfeed my baby but really struggled with latching. It felt like a battle every time I fed and it was emotionally draining. I was close to giving up until I gave this pillow a try. I can now get my baby in the right position and in a way that's most comfortable for me and best for my back. Latching can still be a struggle at times but I know I would have given up breastfeeding completely without this pillow."
Our baby gear expert says: "The polystyrene filling in this nursing pillow means it probably won’t appeal to green-minded mums, but there’s no denying that this is easy to mould around your body and your baby to help you get the optimal latch.
"We also like that it has a 100% cotton machine washable cover for easy cleaning between feeds, and the wide variety of cute patterns and designs available, including hearts, stars and polka dots in colours such as red, pink, grey and navy blue."
Best multi-purpose pillow
Buy it if:
✅ You’re worried about Flat Head Syndrome. The pillow is made using ClevaFoam, which was developed with Trinity College at the University of Dublin and has been scientifically proven to reduce Flat Head Syndrome in infants.
✅You like getting your money’s worth. In addition to a feeding pillow, this product can be used as a baby aid during sitting and tummy time, a back support for mum, and a cosy baby nest.
✅ You prefer traditional baby colours. This nursing pillow comes in two rather conventional colour options: pink or blue.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You just want a pillow for feeding. If feeding is your only requirement, then the additional uses of this pillow might prove too much for your needs.
❌ You like clear instructions. Testers report this 10-in-1 pillow’s instructions are a little light-touch – although the product is simple enough to figure out.
❌ You want a pillow that fastens around you. This pillow is more akin to the traditional U-shaped pillows, and doesn’t feature a back strap or tie.
The bottom line
🔎 ClevaMama ClevaCushion 10-in-1 Nursing Pillow You get so much more than just a feeding pillow with this product, including a tummy time aid and baby nest. We particularly love the scientifically-developed ClevaFoam material, which is designed to avoid Flat Head Syndrome – something lots of new parents fret about. The fact that it’s hypoallergenic will appeal to those concerned about allergies, too. ★★★★
Our baby gear tester says: "As the name suggests, this 10-in-1 nursing pillow set has multiple uses, which will appeal to parents looking to maximise their money. As well as being a great nursing pillow, it can also aid baby's development with assisted sitting and tummy time for baby and as a comfy back support for mum. The insert cushion also makes a cosy baby nest for your little one to chill in.
Mums also love the fact that it's been scientifically developed to help prevent plagiocephaly and brachycephaly (the medical names for Flat Head Syndrome). With so many things to feasibly worry about in the newborn days, that's one thing you can tick off the list."
Our tester said: "This is a great cushion for nursing. It is plump enough to give the baby support and comfortable around the stomach. My baby also used it for tummy time and support whilst sitting. The cover is very good quality and machine washable. One of the better ones out there. Would highly recommend."
Best nursing pillow for breathability
Buy it if:
✅ You’re prone to feeling too hot. This pillow has been specifically designed with breathability in mind, and our tester reported that it didn’t cause her to overheat like other pillows had.
✅You’re torn between a horseshoe- or sausage-shaped pillow. The shape of this pillow sits somewhere between the two, with a gentle curve that’s designed to hug your tummy.
✅ You have a nature-inspired nursery. The Purflo pillow comes in two delicate prints, Botanical and Jardin. A plain grey marl option is also available.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You’d prefer a pillow with some ‘give'. Our tester found this pillow particularly firm, which may not be to everyone’s liking.
❌ You plan on starting tummy time straight away. Our tester felt the pillow’s height and firmness made it unsuitable to use during tummy time in the first few months of a baby’s life – but would definitely use it after that.
❌ You want a pillow that fastens around you. There’s no back strap on this pillow.
The bottom line
🔎 Purflo Breathe Pregnancy Pillow Mamas who are prone to overheating (or those who will be feeding during the sticky summer months) will appreciate this pillow’s breathable-mesh middle section. The gentle U-shape design is also less restrictive than traditional horseshoe-shaped nursing pillows. We love the whimsical nature-inspired prints, too. ★★★★★
Tested by: Emily Outrim, GoodtoKnow parent tester
Our baby gear expert says: "The gentle U-shaped design and unique mesh panel are what sets this pillow apart from its competitors. In tests, we found it delivered on its breathability promise, making it a great choice for mums who find feeding makes them feel hot."
Our tester says: Emily praised this pillows affordability, versatility and firmness.
"This product's mid-range price point and multiple uses mean it's a solid investment for someone who likes a firm pillow and is looking to breastfeed," she said.
The breathability of this pillow was also a major plus for Emily, who confirmed it didn't cause her to overheat – something she'd experienced with other pillows.
Like other pillows on this list (such as the Chicco Boppy, the Widgey and the bbhugme), this one also double as a pregnancy pillow. Whilst Emily observed that the level of firmness might not be to everyone's liking for sleeping, she reported it did offer great support.
Emily found this pillow was too high and firm to use for tummy time from birth, but would definitely use it once baby was a bit older.
Read more: Purflo Breathe Pregnancy Pillow review
Best nursing pillow for simplicity
Buy it if:
✅ You want a pillow you can use in pregnancy. This pillow is specifically designed to aid sleep and comfort in pregnancy, in addition to feeding once the baby arrives.
✅ You don’t care about extra features. Simplicity is the name of the game here.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You don’t care for grey. This pillow only comes in one colour option.
❌ You want a pillow with straps. If that’s the case, consider the bbhugme Nursing Pillow, which has a similar look to this one, but can be tied around the waist.
The bottom line
🔎 Mamas and Papas Nursing Pillow This is a simple but effective pillow from a trusted brand that can be used during pregnancy as well as for feeding. We found that the shape and size strikes just the right balance of bulk, although some may prefer a plumper pillow. ★★★★★
Tested by: GoodtoKnow parent tester Joanna Knight
This simple pillow is another that can be used both in pregnancy and afterwards for feeding. It features a gently-curved design that can be manipluated to fit around the body, and is available in one colour option - grey.
Our tester says: Joanna liked this pillow’s simplicity most of all. “It's not particularly innovative, but it is very good value and comfortable.
"Having tried three bulkier and more luxurious pillows previously, this simple design is the one I'd recommend to friends and family.”
She also praised the pillow’s shape and size, describing it as “not too thick or too wide”.
This pillow is specifically designed to be used during pregnancy as well as during feeding when baby arrives, and Joanna found it great in this respect. “I can sleep with it between my knees without discomfort in my hips or knees and without encroaching on my husband's side of the bed,” she said.
Our baby gear expert says: "This is a fuss-free pillow from a trusted brand. Its simplicity makes it a great choice for anyone who might feel overwhelmed by all the additional features of other pillows."
Read more: Mamas & Papas Pregnancy and Nursing Pillow review
How to choose the best nursing pillow for you
Feeding position: Firstly, it's important to consider your preferred breastfeeding position and if a pillow can accommodate that. Lactation consultant, author and Makes Milk podcaster Emma Pickett (IBCLC) shares that her clients have found nursing pillows particularly helpful when using a rugby hold to feed their baby.
Support: Secondly, you should choose a pillow "that will provide good head support for your baby and take the pressure off your arms, neck, shoulders and back," says former health visitor Sarah Beeson MBE, author of parenting guide Happy Baby, Happy Family.
Pickett agrees. "A good breastfeeding pillow should be firm," she says. "Gravity is not your friend when it comes to breastfeeding and anything that will sink over time could pull your baby out of position and cause them to drop off the breast and shallow their latch.
Height: "When a breastfeeding pillow is the wrong height for your body it can cause pain and a lot of problems," says Pickett.
"If you have a long torso (the gap between your lap and your breasts), you might end up hunching over to meet the pillow and that causes back and shoulder pain. You might also lean forward to latch a baby on and then end up leaning back and baby slips off.
"If someone is really tall with high breasts, you are likely to need more than one pillow, and they don't all have to be special nursing pillows.
"If you are a short person, maybe with breasts that hang low, you might not have space on your lap for a pillow and the baby. Sometimes that means someone lifts their breast and holds it throughout a feed, just to make space for the pillow. They get aching wrists and the breast moves around, causing more latching problems."
Size and uses: "Many mums choose a pillow that also works as a pregnancy pillow though you may want to consider one that folds up small for when you’re out and about,' Beeson says. Meanwhile, Pickett is wary of dual-use pillows. "They are often filled with beans and breastfeeding pillows should have very little give," she advises.
Care and safety: "Choose a pillow that’s got a washable cover and is wipeable," says Sarah. "It should also be fire retardant and ideally made from natural fibres for a chemical-free and hypoallergenic product."
How we tested these nursing pillows
How we test the best nursing pillows
Every pillow on this list was put to the test by real-life mums, both on the GoodtoKnow team and from our panel of parent testers.
Each one was used for feeding – either bottle, breast or both – daily over a number of weeks, and using different feeding positions.
Where applicable, we also tested the pillow's additional functions (for example, feeding pillows that double as pregnancy pillows were also slept with).
In each case, we were looking to establish:
- How supportive the pillow felt, for both mum and baby;
- How easy the pillow was to clean;
- The pillow's versatility;
- The pillow's quality (for example, of its materials and finishings);
- The pillow's look and feel.
Are breastfeeding pillows worth it?
Most people who buy a nursing pillow do so to take some of the strain out of feeding by giving their arms, necks and backs some relief from having to hold a baby on their own.
However, not everyone needs or will feel the benefits of using one, according to lactation consultant Emma Pickett.
"You might find them useful if you have limited mobility or back problems and you want to give yourself support options," she tells us. "Or if your hands, wrists and arms are vulnerable to tension and pain – but even then there are alternative positions you can use.
She adds: "They are useful for certain positions, such as rugby hold (sometimes called a football hold) where you couldn't hold your baby's body in mid-air.
"When we thought breastfeeding meant sitting up straight, all new families had one. However, now that we are increasingly talking about the benefits of reclined feeding, we meet more people who don't use one at all."
One instance where Pickett firmly recommends a nursing pillow is following the birth of twins. "There's no doubt that a good pillow can be a game-changer for a twin mum," she says. "For the first time, she may be able to feed both her babies at once and have a drink herself!"
Which is better Boppy or My Brest Friend?
Both Boppy and My Brest Friend pillows come out on top as customer favourites – and each has its own unique selling points.
As per our Chicco Boppy review, the Boppy pillow is great for both breastfeeding and bottle-feeding and both the cover and the pillow itself are machine washable – so it's a handy product for those messy feeds.
Meanwhile, the My Brest Friend pillow features a built-in back rest, which helps to promote good posture and prevent aches, as well as an adjustable strap which can be fastened around the mother to help the baby stay in place – taking the strain off the body.
So, if you're looking for more back support, the My Brest Friend pillow could be a more suitable option, while if you're looking for comfort and convenience with an easy-wash appeal then Boppy could be a better bet.
Make light work of cleaning bottles with our guide to the best bottle sterilizer and stay warm and comfy while doing so in the best maternity pyjamas. You might also be interested in hunting down the best bedside cribs.
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