The Ultimate Guide to Breastfeeding Pillows

TL;DR

Choosing the right breastfeeding pillow can significantly enhance your nursing experience. The My Brest Friend and its Super Deluxe version are top-rated for support and comfort, while the Boppy offers versatility for various uses.

Top Picks

Budget: IKEA Feeding Pillow - Affordable and sturdy, making it a great entry-level option.
Mid-range: My Brest Friend - Highly recommended for its firm support and adjustable fit. Buy on Amazon
Premium: My Brest Friend Super Deluxe - Offers excellent back support and additional features for serious nursing. Buy on Amazon

Quick Summary

Breastfeeding pillows are essential tools for new mothers, providing support and comfort during nursing sessions. With various options available, it can be challenging to determine which pillow best suits your needs. This guide compiles insights from Reddit discussions and product reviews to help you make an informed decision.

TL;DR
Quick Summary
Key Buying Factors
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Top Product Reviews
Price Guide
Personalized Recommendations
Community Insights
Final Verdict

Key Buying Factors

Before making your purchase, consider these essential factors:

Support

A good nursing pillow should provide adequate support to both the mother and the baby, helping to maintain a comfortable feeding position.

Versatility

Many pillows can be used for purposes beyond breastfeeding, such as tummy time or as a general support pillow as the baby grows.

Ease of Use

Look for pillows that are easy to adjust and secure, allowing for a hands-free experience during feeding.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learn from others’ experiences - here are key pitfalls to watch out for:

Choosing based on popularity alone

Many mothers recommend specific pillows based on personal experience, but what works for one may not work for another.

Not considering body type

Some pillows may not provide the right support for different body types, leading to discomfort during breastfeeding.

Ignoring additional uses

Focusing solely on breastfeeding can lead to missing out on pillows that offer versatility for other uses.

Top Product Reviews

Our detailed analysis of the best options available:

Boppy Nursing Pillow

The Boppy Nursing Pillow has garnered a positive reception among breastfeeding mothers, frequently mentioned in discussions on Reddit as a preferred choice for its comfort and versatility. Users appreciate its ergonomic design, which helps facilitate a better feeding position for both mother and baby. However, some users have noted that while it works well for many, it may not suit everyone’s needs, particularly for those who prefer a firmer support during breastfeeding.

Features

Ergonomic design for comfortable breastfeeding positions
Versatile use for tummy time and as a support pillow as the baby grows

User Experiences

Many users reported that the Boppy Nursing Pillow significantly improved their breastfeeding experience, providing necessary support and comfort during feeding sessions. Some mentioned using it beyond breastfeeding, such as for tummy time and as a general support pillow.

Pros

Comfortable and supportive for both mother and baby
Versatile for various uses beyond breastfeeding, such as tummy time

Cons

Some users found it less effective compared to other nursing pillows, particularly for those with specific body types or preferences

Best Use Cases

Ideal for breastfeeding mothers looking for a comfortable and supportive pillow during feeding sessions, as well as for tummy time as the baby grows.

Price-Performance Ratio

The Boppy Nursing Pillow is considered reasonably priced, typically around $45, offering good value for its multifunctional use and comfort during an essential phase of motherhood.

Purchase Options

View on Amazon

View on Manufacturer’s Website

My Brest Friend

The My Brest Friend nursing pillow has garnered a largely positive reception among new mothers, particularly highlighted in various Reddit discussions. Users frequently mention its effectiveness in achieving a good latch during breastfeeding, which is crucial for successful nursing. The pillow’s firm structure and supportive design allow for better positioning of the baby, reducing strain on the mother’s body during feeds. Many users describe it as essential for their breastfeeding journey, especially in the early days postpartum. Despite some mixed opinions about its bulkiness and fit for different body types, the consensus leans towards it being a highly beneficial tool for nursing mothers.

Features

Firm and flat surface for optimal baby positioning
Adjustable strap for a secure fit around the waist

User Experiences

I used the My Brest Friend for nearly a year and it was a game changer for my nursing experience. It helped me maintain good posture and kept my baby at the right height for feeding, which was essential for a good latch. I even had a pocket for my lanolin and chapstick, which was super handy during feeds.

Pros

Provides excellent support for both mother and baby
Helps achieve a better latch, making breastfeeding easier

Cons

Can be bulky and may not fit comfortably for all body types

Best Use Cases

Ideal for new mothers looking for support during breastfeeding, especially in the early days postpartum when positioning is crucial

Price-Performance Ratio

Considering its effectiveness and the positive user feedback, the My Brest Friend nursing pillow offers good value for its price, particularly for those committed to breastfeeding.

Purchase Options

View on Amazon

View on Manufacturer’s Website

IKEA Feeding Pillow

The IKEA Feeding Pillow has garnered positive feedback from users on platforms like Reddit, with many praising its affordability and sturdiness compared to other breastfeeding pillows. Users have noted that while the pillow is effective for nursing, its usability can vary as the baby grows, indicating that it may be more suitable for certain stages of breastfeeding. The pillow’s U-shape provides decent support, but some parents prefer alternative models with additional features such as clips for better stability during use.

Features

Affordable compared to other nursing pillows
Sturdy design that holds shape well

User Experiences

One user mentioned that the pillow is larger and more padded than they expected, making it comfortable for nursing sessions. They also noted that the U-shape works well for them, although they sometimes preferred using a regular pillow depending on their position and the baby’s size.

Pros

Affordable option for breastfeeding support
Sturdy and maintains its shape well

Cons

Effectiveness may vary as the baby grows and their needs change

Best Use Cases

Ideal for nursing sessions during the early months when babies are smaller and require more support.

Price-Performance Ratio

For its price, the IKEA Feeding Pillow offers good value, especially for parents looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising on basic support features.

Purchase Options

View on Manufacturer’s Website

Twin Z Pillow Review

The Twin Z Pillow has garnered positive feedback from parents, particularly those with multiples. It is frequently recommended for its versatility, as it can be used not only for breastfeeding but also as a lounging space for babies. Many users mention that it remains useful beyond the early months, making it a long-term investment for families with twins. However, some discussions indicate that while it is beneficial for tandem feeding, it may not be the best option for initial breastfeeding, especially for newborns who require more support.

Features

Versatile design for breastfeeding and baby lounging
Long-term usability as babies grow

User Experiences

We loved the Twin Z! It was the best and most important thing we owned for the first year. Can’t recommend it highly enough!
I just got one off of fb marketplace for $30. Most people are selling for $90, feel like I got a steal!

Pros

Highly versatile for both feeding and lounging
Long-lasting use as babies grow

Cons

May not provide enough support for newborns during initial breastfeeding

Best Use Cases

Ideal for tandem feeding once babies have more body control

Price-Performance Ratio

Generally priced around $90, the Twin Z Pillow offers good value considering its versatility and long-term usability for parents of multiples.

Purchase Options

View on Amazon

View on Manufacturer’s Website

My Brest Friend Super Deluxe

The My Brest Friend Super Deluxe breastfeeding pillow has gained a positive reputation among nursing mothers for its ergonomic design that promotes better posture and support during breastfeeding. Many users have described it as a game changer, particularly for those who struggle with positioning their baby correctly. The pillow’s height and firmness are often highlighted as key advantages over other options like the Boppy, making it easier to maintain a good latch without straining the back. Discussions indicate that while it may not be as comfortable for nursing in bed, it excels in providing stability and support when sitting, which is critical during the early months of breastfeeding.

Features

Height adjustable lumbar support for better positioning.
Waterproof inner cover to protect against spills and leaks.

User Experiences

One user mentioned that after switching to the Super Deluxe, they found it much easier to achieve the correct positioning for their baby, leading to a more comfortable nursing experience. They noted that the adjustable Velcro clasp allowed them to secure the pillow snugly, preventing any gaps during feeding.

Pros

Provides excellent back support due to its design and lumbar support.
Firm structure prevents the pillow from squishing down, ensuring better stability for the baby.

Cons

Some users reported that it is not as comfortable for nursing in bed compared to other pillows.

Best Use Cases

Ideal for mothers who are nursing in a sitting position and need additional back support.

Price-Performance Ratio

The My Brest Friend Super Deluxe is considered a worthwhile investment for new mothers, particularly those who prioritize comfort and support during breastfeeding. Given its positive feedback and effectiveness in improving nursing posture, it offers good value for its price.

Purchase Options

View on Amazon

View on Manufacturer’s Website

Price Guide

Find the best option for your budget:

Budget ($30 - $50)

IKEA Feeding Pillow

Premium ($80 - $120)

My Brest Friend Super Deluxe
Twin Z Pillow

Personalized Recommendations

For Beginners

My Brest Friend
Boppy Nursing Pillow

For Enthusiasts

My Brest Friend Super Deluxe
Twin Z Pillow

For Professionals

My Brest Friend Super Deluxe
Twin Z Pillow

For Budget conscious

IKEA Feeding Pillow
Boppy Nursing Pillow

Community Insights

Overall Trends

The My Brest Friend pillow is frequently recommended for its support and ease of use, especially for new mothers.
The Boppy is appreciated for its versatility but may not suit everyone’s needs for breastfeeding.
The Twin Z is a favorite among parents of multiples for its multifunctionality.

Top Picks from the Crowd

My Brest Friend
Boppy Nursing Pillow
Twin Z Pillow

Controversial Opinions

Some users prefer using regular pillows over nursing pillows altogether, citing comfort and adaptability.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, selecting the right breastfeeding pillow can greatly enhance your nursing experience. The My Brest Friend and its Super Deluxe version stand out for their exceptional support and ergonomic design, making them ideal for new mothers. The Boppy offers versatility for various uses, while the IKEA Feeding Pillow is a solid budget option. For parents of multiples, the Twin Z Pillow is highly recommended for its multifunctionality. As you navigate your breastfeeding journey, consider your specific needs and preferences to find the pillow that best supports you and your baby.