A feeding or nursing pillow is one of the top pieces of baby gear you can have. Follow these tips for choosing the best feeding pillow for you and your baby.
Whether you breastfeed or bottle feed your little one, a feeding pillow can make the experience more comfortable for parent and baby. Use these three top tips for choosing a feeding pillow to find the right one for your family.
1. Shape and Size
Whether you follow breastfeeding or bottle-feeding techniques, you can use a feeding pillow, also called a nursing pillow, to keep your baby secure in the best positions that work for you and your baby. Your preferred position may depend on factors like how well your baby latches, whether you’ve had a C-section, your body type, and even the time of day.
If you have a longer torso, consider getting a taller nursing pillow that can bring your baby closer to your chest. Get a nursing pillow in a length that comfortably fits around your body, too.
2. Washability
Like other must-have baby products that make your life easier, it’s important to think about the washability of your nursing pillow. This pillow is going to have to hold up to a lot! When you need to wash it, it should retain its shape.
Having at least two removable slipcovers is very convenient for when you need to clean off spit up or a breastmilk leak. Be sure to check the fabric care instructions before you wash the cover or the pillow. Machine washable pillows will give you peace of mind and save you time.
3. Support
The final tip for choosing a feeding pillow is to consider the support it offers. While a feeding pillow supports the baby’s position, the pillow can also take the strain off your neck and back. Opt for pillows that provide necessary back or arm support; also consider whether a pillow is too soft to provide adequate support.
A feeding pillow can be one of the most helpful tools in your feeding time arsenal. By considering the pillow’s shape, size, washability, and the support it offers, you can make breastfeeding or bottle-feeding your baby a better experience for you and your little one.