Your Guide to Buying Maternity and Nursing Pillows

Pregnancy and early parenthood are exciting stages, but they can also take a toll on your body. As your baby grows and feeding becomes part of your daily routine, it's common to experience discomfort in your back, hips, neck, shoulders, and arms.

That's where maternity and nursing pillows can help. A maternity pillow provides extra support while you sleep and rest during pregnancy, while a nursing pillow helps make feeding sessions more comfortable for both you and your baby. Understanding the differences between these pillows and how they work can help you choose the right support for every stage of your parenting journey.

What Is a Maternity Pillow?

A maternity pillow supports your body as it changes during pregnancy. It cushions areas that often feel sore, like your belly, hips, knees, and lower back. Unlike regular pillows, it comes in various shapes to support your body in all the right places, making it much easier to find a comfortable way to rest.

What to Look For When Choosing a Maternity Pillow

With so many options, the best way to choose a maternity pillow is to consider what makes you most comfortable.

• Consider Your Body Size and Sleeping Position: If you toss and turn a lot, a U-shaped pillow offers steady support. If you mostly stay on one side, a C-shaped pillow might be all you need.

• Choose the Right Firmness Level: Avoid pillows that are too soft or too hard, and pick one that provides the support you need.

• Look for Washable Covers: Pillows with removable, machine-washable covers make it easy to keep them clean and fresh every day.

• Think About Size and Storage: Check your bed size and bedroom space, and whether you need one that you can take with you when traveling.

How to Use a Maternity Pillow

Many first-time parents wonder how to use a maternity pillow correctly. The best position depends on the pillow shape and your comfort needs.

• For side sleeping: Place the pillow between your knees and ankles to support your growing belly. This helps align your hips and reduces pressure on your lower back.

• For back support: Position part of the pillow behind your back to prevent rolling onto your back while sleeping.

• For leg elevation: Place the pillow under your legs to help improve circulation and reduce swelling.

• For lounging: Use the pillow while reading, watching TV, or relaxing to support your neck, back, and hips.

As your pregnancy progresses, you may need to adjust the pillow's placement to provide support where your body needs it most.

Maternity pillows are available at select Baby Company branches.

What Is a Nursing Pillow?

A nursing pillow for breastfeeding helps reduce strain on your neck, shoulders, arms, and back, especially during frequent feedings in the early months. Shaped to cradle your baby, these pillows provide a comfortable, supportive space that makes feeding easier while helping you maintain good posture and stay relaxed.

These pillows are also useful for more than just breastfeeding. Nursing pillows are also great for bottle feeding, reading stories, and serving as a baby’s lounge or for tummy time, or simply for relaxing together, making them a versatile tool for any mom and baby.

Types of Nursing Pillows

Learning about the different styles can help you choose the best nursing pillow for your needs.

1. C-Shaped Nursing Pillows: These pillows wrap around your waist, providing a comfortable feeding base for your baby. Their design helps prevent soreness in your arms and back while keeping your baby close. Compact and easy to store, they are ideal for everyday feeding.

2. Nursing Arm Pillows: Nursing arm pillows are compact cushions that provide extra padding for your arm while feeding your baby. They help reduce strain on your shoulders, elbows, and wrists. Lightweight and portable, these pillows are perfect for parents who feed on the go or move between rooms, and are especially helpful during the newborn stage, when feeds are frequent.

Parents searching for maternity or nursing pillows can find several options available at Baby Company stores nationwide. We have a wide selection from your favorite baby brands, including Chicco Boppy Pillow, Owen, Quilted Giraffe, Bloom, Little Sprout, and more!

How to Choose a Nursing Pillow

• Proper Height and Support

Find a nursing pillow that lifts your baby close to you without being too bulky. It should provide a comfy, stable spot for feeding.

• Secure Fit Around Your Waist

Choose a pillow that hugs your waist snugly. A secure fit helps you stay focused on your baby without constantly readjusting.

• Easy-to-Clean Materials

Babies can be messy, so look for pillows with removable, machine-washable covers. This way, you’ll keep everything clean and fresh with minimal effort.

• Portability

A lightweight, portable nursing pillow is perfect if you like to move around your home or travel often.

How to Use a Nursing Pillow

Knowing how to use a nursing pillow can make feeding sessions more comfortable for both you and your baby.

• Position the pillow securely around your waist.

• Place your baby on top of the pillow so they are raised to breast level.

• Keep your shoulders relaxed and avoid leaning forward.

• Adjust your baby's position to achieve a comfortable latch during breastfeeding.

• For bottle feeding, the pillow can also help support your baby's weight while maintaining proper posture.

Maternity vs Nursing Pillow: What’s the Difference?

While both pillows are designed to improve comfort and support, they serve different purposes during pregnancy and parenthood.

 

Many parents find that having both a maternity and a nursing pillow provides the best support throughout their parenting journey, from pregnancy through the newborn stage.

Rest, Recover, and Care with the Right Maternity and Nursing Pillow

Pregnancy and early parenthood come with a lot of physical changes, but the right support products can help you. Whether you need a maternity pillow for better sleep during pregnancy or a nursing pillow for comfy feeding sessions, choosing wisely can make a big difference in reducing strain and boosting your comfort.

Explore Baby Company's collection today and discover supportive solutions designed to help you rest, recover, and care for your growing family with greater comfort and confidence. Visit Baby Company online or stop by one of our stores today to explore our full collection of maternity and nursing pillows.

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FAQ

• When should I start using a maternity pillow?

Many expectant mothers begin using a maternity pillow during the second trimester, when belly growth starts to affect sleep comfort. However, you can start using one whenever you feel additional support would be helpful.

• Can I use a maternity pillow after giving birth?

Yes. Many parents continue using maternity pillows for recovery, lounging, or extra support while holding and caring for their baby.

• Do I need a nursing pillow if I already have a maternity pillow?

A maternity pillow and a baby nursing pillow serve different purposes. While some maternity pillows can offer limited support during feeding, a dedicated nursing pillow is specifically designed to position your baby comfortably and help reduce physical strain during feedings.

• Are nursing pillows only for breastfeeding?

No. A nursing pillow for breastfeeding is commonly used during nursing sessions, but it can also support bottle feeding, tummy time, and supervised bonding time with your baby.

• Where to buy maternity pillows and nursing pillows?

If you're wondering where to buy maternity pillows, Baby Company offers a variety of maternity and nursing pillow options designed to provide comfort, support, and convenience throughout pregnancy and early parenthood.