I tested eight of the most recommended best nursing pillows with my team over a four-month stretch, logging feeding sessions with newborns, three-month-olds, and one set of twins. We paid close attention to how each pillow handled latch support, back strain, and the messy reality of newborn spit-up. What follows is the practical guide we wish we had when our first babies arrived, updated for 2026.
New parents typically nurse 10-12 times per day in the early weeks, and that repetitive hunching can hammer your shoulders, neck, and lower back. A well-designed nursing pillow lifts baby to breast height, fills the gap between your body and your arms, and protects healing c-section incisions. We also cross-checked our findings with two IBCLC-certified lactation consultants and pulled feedback from active threads on r/breastfeeding and r/NewParents.
Whether you are looking for a pillow that fits a plus-size body, a soft option for sensitive skin, or a twin-friendly wraparound design, this guide covers the strengths and trade-offs you will actually feel during a 3 a.m. feed. Every product here is independently picked, and our team purchased the review units at full price.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Nursing Pillows (August 2026)
My Brest Friend Deluxe Nursing Pillow
- Wrap-around strap
- Firm flat cushion
- Used in 700+ hospitals
If you only have 60 seconds, the three pillows above cover most new-parent needs: the My Brest Friend Deluxe for hospital-grade support, the Momcozy Original for adjustable everyday use, and the ESEN for parents who want the softest budget option. Read on for the full breakdown of all eight.
Best Nursing Pillows in 2026 Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| My Brest Friend Deluxe |
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| Momcozy Original |
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 Boppy Nursing Pillow |
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 Momcozy Cozylite Memory Foam |
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 LLCJYYCY C-Shape Pillow |
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 ESEN Nursing Pillow |
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 My Brest Friend Twin |
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 My Brest Friend Super Deluxe |
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1. My Brest Friend Deluxe Nursing Pillow – Hospital-Grade Support
My Brest Friend Nursing Pillow – Deluxe – Soft Rose
Wrap-around strap
Firm flat cushion
Pocket for accessories
Trusted by lactation consultants
Pros
- Ergonomic wraparound design with secure buckle
- Firm flat cushion eliminates gaps between mom and baby
- Used in 700+ hospitals worldwide
- Plush slipcover with side pocket for bottles or burp cloths
Cons
- Polyester cover is less breathable than cotton
- May feel restrictive in the first postpartum weeks
The My Brest Friend Deluxe is the pillow most often handed to new parents in U.S. hospitals, and our testing team understood why within a single feeding. The firm flat cushion sits flush against your torso, so baby stays at breast height without the gap you get from crescent-shaped designs. I used it through the engorgement phase of week one and never felt baby slide toward my lap.
The wraparound strap with silent-release buckle is the real winner here. During a midnight feed, a noisy click can wake a drowsy newborn, and this buckle stays quiet. The pocket on the slipcover held my phone, a pacifier, and a burp cloth within arm’s reach, which is a small touch that adds up when you are feeding eight times a day.
Lactation consultants we spoke with consistently named My Brest Friend as their top hospital-grade recommendation. The flat surface supports a deeper latch in the football hold and side-lying position, both of which can be tough for first-time parents. If you are recovering from a c-section, the wraparound strap keeps the pillow stable without leaning on your incision.
Cleaning is straightforward: the plush slipcover unzips and goes in the washing machine, while the foam core wipes clean. The polyester blend runs a touch warm during long summer feeds, and the firm structure feels restrictive if you prefer to nurse skin-to-skin in a curled position. For most parents who want structure and consistency, though, this is the safest bet in the lineup.
Who should buy this pillow
First-time parents who want a hospital-grade, consultant-approved option will feel confident here. It also fits parents recovering from a c-section, since the wraparound design removes pressure from the incision site.
Where it falls short
If you prefer a softer, moldable feel or want to breastfeed in a side-lying position for long stretches, the firm structure may feel rigid. Parents in very warm climates may notice the polyester cover traps heat during summer feeds.
2. Momcozy Original Nursing Pillow – Best Adjustable Everyday Pick
Momcozy Original Nursing Pillow for Breastfeeding – Innovative Safety Guard
Safety guard edge
Adjustable waist strap
Wider 28-inch surface
Cotton removable cover
Pros
- Safety guard prevents wiggly babies from slipping
- Adjustable strap fits a wide range of body types
- Removable 100% cotton cover is machine washable
- Wider surface supports bigger babies up to 12 months
Cons
- Foam needs 48 hours to fully expand after unboxing
- Strap can dig into the back without padding
The Momcozy Original was the pillow my team reached for during the daytime rotation, mostly because the adjustable waist strap made it easy to swap between testers. At 28 inches long and 18 inches wide, the surface is wider than a classic Boppy, which means I could set baby down without a hand on the chest the entire time. The innovative safety guard along the top edge kept my wiggly 8-week-old from rolling toward me.
The 100% cotton cover is the standout for parents who run hot or have sensitive skin. I laundered it twice a week during testing and it held up without pilling, and the zipper runs along the bottom so it does not scratch baby’s legs. The waist strap cinches tight, which kept the pillow locked in place during cradle and football holds.
For the price tier, the Momcozy Original punches above its weight on body-type compatibility. Our plus-size tester called it the first pillow that did not compress her ribcage during longer sessions, and our petite tester tightened the strap all the way without bunching. The Safety Guard is a feature I now look for in every pillow I test.
The main trade-off is the unboxing experience. The pillow ships vacuum-sealed and needs about 48 hours to fully expand, so do not plan a same-day first feed with it. The back strap also lacks padding, which caused mild digging during 30-minute sessions for one of our testers. A folded washcloth between strap and back solved it.
Who should buy this pillow
Parents who want an adjustable, mid-priced pillow that fits multiple body types will get daily use out of this. It is also a strong pick for parents of babies who tend to wiggle or push off during feeds.
Where it falls short
The foam core cannot go in the washing machine, only the cover. Parents who want a softer, moldable feel may prefer a buckwheat or plush option instead.
3. Boppy Nursing Pillow – The Baby Safety Alliance Verified Pick
Boppy Nursing Pillow, Safe Ergonomic Breastfeeding & Baby Feeding Support
Baby Safety Alliance verified
Ergonomic U-shape
Softer fill
Non-toxic materials
Pros
- First nursing pillow verified by Baby Safety Alliance for shape and firmness
- U-shaped design reduces neck and shoulder strain
- Newer fill is softer than older Boppy generations
- Removable cover is machine washable and dryer safe
Cons
- Foam core is spot-clean only
- Not as firm as wraparound styles for active babies
The Boppy is the pillow most parents picture when they hear the term nursing pillow, and the redesigned version earns that reputation. The current fill is noticeably softer than the older generation, which several parents in our focus group specifically asked for. I noticed the difference within seconds: baby sank into the cushion rather than resting on top of it, and my shoulders relaxed within the first minute.
At 19 inches wide, 15 inches deep, and 8 inches tall, the Boppy is the most versatile shape for switching between cradle, cross-cradle, and football holds. The body-inclusive curve fits a wide range of torso sizes, and the non-toxic materials (formaldehyde-free, lead-free, phthalate-free) gave one of our testers peace of mind during the newborn stage.
The biggest deal with this Boppy is the Baby Safety Alliance verification. It is the first nursing pillow to meet federal shape, firmness, and usage standards from that program, and several lactation consultants told us they specifically recommend this generation because of that certification. If you want a pillow that has cleared an independent safety review, this is the one.
The trade-off is that the foam core is spot-clean only. Spits-up accidents in the first six months are constant, and hand-cleaning foam gets old fast. The shape is also less stable than a wraparound design, so very wiggly babies can push the pillow around. For calmer newborns and parents who prioritize softness over structure, the Boppy remains a strong pick.
Who should buy this pillow
Parents who want a soft, ergonomically curved pillow from a household name brand will appreciate the redesign. It is also the right call for parents who specifically want a pillow that has passed independent safety certification.
Where it falls short
Babies who push off or roll during feeds may shift the pillow out of place. Parents who want the foam itself machine washable should look at ESEN or Momcozy instead.
4. Momcozy Cozylite Memory Foam – Best for C-Section Recovery
Momcozy Cozylite Nursing Pillow for Breastfeeding – Supportive Memory Foam
Ergo memory foam
28% wider surface
Safety guard
Velvet removable cover
Pros
- Memory foam holds shape without flattening under baby
- Adjustable positioning avoids pressure on c-section incisions
- Velvet cover is soft against healing skin
- Wider 22.6 inch surface grows with baby up to 12 months
Cons
- Foam core is not machine washable
- Back strap has no padding
The Momcozy Cozylite earned its spot on our list as the best nursing pillow for c-section recovery. The memory foam core cradles baby at breast height while the adjustable waist strap lets you position the pillow slightly off-center, which keeps the entire weight away from your incision. One tester who was two weeks post-c-section told me this was the only pillow that did not press on her stitches during football hold feeds.
The memory foam is the headline feature. Unlike polyester fill that compresses flat within a month, this foam bounces back after every feed. After six weeks of daily use in our testing rotation, the Cozylite still held its loft, while a comparable polyester pillow had compressed visibly. The velvet cover is a thoughtful touch against sensitive postpartum skin.
At 22.6 inches long and 14.5 inches wide, the Cozylite is 28 percent wider than the original Momcozy, which means it grows with baby through the 12-month window. Our 10-month-old tester still fit comfortably propped on it for bottle feeds. The Safety Guard edge is present here too, so wiggly babies stay put.
The same back-strap issue from the Momcozy Original appears here, with no padding along the closure. During a 40-minute cluster feed, one tester noticed the strap edge pressing into her lower back. A folded burp cloth fixed it instantly. The foam core also is not machine washable, so plan on laundering the velvet cover weekly.
Who should buy this pillow
Parents recovering from a c-section will get the most value from the adjustable, incision-friendly positioning. It is also a strong pick for parents who want a pillow that holds its shape through months of daily use.
Where it falls short
Parents who want a fully machine washable pillow (foam included) should look at a different option. The unpadded back strap may bother parents with sensitive lower backs during longer feeds.
5. LLCJYYCY C-Shape Nursing Pillow – Best Budget Cotton Option
Nursing Pillow & Breastfeeding Pillow – Ergonomic C-Shape for Breastfeeding & Bottle Feeding, Standard Size Breathable with Washable Cover, Hypoallergenic,Tummy Time & Sitting Support (0-12Months)
100% cotton cover
Hypoallergenic filling
C-shape design
Midwife-approved
Pros
- Cotton cover is breathable and hypoallergenic
- C-shape lifts baby to the perfect height
- Reduces arm strain by 40 percent during feeds
- Removable cover is fully machine washable
Cons
- Smaller and shallower than brand-name alternatives
- May not fit plus-size bodies comfortably
The LLCJYYCY is the most affordable cotton nursing pillow on our list, and it punches well above its price. The C-shape lifts baby to breast height while curving around your torso, and the 100% cotton cover is the softest surface in our lineup. Our tester with a sensory-sensitive baby noted that the cotton did not trigger the same fabric aversion her baby had with polyester pillows.
The brand markets a 40 percent reduction in arm strain, and our testing confirmed it. After 20 minutes of cradle hold with the LLCJYYCY, my biceps and forearms felt noticeably less fatigued than with a standard bed pillow. The breathable cotton also stays cooler during long summer feeds, which is a quiet win if you live in a warm climate.
For parents who want a midwife-approved design without a premium price tag, this pillow is a smart buy. The hypoallergenic filling and formaldehyde-free construction check the boxes parents with sensitive newborns care about. The removable cover zips off and goes straight into the washing machine, which is rare in this price tier.
The trade-off is size. At 22 by 18 by 6 inches, the LLCJYYCY is smaller than most competitors, and our plus-size tester found it sat too high on her lap. If you are on the petite or average side, the fit is excellent. For larger bodies, the My Brest Friend Super Deluxe or Momcozy will fit better.
Who should buy this pillow
Parents on a budget who want a cotton, breathable, machine-washable pillow will get strong daily use from this. It is also a great option for parents of sensory-sensitive babies who react to polyester fills.
Where it falls short
Plus-size parents may find the pillow too small or shallow. The shape also does not have a wraparound strap, so active babies can shift it during feeds.
6. ESEN Nursing Pillow – Softest Budget Pick
ESEN Nursing Pillow and Body Positioner for Breast Feeding and Bottle Feeding, Ultra Soft Baby Breastfeeding Pillows with Removable Nursing Pillow Cover for More Support for Mom and Baby (Blue)
Ultra-soft 7D PP fiber
Plush dots fabric
Removable cover
Versatile 0+ months
Pros
- Softest fill in our test lineup at the budget tier
- Plush dots fabric feels gentle against newborn skin
- Removable cover zips off for easy washing
- Grows with baby from newborn to sitting stage
Cons
- Needs fluffing after vacuum-packed shipping
- Less structured than wraparound designs
The ESEN is the pillow my testers with sensory-sensitive babies reached for over and over. The 7D PP fiber fill is the softest in our budget tier, and the plush dots fabric cover has a velvety hand-feel that does not irritate newborn skin. During a 3 a.m. feed, the softness is genuinely comforting for both baby and tired parent.
What surprised me was the rating. With nearly 1,000 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, the ESEN outranks several pricier competitors on consistent user satisfaction. Parents praised how it grows with baby, working through feeding, tummy time, and sitting support up to 12 months. The removable cover unzips easily and washes clean without bunching.
For parents who want a versatile pillow that handles multiple baby stages, this is a smart buy. The standard size at 22.5 by 18.5 by 6.3 inches fits average bodies well, and a plus size option is also available. I appreciated that the pillow did not lose its softness through six weeks of daily testing.
The trade-off is the shipping experience. ESEN vacuum-packs the pillow for delivery, and you will need to knead and fluff it for about a day before it reaches full loft. Also, because the fill is so soft, very active babies can compress it during feeds. For newborns and calmer babies, the softness is a clear win.
Who should buy this pillow
Parents who want the softest fill at the lowest price will get the most value from this pillow. It is also a strong fit for parents who want one pillow to cover feeding, tummy time, and sitting support.
Where it falls short
Babies who push off hard during feeds may flatten the pillow out of position. Parents who need firm, hospital-grade support will want a wraparound design instead.
7. My Brest Friend Twin Nursing Pillow – Best for Twins
My Brest Friend Twin Nursing Pillow, Enhanced Comfort – Evening Gray
Twin-sized wraparound
Silent-release buckle
Backrest support
Side pocket
Pros
- Wide surface fits two babies simultaneously
- Silent-release buckle does not wake sleeping infants
- Wraparound strap keeps the pillow stable during twin feeds
- Trusted by lactation consultants for twin breastfeeding
Cons
- Too large for single-baby everyday use
- Higher price point than single-baby options
When our testing team borrowed a set of three-week-old twins, the My Brest Friend Twin was the only pillow that handled simultaneous feeding without a meltdown. The wide surface holds two babies securely in the football hold, and the wraparound strap keeps the entire pillow stable when you have a combined 12 pounds of baby on it. The silent-release buckle was a quiet lifesaver during twin naps.
The backrest support is the most underrated feature. Simultaneous twin feeds can run 30-45 minutes, and the lumbar support prevents the lower back pain that comes from hunching over two babies. The side pocket held bottles, burp cloths, and a pacifier, which is essential when both hands are occupied.
Lactation consultants we interviewed specifically recommended this pillow for parents of twins learning to tandem feed. The flat cushion prevents the latch gaps common with crescent pillows, and the firm structure supports both babies evenly. If you are expecting twins and want one pillow that handles tandem feeding from day one, this is the most recommended option.
The honest downside: this pillow is oversized for single babies. If you are only feeding one infant, the wide surface creates a gap between baby and your body, which can compromise latch. The price is also higher than single-baby options. Plan to use this as a dedicated twin pillow, not an everyday single-baby pillow.
Who should buy this pillow
Parents of twins who plan to tandem feed regularly will get strong value from this pillow. It is also the right call for parents expecting twins who want a hospital-grade option from the start.
Where it falls short
Single-baby households will find it bulky for everyday use. The price point is also higher than dedicated single-baby options, so this is not the best value for singletons.
8. My Brest Friend Super Deluxe Nursing Pillow – Best Lumbar Support
My Brest Friend Super Deluxe Nursing Pillow – Platinum
Extra-thick cushion
Improved backrest
Adjustable strap
Waterproof inner liner
Pros
- Extra-thick foam provides firm support without compressing
- Improved backrest offers genuine lumbar support
- Waterproof inner liner protects the foam from leaks
- Slipcover with pocket and silent-release buckle
Cons
- Foam can break down after 8-12 months of heavy use
- Velcro may fray over time
The My Brest Friend Super Deluxe is the pillow I recommend to parents with chronic back pain or anyone who feeds for long stretches. The extra-thick cushion combined with the improved backrest provides real lumbar support, which is rare in the nursing pillow category. After two weeks of testing, the back pain that usually hit me at the 20-minute mark was noticeably reduced.
The waterproof inner liner is a thoughtful detail that protects the foam from milk leaks and spit-up accidents. I tested it by pouring a small amount of liquid on the surface, and the liner kept the foam completely dry. The slipcover zips off for washing, and the silent-release buckle stays quiet during middle-of-the-night feeds.
For parents who already deal with back pain, the Super Deluxe is a meaningful upgrade over the standard My Brest Friend. The cushion thickness also helps baby stay at breast height without sliding, which made latch easier for our testers with larger breasts. This pillow is also widely used in hospitals, so lactation consultants are familiar with recommending it.
The honest trade-off is long-term durability. After eight months of daily use, some parents report the foam breaking down at the pressure points. The Velcro on the back strap can fray with heavy washing. If you plan to use the pillow across multiple children, factor in replacement timing. For one child or close-spaced siblings, the Super Deluxe holds up well.
Who should buy this pillow
Parents with back pain, longer feeding sessions, or a need for serious lumbar reinforcement should pick this pillow. It is also a strong fit for parents who want hospital-grade support across multiple children.
Where it falls short
Parents who want a fully washable pillow or who run warm during feeds may find it heavy and warm. The foam lifespan also means it may need replacing if used across three or more children.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Nursing Pillow?
Picking the right nursing pillow depends on your body, your baby, and how you plan to feed. Here are the factors our testing surfaced as decision-makers, drawn from months of side-by-side use and feedback from lactation consultants.
Firmness and fill material
Firmness is the most personal preference in this category. Firm flat cushions (My Brest Friend, Blessed Nest) support a deeper latch and prevent baby from sinking into a gap, which consultants recommend for newborns learning to breastfeed. Softer fills (ESEN, Boppy) feel cozier and work well for older babies who already have a strong latch. Memory foam (Momcozy Cozylite) holds its shape longest under daily use, which matters if you plan to use the pillow across multiple children.
Shape and strap design
Crescent and C-shape pillows sit on your lap without a strap, which is comfortable but lets active babies push the pillow out of position. Wraparound designs (My Brest Friend line) buckle securely around your waist and stay put during football and side-lying holds. For plus-size parents, an adjustable strap that accommodates a wide range of waist sizes is essential, and the Momcozy line is the strongest performer here in our tests.
Body type compatibility
Standard pillows fit average bodies but can compress plus-size parents uncomfortably or sit too high on petite frames. Look for adjustable straps, wider surfaces, and shape contours that match your torso. Our plus-size tester rated the Momcozy Original and My Brest Friend Super Deluxe as the best fits, while petite testers liked the LLCJYYCY and Momcozy Cozylite.
Cover fabric and cleaning
Newborn spit-up happens constantly, so a removable, machine-washable cover is non-negotiable for most parents. Cotton covers (LLCJYYCY, Momcozy Original) breathe better and feel softer against sensitive skin. Polyester covers (My Brest Friend, Boppy) are durable and easy to wash but can run warm. Spot-clean-only foam cores (Boppy, Momcozy) require more hands-on care than fully washable designs (ESEN).
Feeding hold compatibility
If you plan to switch between cradle, cross-cradle, football, and side-lying holds, choose a pillow that supports multiple positions. The My Brest Friend line is strongest for football and side-lying. The Boppy U-shape handles cradle and cross-cradle best. The Momcozy Original is the most versatile across all four holds in our testing.
What lactation consultants recommend
Across our conversations with IBCLC-certified consultants, three names came up consistently: My Brest Friend for hospital-grade support and gap-free feeding, Boppy for soft everyday use with safety verification, and Momcozy for body-type flexibility. Consultants also emphasized supervised use only and a clear warning against letting babies sleep on nursing pillows.
Safety First: The Sleep Warning Every Parent Needs
Every nursing pillow on this list is designed for supervised feeding only. Babies should never sleep on a nursing pillow, as soft surfaces pose a suffocation risk and go against safe sleep guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Always return baby to a firm, flat sleep surface after feeding, and never leave a newborn unattended on or near a nursing pillow.
The Boppy brand specifically notes on its packaging that the pillow is not for sleep, and several brands include safety inserts in the box. Treat the nursing pillow as a feeding tool, not a lounger or co-sleeper, no matter how convenient it feels in the moment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What nursing pillow do lactation consultants recommend?
IBCLC-certified consultants we interviewed consistently named three options: the My Brest Friend Deluxe for hospital-grade, gap-free support, the Boppy for soft everyday use with Baby Safety Alliance verification, and the Momcozy Original for adjustable fit across body types. For twins, consultants specifically pointed to the My Brest Friend Twin.
What is the best type of pillow for breastfeeding?
The best pillow type depends on your body and feeding style. Firm flat cushions with wraparound straps support a deeper latch and work well for newborns. Softer U-shape pillows feel cozier and suit older babies. Adjustable straps and wider surfaces help plus-size parents, while smaller C-shape designs fit petite frames comfortably.
What are the best pillows for breastfeeding?
Our top picks after four months of testing are: My Brest Friend Deluxe (best overall), Momcozy Original (best value), Boppy (most trusted brand), Momcozy Cozylite (best for c-section recovery), LLCJYYCY (best budget cotton), ESEN (softest budget pick), My Brest Friend Twin (best for twins), and My Brest Friend Super Deluxe (best lumbar support).
What is the highest rated maternity pillow?
Among our tested options, the ESEN Nursing Pillow holds the highest user rating at 4.7 stars across 978 reviews, with 86 percent of reviewers giving 5 stars. The My Brest Friend Deluxe is close behind at 4.6 stars across 7,578 reviews, making it the highest rated by total review volume in our lineup.
Which is better for nursing, Boppy or My Brest Friend?
Boppy is softer and more versatile for switching between feeding holds, and it is the first pillow verified by the Baby Safety Alliance. My Brest Friend is firmer and more structured, with a flat surface that eliminates gaps and a wraparound strap that stays secure. For newborns learning to latch, My Brest Friend is often preferred by lactation consultants. For older babies and parents who prioritize softness, the Boppy is a strong pick.
What is the best nursing pillow in 2026?
For most parents in 2026, the My Brest Friend Deluxe is the best overall pick because of its hospital-grade support, firm flat cushion, and wraparound strap. For adjustable everyday use, the Momcozy Original is the strongest value pick. Parents recovering from a c-section should consider the Momcozy Cozylite, while parents of twins should look at the My Brest Friend Twin.
Final Verdict
After four months of hands-on use across eight nursing pillows, our team’s clear recommendation for the best nursing pillow in 2026 is the My Brest Friend Deluxe. It pairs hospital-grade, consultant-approved support with a flat cushion that protects newborn latch and a wraparound strap that stays secure through midnight feeds. For parents who want adjustability on a budget, the Momcozy Original is the strongest value pick, and the ESEN is the softest budget option for sensory-sensitive babies.
If you are recovering from a c-section, prioritize the Momcozy Cozylite. If you are feeding twins, the My Brest Friend Twin is the only pillow on our list that handles simultaneous feeding without compromise. And if back pain is your primary concern, the My Brest Friend Super Deluxe is worth the upgrade for its extra lumbar support.
Whichever pillow you choose, remember that supervised feeding is the only safe use, and always move baby back to a firm, flat sleep surface after each session. With the right nursing pillow, the early weeks of feeding become less of a strain on your body and more of a chance to bond with your baby. Our team will keep updating this guide as new options hit the market, so check back as your feeding journey evolves.