Are you a new mum? Or perhaps you’re about to embark on this exciting journey? If so, you’re likely wondering whether you really need a nursing pillow and, if so, which one is right for you. After all, the market offers a wide variety of options: large and small nursing pillows, firm and soft ones, filled with foam, beads, polyester, or natural materials. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but don’t worry – we’re here to help you with the best nursing pillow. Today, we’ll explore the pros and cons of different types, because ultimately, you’ll decide whether a soft, large pillow or a firm, compact one (often referred to as “shape-stable”) will best support you in your daily routine with your baby.
Large or Small Nursing Pillow – What Happens When You Chest/Breastfeed or Bottle-Feed Without One
Before we dive into the advantages and disadvantages of various nursing pillows, let’s consider why using one – and choosing the right one – is important. When you’re nursing or bottle-feeding your little one, you naturally try to make yourself as comfortable as possible. However, over time, you’ll notice it can be quite tiring. Even though your precious bundle initially only weighs a few kilos, without a suitable nursing pillow, you’ll need to hold them in a specific position for extended periods, many times a day (up to eight hours!). This can really strain your arm and shoulder muscles. The consequences of this tense posture can include stiffness in your neck, shoulders, arms, and back. And that doesn’t sound like relaxed feeding at all.
Relaxation remains crucial during such a sensitive act as chest/breastfeeding. Tension negatively impacts the nursing process. You’ll enjoy this intimate moment with your baby less and might even feel stressed by feeding. As we’ve mentioned in another blog post: Stress negatively affects your milk flow, and you might find yourself in a cycle of stress-related feeding problems. Your baby can sense your tension too and may feel uncomfortable if not positioned correctly for feeding. This can lead to poor latching and drinking, which in turn can cause you more stress. So, a nursing pillow is definitely worth considering – and it needs to be the right one!
Which is the Best Nursing Pillow: Large and Soft or Firm and Compact?
The first and most important question to answer when buying a nursing pillow is whether you want a large, particularly soft pillow or a firm, smaller one that maintains its shape well. Both models have their advantages and disadvantages.
Firm or “Shape-Stable” Nursing Pillow – The Advantages
- The shape-stable nursing pillow is ready to use immediately. You simply need to position it, without any fluffing or reshaping as with a soft pillow. Thanks to its firm structure, it provides excellent support for your baby’s body and adapts to almost all body shapes and proportions.
- No slipping possible, as a thin strap holds the nursing pillow to your body. You’re ready with just one click.
- The shape-stable nursing pillow keeps your baby at a perfect feeding height, and the elevation in the head area additionally supports digestion.
- You sit in a relaxed nursing position because you don’t need to hold the pillow in place. Despite its firm shape, various nursing positions are easily achievable.
- Firm nursing pillows allow for two free hands for your baby, as you don’t need to hold the pillow additionally.
- Shape-stable nursing pillows are significantly more manageable, often being smaller than soft nursing pillows. You can take them anywhere more easily and leave them without them taking up the entire sofa.
- Easy handling due to the firm and stable shape – especially helpful with nursing difficulties.
- A small, shape-stable nursing pillow typically weighs less than the large, soft ones.
- Firm nursing pillows are particularly suitable for extended nursing periods, as they don’t need to be constantly reshaped.
- Also ideal for nursing two babies simultaneously.
- The firm filling is noiseless, so your baby isn’t disturbed while nursing and sleeping.
- When you position your baby, they automatically lie in an ergonomic position (tummy-to-tummy).
- Has your baby gained a few kilos? No problem. Shape-stable nursing pillows are suitable for heavier babies too.
- With a firm nursing pillow, your C-section scar is protected from your baby’s kicks.
- Additional function: Besides nursing, the shape-stable nursing pillow can be used as positioning support for older babies to practice tummy time.
Firm Nursing Pillow – The Disadvantages
- It’s not suitable for sleeping.
- It’s not suitable as a positioning aid during pregnancy.
- Not suitable for nursing while lying down.
Soft Nursing Pillow – The Advantages
- A soft nursing pillow can be used for various nursing positions.
- It can be used while lying down and sitting.
- It can be used as nursing pillows and side sleeper pillows (positioning aid), e.g., during pregnancy.
- After the nursing period, it can continue to be used as a regular pillow.
Soft Nursing Pillow – The Disadvantages
- More difficult handling: Because a soft pillow doesn’t maintain its shape and the filling constantly shifts, it’s more challenging to find an ergonomic nursing position. Especially when you already have a baby in your arms and need to manoeuvre the pillow with one hand.
- A soft nursing pillow isn’t immediately ready for use, as it first needs to be shaped and positioned as desired.
- Less relaxed nursing, because at least one hand is needed to hold the pillow.
- Can slip out of position.
- Due to the soft filling, the soft nursing pillow offers less stability.
- Depending on the position, it can be uncomfortable when sitting against your back.
- Depending on the filling, a soft nursing pillow can make noise during nursing and sleeping, potentially disturbing the baby.
- Generally not suitable for twins.
- Heavier babies tend to sink into the soft filling, making the nursing pillow less suitable for them.
- Depending on the filling, soft nursing pillows can vary in weight.
- Less stability for older babies when practising tummy time.
Which Filling is the Right one?
Both firm and soft pillows have their pros and cons. The type of filling in each pillow can also bring both advantages and disadvantages and may help you make your decision as to which is best for you. Firm and shape-stable product, for example, are often made of firm foam. Soft nursing pillows consist of either synthetic or natural filling material. The following fillings are available:
- EPS beads: These are synthetic beads made from expanded polystyrene foam. Standard beads measure 1.5 to 2.5 mm in diameter, but they can be quite noisy and may disturb your baby during feeding. Microbeads, sized 0.5-1.5 mm, are a better option. They’re lighter, quieter, and more durable, though pricier.
- Polyester hollow fibres: These nursing pillows have a soft, cotton-like filling. They’re quiet but slightly less flexible and snug.
- Natural fillings: Spelt husks, pure wool, or cotton are natural fillings for cosy and flexible nursing pillows. The downside of these sustainable options: they can’t be washed, making care more demanding. Regular airing is crucial to prevent mould growth. Overall, they’re less durable than other and unsuitable for allergy sufferers.
Ergobaby Natural Curve™ Nursing Pillow for Relaxed, Ergonomic Feeding
At Ergobaby, we aim to make your daily life with baby easier, with a clear focus on ergonomics. That’s why we offer a firm, shape-stable foam nursing pillow, the Ergobaby Natural Curve™. It allows you to nurse comfortably and in a back-friendly way while sitting (e.g., tummy-to-tummy). The ergonomically pre-shaped foam interior ensures your baby automatically lies in a safe and comfy position at an optimal height. You don’t need to guide your little one to your breast/chest; our compact, small nursing pillow essentially does that for you. You only need to gently hold your baby with one hand, not actively support them, which can prevent tension and pain.
Since you secure the Natural Curve™ Nursing Pillow to your body with a slim strap, it won’t slip away. Your baby lies safely on the pillow, and you truly have both hands free for your little one – and perhaps a glass of water. Meanwhile, your baby’s head rests slightly elevated on the nursing pillow, making latching and digestion easier. Their body and head are aligned straight, allowing for easier swallowing and drinking.
Although the Natural Curve™ Nursing Pillow is firm and shape-stable, the strap allows it to adapt well to almost any body shape, making its height variable. Your baby will feel super comfortable on the cuddly soft plush cover and can drink relaxedly. By the way, the cover is removable and can be machine washed. An inconspicuous handle also makes transporting super practical.
The Three Best Nursing Positions with the Ergobaby Natural Curve™
Our Ergobaby Natural Curve™ Nursing Pillow is designed for perfect sitting-up nursing. But that doesn’t mean only one nursing position is possible. No, our shape-stable small nursing pillow allows for the cradle hold, cross-cradle hold, and rugby hold.
- In the cradle hold, your baby’s head rests in the crook of your arm, with their tummy against yours. Your arm now gently supports your little one’s back. Don’t forget to switch sides!
- In the cross-cradle hold, you rest baby’s head in one of your hands, e.g., the left. Baby’s body lies on your left forearm, tummy-to-tummy. Now guide your little one to latch onto the opposite breast / side of your chest, in this case, the right. Use your other hand to help with latching. This position is ideal for beginning nursing, as you can support your baby well.
- The rugby hold, also called the football hold, involves tucking the nursing pillow and your baby under your arm a bit like a football. Place baby on the nursing pillow with feet towards your back, so the pillow and baby lie between your upper body and bent arm. Now guide the head to your breast / chest. This hold is ideal for those with a large chest, c-section scar issues, or babies with low birth weight.
Large vs Small – a Matter of Taste and Ergonomics
Choosing the best nursing pillow depends on your personal preferences and ergonomic needs. Both large and small pillows have their advantages, so consider what works best for you and your baby.
Soft and flexible or small, compact and firm? The choice is yours to make. Our comparison shows that whilst a soft, large pillow offers more feeding positions, a firm, smaller one can be more ergonomic and better for your back. And it’s not just for you. Dad, grandma, grandpa, or other non-nursing family members can use the Natural Curve™ pillow to support your baby comfortably, give them a bottle, or entertain them. All without the strain on their arms.
This works brilliantly with our Lift Hip Seat too. Its wide waistband securely attaches to the wearer’s body. Made of firm, moulded plastic (EPP), it serves dual purposes. Beyond its primary function as a hip seat carrier for older babies, it can support newborn feeding. You can even use it to give your little one a bottle comfortably.
As you can see, a firm, compact nursing pillow has its advantages. But why not try it yourself and see? The best nursing pillow is the one that works for you and your baby. Whether you opt for soft and large or firm and small, the right choice will make feeding time more comfortable for everyone involved.
