How to choose the right infant pillow

How do you know if you are choosing the best baby pillows and nursing pillows? The answer might surprise you – you have chosen the best of both if they are the same thing! Baby pillows and nursing pillows may sound like two different products, but the savvy mom knows that the right product can be used for both purposes.

Baby pillows

There are many people who say that pillows for infants are not only unnecessary, but can even be dangerous. As far as putting pillows in the crib goes, this is true for the first year of your baby’s life. Although you will see many adorable crib sets on the market, medical professionals agree that for the first year of your baby’s life, these are impractical and can be harmful.

However, your baby will enjoy a pillow when he or she is having tummy time! These pillows rest underneath the infant’s stomach while he or she is lying on their tummy, making this position more comfortable.

The other great purpose for the right baby pillow is as a nursing or breastfeeding pillow. Many women have trouble finding the right position for themselves and their infant while breastfeeding. Once they do find this position, it can be difficult to maintain it for the long periods of time needed for feeding each day. A nursing pillow helps both of these problems by allowing for a safe and secure resting place for the infant while he or she is nursing.

How can you tell if the pillow you are interested in is suited for both of these important tasks?

Look for the following characteristics:

• Does it come with a washable slipcover? Spills during nursing or drooling during tummy time calls for regular washes, so it is important to have a slipcover that is easily washable.
• Are there visible zippers or Velcro? You don’t want either of these things because they can protrude and scratch the baby or yourself. Look for a soft and smooth cover, all the way around.
• Is it big enough? Make sure that it fits around your waist comfortably so that you are not struggling while breastfeeding your little one.