Many mothers use a breastfeeding cushion to make nursing as comfortable as possible, but there are so many on the market that it can be difficult to choose one. The first detail to consider is where you will be nursing most often. The typical breastfeeding pillow can be used anywhere, but there are specially made travel cushions, as well as products that are ideal for nighttime feedings in the dark. You should also think about extra features that add some convenience, such as pockets for toys and burp cloths, and a comfortable backrest for you. Finally, make sure to choose a pillow that has a removable cover so that you can wash it easily.
Most breastfeeding pillows are fine to use at home, whether you plan to sit in a rocking chair or on the couch. They typically wrap around your waist, and have plenty of room for the baby to lie down either directly in front of you, or off to either side. Of course, this type of breastfeeding cushion is not usually helpful if you plan to nurse in bed at night, as it is meant to be used while sitting up. Thus, you should consider buying a separate pillow for this purpose, as some on the market keep the baby turned toward you as you breastfeed, and often even include a nightlight. If you think you will be traveling often, on the other hand, you should consider a travel breastfeeding cushion, which can typically be deflated and folded up when not in use.
There are breastfeeding cushions that feature more than just a soft area for the baby to rest on. For example, some include a pocket that is ideal to store burp cloths and toys, as babies often spit up or become bored while using the pillow. Additionally, know that your comfort is important while nursing, not just the baby's, which is why some pillows include a backrest for nursing mothers. Of course, if you plan to mostly nurse on the couch or another padded seat, you may not need this extra feature.
Since babies often spit up or have diaper leaks, it is typically important to get a breastfeeding cushion with a removable cover. This is usually convenient since you can just put the cover through the washing machine instead of attempting to wipe away any stains with a rag. Additionally, this allows you to have a few different looks for your breastfeeding cushion, as buying a few covers can keep you from getting bored with its color or design.