We sew our own baby feeding pillow
Pillow for nursing (breastfeeding) and more
Odes to this pillow have already been sung, poems have been written. There are fans, i.e. enthusiastic users of this modern invention. There are opponents, or rather those who could not fully understand and apply this pillow in their lives. What does this depend on? From the shape of the pillow, from its size, from the filling, from the ability to use... Everyone finds their own answer to these questions.
As life experience shows, such a pillow can be useful:
- for the expectant mother (pregnant woman) for sleep and relaxation;
- for feeding the baby;
- for a baby when he learns to sit;
- there may be other options for using the pillow.
Sew, test and gain your experience.
You'll need:
Fabric for the napkin (cover for the filler)– teak, satin, satin jacquard or other dense fabric. For a width of 90 - 100 cm, fabric consumption is 1.5 m.
Fabric for pillowcase - You can use chintz, calico, satin, etc. preferably natural fabrics. Consumption depends on the width of the fabric. With a width of 90 - 100 cm, you will need 1.5 m.
Filler for a pillow – padding polyester, padding polyester, fibertech, camphorel, etc.
Zipper 50 - 60 cm long.
Making patterns.
To make it easier to make the pattern for the pillow, we cut it into 5cm squares. 30 - 40 minutes of your attention and perseverance and the pattern is ready.
If you wish, you can change it at your discretion (increase or decrease, widen, round, etc.)
Cut details:
Bed cover 2 folded parts;
Inner cover insert 1 piece with fold;
Pillowcase 2 folded parts;
Pillowcase inner insert 1 piece with fold;
Ties 6 cm x 40 cm (finished size 2.5 x 38) 4 pieces.
The inner insert, which we sew along a small radius, makes the pillow more comfortable - this is an improved option. If sewing such a pillow seems difficult for you, you can skip sewing this part. This will not make the pillow lose its functionality.
The same can be said about the clasp on the pillowcase. If this is a complex knot for you, you don’t have to sew it in. Leave an area of 40 - 50 centimeters unstitched, and after the pillowcase is put on, carefully sew it by hand. In this case, please note that if you need to wash the pillowcase, you will need to rip out this seam and sew it back after washing. So maybe we can work on the clasp after all?
We sew on 4 ties so that the diameter of the pillow can be adjusted. You can limit yourself to two ties or increase their number and change their position as you wish.
As an example, we will sew a pillow from leftover fabric and scraps of padding polyester. This is how we will demonstrate that good, and most importantly very useful, things can be sewn from the materials at hand.
We use white calico for the pillow case, and yellow calico and printed calico for the pillowcase. As a filler, we use padding polyester scraps, pre-divided by hand into small pieces, which will make it easier for us to fill the pillow evenly.
The best option is to use modern materials specifically designed for this purpose as filler. This Hollofaytex- 100% polyester, high-quality filling made of hollow siliconized fiber, highly crimped into a spiral, formed into balls (promotes greater elasticity), used for stuffing pillows, furniture and soft toys. Filler - f ibertek, This is a hypoallergenic, antistatic non-woven material consisting of thin hollow fibers specially treated with silicone. Thanks to this, the fibers move independently of each other, and as a result, the filler does not bunch up, does not cake, and retains its shape after washing. There are other siliconized fillers camphor, fiberball… If you have the opportunity to purchase any of these materials, take advantage of this opportunity.
Important
:
Our pillow can be washed in a washing machine.
Open up breastfeeding pillows.
Fold the fabric in half. We arrange the patterns, taking into account the marks "fold" And "share". Please note that in this product the grain thread can be located in two options (See drawing) choose the optimal one for yourself, depending on the available cut of fabric.
We outline the patterns, give seam allowances of 1 – 1.5 cm and cut them out. Be sure to place notches (a cut 0.3 - 0.5 cm long) in the places marked on the pattern and along the fold line of the parts. This will make it easier for you to connect the parts. Number of details indicated on the patterns (two large parts, one small (inner insert), plus ties for the pillowcase). But if you are cutting from leftover fabric, you can break the pattern into several parts, not forgetting to give allowances for stitching on each cut.
This is a cover for the filler, a kind of bedstead.
Now we repeat a similar operation with the pillowcase. Ties are added here, you determine their number. Make notches on the cut details in the places where the ties are stitched according to the pattern.
If you decide to sew a pillow with a zipper, be sure to widen the seam allowance where it is sewn in. The optimal fastener size is 50 - 60 cm. Place 25 (30) cm along the outer cut of the pillowcase from the middle and make notches.
Our example uses fabric scraps. Therefore, we make large parts of the pillowcase from two parts with a seam in the middle (along the fold line), and you proceed from your capabilities and desires.
From personal experience. When a child learns to sit with the help of such a pillow, it is very interesting for him to look at the bright patterns on the pillowcase. You can sew a pillowcase from scraps of fabric especially for this period, or additionally sew on multi-colored bows, buttons, and beads. You just need to sew it all on very carefully, because... kids will definitely want to taste it all.
Sewing pillows for nursing (breastfeeding)
Sewing a cover
We connect large parts together by first chipping them with pins or sweeping them along the perimeter.
Along the outer diameter, we leave an area of approximately 20 - 30 cm unsewn for filling the pillow.
Place the stitching seam towards the inner insert.
Turn the cover right side out.
Fill the pillow and carefully sew up the open area.
The result is a “bagel” pillow.
Sewing pillowcases
.
If you cut large parts of the pillowcase from several parts, then first grind all the parts together. Iron all seams. We check again by applying the pattern. If necessary, trim.
Let's prepare the ties. We stitch, turn, iron. You can use ready-made ribbon for ties.
And we proceed directly to the assembly.
We connect the inner insert with the large part, aligning the ends of the insert with the notches on the large part and the notches in the center. Can be pre-fixed with pins or running stitch. Stitch and iron the seam towards the insert.
Clasp processing.
From the notches to the sides we grind small sections of 10 - 15 cm.
We iron the stitched sections of the seams.
We iron the allowances on the fastener, having previously swept them.
We baste the zipper.
Attach the zipper. We draw out the basting.
Fold the pillowcase face to face. We combine the notches in the middle and at the ends of the insert, secure with pins (you can sweep them away).
Don’t forget to pin the ties first, following the notches as a guide.
We sew along the perimeter, more precisely from fastener to fastener. In the areas where the ties are connected, we sew several times, carefully securing them.
Note: Regarding the sequence, you can first sew the pillowcase along the perimeter from notch to notch. Sew a zipper into the remaining open area.
Important: Since the pillowcase will have to be washed frequently, the internal seams should be basted.
Turn the pillowcase inside out and place it on the pillow.
It turns out to be such beauty.
Dreams Come True! It's up to you!
Be happy.
Valentina Nivina
Alexander Nivin
– a popular topic for controversy and discussion. In the modern world there are many options for feeding a baby. One of the newfangled devices is a pillow for feeding an infant. Who needs it and why, is there an urgent need to purchase it, is it possible to sew it yourself - we will find answers to all questions.
What is it for?
A pillow for is a modern way to make life easier for mom. This is an elastic, dense product in the shape of a bagel or horseshoe. Main destination - support your baby during breastfeeding, taking the load off my mother’s hands.
Why are they useful:
- relieves stress from a woman’s lower back;
- free both hands;
- fix the baby in the correct position during breastfeeding;
- diversify feeding positions;
- fix the baby when he is not lying in his crib.
Do you need a nursing pillow? There is no clear answer for parents of one child. Here the whole question comes down to the financial situation. Parents of twins have a completely different situation. Here the question of how to feed a child is very acute. Nursing pillows for twins make mom's life a lot easier and dad, allowing both babies to breastfeed at the same time. This saves time and allows children to better synchronize their biorhythms.
The pillow makes breastfeeding easier
Types of nursing pillows:
- in the form of a bagel;
- arched, with clamps;
- in the shape of a horseshoe (for twins).
Bagel is the simplest and most accessible form. Models takes the load off a woman's hands, secure the baby while feeding, and are used as a “nest” to prevent the baby from rolling away. Products vary in size - from small ones that can only wrap a baby, to large ones that cover a mother.
The arched shape is characteristic of rigid models attached around a woman’s waist. The device takes the load off the lower back, completely frees up your hands, and allows you to comfortably carry your dining child around the apartment without disturbing the feeding process itself. There is no possibility of using it at home other than feeding.
A horseshoe or U-shape is used in models designed for breastfeeding twins. The shape allows you to place both children next to the mother and carry out parallel feeding.
Usage
How to use the nursing pillow:
- arched, with rigid fixation, attached around the mother, the baby is placed on them in front of the woman and feeding begins. During feeding, the mother can change the angle of inclination, move around the apartment without putting strain on your arms and lower back;
- short “bagels” allow you to use different positions for feeding due to the fact that the product fixes the baby, and the mother can lie in any convenient position;
- long “bagels” provide a girth for the mother - it is convenient to rest on the lower back or feed on the side, but significantly reduce the number of positions possible for use;
- U-shaped for feeding twins provide one feeding position - the “legs” of the letter P are located on the sides of the mother, the twins are placed on the “legs”, head to chest, legs behind the woman’s back.
With a pillow, it is safer to put the baby to sleep with his mother on the bed - the baby is placed between the ends of the “bagel”, preventing an accidental fall. Grown-up babies are placed in a rolled up bagel. A kind of nest secures the baby, preventing it from rolling away, and provides greater visibility, raising the top of the body and head. Instead of nursing pillows, you can use maternity pillows.
Feeding positions:
- classic - the baby eats from the left breast, his head is located in the crook of his left arm, the mother holds the baby by the butt with her right. The pillow allows you to completely free your right hand and partially your left one - the device fixes it at the required level and does not allow the body to turn around, adjusts the head angle. With a bagel, mom can sit; with a hard one with clamps, she can move around the apartment with one free hand;
- on the side, upper breast - the mother lies on her left side, the baby is on the feeding pillow, with his stomach facing the mother, eating from the upper (right) breast. In this case, large “bagels” are very convenient - due to their size, they serve as support for mother’s head and back;
- from under the arm - the mother is sitting, the child is located on the left side, lying on his back, legs behind the mother’s back, head at the chest. “Bagel” raises the baby to the required level, allowing him to reach the nipple and eat comfortably.
Note! It is useful for mom to change positions - the risk of lactostasis is reduced. In cases where it occurs, changing positions is considered a treatment method.
Children love to sleep on these pillows
Choice
A nursing pillow for an infant should be:
- with a top covering made of natural fabrics;
- preferably with a removable cover;
- antistatic;
- all fastenings are in perfect condition;
- the filler is not cotton wool or feather.
The natural fabrics of the top covering are antistatic and do not cause allergies. Recommended cotton, knitwear, polyester for example. The removable cover is convenient to wash. When the entire product is washed, the padding deteriorates and loses its shape. Rigid models with lumbar support cannot be washed in a washing machine. Statics will not significantly harm the child, but will cause discomfort. Fastenings are the key to the safety of the baby. Every tape, every carabiner must be in perfect condition.
Pillow filling is an important element. The material gives shape, allows you to create an anatomical effect, can cause allergies, has a different service life and affects the type of care for the product.
Fillers are:
- padding polyester or foam rubber. A budget option, it shrinks when washed and loses its shape, and springs up during use;
- holofiber. Outwardly it resembles crumpled cotton wool. When washed, it shrinks, during use it crumples and loses its shape;
- from buckwheat husk. Natural and environmentally friendly material. Solid grains take the shape of the body, do not spring, children like to handle them with their hands, crush them, and crumple them. The product cannot be washed - dry clean only. Natural rustling can frighten a child;
- from polystyrene balls. They create an orthopedic effect, spring easily, and children like to finger them through the fabric.
Down, feathers and wool are strong allergens, affecting the nasopharyngeal mucosa even through the cover. They are not recommended for use as a filler for infant pillows.
How to choose a pillow to facilitate the feeding process:
- feel the product - the filling should be uniform, without voids or lumps;
- the cover should not be slippery, made of artificial fabrics;
- the pillow must be accompanied by care instructions;
- The dimensions of the pillow in the shape of the letter “P” and the arc must correspond to the dimensions of the mother - fit tightly to the body, otherwise the child will fall into the gap.
Do it yourself
Twin nursing pillow with your own hands - realistic and achievable. Not every family can afford to purchase such a useful thing, but any parent can do it.
What is necessary:
- foam rubber 5 cm thick - 2 layers 1x1 m (at points of sale, the dimensions of the cut layer are larger);
- fabric for the cover (cotton, flannel) width 1 m, length 3.5 m;
- zipper – 1 x 100 cm or 2 x 50 cm;
- construction (stationery) knife;
- patterns.
Materials and pattern
The use of newfangled devices cannot be considered a whim. They make life easier for all family members, become the key to healthy sleep, comfortable nutrition, and provide the nursing woman with the necessary rest.
Of course, great-grandmothers successfully coped without electronic cribs, speaking alphabet and mobile phones on the crib, but this does not mean that it was easy for them. No one refuses diapers, fully recognizing their benefits. The same applies to the nursing pillow - it is comfortable, useful and affordable. Which one is up to the parents to choose, but if possible, do not deny yourself comfort. Making your own nursing pillow is simple and will cost less than a ready-made one.
A baby feeding pillow is a very convenient and necessary device. Thanks to the pillow, the long feeding process becomes enjoyable, and various disorders can be prevented. And, just as important, the pillow can be used in the future.
Such a device is available in several basic forms: in the form of a horseshoe, a semicircle, a triangle or an elongated straight line.
The process of breastfeeding becomes easy and enjoyable not only for the baby, but also for the mother. She does not have to sit with a curved, tired spine, because the child is quickly gaining weight, and it is becoming increasingly difficult to hold him with her hands. It’s also inconvenient to put a regular pillow on it, as it keeps rolling and sagging.
The product is perfect for first feedings. And when the child is in such a pillow, it is convenient to feed him from a spoon.
As soon as the child begins to sit up, he often falls and rolls. Sitting your child in the cushion's recess can help prevent injury.
The pillow can be purchased already during pregnancy, and then it will help the expectant mother take a comfortable position while sleeping.
Often pregnant women have a desire to do something themselves: sew, knit, blind. It won’t be difficult to sew such a pillow with your own hands long before the baby is born. In addition, a pregnant woman has more time for this.
How to make the right choice
When purchasing, it is important to take into account all the points related to the process of breastfeeding children.
You can try on the product in the store and take all these points into account. If you haven’t found a suitable option and are not satisfied with many of the products you choose, you can make a pillow with your own hands.
Small pillows are great for traveling. They take up little space and will certainly be useful for feeding a child in any conditions.
The largest pillow is about two meters long. Yes, it requires a lot of space to place it, but it is comfortable and functional.
Features of choosing a filler
Rules for using the product
Ideal for any position while feeding children (sitting, lying down).
- Seated position.
The pillow is worn around the waist. Its wide part is located in front, opposite the stomach. The baby is placed on his side or back and applied to the chest. You can additionally hold the baby's body, but generally even this is not required.
For feeding twins and twins, choose a pillow that is placed around the waist with both ends facing forward. They also have extended parts on which children are placed.
- Lying position.
In this case, the pillow not only helps in maintaining the correct position, but also acts as a guard. When the baby falls asleep, there is no need to be afraid that he will fall.
- For many mothers, it is convenient to feed from under the hand.
In this case, the widest part of the pillow is not in front, but on the side of the mother's body. The child is placed on his side and applied to the chest. It is also convenient to feed twins in this position.
- Feeding while standing.
Even in this position, mother and child feel comfortable. You only need to hold the pillow. At the same time, the load is also distributed over the entire back of the mother and fatigue is not felt in the spine. The child is also conveniently located.
You can sew a pillow that will meet all the requirements with your own hands. There is a lot of scope for creativity and imagination. The color, quality, size and shape will be perfectly matched. It is not necessary to have special skills. You just need to devote a little patience, accuracy and skill.
There are three components of the pillow that you will have to work on: the pillowcase, the filling itself and the cover.
Required material
- Cardboard for drawing.
- Fabric for the bedspread and for the cover. The fabric for the bedspread should be dense and of high quality (for example, satin). A thinner material (cotton, chintz, linen) is suitable for a pillowcase.
- Filler (for example, padding polyester or holofiber).
- Zip closure.
- Scissors, threads, needles.
Progress
- Initially, you need to draw a pattern. It should match the size and shape of the future pillow. For easy calculation, choose checkered paper.
- Then you need to take the fabric intended for the napkin. Iron it and fold it in half. Apply the pattern to the material, trace and cut out. It is important to add a few millimeters to the allowances.
- In order for everything to be neat and beautiful, the parts of the napkin are folded with the front side inward and stitched on a typewriter, leaving a small hole. It is through this that the pillow will be stuffed.
- After this, the bedside table is turned inside out and stuffed. The hole is closed with a hidden stitch.
- The pillowcase is sewn using the same algorithm. With only one condition: you need to take into account the places where the ties and zippers will be sewn.
- For the ties, you will need to cut 4 strips approximately 4 centimeters wide and 20 centimeters long. Each strip is folded in half with the front surface facing inward. It is stitched and turned inside out again. They are applied to the pillowcase and sewn together.
- This part is also sewn into the hole left for the zipper.
A finished hand-sewn pillow can be decorated with ruffles, ribbons, and Velcro decor. You can sew a pocket where it will be convenient to put, for example, a handkerchief. The main thing is that it is safe and secure.
- a special pillow that helps out a mother in a situation where the children ask to eat at the same time or the mother herself wants a “better life.” And a do-it-yourself nursing pillow for twins is even better - you know what and how it’s made.
DIY nursing pillow for twins – a start.
Today such a pillow is very easy to purchase. There are a huge number of them sold, of different brands, colors and quality. The most popular of them is the milk rivers twins model. The prices for pillows are quite affordable. Therefore, in general, it makes no sense to bother and do it yourself. However, for those who prefer handmade work and want to personally make everything for their babies, you can set yourself the following goal: to sew a nursing pillow for twins with your own hands 
.
Nursing pillows are not the most complicated thing. So pillows for twins are sewn by analogy with pillows for feeding one child. Let's watch a couple of videos about a pillow for one baby, which show general points and some details. The first is short and succinct, where you don’t have to watch so much as read, the second is long and detailed, it actually shows how a person sews a nursing pillow.
In order to make your dream come true, you will need the following: a clear idea of what it looks like and on what principle it is sewn. And also its dimensions. So first you will need a pattern.
DIY nursing pillow for twins patterns
The pattern of a pillow for feeding twins is made in the shape of a horseshoe. She is somewhat similar to the popular model. Such a peculiar crescent. At the same time, its approximate dimensions are as follows: width 90 cm, length 75 cm. Middle: depth 41 cm, width 25 cm. You can also “customize” the pillow for yourself: before cutting anything, purchase a piece of foam rubber 5 cm wide, the size 100x200 cm. Cut it in half to make a square. Sit with him in an embrace on a chair or sofa, and measure the required depth of the recess directly on yourself. In this case, the edges of the pillow should reach the back of the chair or sofa so that there is support.
After measurements, proceed directly to cutting. Cut out the notch, rounding it slightly. Then round the edges. You can first cut the square itself to the desired size. In our case, it is 90X75 cm. After this, the foam rubber needs to be sheathed.
To sew a pillow for feeding twins with your own hands Flannel is best. It's just the easiest to work with. It is easy to sew and crumbles little. Place the foam rubber pattern on a meter-long piece of flannel and use it to make a pattern directly on the fabric. (Circle the foam around). For the pillowcase you will need two pieces of flannel - for the top and the bottom.
Using the pattern, cut out two parts of the pillowcase. After this, you need to directly sheathe the foam rubber. To ensure that nothing drags anywhere and that the pillowcase is smooth, you should not just sew two pattern pieces together, but fasten them with tape. It is also cut from flannel: on the inside and on the outside. Its width will be equal to the height of the pillow - this is approximately 10 cm. Sew the first part of the ribbon to the inside of the pillowcase (which will hug the waist). Use it to connect the top and bottom. Sew the side edges in the same way. You should get a pillowcase sewn on three sides.
After this, insert the foam into the pillowcase. And in the same way, sheathe the opposite side of yourself. Most likely, the last side will have to be done by hand, and not on a machine, since it is almost impossible to sew on a machine with foam rubber inserted inside.
DIY nursing pillow for twins pattern - remaining touches
For your own convenience, 
You can make a pillow for feeding twins again with your own hands - a comfortable bed for babies (beveled from the edge to the center), ties for mom, a zipper on pillowcases for washing, a pillow under mom’s back.
- Bevel from edge to center. You can make sure that there is a little more foam around the edges and on the sides of the pillow than in the middle. Then they will rise a little, and the part that hugs the mother will go down. This form is the most convenient. To do this, you need to place a few remaining strips of foam rubber along the outer edge of the pillow. And, accordingly, the tape on the outside will also be a little wider: not 10 cm, but 13.
- Lightning . On the opposite outer side you can make a zipper, then the pillowcase will be easy to remove. It is convenient for washing.
- Ties. It would be nice to sew ties or a ribbon with a different fastening to the pillow so that the pillow does not fall off the mother during feeding.
- Back pillow. The remaining foam rubber (remains from cutting out the inside of the pillow) can be easily sheathed and made into a small pillow for the back.
That's all! This DIY twin nursing pillow is ready to use.
However, you can make a pillow, you can buy it. But what to do next with it, and whether you really need it, is a separate question. How can you do without it? These are the simple topics we covered in the article from 0 to 3 – 6 months. By the way, there are positions for simultaneous feeding.
With the birth of a baby, many new accessories appear in the house. Some purchases turn out to be a waste over time, but a nursing pillow is not one of them. This device can make mother’s life much easier and make feeding comfortable.
Feeding a baby often takes quite a long time, so the mother, of course, may get tired in the process, especially if she has chosen an uncomfortable position.
A baby feeding pillow has several advantages:
- relieves the back, arms and shoulders, mother gets less tired;
- helps to securely fix the baby at the breast;
- allows you to maintain correct body position during breastfeeding and maintain posture;
- during long-term feeding, it is easier for the mother to change position;
- the mother has her hands free - she can help the baby, read a book or have a snack;
- promotes correctness.
In addition to its direct purpose, this accessory can be used as a protective side on the bed, a place for games and easy charging for the baby. As he gets a little older, he will support him as he tries to sit.
How to choose it
The issue of choosing a pillow for feeding a newborn should be approached with great responsibility, because this gadget will be actively used in the coming year, and maybe more. In addition, the pillow will always be in close contact with the child, which means the quality of the materials and the product itself plays a paramount role.
Shape and type
Despite the fact that most of these products are very similar to each other, there are several important differences. First of all, this is their shape:
- C-shaped, in the shape of a crescent or, alternatively, a bagel (longer, but also with curved ends);
- U-shaped. Horseshoe pillow is mainly used for ;
- in the form of a pipe (long arched) or boomerang;
- rectangular and triangular (less common).
For the mother’s convenience, they can have Velcro or other fastenings - this allows you not to worry that the pillow will not move or fall when moving. Some products are equipped with special pockets in which you can store scarves, napkins and other “quick response” items.
There is also a type called an orthopedic nursing pillow. It can be of different shapes - the special properties of the pillow are given by the filler, which has the ability to take the shape of the baby’s body and support it as needed.
There is also an inflatable pillow; it is convenient to use on the road, since when not inflated it takes up very little space.
Filler material
The filling of the pillow for feeding an infant should be given special attention. The pillow should not be too soft or hard, and it should take the shape of the baby's body.
The material must be certified and at the same time hypoallergenic. Typically, one of the following fillers is used:
- foam rubber, synthetic winterizer. Quite cheap material, does not cause allergies, and is safe for the baby. Models with padding polyester are not very practical, as they shrink easily and do not hold their shape well;
- holofiber. Also inexpensive and safe, but loses shape over time;
- buckwheat. Ecological natural material. It is completely safe, allows air to pass through well, easily takes the desired shape and provides the required degree of softness of the pillow. The disadvantages are the high price and a fairly high noise level during use, which can frighten the baby. In addition, pillows with such filling cannot be washed.
- polystyrene balls. One of the best options. The material is both inexpensive, safe and practical. A pillow with such filling holds its shape well - it easily takes the shape of the baby’s body and quickly returns to its original state after use, it is quite soft and elastic, and has orthopedic properties.
It is not recommended to use ordinary materials as filler - feather, down or wool - as they can cause allergies. Such pillows cannot be washed, and wool also tends to pill and become electrified.
Case material
The material from which the cover is made is no less important, because it is the material that will constantly be in direct contact with the child’s skin. Therefore, you should give preference to options made from natural fabrics - cotton (satin, calico) or linen. Such materials allow the skin to breathe and do not irritate it.
It is optimal if the baby's nursing pillow is equipped with a removable cover - this will greatly simplify the care of the product, because the cover can be easily removed and washed if necessary.
Manufacturing companies
Many companies produce such accessories. Their products differ in case materials, fillings, available forms and, of course, prices. Among the most popular options are the following:
- Velina. Velina nursing pillows are produced in Russia. Polystyrene foam balls are used as filler, the cover material is cotton. Among the advantages of Velina pillows are functionality (can be used both for pregnant women and for feeding) and the ability to expand the cover as the baby grows. Cost – from 2000 rubles;
- Anita. Production - Austria. Filled with polystyrene micro-granules, the covers are made of polyester. They are very easy to care for, they can be washed - the pillow dries quickly and does not absorb moisture. The price starts from 4000 rubles;
- Born Free. Israeli pillows use polyester and cotton as filling and cover, respectively. The manufacturer offers three-level models that are suitable for children of different ages. The cost of Born Free is from 5,000 rubles;
- Mama's Helper. Another Russian brand. Holofiber balls are used as filler, the cover is made of cotton. The products are equipped with special pockets and double covers, they are very light and soft, and have a bright design. The cost starts from 1000 rubles;
- My best friend. One of the most famous manufacturers in the USA. Nursing pillows from My brest friend are comfortable and practical. High-quality foam rubber is used as a filler, which provides the necessary degree of elasticity and does not lose shape over time. Other advantages of this company include an additional pocket, a silent carabiner for fastening, a removable cover and a convenient shape. Price - from 4000 rubles;
- M High-quality sewn products with padding polyester filling and a removable cotton cover. Some models have the ability to adjust the angle of inclination. There are models with a backrest for mom. Price – from 4000 rub.
It is better to choose a product in specialized stores, where you can check for quality certificates and also try it on yourself.
How to sew it yourself
If you can’t find the perfect pillow, you can always sew it. Especially if mom is on friendly terms with a sewing machine. But even inexperienced seamstresses are quite capable of sewing such an accessory.
The simplest pillow option. Two parts are cut out and sewn together. Don't forget to add a zipper.
First of all, you need to decide on the shape and materials. There are quite a lot of pattern options, although it is quite possible to come up with your own - so that the pillow turns out absolutely perfect (recommended only if you have experience in implementing your own sewing ideas).
Suitable fillers and fabrics for the cover have already been mentioned above. Attention should be paid to the availability of filler - so that, if necessary, you can quickly purchase it and refill the pillow (especially important for polystyrene foam balls and holofiber). And also regarding the color of the fabric for the cover - it is better not to choose too light colors, since the pillow will quickly get dirty.
Even at the paper pattern stage, it is better to try the pillow on yourself to make sure the dimensions are correct. The pattern is then transferred to the fabric, cut out and stitched - everything is quite simple. The main thing is not to forget about the hole for stuffing and sewing in the zipper. If the filling is crumbly (for example, balls or holofiber), it is better to sew two covers. In this case, it is better to make the bottom one from a waterproof material so that the pillow does not get wet. In this case, only the top part will need to be washed.
At the stitching stage, you should also think about the appropriate fastening of the pillow. Velcro can be attached to an already sewn cover, and the ties or carabiner will need to be sewn in during the process.
How to use a nursing pillow
It's important to learn how to use a nursing pillow beforehand and practice a little in a quiet environment so that it doesn't end up becoming a useless accessory taking up space in your closet.
In general, the algorithm for using a pillow is quite simple:
- mom places it around the waist;
- fastens with Velcro, string or latch;
- sits in a chair or on a bed;
- places the baby on the pillow and starts feeding.
With a pillow they are no different from ordinary ones. It can be used when feeding in the “cradle” position, from under the arm or lying down. In each case, the wide part of the product is positioned so that the baby can lie on it comfortably:
- Cradle. The wide part of the pillow is placed in front of the mother, the second end goes behind her back and serves as support;
- From under the hand. The wide part is located on the side of the mother, and the rest of the part covers her waist;
- Lying down. The mother lies on her side and places the baby on the pillow next to her. The baby is fed from the “upper” breast, holding him with his free hand.
Not all mothers are comfortable feeding on a pillow. In addition, some babies get full very quickly, and with accessories, more time may be spent preparing for feeding than feeding itself. Therefore, the purchase decision should be postponed until the baby is born and approached with the utmost intelligence. If this is just a fashion accessory for you, chances are it will sit on the shelf after 1-2 uses. On the other hand, it can always serve as a playground for the baby from the moment he starts crawling until he gets tired of it.