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The 11 Best Pregnancy Pillows, Tested by Pregnant Moms

In a nutshell: Based on feedback from our team of independent product testers, a survey of over 300 members of The Bump community and advice from three ob-gyns, we recommend the Momcozy U-Shaped Cooling Fabric Pregnancy Pillow as overall best pregnancy pillow. The pillow stood out due to its superior comfort and support, reasonable price and positive impact on sleep.

Does this sound like a familiar scene? You’re exhausted and can’t wait to crawl into bed, but when you do, your ever-growing bump is right there, like a barrier between you and a good night’s sleep. While you might have dismissed a pregnancy pillow as an unnecessary purchase (after all, you have plenty of pillows already!), a great maternity pillow is actually engineered to ease the discomfort of pregnancy and cradle you off to dreamland. “It’s recommended that pregnant people sleep on their sides (left side is optimal). But it can be very hard to do this!” explains Sara Twogood , MD, a board-certified ob-gyn in Los Angeles and co-founder of Female Health Education . “The pregnancy pillow helps support different parts of the body to make sleep more comfortable.” Most styles support your belly, of course, but others target hip or back pain, because let’s face it: Carrying a baby for nine+ months takes a toll on more than just your midsection.

After experiencing three pregnancies myself—including two back-to-back—I learned how essential a quality pregnancy pillow is to a good night’s sleep. But how can you find the right one for you? Keep reading for a list of the best pregnancy pillows on the market right now, including this year’s Best of The Bump winners, as well as an expert-backed guide to the various types of pregnancy pillows and how to use them.

How We Tested and Chose the Pregnancy Pillows

The Bump editors conducted extensive research to identify 20 leading pregnancy pillows on the market. From there:

• We enlisted the help of 18 independent product testers who were expecting. We carefully matched products with parents-to-be who were struggling with their sleep, experiencing back or hip pain and slept in a range of different positions. To test the pillows, these pregnant parents cuddled up with them, slept with them, washed them and found a place to store them. Then, they reviewed each based on product quality, effectiveness, supportiveness, ease of use, ease of cleaning and value.
• We surveyed over 300 expectant mothers in The Bump community for additional insight on the pros and cons of specific maternity pillows.
• We interviewed three ob-gyns to understand essential features to keep in mind as you shop for and use your pregnancy pillow.
• We followed safe sleep guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).
• Because no two pregnancies are the same, we scoured forums and message boards and read user reviews to find out how these pillows performed for expectant moms across the country.

Editorial integrity is at the heart of everything we publish. Read about how The Bump develops and reviews all articles , including product reviews.

The Best Pregnancy Pillows to Shop

Overall best pregnancy pillow.

• Improves all-night comfort and sleep, moms say
• Contoured memory foam for support
• Soft cover fabric
• Takes up a lot of space

The Momcozy Huggable earned top scores across all categories—from support to effectiveness to overall quality—making it our overall Best of The Bump winner for the second year in a row. (See all of this year’s Best of The Bump winners .) This full-body, U-shaped pregnancy pillow keeps mamas-to-be supported from all angles, thanks to its high-tension memory foam filling designed not to sag or lose its shape. “I liked that it is thicker than other pillows I have used. The quality of the filling feels like it will last a long time,” our pregnant product tester Emily remarked. The U-shape, though large, is designed to support your growing belly, aching back, sore hips and legs, and Emily found the pillow provided superior comfort for her full body. “I love that it easily wraps around so it helps my back, knees and stomach,” she shared. Finding this pregnancy pillow so supportive, she gave it 10 out of 10 in the category, adding, “My lower back pain is much better!“

But perhaps the best thing about the Momcozy maternity pillow is that people (including Emily) enjoy better quality sleep when using it. (And what mother-to-be doesn’t need more rest?) The balance of comfort and support, the soft fabric and the high-quality memory foam all work together to improve blood circulation and relieve body discomfort—resulting in a deep, restorative slumber, no matter what position you sleep in. “It improved my sleep a lot,” Emily shared. “I really liked that it has the piece to go along my back,” Emily told us, citing how it helped ease most of her aches while sleeping. “It helps me take the weight of my stomach off and relax.”

While supportive, the Momcozy pillow is also flexible enough to be used to help you find a comfortable position while lounging, sitting upright or nursing after baby comes, as our survey respondent Charlotte * found. “It's incredibly comfortable and pliable; I can put it in several different positions,” she commented. It’s no wonder 11 percent of the women we surveyed opted for this brand!

Dimensions: 57" (L) x 27.6" (W) x 9” (H) | Fabric: Polyester/nylon | Fill: Memory foam | Cleaning: Cover is machine-washable

Our product tester says: “I even bought one to give to a pregnant friend already because I love mine that much! It makes it so much easier to sleep and I haven’t been waking up in the middle of the night anymore to toss and turn.”

Our community says:

It helped me transition to side sleeping in my second trimester. It's super bulky but I've traveled with it because I just can't sleep without it! – Charlotte*, expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent

Soft, definitely helps me sleep and prevents me from rolling over. – Brianna*, expectant mom

Best pregnancy pillow for belly support

• Ultra-supportive for growing bellies
• No need to reposition throughout the night
• 300-thread-count cotton cover
• High price point

Belly support is essential for comfort during your pregnancy, and the Leachco Back ‘N Belly pillow provides it in spades. The U-shaped pregnancy pillow features inner contours designed to hug your natural curves, with a supportive wedge for your neck, shoulders and baby bump. Plus, since it surrounds you, there’s no need to readjust as you toss and turn throughout the night. In fact, our pregnant product tester Elizabeth rated this pick a 10 out of 10 for its levels of support and effectiveness—particularly on her growing belly. “I love how much support it gives my belly,” she raved. “I feel instant relief when using the pillow.”

Not only does this pregnancy pillow provide top-notch belly support, but it’s also full, fluffy and super comfortable (“I even tried to use it on my couch because of how much I love the material,” Elizabeth raved). It does take up a good amount of space in bed, so your partner may have to scooch over a bit—but worth it for a good night’s sleep, right? Like many of the best pregnancy pillows, this option has a removable cover that’s machine-washable, and when put to the test, there was zero shrinkage or fading. All of that’s to say, we’re not at all surprised the brand was favored by 10 percent of the pregnant women we surveyed!

This is one of the more expensive pregnancy pillows on our list—but if you have the budget, Elizabeth says it’s worth the splurge: “All I can say is, you’re getting what you pay for.” Thanks to the belly support provided by this pillow, she was able to fall asleep more quickly and slept better at night—and that’s exactly what you want in a good maternity pillow.

Dimensions: 55" (L) x 33" (W) x 8.5" (H) | Fabric: Sateen cotton | Fill: Polyester | Cleaning: Cover is machine-washable

Our product tester says: “I would 100 percent recommend this pregnancy pillow. The pillow overall has changed my sleeping, and helped so much with relieving pain. I wish I had this during my first pregnancy!”

I can position it any way I like so I can get some rest. – Araceli, expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent

Best pregnancy pillow for back pain

• Provides targeted back and hip support
• Comes with an extra pillow for between your legs
• Doesn’t take up a lot of space
• The microfiber fill has a cooling effect
• The additional pillow is on the smaller side

Back pain is a common woe in pregnancy, particularly when you’re trying to sleep—in fact, up to 50 percent of women experience it at some point during their pregnancy. That’s where the babybub Bub’s Maternity Pillow, our Best of The Bump winner for best pregnancy pillow for back pain, comes in: Its wedged, winged design supports both your growing belly and aching back, alleviating any discomfort and providing you with a more restful sleep. For our product tester Calihan, who suffered from back pain during her pregnancy, this pillow was a godsend. “This pregnancy pillow provided great support for my hips and back,” she said, adding that it “helped to ease any lower back pain I was having while sleeping.”

Not only does the babybub pillow help soothe sore backs, it also helps keep mamas in the optimal sleeping position. This pregnancy pillow is specifically designed to position women on their left sides, which is widely considered the safest sleep position during pregnancy since it optimizes blood flow to the uterus. The pillow is also adjustable (which is ideal for growing bumps) and compact—Calihan claimed it could even fit in a tote bag for travel, adding “I appreciate how little room it takes up on my bed.”

But just because the Bub’s Maternity Pillow is small in size doesn’t mean it’s lacking in support, firmness or quality. Its high-quality polyester blend fill doesn’t clump or lose its shape. “The pillow feels very sturdy and I expect it to wear well over time, even with use every night during my pregnancy,” Calihan raved. Whether you’re suffering from back pain, seeking a pregnancy pillow that won’t overtake your bed or looking for an option to stand the test of time, Bub's Maternity Pillow fits the bill.

Dimensions: 15.7" (L) x 13.2" (W) x 2.7" (H) | Fabric: Bamboo/polyester blend | Fill: Polyester and microfiber balls | Cleaning: Cover is machine-washable

Our product tester says: “I would absolutely recommend it to others looking for a sleek, supportive and non-bulky pillow for their growing bump. The compact size and amount of hip and back support provided by this pillow are essential for comfortable pregnancy sleep.”

Easy to use, helps me stay side lying and helps with back pain; no real complaints. – Sabrina, expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent

I really like that it doesn't take up a ton of room in my bed so I can still cuddle with my husband and pets. It took me a few nights to figure out how it would work best for me, but now that I have I'm excited to have it for the rest of my pregnancy. – Anna*, expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent

Best pregnancy pillow for hip pain

• Microbead fill relieves pressure points
• Firmness is adjustable
• Customizable shape
• Fabric cover is OEKO-TEX certified
• Fabric fasteners can cause some discomfort
• Removing and replacing the cover can be difficult

Hip pain during pregnancy can range from the uncomfortable to the severe—which is what our product tester Bailey, who had symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD), experienced. But the bbhugme Pregnancy Pillow helped to ease her pelvic discomfort while sleeping, thanks to its pressure-relieving microbead fill and five-point body support. “This pillow has helped tremendously with my SPD pain,” she revealed. “My hips feel so much better with the support of this pillow.”

The bbhugme Pregnancy Pillow also helps target any other areas where you might be experiencing discomfort, from your back and belly to your knees and ankles. The pillow features adjustable firmness, allowing you to create the level of support that’s perfect for you and your changing body—a feature that “has proven to be very beneficial,” Bailey said. You can also customize the shape of this pregnancy pillow, molding it into a C, U, L or I shape for maximum comfort. “The pillow feels like something I've never felt before,” Bailey claimed. “It's so soft and comfortable.”

The bbhugme Pregnancy Pillow isn’t just beloved by our product tester—it was also a favorite of new mama Sofia Richie Grainge , who called it her “new best friend” and the “third person” in her marriage. (She loved it so much, she bought a second one for her husband!) And with its ability to alleviate aches and pains, can you really blame her?

Dimensions: 57" (L) x 7.5" (H) | Fabric: 95% cotton/5% spandex jersey | Fill: Silicone pebbles | Cleaning: Cover is machine-washable, hang to dry

Our product tester says: “I will be recommending this pillow to all of my friends and family members moving forward, if not purchasing this for them during pregnancy. I cannot wait for my postpartum journey to start so I can use it in other ways like back support while sitting and breastfeeding/pumping!”

Best pregnancy pillow for natural stomach sleepers

• Helps keep side-sleeping position for stomach sleepers
• Comes in five high-quality fabric options
• Guide details multiple positions and uses
• Not as supportive for back pain

Side-sleeping is widely recognized as the best pregnancy sleep position—which can be a struggle for those who are natural stomach sleepers, like our product tester Katelyn. Enter the Leachco Snoogle Pregnancy Pillow, which helps keep stomach sleepers in a safe side-sleeping position thanks to its C-shaped design. For Katelyn, this was a game-changer: “My main sleep issue is balancing on my side, and this pillow alleviated that problem,” she reported.

Designed by a mother and registered nurse, the Leachco Snoogle comes with a guide that details six different configurations and how they help, based on what your comfort needs are. And, according to Katelyn, “the pillow was easy to manipulate,” making it simple to find your perfect position. Unsurprisingly, she gave the Snoogle a 10 out of 10 score for ease of use!

Another favorite feature of the Leachco Snoogle is its removable outer cover that comes in five different fabric options (300-thread-count cotton, organic cotton, plush polyester, cotton jersey or a polyester-cotton blend), providing something for everyone’s style. But whichever fabric you choose, expect top quality (rated 10 out of 10 by Katelyn) that won’t shrink or fade with washing. “The pillow feels good to the touch,” she gushed. To summarize? This is a pregnancy pillow that’s not only great for stomach sleepers, but for any pregnant woman looking for a more restful slumber.

Dimensions: 58.8" (L) x 25.5" (W) x 7.8" (H) | Fabric (outer cover): Choice of cotton, polyester or cotton/polyester | Fabric (inner liner): 65% polyester/35% cotton | Fill: Polyester fiber | Cleaning: Cover is machine-washable; spot clean and fluff pillow

Our product tester says: “I noticed a significant difference in my ability to balance while side sleeping, which can be difficult as your belly grows during pregnancy.”

I love everything about this pregnancy pillow! – Bella*, expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent

Best pregnancy pillow for natural back sleepers

• Side-sleep positioning with back and belly support
• Offers four different sleeping positions
• Entirely machine-washable
• Have to readjust to when moving from side to side

Back sleeping is not recommended in your second or third trimesters, due to the weight of your uterus pressing on key blood vessels. According to ACOG , “lying on your back may compress a major blood vessel that takes blood to your uterus, making you feel dizzy and possibly reducing blood flow to your fetus.” One effective way to stay on your side as you sleep is a full-body pillow, ACOG suggests—and our Best of The Bump winner for best pregnancy pillow for natural back sleepers is the Boppy Full Body Side Sleeper Pillow.

Our product tester Ivy praised this pregnancy pillow—which features a full-body pillow connected to a smaller side pillow—for its ability to keep her comfortably on her side throughout the night. “I tend to roll over onto my back while sleeping without a pregnancy pillow, which isn't good for me or the baby. This kept me comfortable and locked into a position,” she said. “Overall, [ it ] adds a lot of comfort to sleeping, which can be hard to come by in your third trimester especially!”

Ivy also loved this pregnancy pillow’s quality, rating it a 10 out of 10 and calling out its soft fabric, its comfortable plush filling and how easy it was to clean. Many maternity pillows have an insert that needs to be spot-cleaned by hand, but the Boppy’s cover and pillow inserts are both machine-washable—and retain their shape and softness after cleaning. (It “washed beautifully,” according to Ivy.) Whether you’re a back sleeper or not, this pregnancy pillow is one to love.

Dimensions: 54" (L) x 30" (W) x 7" (H) | Fabric (body pillow cover): Rayon | Fabric (small pillow cover): 95% cotton/5% spandex | Fill: Polyester fiber | Cleaning: Machine-washable

Our product tester says: “It’s very effective at keeping me on my side.”

I like how it takes up less space than other pregnancy pillows. – Elle*, expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent

Best pregnancy pillow for sweaty sleepers

• Microbead filling has a cooling effect
• Can be bent into several configurations
• Lightweight
• Filling can lose its density over time

Hot flashes and night sweats are both common during pregnancy, but the folks at Frida are here to save the day. Frida’s products have helped address multiple voids in the worlds of pregnancy and postpartum care, and their Adjustable Keep-Cool Pregnancy Body Pillow is no exception: This Best of The Bump winner features a microbead filling that allows heat to pass through and creates a cooling effect—which means no more overheating while sleeping. “Unlike other pillows [ I’ve used ] , the breathable material helped me with any heat issues I experienced,” our product tester RaLicia noted, while giving the pillow a 10 out of 10 score for effectiveness.

The cooling effect isn’t the only way this pregnancy pillow helps keep mamas more comfortable. It also features a twistable design that makes four different shapes (I, C, L or U), allowing you to find the support you need for maximum comfort. RaLicia was impressed by this adaptability, rating the Frida Mom pillow 10 out of 10 for ease of use and reporting that it was “very easy to use [ in ] whichever position you’re lying in.” She’s not alone in being a Frida fan, either: seven percent of women we surveyed purchased pregnancy pillows from Frida, a company that proves time and time again that they know what moms need.

Dimensions: 54” (L) x 9” (W) x 9” (H) | Fabric: 46% Nylon/46% Polyester/7% Spandex blend | Fill: Microbead | Cleaning: Cover is machine-washable

Our product tester says: “I would recommend this product to any expectant mom or postpartum mom for better quality of sleep.”

Love that it’s cool material. – Diana*, expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent

It's easy to turn over in bed with it. – Adalyn*, expectant mom of two and The Bump survey respondent

Best pregnancy pillow for versatility

• Can be molded into any position
• Flexible but supportive fill
• GREENGUARD Gold- and CertiPUR-US-certified
• The cover can be difficult to remove

The Coop Original Maternity Pillow is a whopping five feet long, but its flexible shape allows you to bend and mold it to wherever you might need some extra cushioning or support—which is why its our Best of The Bump pick for best pregnancy pillow for versatility. It can be twisted and turned into a J, U, or I shape, allowing you to find a comfortable position no matter what point you’re at in your pregnancy (or where your latest aches and pains are). But however you’re using the Coop maternity pillow, you’re guaranteed supreme comfort, thanks to its ability to properly align and support your head and shoulders, belly, knees, hips and spine all at the same time.

The Coop’s winning combo of versatility and performance won over our product tester Meredith, who rated it 10 out of 10 for ease of use, support, effectiveness and style and design. “I like that I can tuck part of it under my knees when in a sitting or reclined position to offer leg support, which helps keep me upright when I have bad reflux. Or it’s great to put between my knees or even my full legs when lying on my side,” she raved.

Besides being oversized and versatile, the Coop Original Maternity Pillow’s signature feature is its fill: The cross-cut memory foam and microfiber fill can be adjusted based on how much support or firmness you’re seeking—and it’s also hypoallergenic. It strikes the perfect balance of being firm without being too hard, making it ideal for those sensitive, aching pregnant joints. And after baby’s born, it pulls double duty as a nursing and feeding pillow too. That’s good news for Meredith, who was so impressed with the pillow, she told us, “I’m considering keeping it out long after having my baby.”

Dimensions: 60" (L) x 9" (D) | Fabric: 60% polyester/40% bamboo-derived viscose rayon | Fill: Memory foam and microfiber | Cleaning: Both cover and pillow are machine-washable

Our product tester says: “I love how much more support this pillow offered as compared to my previous pregnancy pillow—it’s thicker. I was worried at first when I saw it wasn’t C-shaped like many pregnancy pillows are but quickly found it’s easy to shape into whatever form you need.”

Best size-adjustable pregnancy pillow

• Fully adjustable
• Easy to store and comes with a travel case
• Developed by an ob-gyn
• Can’t change position while sleeping

Every pregnancy is unique, but one thing is for certain: Your size and shape is going to change over the next nine+ months. For a pregnancy pillow that will grow with you, we love the Belly Bandit SOS Side Sleeper Pregnancy Wedge Pillow, our Best of The Bump winner for best size-adjustable pregnancy pillow. It features a unique three-piece design, complete with a back wedge, stomach pillow and a Velcro strip that allows you to adjust and secure the pieces for a perfect fit, no matter what point you’re at in your pregnancy. The adjustability of the Belly Bandit SOS Side Sleeper wowed our product tester Michellee, who gushed: “I’ve had other pregnancy pillows where the Velcro was limited to how much you can adjust it, but on this one the entire strap is Velcro, which helped support tremendously.” Plus, she reported that adjusting the pillow couldn't have been easier: “There’s no complication to adjusting anything here.”

The SOS Side Sleeper was designed by ob-gyns to provide expectant mamas with restful—and safe—slumber by keeping you lying on your side. Besides creating a safe and supportive sleep environment, this pregnancy pillow takes up little space in the bed, and thanks to a convenient and included travel case, it’s easy to both store and transport. It also earned top scores from Michellee for ease of use, support, quality and value, making it a winner all around. “It’s easy to adjust. It’s easy to store away. It’s easy to use. It’s easy to clean,” she told us.

Dimensions: N/A | Fabric: 62% polyester, 33% rayon/5% spandex | Fill: Polyurethane | Cleaning: Cases are machine-washable

Our product tester says: “A simple but effective product. This is definitely something I could see being on every pregnant woman’s must-have list!”

Best pregnancy pillow for travel

• Lightweight and compact
• Pillow is machine-washable
• Affordable price point
• Not as supportive in the back

Taking your pregnancy pillow on the go doesn’t have to be cumbersome and clunky. With dimensions of just 24 inches long and 14 inches wide and weighing in at less than two pounds, the Boppy Side Sleeper Pregnancy Pillow is compact enough to hit the road with ease. And when you arrive at your destination, you can expect top of the line comfort, thanks to the Boppy pillow’s double wedge design that supports your belly and back. “The pillow felt extremely supportive for my bump,” our product tester Christine reported.

The Boppy Side Sleeper Pregnancy Pillow’s small size doesn’t just make sense for travel, though. It’s also useful for those living in tight spaces and lacking storage—or those seeking an option that doesn’t take over their whole bed, like Christine. “ [ It ] didn't interfere with my partner’s (or my toddler's!) sleep,” she said. And when the pillow is not in use, it can easily be tucked away. “It's small enough and easy enough to put back into the packaging without a struggle and store under my bed,” Christine told us.

In addition to its portable size and top-notch support, this pregnancy pillow also earned top scores in ease of use, ease of cleaning, quality and style and design. With performance like this, the Boppy Side Sleeper is a pillow you’ll want to take everywhere with you—and thanks to its design, you can.

Dimensions: 24" (L) x 14" (W) | Fabric: 95% cotton/5% spandex (slipcover), 80% polyester/20% cotton (pillow) | Fill: 100% polyester | Cleaning: Cover and pillow are machine-washable

Our product tester says: “The quality of the pillow is absolutely beautiful. The fabric is soft, and the filling is fluffy and supportive. The pillow is very plush, and I love how the center piece is flat but soft for your back. This pillow was truly like a cloud and very comfortable.”

Best budget-friendly pregnancy pillow

• Around half the price of similar pillows
• Provides head, neck, belly, back and leg support
• Soft, machine-washable cover

Shopping for pregnancy pillows can cause sticker shock, particularly when you think it’s something you’ll only use for a few months. But the Pharmedoc Pregnancy C-Shape Full Body Pillow takes the sting out of the purchase in more ways than one: The supportive C-shape design provides comfort, pain relief and sleep aid for pregnancy and beyond—and does so at a significantly lower price than many of its competitors, which our tester Juanita appreciated. “It isn’t crazy expensive and it does the job just right.” In fact, 14 percent of the women we surveyed said they used Pharmedoc pregnancy pillows.

Even better, the low price tag doesn’t come at the cost of quality—which Juanita described as “amazing” and rated a 10 out of 10. The polyester fill holds its shape, doesn’t sag after repeated use and provides a comfortable cushion for any areas that may be particularly sore. For Juanita, that was her back—and the Pharmedoc pregnancy pillow brought significant relief. “It has helped my back so much,” she gushed. Another area where this pillow’s quality shines is the removable cover, which is made of a super-soft jersey cotton and is easy to wash and care for. To sum it up, those seeking a budget-friendly option should look no further—the Pharmedoc pregnancy pillow is the one.

Dimensions: 57” (L) x 30” (W) x 7” (H) | Fabric: Jersey cotton | Fill: Polyester | Cleaning: Cover is machine-washable

Our product tester says: “It has eased my pain where I’ve had it. It has also helped me fall asleep a lot quicker and longer at night [ … ] The price is perfect!”

I like that it is easy to use and versatile. – April, expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent

I like the shape and structure of the pillow and that I can use it for more than just sleeping. – Cecelia*, expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent

It's comfortable and provides support. – Selena*, expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent

Pregnancy Pillows Comparison Chart

*Note: Some names have been changed due to privacy requests.

Which Type of Pregnancy Pillow is Best for You?

Pregnancy pillows are important for both comfort and safety—but which type should you choose? There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to maternity pillows; “it really depends on the various needs and concerns about sleep and rest,” says Twogood. To simplify your search, we’ve listed the main types of pregnancy pillows and detailed the pros and cons of each below, so you can pick the best option for you .

U-shaped pregnancy pillow

This pregnancy pillow is the size of your body and, as the name implies, is shaped like a contoured U (with you nestled in the center). “U-shaped pillows are best for full body support,” explains Gil Weiss , MD, an ob-gyn based in Chicago. This style of pillow does it all, supporting your head, neck, back, hips, legs and bump.

Depending on your sleep position, you can use it to prop yourself up if you’re a back-sleeper or sandwich your front and back once you begin sleeping on your side in the second trimester, with the edge of the pregnancy pillow tucked between your legs. You can slip your arm underneath the pillow and rest your head right on top. But keep in mind that this type of pregnancy pillow will take up a good amount of space (hopefully your partner won’t mind welcoming it into your bed!).

C-shaped pregnancy pillow

This is another type of large pregnancy body pillow, but it’s shaped like a C instead of a U. In particular, “C-shaped pillows are best at supporting a baby bump,” says Weiss. Some C-shaped pregnancy pillows curve around your entire body to support both your back and bump, while others contour your front only. You can rest your head at the top, prop up your bump (and possibly back) with the side and tuck the bottom of the C between your legs.

I-, J- and L-shaped pregnancy pillows

Though less common, there are also I-, J- and L-shaped pregnancy pillows. J- and L-shaped pillows are essentially the same: While sleeping on your side, they provide support along your body (either front or back) with a section that can either go under your head or between your knees, depending on how it’s turned. An I-shaped pillow serves as more of a body pillow and can provide support along your back or underneath your belly—but not both, which is a benefit of the previously described shapes. I-, J- and L-shaped pillows can serve as a happy medium between the larger-sized C- and U-shaped pregnancy pillows and the much smaller wedge pillows (detailed below), providing full-body support without dominating the bed.

Pregnancy wedge pillow

A wedge is much smaller and less expensive than other pregnancy pillows; it’s designed to support a targeted area—typically your bump or back. To use it, slip the wedge under your belly to relieve the weight of your bump, or tuck it behind you to ensure you don’t roll over flat onto your back overnight. If you enjoy spooning with your partner but need some support for your bump, this is a great cuddle-friendly pick.

What to Consider When Buying a Pregnancy Pillow

As you search for the best pregnancy pillow to suit your needs, you’ll want to consider a few key factors:

• Preferred sleep position. Are you normally inclined to be a side sleeper, back sleeper or stomach sleeper? While stomach sleepers have obvious challenges adjusting to pregnancy, back sleepers have different hurdles to overcome, and different pillows are designed to address those challenges.
• Firmness and support. Do you like firm foam or a softer fill? What’s going to feel best against your back or bump? If you’re picky about firmness and density, pay extra attention to find a pregnancy pillow that meets your needs.
• Fabric. As with any sleep accessory (who doesn’t like high-quality bed linen?), it’s important to think about fabric. Cotton or bamboo is soft and naturally breathable, making it a good option for people who run hot, while pillows made with polyester tend to be more affordable. Bear in mind that you’ll be sleeping with this pillow every night for months, so it’s a good idea to opt for one with a removable and machine-washable cover.
• Aches and pains. Spent most of your pregnancy nursing an aching back? Or are sore hips what’s keeping you up at night? Take note of your primary source of discomfort, and seek out a pregnancy pillow designed to help alleviate those specific concerns.

When to Start Using a Pregnancy Pillow

You can start to use a maternity pillow at any time during your pregnancy, although many moms-to-be appreciate the support in the second or third trimester . At this point, your bump will be larger and it becomes important to sleep on your side instead of your back. “I recommend starting to use the pillow around 28 weeks , when the weight of the uterus and baby is heavy enough to possibly compress the major blood vessel” found along your back, says Christian Pope , DO, an ob-gyn at St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford, Massachusetts. Too much pressure on the inferior vena cava can inhibit blood flow, causing low blood pressure, nausea and other unpleasant symptoms. “The effects of low blood pressure on baby can also be dangerous if it occurs for prolonged periods of time,” explains Pope. Health concerns aside, the common aches and pains of pregnancy that a maternity pillow strives to alleviate tend to kick in after your first trimester is behind you.

So why else should you make the switch to a pregnancy pillow? While regular pillows serve as headrests, the best pregnancy pillows are designed to ease various body aches. They’re also super handy for keeping you on your side throughout the night—the recommended sleep position for expectant moms. According to our survey data, 65 percent of pregnant women we reached out to were using a pregnancy pillow. When we asked why, they gave us the following reasons:

• 68% To help generally improve my sleep
• 54% To help me as a side sleeper
• 48% To help with backache
• 48% To help with hip pain
• 38% To help me as a natural stomach sleeper
• 25% To help me as a back sleeper
• 24% To help with leg aches
• 13% To help me sleep as a petite person
• 6% To help me sleep as a tall person
• 6% To help me sleep as a plus-size person

How to Use a Pregnancy Pillow

Sleeping with a pregnancy pillow will vary depending on the type of pillow you selected, from the all-encompassing U-shaped pillows to the compact wedge designs. Often, the pillow you purchase will have a guide or instructions on how to position the pillow for optimal sleep—but there are also some general guidelines that can help you get comfy with your newest bedmate. “I usually recommend placing a soft pillow under your right hip and buttock to tilt the body to the left a little,” says Pope. Additionally, having the support of a pillow underneath your belly can prevent straining on your back, while cushioning between your knees helps to keep your hips aligned. For those with back pain or to prevent rolling, positioning the pillow along your back might be more beneficial than hugging it in the front.

“Really any way they feel best,” says Twogood. “There is no one perfect position.” Ultimately, how you sleep with your maternity pillow will be unique to you. “For example, if your hips are hurting, try sleeping with the top leg on top of the pillow (from the inner thigh down to the foot),” she explains. No matter what way you decide to position your pillow, Weiss recommends sleeping on your left side, which promotes “blood flow to the pregnant uterus, decreasing acid reflux and even reducing rates of stillborn.”

But finding the perfect sleeping position with your pregnancy pillow will require some trial and error, and one size doesn’t fit all. Luckily, most of the pregnancy pillows featured here can all be used in various positions—allowing you to tweak until you find your sweet (or, in this case, sleep) spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can i do with a pregnancy pillow after birth.

Once baby arrives, you may be wondering what to do with your maternity pillow. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to continue using it. Twogood suggests using it as an extra couch cushion, a prop on the floor for playtime or a backrest in bed. “A patient of mine’s husband started using it to sleep,” she added. What’s more, Weiss recommends using pillows “to relieve pain after delivery or even to help facilitate a comfortable breastfeeding position.” All in all, these workhorse pillows can be used throughout the fourth trimester and beyond.

Can I use a standard pillow rather than a pregnancy pillow?

“Absolutely,” says Twogood. If you want to test out how a maternity pillow may work for your sleeping habits before committing to one, she suggests trying regular king-size pillows first. “A rolled-up blanket can even be used in a pinch,” adds Weiss. The bottom line? If normal pillows work for you, go for it! “But,” Twogood reminds, “there’s definitely a reason pregnancy pillows are popular; they just seem to provide more support and options than a regular pillow.”

About the writer:

Lynsey Eidell has researched and written dozens of product reviews for The Bump, from the best pregnancy belly bands to the best baby bassinets and beyond. She’s also written about entertainment, pop culture, weddings and motherhood for digital publications including PEOPLE, Glamour, Vanity Fair, Teen Vogue, Allure and more. She is a graduate of Villanova University and a native of Fairfield County, Connecticut, where she currently lives with her family. When she’s not busy writing, she is kept equally busy by her three young boys, who are 8, 5 and 4.

Interested in becoming a product tester for The Bump? Head here to apply.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

Plus, more from The Bump:

Here’s What Happens to Baby When You Sleep on Your Back During Pregnancy

Pregnancy Insomnia: Why You Can’t Sleep (and How to Remedy That

Natural Remedies to Help You Sleep Better During Pregnancy

Sara Twogood , MD, FACOG, is a board-certified ob-gyn at Cedars Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles and has more than 15 years of experience in medicine. She’s also the author of Ladypartsblog.com, which covers topics relating to fertility and pregnancy, and the co-founder of Female Health Education , a program established in 2020 that's designed to empower females through health education.

Gil Weiss , MD, is an ob-gyn based in Chicago and Northbrook, Illinois. He’s a graduate of the University of Toronto in Canada and attended medical school at the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology in Haifa, Israel. He completed his residency at the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Christian Pope , DO, FACOG, is a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist and fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists in private practice at South Coast Health in Massachusetts. He is also a medical staff member at St. Luke’s Hospital of Southcoast Hospitals and at Women and Infants’ Hospital in Providence, Rhode Island. Additionally, he serves as a clinical instructor of obstetrics and gynecology at the Warren Alpert Brown University School of Medicine. A graduate of the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Pope received his obstetrics and gynecology training at the Tufts University School of Medicine, Baystate Medical Center.

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Ask ACOG: Can I Sleep On My Back When I'm Pregnant? , January 2021

Brazilian Journal of Anesthesiology, Low back pain during pregnancy , May-June 2017

The Bump May 2023 Survey. Editors conducted a survey of 300 new and expectant parents from among The Bump community, and asked which pregnancy pillow they used and what they liked and didn’t like about it.

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Best Pregnancy Pillows

Sleep can be pretty elusive during pregnancy—these pillows can help., by latifah miles | fact checked by karen reardanz.

In what can only be described as yet another great irony of pregnancy, you’ve probably never been so tired in your life—yet getting a good night’s sleep feels impossible. While it isn’t a cure-all, a pregnancy pillow can be the key to getting comfortable enough to finally doze off and log some solid Zzs between bathroom runs. Unlike your standard bed pillow, “pregnancy pillows are designed to provide support to specific areas like the abdomen, back, hips and knees,” says Dr. Marcy Crouch , PT, DPT, WCS.

How to Choose a Pregnancy Pillow?

Pregnancy pillows come in a handful of shapes and sizes, which can make the selection process a bit more complicated.

Pregnancy pillows fall into two size categories: wedge and full-length. Wedge-shaped pillows are smaller cushions that reduce back strain by sliding under your belly to support your growing bump while you’re sleeping on your side. You can also place a wedge pillow behind you to prevent rolling onto your back or use it between your knees to ease lower back pain. If you have heartburn, you can add a wedge pillow under your head to slightly elevate your upper body and reduce symptoms.

A full-length pregnancy pillow runs the entire length of your body. It comes in different shapes (usually a variation of a U or C-shape) and can be wrapped around your body and positioned in various ways to support your head, neck, back, belly, and hips. While the full-length pillows can provide full-body support, they do tend to take up a lot of bed real estate, so keep that in mind.

To figure out which one will work for you, Dr. Crouch says to start by considering your body type—“a larger body might require a full-body pillow, while a smaller person might find a smaller, wedge-shaped pillow sufficient.” And since these pillows are made to target your specific pregnancy pain points, like sore hips and tender knees, Dr. Crouch says you’ll want to prioritize a pillow that is “designed to address those specific areas.”

Aside from the size and shape, sleep expert and pediatrician, Dr. Nilong Vyas says that much like your standard bed pillow, you’ll want to also consider your pillow’s firmness and choose one “that is firm yet pliable and feels comfortable to the touch.”. Firmer pillows can provide consistent support while propping your limbs up into comfortable positions. Softer pillows allow for a cozy sinking feeling that is still supportive.

How do you use a pregnancy pillow?

The main purpose of using a specialized pregnancy pillow is to “keep alignment & symmetry on pelvis and hips so the pillow would go between the knees and feet,” says American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) spokesperson Carrie Pagliano, PT, DPT, and there are a few ways to do that. Full-length C and U-shaped pillows have the most versatility and can be used for leg, hips, and belly support. They can be folded and twisted to fit your needs from the first trimester , add much needed support as your bump grows in your second trimester and third, as well as offer postpartum support. Wedge pillows are less versatile but can be nestled under your bump or your lower back for targeted strain and pressure relief.

Do you need a pregnancy pillow?

A pregnancy pillow isn’t a must-have, but lots of pregnant people appreciate the extra support, especially in the later months of pregnancy. But, if you want to skip the pregnancy pillow in the first half of your pregnancy, Pagliano says “you can accomplish the same thing with a few basic queen or king-size pillows. If you’re just having back or hip discomfort, a smaller pillow might meet your needs.” If you opt for a dedicated pregnancy pillow and you’re worried that it’ll be useless once you have your baby, Dr. Crouch says that “they can offer support while breastfeeding , help with recovery by providing comfortable positioning during rest and aid in alleviating pressure on healing areas.”

We talked to two physical therapists, both specializing in pelvic floor health, and a sleep expert to compile our list of the best pregnancy pillows. I also added my own thoughts on the pregnancy pillow that pulled me through the final months of my pregnancy.

Best Full-Length Pregnancy Pillow

Leacho Original Snoogle Total Body Pillow

Designed by a registered nurse and mom, the Snoogle is a C-shaped pillow that supports and aligns your hips, back, neck and belly. Depending on the direction you place the C-shape, the entire length of your back or torso can be cushioned and the pillow can be tucked between your knees, too. “This C-shaped pillow provides full-body support, including the head, neck, back, hips, and belly. It’s versatile and can be adjusted for different sleeping positions,” says Dr. Crouch who also recommends the Snoogle. For a quick refresh, remove the sham-style cover and throw it in the wash.

What’s Worth Considering

Wraparound pillows take up a lot of space in bed, and this one is no exception. It’s five feet long and nearly 25 inches wide.

Additional Specs

Best Wedge Pregnancy Pillow

Boppy Pregnancy Support Wedge with Removable Pillow Cover - Gray Modern Stripe

If a full-size pillow feels like it’s too much for you, check out a wedge. This firm foam cushion helps to ease pressure wherever you hurt: your back, your belly or between your knees. Dr. Crouch likes that it is “compact and great for targeted support.” Outside of your bed, you can use it for extra lumbar support when sitting in the office, or later as a pillow to prop up your arm as you nurse or hold your baby. Because it’s small, you can travel with it too. The zippered, Pima cotton cover is machine washable.

Wedge pillows have varying amounts of incline, depending on the brand, so what works for some pregnant people may not work as well for others.

Best Contoured Pregnancy Pillow

Boppy Pregnancy Total Body Pillow with Removable Pillow Cover - Gray Scattered Leaves

Boppy’s Total Body Pillow is similar to the Snoogle but takes up less bed space and has contoured cutouts, allowing the pillow to hug your body’s profile snuggly. The middle portion of the pillow is shallow so you can twist and fold each side to create a supportive back pillow to use while sitting up. Gabrielle S., a Babylist user , describes this pillow as a “lifesaver”, highlighting that after waking up throughout the night, “this pillow has drastically changed my sleep”. It’s designed to support your belly, lower back, hip, and shoulders all in one from the early days of pregnancy well through the fourth trimester.

Both the pillow itself and the pillow cover are machine washable, a nice perk.

Best Adjustable Pregnancy Pillow

FridaMom Adjustable Body Pillow - Grey

Filled with tiny polystyrene foam beads (think bean bag chair), this unique pregnancy pillow can be twisted into every pregnancy pillow shape possible and the slim profile means that it won’t take up too much space on your bed. And if you’re someone who likes a firm pillow one day and a softer one the next, the beads in this pillow can be squeezed to one end to create a firmer or softer feel. During the last few weeks of my pregnancy, I used this pillow, and being able to instantly change the firmness was indispensable. Plus the bead filling gave the pillow extra breathability and with a late summer due date, the coolness was appreciated.

Since this pillow has a bean bag-like filling, it may take some getting used to. If you prefer a softer, plush pillow—this one may not fit your needs.

Most Customizable Pregnancy Pillow

PharMeDoc Pregnancy Pillow

This is the only pillow on our list that gives you a few different configuration options. It features a detachable extension that can be used either with the main U-shaped pillow or on its own as a separate support. (The detachable portion can also be used beyond pregnancy as a head and neck support, breastfeeding pillow, and more.) The jersey knit cover is soft and comfortable and is machine washable.

Considering the full-body design and multiple options for customization, the price is right on this pregnancy pillow—it’s one of the most affordable on our list and packed with lots of great features.

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Best Pregnancy Pillow for Side Sleeping

Boppy Side Sleeper Pregnancy Pillow - Gray Falling Leaves

The recommended sleep position for pregnant people is on their side (to make sure blood is flowing freely to your uterus and baby)—which can be bad news for dedicated back sleepers. This pillow can help you get used to sleeping on your side. It has two puffy, wedge cushions tethered together by a band of stretchy, jersey fabric. One cushion supports your belly while the other supports your back, preventing you from rolling onto your stomach or back in the middle of the night. Both the pillow and the cover are machine washable.

The compact design of this pillow makes it a good option if you’re traveling, or simply looking for something that won’t hog the entire bed. For something similar that’s a bit larger and more supportive, check out Boppy’s Cuddle Pillow .

Most Luxe Pregnancy Pillow

Yana Sleep Pillow

The Yana sleep pillow is a splurge, but one you definitely won’t regret. The luxury 360-degree design means you’re covered no matter which side you feel like sleeping on, a perk you don’t get with lots of other pregnancy pillows. It’s made from organic cotton and bamboo velour, making it super soft and cooling to help tackle all of those hormone-fueled night sweats. You can choose from a bouncy natural latex fill or a non-latex cooling gel fill—the latex is heavier and firmer while the gel filling is softer and naturally cooling. And the cover is removable and machine washable for easy care.

There are two options for fills so you can choose one that fits your preferences. As one of the only latex options on our list, if you like a springy yet supportive surface to rest on, the Yana pillow will work well.

Best Pregnancy Pillow for Stomach Sleepers

Back & Bump Comfort - Cozy Bump Pregnancy Bed

If you love sleeping on your stomach, the Cozy Bump Pregnancy Bed is the fix for a growing belly that’s getting in the way. It’s like a blow-up pool floaty, but covered in a soft, fuzzy material and angled just right to relieve hip and back pressure. The hole for your belly is adjustable so it fits your bump at different stages (you can inflate the ring around the hole more or less).

If you’re not used to sleeping on your stomach and turning your head to the side, you might find the position uncomfortable for your neck.

Latifah Miles

Senior commerce editor.

Latifah Miles is the Senior Commerce Editor at Babylist.

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

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The 12 Very Best Pregnancy Pillows

Including u-shaped, c-shaped, and wedge-shaped body pillows..

In this article

• Best overall
• Best U, J, and C-shaped pregnancy pillows

Best microbead pregnancy pillow

• Best down alternative
• Best memory foam

Best bolster body pillow for pregnancy

• Best for tall people

As a pregnant person’s body changes, getting quality rest can be difficult — but sleeping with a pregnancy pillow or body pillow can go a long way toward easing discomfort brought on by loosening joints, added weight, and cramped organs. A pregnancy pillow will also help you make any necessary adjustments to your sleeping position: Doctors firmly recommend sleeping on your side after about 20 weeks of pregnancy, as sleeping on your back can put pressure on your vena cava and restrict blood flow.

Most pregnancy pillows are quite large and deliver full-body support by way of U, C, or J shapes that help relieve pressure on your hips, legs, belly, and back. However, some pregnant people find that slimmer rectangular or bolster-shaped body pillows and wedge pillows get the job done without taking up so much space in their bed.

To help you find the best pregnancy pillow, I talked to sleep consultants, a doula, and formerly pregnant people about the pregnancy pillows they recommend. I also tested several pillows myself, both while pregnant and after my son was born, concentrating on how well they supported my hips, back, and spine, whether they made me overheat, and even how nice (or not so nice) they looked once my bed was made.

What we’re looking for:

Unlike bed pillows that are typically rectangular, pregnancy pillows come in various shapes and sizes to help target aches and pains associated with pregnancy. Here’s how they break down:

U-shaped: These extra-large pillows provide head-to-toe support, which can come in especially handy in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Some U-shaped pillows feature a contoured curve that mimics the shape of a pregnancy bump, while others are more like a folded spaghetti noodle. Whichever you choose, U-shaped pillows are great for side sleepers who flip from left to right frequently, as they eliminate the need to move pillows back and forth each time you turn over, according to Laura Erlich, fertility and obstetric specialist and founder of Mother Nurture Wellness .

C-shaped:  C-shaped pillows provide a similar level of extended support as U-shaped pillows, but they only have one full-length side. C-shaped pillows have to be shifted from one side of your body to the other if you want to alternate between back support and belly support. However, its hooked ends provide head and knee support and this type of pillow takes up less space in bed than a U-shaped pillow.

J-shaped:  The curve of a J-shaped pillow can provide added support between the legs, helping to keep the hips properly spaced to support the lower back, explains Erlich. You can also flip them around to use the curve of the J underneath your head.

Wedge:  Shaped like a cartoon chunk of cheese, a wedge pillow is designed for localized support and will fit nicely under your belly, in the space between your lower back and the mattress, or between your thighs or knees for support. They are usually smaller than other kinds of pregnancy pillows, which is great for travel or a shared sleeping space.

Bolster: A bolster pillow is long and cylindrical, like a thicker and squishier pool noodle. It functions similarly to a rectangular body pillow . Bolsters are great for anyone looking for a stylish pillow that doesn’t scream pregnancy pillow and that will still be useful postpartum. Once the baby is born, some bolsters can be used for tummy time support or as a nursing pillow.

Fill type and firmness

As with conventional bed pillows and mattresses , the type of fill in your pregnancy pillow makes a big difference in the kind of support it provides and how it will feel to sleep on. Sleep consultants we’ve spoken to, including Sleepably founder Seth Davis and Carleara Weiss, Ph.D. , say the best pillows for pregnant people are on the firmer side — soft enough to be comfortable but sturdy enough to support body weight overnight without flattening out. This level of firmness is typically achieved with polyfill, memory foam , microfiber, latex, or a blend of several different fill types.

If sustainable or natural fibers are important to you, there are a few non-synthetic fill types available to choose from, including latex (which is most commonly sourced from plants) and bio-foam beads.  

While memory foam isn’t natural or terribly sustainable, CertiPUR-US -certified memory foam is tested and confirmed to be free of toxic stuff like heavy metals, formaldehyde, or phthalates.

Pregnancy pillows vary in length and width depending on the shape. While an oversize pillow will definitely offer you the most full-body support, it will also take up a lot of real estate in your bed. Additionally, large C- and U-shaped pillows tend to be quite bulky, so lugging them from your bed to your couch and back again when you’re in your third trimester can be exhausting. Smaller pillows like wedges and standard body pillows will leave plenty of room in your bed, but do not offer head-to-toe support.

Cover material and care instructions

The best pregnancy pillows have breathable, comfortable covers that can easily be thrown in the washing machine. Some have cooling characteristics that can help regulate your temperature as you sleep. Or if you prefer something more plush and cozy, there are covers that offer that too. And since you’ll be sleeping against the pillow while growing a developing fetus, you might want to consider one that is Oeko-Tex Standard 100–certified to be free of harmful chemicals. The nicest-looking covers tend to come in a variety of colors and patterns that help the pillow blend into your existing décor.

Updated July 22, 2024: Updated prices and checked stock for all products.

Best pregnancy pillow overall

Shape: Convertible | Fill type: CertiPUR-US-certified memory foam and fiber cluster blend | Firmness: Medium plush | Size: 55 by 31 inches | Cover material: Organic cotton | Care instructions: Machine-washable cover

Newton’s all-in-one convertible design acknowledges that the pillow you need at the start of your pregnancy may differ from the one you prefer by the 40th week: You can change the pillow from a U shape to a J shape by unzipping and removing the long-armed end, which itself works as a more traditional body pillow . That versatility is one reason I’ve named it the best pregnancy pillow overall. I slept with this pillow while pregnant with my son, starting when I was around six months pregnant. But I got the most use out of it in my third trimester when I had more intense lower-back pain and swollen ankles. I not only used the full U-shape for sleeping, but I also used it as a support for sitting up in bed while reading or watching TV. I loved being able to lean my back against the curve of it while propping both of my legs and feet up on each arm. Now that my son is a year old, I still use the detachable non-contoured arm as a body pillow or as a sort of bumper in my son’s playpen that he likes to lean on or climb all over.  

Filled with a CertiPUR-US-certified memory foam and fiber clusters blend, the pillow has a lofty, plush feel that gently cushions your thighs and legs without propping your top leg up too high. The width of the pillow’s arms is substantial — about ten inches each — so it’s very supportive. One drawback I found is that the pillow’s dimpled plush “cover” doesn’t really feel like a cover, despite being removable and machine-washable, and the brand doesn’t sell a more traditional outer cover. Though it’s made of Oeko-Tex-certified organic cotton, which is breathable and feels relatively cool to the touch, I would have appreciated having a flat weave cotton or linen pillowcase to make it look more stylish and feel less fuzzy against my skin.  

Best (less expensive) pregnancy pillow overall

Shape: C | Fill type: Polyester fiber fill | Firmness: Medium | Size: 25 by 48 inches | Cover material: Rayon | Care instructions: Machine-washable cover

This more affordable pregnancy pillow by Boppy has a slightly shorter profile and a C shape instead of a U shape, so it doesn’t provide the same 360-degree support as our top-pick Newton pillow, above. Another difference is that the Boppy’s cover is made of rayon, where the Newton cover is fancier organic cotton. However, the Boppy takes up much less bed space than the Newton and has a narrow, contoured middle section that allows you to secure the top portion under your upper body and the lower part between your legs without adding a lot of bulk on either side of your body.

Sleep consultant Kelly Murray also likes how the contour of the Boppy encourages you to curl your body around the pillow: “The shape you’re going for is a modified fetal position, just like when we were in the womb. You want a gentle extension of your spine through your tailbone and also through your neck,” to avoid putting pressure on the lumbar spine, she explains. When you’re awake, you can fold and twist the pillow to use it as a nursing pillow or for back support while sitting. It is filled with polyester fiber that has been tested by a third-party lab to ensure it is free of formaldehyde, phthalates, flame retardants, heavy metals, and lead.

Best U-shaped pregnancy pillow

Shape: U | Fill type: Cooling gel or latex | Firmness: Firm | Size: 28.5 by 55 inches | Cover material: cotton on one side and velour from bamboo on the other | Care instructions: Machine-washable cover

The Yana pillow has a contoured U shape that is designed to hug the natural curves of your body. It is very similar in shape to the Newton pregnancy pillow but instead of one contoured arm and one straight arm, the Yana is contoured on both sides. The semi-flexible pillow can be tied, folded, twisted, and used while sleeping, sitting, or just lounging. California-based doula Carson Meyer told us that the Yana is her preferred pregnancy pillow because it folds up perfectly in bed and feels so supportive. The brand offers two fill types — cooling gel or natural latex — both of which are Oeko-Tex-certified. Natural latex is eco-friendly, durable, and extra firm, whereas cooling gel is softer and prevents overheating. The pillow comes with a machine-washable cover that has a different texture on each side for two sensory experiences. When you’re not using it, the brand suggests tying it in a decorative knot for compact storage or decoration.

Best J-shaped pregnancy pillow

Shape: J | Fill type: Polyester fiber fill | Firmness: Medium | Size: 28 by 40 inches | Cover material: cotton jersey | Care instructions: Machine-washable cover

This J-shaped pillow from maternity brand Momcozy has a contoured shape along its inside edge, so you can more easily pull it close to your body. It can be used in two positions: with the hook between your legs to align your knees and hips, or under your head as you hug the pillow for support. It is the shortest pillow on this list, which depending on your height could be a plus or a minus. It’ll definitely save space in bed and is easy to carry around the house or to pack for use at the hospital. The cover comes in a handful of serene colors and is made of breathable and soft cotton jersey.

Best C-shaped pregnancy pillow

Shape: C | Fill type: Polyester | Firmness: Firm | Size: 58 by 28 by 7.8 inches | Cover material: Cooling cotton jersey or velvet | Care instructions: Machine-washable cover

This C-shaped pillow has a comforting shape that can be wrapped around your bump or used to add support along your spine. Compared to the Boppy C-shaped pillow, this one offers more all-around coverage as the two ends nearly meet in the middle. It is firmer than the Boppy, too, making it ideal for anyone suffering from hip and other joint pain. You can also twist this pillow around your waist for lumbar support while you are sitting upright or, as I did with the Newton pillow, use it to elevate potentially swollen ankles and feet. You can choose between a few different cover materials, including cotton jersey or velvet, and the pillow is available in 15 colors.

Shape: Cylindrical | Fill type: Expanded polystyrene beads | Firmness: Adjustable | Size: 7.5 by 59 inches | Cover material: 95% cotton, 5% spandex | Care instructions: Machine-washable cover

As your body changes, it will likely require different levels of support. That’s where this body pillow with an adjustable firmness can be useful. Fellow Strategist writer and mom Lauren Ro gave me this pillow early on in my pregnancy along with a few other maternity hand-me-downs. She used it during her second pregnancy and loved its flexible shape and adjustable firmness, as well as its smooth, stretchy cover. The inner pillow is filled with expanded polystyrene (EPS) beads, which are made from planet-friendly vegetable-based biopolymers (read: more earth-friendly beanbag fill). The pillow’s unique design features two silicone “pebbles” that you can slide toward the center of the pillow to compress the filling, or further apart to spread the beads out creating a less firm feel. I alternated between this pillow and the Newton U-shaped one depending on how much my lower back was bothering me.

Eventually, when I went to the hospital to give birth, I brought this pillow since it takes up much less space than the Newton and is easier to twist and fold into different shapes. The slinky cotton-and-spandex cover also felt more cooling than the fuzzy cover of the Newton, which I definitely preferred and which helped me stay comfortable throughout the induction process. After my son was born, I used this pillow as a backrest and a nursing pillow. Later, it was helpful as an adjustable prop-up pillow for supervised tummy time. I still sleep with it from time to time, and frequently use it as a backrest when watching TV in bed. I have even used it as a makeshift laptop table, and my elderly toy poodle loves to snuggle up on it during the day.   

If you prefer a plush, cushiony, traditional pillow-like feel, this one probably won’t be for you as the fill is basically identical to that of a bean bag — which can take some getting used to. However, the beads have a fluidity that makes adjusting the pillow from firmer to softer much easier. The pillow comes in a range of stylish colors and prints, and the cover is machine-washable.

Best (less expensive) microbead pregnancy pillow

Shape: Rectangular | Fill type: Polystyrene Foam Beads | Firmness: Adjustable | Size: 9 by 54 inches | Cover material: 46% Nylon, 46% Polyester, 7% Spandex | Care instructions: Machine-washable cover

The design of the Frida Mom pregnancy pillow is similar to that of the Bbhugme pregnancy pillow, but instead of the pair of pebbles that clamp either end to adjust firmness, it has a twist-and-bend format that makes the shape more customizable, and it is filled with polystyrene microbeads. The pillow looks a bit like an earthworm, with a short, tapered end on one side and a fuller, longer end on the other. The ends are separated by an adjustable strip that allows you to twist and fold the pillow into a C, a U, an I, or a J shape. The major differences between this pillow and the Bbhugme are price and eco-friendly materials (which impact the price). Former Strategist writer Latifah Miles was already about eight months pregnant when she started sleeping with the Frida Mom pillow. At first she thought it wasn’t large enough to support her belly. But after giving it another try, twisted into a J shape, she found it more comfortable. This configuration shuffled the microbeads into the longer end for a firmer, more supportive feel, leaving the tapered end to hook between her legs. The cover’s smooth cooling material was also a major plus, especially with end-of-pregnancy sweating cropping up in the middle of the night.

According to Murray, our core body temperature has to lower by a couple of degrees Fahrenheit in order to synthesize melatonin, so it’s really important that the body pillow you choose doesn’t make you too hot. While this pillow feels a bit like memory foam in its squishy responsiveness, the bead fill makes it more breathable. It’s also worth noting that this pillow is smaller than many of the other pillows on this list, which means some of the formations will target your bump more than your entire body. And while it can be configured into different shapes like the Newton pillow, it is more of a squish-and-fold versus the zip-off style of the Newton.

Best down-alternative pregnancy pillow

Shape: Rectangular | Fill type: Hypoallergenic microfiber fill | Firmness: Plush | Size: 20 by 54 inches | Cover material: 100% cotton sateen | Care instructions: Machine washable cover

During her first and second pregnancies, Strategist senior editor Winnie Yang tried both stacks of regular bed pillows and a traditional C-shaped pillow that she ultimately found annoying to wrestle into place. On top of that, the C-shaped pillow’s polyblend cover made her pregnancy sweats worse. So for her third pregnancy, Yang opted for Parachute’s down-alternative body pillow. “This pillow is exactly what I had hoped for: soft, lofty, airy, and cooling when I feel overly warm, warm and comforting when I feel a little cold, and easy to maneuver into place,” Yang says. The pillow contains cushy, hypoallergenic microfiber fill that gives it a fluffy downlike feel. Yang also appreciates that Parachute sells vintage-looking linen covers in six colors (for an additional $109), which she says make the pillow more presentable to leave out during the day.

Best memory-foam pregnancy pillow

Shape: Cylinder | Fill type: Cross-cut memory foam and microfiber | Firmness: Adjustable | Size: 9 by 60 inches | Cover material: 60% Polyester, 40% Rayon | Care instructions: Machine-washable cover

Miles slept on this maternity pillow in the early months of her pregnancy, and the wide cylindrical shape gave her plenty of room to prop up her top leg while sleeping on her side, keeping her hips from feeling cramped. It’s filled with the same cross-cut-memory-foam-and-microfiber blend as our top-pick bed pillows , giving the pillow a medium-firm density that Miles says really allowed her to lean into it and feel supported. But if it feels too firm you can remove some of the fill to create a softer feel. (The pillow doesn’t ship with additional fill, but you can purchase extra bags of Coop’s firm-density fill , cooling-gel-infused fill , or standard medium-firm fill .) And since it is one of the longer options on this list, it was easy to wrap her legs around the pillow and hug it against her body. Plus you can bend into essentially any shape. The pillow comes with a machine-washable cover and the memory foam is CertiPUR-US- and Greenguard Gold–certified.

Shape: Cylindrical | Fill type: Melofoam latex | Firmness: Firm | Size: 8 by 75 inches | Cover material: Organic cotton | Care instructions: Machine-washable cover

The Bearaby Cuddler has an extra-long profile that makes it particularly versatile. Constructed of super-springy Melofoam, which is a type of natural latex constructed from the sap of rubber trees, the pillow offers responsive and consistent support. It can be wrapped, stacked, tied, and folded for use in any body position, whether you’re watching television on the couch, lounging or reading in bed, or sleeping. Slimmer than traditional pregnancy pillows, you can use the Cuddler as a standard body pillow once you are postpartum, without it taking up too much space in your bed. Miles used the Bearaby Cuddler as a general body pillow before her second pregnancy, calling it unlike any other body pillow she has tried. The slim, noodle-like profile and uniquely buoyant feel of the Melofoam provides great support for legs and hips. As the longest pillow on our list, it is also a good option for taller people who want head-to-toe support. And as with an extra-long bolster pillow, you can make it a part of your décor instead of packing it away at the end of your pregnancy. The pillow comes with an organic-cotton cover that can be machine washed, or you can purchase a stylish knitted cover (available in five colors) for an extra $129.

Best wedge pregnancy pillow

Shape: Dual wedge | Fill type: Polyurethane foam |  Firmness: Medium firm | Size: Adjustable | Cover material: 62% Polyester, 33% Rayon, 5% Spandex | Care instructions: Machine-washable cover

For die-hard back sleepers , snoozing on your side can be a rough but necessary transition. I found it hard to control myself once I was asleep, so it was helpful to have some sort of firm pillow behind my back to keep me from regressing into my old habits. The unique shape of the Belly Bandit SOS Side Sleeper pillow gently locks you into a side sleeping position while also supporting your lower spine and belly. The three-piece pillow has a velcro strap that lays under your body, a tall triangular wedge pillow that is placed behind your back to prevent you from rolling, and a flatter wedge pillow that is placed under your belly for sturdy support. The two pillows can be moved along the velcro strap to accommodate your belly as you get further into your pregnancy. This pillow serves a similar function as a full body U-shaped one but with firmer, more localized support and a customizable design that will easily expand with your bump. The solid polyurethane foam pillows are protected by stretchy covers that can be removed and washed.

Best pregnancy pillow for tall people

Shape: U | Fill type: Polyester fiber | Firmness: Adjustable | Size: 31 by 65 inches | Cover material: 100% cotton | Care instructions: Machine-washable cover

If you’re taller than average, you’ll want to look for a pregnancy pillow that is long enough to support more of your torso and legs instead of just your upper body. This 65-inch pregnancy pillow measures nearly a foot longer than many of the other traditional U- and C-shaped pregnancy pillows on this list. It has a polyester fiber filling, making it firm and comfortable. If the pillow is too firm for your particular needs, you can easily remove some of the filling to make it more flexible and soft. The large U shape can be used as a leg, hip, belly, head, and neck support, and the cover is machine washable.

Some more Strategist-approved gear for pregnant people

Our experts

• Seth Davis , sleep consultant and founder of Sleepably • Laura Erlich , fertility and obstetric specialist and founder of Mother Nurture Wellness • Carson Meyer , doula • Latifah Miles , former Strategist writer and mom of two • Kelly Murray , sleep consultant • Holly Roser , personal trainer • Lauren Ro , Strategist writer and mom of two • Carleara Weiss , Ph.D., sleep consultant and member of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine • Winnie Yang , Strategist senior editor

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The best pregnancy pillows for a better night’s sleep, according to experts

Some changes during  pregnancy  are obvious, like a growing belly; others, however, may fall more under-the-radar, such as back and hip pain. The good news is that adjusting your sleep position can help, according to  Dr. Andrea Braden , a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist in Atlanta, GA.

“The growing pregnant uterus can compress major blood vessels in the body when you lay on your back, resulting in symptoms of dizziness and decreased blood flow to the baby,” she says. “Sleeping on your left side shifts the uterus off of these major vessels and is therefore considered the most optimal position for circulation.” Moreover, good circulation can also lower the risk for hemorrhoids, leg swelling and varicose veins, says Braden. This is where a pregnancy pillow can be particularly helpful.

Pregnancy pillows can help lower excess pressure on certain areas of the body. The right pillow can support your head and neck, while another can support the knees and keep them aligned with your hips; the goal is to keep your spine as straight as possible in a comfortable side-sleeping position. “Using a pillow that promotes proper spine and hip alignment and supports a growing belly can help mitigate factors like pain and discomfort that contribute to poor sleep during pregnancy,” says Dr. Stephanie Weyrauch, a physical therapist who specializes in pre- and postnatal care.

SKIP AHEAD Best pregnancy pillows | How to shop for pregnancy pillows

Selected. Our top picks

How we picked the best pregnancy pillow

Sleep consultants and physical therapists say that pregnancy pillows can be a great way to keep your body supported throughout the night, which can help reduce aches and pains as the body changes during pregnancy. When shopping for pregnancy pillows, our experts recommend considering the following factors:

• Placement: Do you need support for your upper body, or are you looking to keep your hips aligned? This can help determine the right shape for your body pillow.
• Size and shape: Pregnancy pillows can range in size and, depending on your bed and their shape, may take up quite a bit of space. You should tailor the shape to your sleep position and body type — for instance, a short person may need a smaller pillow.
• Firmness: The right firmness level for your pillow depends on where you plan to place it, say our experts. For example, pillows that go between the knees may need to be firmer to support the weight of the leg.
• Versatility: As the baby develops during pregnancy, the body changes to accommodate it. So, a pregnancy pillow that you can use for multiple issues — for instance, to support the head and neck in the first trimester and then the bump in the third — can be helpful.

The best pregnancy pillows

Pregnancy pillows can help ease discomfort that can often accompany pregnancy. Below, we compiled expert-recommended and bestselling options to help provide support and comfort throughout pregnancy. All of the products listed come with washable covers, and in a range of dimensions that allow you to choose what best fits your needs and space.

Pharmedoc U-Shaped Pillow

Braden recommends this pillow for those looking for an adjustable option that stays cool. Kelly Murray , a sleep consultant in Chicago, also likes this for its comprehensive support for the head, neck, back, hips and abdomen, making it a great option for side sleepers and people contending with various discomforts, she says. It also has a detachable extension to save space without sacrificing support, according to the brand.

Fill material: Polyester | Machine-washable cover: Yes | Dimensions: 53 x 31 x 7 in.

Bbhugme Adjustable Pregnancy Pillow

New York City-based physical therapist Marianne Ryan , PT, points to this adjustable pregnancy pillow as one that you can mold to your liking, making it especially versatile. As a side sleeper, you can place your leg and arm on it, or you can make it into a C-shape and place it in between your legs where you’ll have part of it in front of you and part of it behind you, she says. You can also adjust the amount of fill, and use it for lumbar support beyond the bed (like on the couch or in an armchair), too, according to the brand.

Fill material: Microbeads | Machine-washable cover: Yes | Dimensions: 57 x 7.5 in.

Boppy Pregnancy Wedge

Braden and Ronee Welch , a sleep consultant in Macungie, PA, are fans of this wedge-shaped pillow, since it doesn’t take up much space. Plus, you can use it after pregnancy, she says. Weyrauch also says this as an option that can support either the hips or belly and offers firm support while still being portable. “[It] is perfect for someone who travels frequently or doesn’t want to sleep with a bulky pillow that takes up a lot of space,” she says.

Fill material: Foam | Machine-washable cover: Yes | Dimensions: ‎14 x 4 x 12 in.

Momcozy Pregnancy Pillow

This option is ideal for moms who want a full-body pillow that molds to them, according to Welch. “It can be moved into multiple ‘letter’ positions, like the J-shape, U-shape and others, which can offer many different options as a pregnancy progresses,” says Welch. The inner pillow has a zipper so you can adjust the filling to your preferred firmness, and the polyester filling is soft yet supportive, according to the brand.

Fill material: Polyester | Machine-washable cover: Yes | Dimensions: ‎ 57 x 27.6 x 9 in.

Queen Rose E-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow

If the U-shape doesn’t quite cut it, consider this E-shaped body pillow. It offers the head-to-toe support of a U-shape, but with the addition of a detachable wedge to support the belly. The pillow is stuffed with cotton, so it lacks the firmness of foam options, but the pillow still manages to retain its shape after multiple nights, according to the brand. It has an average 4.5-star rating across 2,084 reviews on Amazon.

Fill material: Cotton | Machine-washable cover: Yes | Dimensions: ‎ 60 x 30 x 8 in.

Cauzyart U Shaped Pregnancy Pillow

This U-shaped pillow is a good option for those who don’t want something too firm. “This pillow provides support for the hips, back, belly, neck and arms,” says Weyrauch. “It is soft, yet provides enough support to maintain optimal alignment as the body changes during pregnancy.” You can bend it to rest against a headboard, doubling as a backrest, too, according to the brand.

Fill material: Polyester | Machine-washable cover: Yes | Dimensions: 55 x 28 x 7.8 in.

Leachco Snoogle Total Body Pillow

If you’re looking for extra support without giving up space in your bed, consider this C-shaped pillow. “Its distinctive shape ensures support for the head, neck, back, hips and knees, eliminating the need for multiple pillows,” says Murray. It has a zippered cover that you can wash and dry. Plus, it comes in various colors and patterns so you can find something to suit your space.

Fill material: Polyester | Machine-washable cover: Yes | Dimensions: ‎ 59 x 26 x 8 in.

Frida Mom Adjustable Keep-Cool Pregnancy Pillow

You can contort this long, flexible pillow into multiple shapes, serving as a U-shaped, C-shaped or J-shaped pillow, depending on how you bend it. The filling is made of microbeads, which allow for better airflow and a cooler feel, according to the brand. The only drawback is that you’ll need to air-dry it, which can add some time to laundering.

Fill material: Microbeads | Machine-washable cover: Yes | Dimensions: ‎ 54 x 9 x 9 in.

Meiz U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow

This U-shaped pillow has a long and wide shape that makes it ideal for anyone who likes an extra-large pillow. It has a machine-washable removable cover that’s velvet for a smooth feel, according to the brand. It also has a 4.5-star average rating from 12,531 reviews on Amazon and is available in various muted color options.

Fill material: Polyester | Machine-washable cover: Yes | Dimensions: 60 x 19 x 17 in.

select How to choose the best diaper bag for your family

How to shop for pregnancy pillows.

Pregnancy pillows come in a variety of sizes, shapes and fill, which make it easy to find something specific to your needs. The downside, however, is that all of the options can make it confusing or hard to narrow down what might work best for you. That’s why our experts recommend looking at a few key factors.

• Sleep position: Consider where you’re going to use your pillow. At a certain point in the pregnancy, most people become side sleepers no matter their personal preference. As a result, “for the most optimal hip and low back alignment, the pillow should position the thighs in a nearly parallel position when placed between the legs,” says Weyrauch. That can point you in the direction of a flatter pillow. Meanwhile, if your belly is larger and needs some support, a wedge pillow may be your best bet, since you can easily tuck it under.
• Size: The size of your pregnancy pillows matters on two fronts. For one, the larger the pillow, the more areas of the body it can support. For instance, Weyrauch is a fan of body-sized pillows since “they can also provide support to the arms and wrists, which can help decrease the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome,” she says. ( Research has found that carpal tunnel is surprisingly common during pregnancy.) You’ll also want to factor in the amount of space in your bed. “Some pillows are quite large and, depending on bed size, may not allow for two people sleeping in the same bed,” says Dr. Karen Brandon , PT, a physical therapist and spokesperson for the American Physical Therapy Association.
• Firmness: More firmness translates to more support. While that can often be a personal preference, the right firmness level for your body also depends on the area you want to support. “Getting support at your neck often requires the ability to shape the pillow in the space between your ear and top of your shoulder,” says Brandon. Meanwhile, if you’re supporting your legs, you might benefit from a more firm fill material like foam. Speaking of fill: Some pillows let you adjust the amount of inner filling so you can customize the firmness and therefore the amount of support, according to Murray.
• Shape: While the right shape is a matter of both your body’s shape and your body’s needs. “For example, a very short person may only need a toddler-sized pillow between the knees to help with hip and back pain,” says Braden. “If they were to use an oversized pillow, it may cause more discomfort.” A longer, larger pillow, meanwhile, might be a better bet if you’ve found yourself using multiple pillows to support your body.
• Cover material: To keep things hygienic, search for pillows with removable covers that are machine-washable and crafted from hypoallergenic materials, says Murray. Welch has also found that a cooling material can be helpful, as the pillow may be coming into contact with multiple areas of the body, which can make it feel warm.

Frequently asked questions

Pregnant people are usually advised to sleep on their left side to ensure optimal blood flow. “So, many patients find a wedge pillow or U-shaped pillow to be the most comfortable in supporting their hips, back and belly,” says Weyrauch. They can also be helpful if you’re a back sleeper who needs a firm boundary to prevent you from rolling onto your back while you sleep.

While you could create a makeshift pregnancy pillow by bunching up or strategically positioning typical bed pillows, a pregnancy pillow takes the work out of it. And, since many are firmer, they offer more support than a fluffy option.

Our experts agree that there’s no wrong time to start using a pregnancy pillow. “I take a proactive approach with my patients and encourage them to start using a pillow to support their changing body as soon as they know they are pregnant,” says Weyrauch.

Our experts recommended the U-shape for its full body support, and because it offers flexibility. “Some people like a U-shape if they are switching sides throughout the night and can have the support readily available on either side,” says Brandon. Plus, it can support your head, back, knees and ankles. If you wake up and have to readjust your pillow so you can roll over, then this might be your best bet.

Meanwhile, “C- and J-shaped pillows are also good choices for side sleepers, especially those with less sleeping surface to dedicate to a pregnancy pillow,” says Murray, who adds that they can be cumbersome if you want to switch to your other side throughout the night.

For those with a smaller bed or for those who want to minimize bulk, there are also smaller options like a wedge or hourglass pillow, which you can place under your belly or between your knees when sleeping, says Brandon. She says that it’s common to use more than one type of pillow to get relief — and that this can change as the body develops through the trimesters.

There are several ways to sleep with a pregnancy pillow — and they largely depend on your individual concerns. For instance, if you have acid reflux, Ryan suggests sleeping on your back with a wedge under the upper back. For pain in the neck, mid-back or wrist, try side-sleeping with an arm and a leg over the pillow with a less-firm pillow for the neck. For swollen feet, meanwhile, “use the pillow to elevate feet in whatever position you are comfortable,” she says.

Postpartum, people can make use of their pregnancy pillows, too. “New moms can still benefit from the extra support while they are recovering from childbirth,” says Murray. That said, you should never let an infant sleep on one; (infants should sleep on a flat surface without pillows, blankets and stuffed toys, according to the latest guidelines from the American Association of Pediatrics ).

One or multiple pillows can serve as a pregnancy pillow — if positioned correctly, says Weyrauch. “I recommend placing a pillow between the legs throughout pregnancy to keep the hips in optimal alignment. As the belly grows, I’ll recommend adding another pillow underneath the belly to support the growing baby,” she says. That said, many moms-to-be find that the streamlined shape and firmness of a dedicated pregnancy pillow can make sleep easier to come by.

Meet our experts

At Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. 

• Dr. Stephanie Weyrauch , DPT, is a physical therapist specializing in pelvic health and pre- and post-natal care. She is the former vice president of the American Physical Therapy Association Connecticut chapter and has served in multiple leadership roles within the American Physical Therapy Association.
• Dr. Karen Brandon , PT, is a physical therapist and spokesperson for the American Physical Therapy Association. She’s the clinical practice lead for pelvic rehabilitation at Kaiser Permanente and has a special interest in women’s health physical therapy.
• Dr. Andrea Braden , MD, FACOG, is a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist based in Atlanta, GA. Her areas of research include breastfeeding medicine and lactation support.
• Marianne Ryan , PT, is a physical therapist based in New York City who specializes in pre- and post-natal physical therapy. Her interests include physical therapy through high-risk pregnancies and postpartum fitness.
• Kelly Murray is a certified pediatric and adult sleep coach based in Chicago.
• Ronee Welch is a certified pediatric and adult sleep consultant based in Macungie, PA who also serves as a postpartum doula.

Why trust Select?

Deanna Pai is a freelance beauty and wellness writer and editor who has been covering beauty and health for more than a decade, including topics like postpartum hair loss.

Ashley Morris is an associate SEO reporter for NBC Select covering skin care, wellness, home and kitchen and more.

For this article, Pai spoke to an OB-GYN, three physical therapists and two sleep consultants to narrow down the best pregnancy pillows to shop this year, and highlighted their recommendations for the best options to consider.

Catch up on Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

Deanna Pai is a freelance writer and editor at NBC Select.

Our advice is expert-vetted and based on independent research, analysis and hands-on testing from our team of Certified Sleep Coaches. If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. Reviews ethics statement

Best Pregnancy Pillows of 2024

Finding the right pregnancy pillow can be quite the journey. Our formerly-pregnant wellness editor went on her own hunt, finding the best options for a restful sleep.

For most, being pregnant is a joyous journey, but no journey is without its challenges. Being pregnant comes with many sleep hurdles like  heartburn ,  insomnia and  joint and ligament pain , not to leave out an active fetus. So making sure you are getting good quality rest is essential, and a pregnancy pillow is great for increased comfort and safety.

During my own pregnancy, I learned that a pregnancy pillow can be extremely helpful during this stage of life. After testing various pregnancy pillows for the majority of my second and third trimesters, I can see why pregnant people would opt to reach for a pregnancy pillow for relief at bedtime or when just lying around on the couch. And I continue to rely on my pregnancy pillow for a good night's sleep.

While testing, I took into account that everyone's needs and preferences are different. However, the best pregnancy pillow will offer belly support, relieve pressure and bring a bit of neck support. These pillows will hopefully help you get through those tough nights of sleep when insomnia hits in those early morning hours.

With that said, having tested these pillows thoroughly, here are my favorites.

What's the best overall pregnancy pillow?

Since the best pregnancy pillow will vary by individual, I chose the one that I found to be the most versatile and comfortable for everyday use as my top pick: the Frida Mom Adjustable Keep-Cool Pregnancy Pillow . I liked how easy it is to maneuver throughout the night depending on your sleep position without struggling with the weight or size of the pillow. That's something that you can't do as easily with a full-sized pregnancy pillow that is usually larger and heavier. However, the pillow that works best for you may change as your pregnancy progresses. For example, in the very beginning, as I adjusted to my belly growing, I preferred a wedge pillow that supported both my back and stomach. Even if the Frida Mom Adjustable Keep-Cool Pregnancy Pillow isn't your top choice, there are plenty of other selections that might fit your pregnancy needs. 

Best pregnancy pillows of 2024

Frida Mom Adjustable Keep-Cool Pregnancy Pillow

Best overall pregnancy pillow.

Of all the pregnancy pillows I tested, I found myself reaching for the Frida Mom Adjustable Keep-Cool Pregnancy Pillow the most. This lightweight cylinder-shaped pillow is filled with microbeads to allow for proper airflow and keep you cool. It's also fully adjustable and can be molded into a U, C, L or I-shape. Because it's moldable, it also gets less in the way if you share a bed compared to a traditional full-body pregnancy pillow.

I will admit, this isn't the firmest pillow on the list, so if you're not into a softer option, this may not be the right fit for you. If you're heavily pregnant and want ultimate support all around, you'll also find this pillow lacking. In that case, you may be better off with a full-body pillow. I found this pillow was the best fit for me and my needs throughout the majority of my pregnancy, but it may be more suitable during the second trimester as your belly grows and needs some support when you sleep on your side.

This pillow isn't too big and I could easily maneuver it as I switched sleeping positions throughout the night. You can also wrap your legs around it if you need extra hip support, which is common during pregnancy. I also appreciated how the pillow didn't overheat and remained comfortably cool throughout the night. I even caught my husband napping with it one time, so if you're generally a side sleeper you can enjoy this pillow. Another plus is that the cover is machine washable, so you don't have to worry about ruining the shape of the pillow.

This pillow is part of our Editor's Choice 2024 roundup.

• Easily adjustable
• Takes up little space 
• Doesn't offer full-body support
• May be too soft for some people 
• Firmness:  Soft (1 to 2)
• Support:  Medium soft (3 to 4)

Belly Bandit S.O.S. Side Sleeper Pregnancy Wedge Pillow

Best adjustable pregnancy pillow.

If you're looking for a side sleeper pillow that offers some back and belly support that you can adjust throughout your pregnancy, you'll love the Belly Bandit S.O.S. Side Sleeper Pregnancy Wedge Pillow. The side sleeper pillow is best for those looking for a pillow that specifically supports their belly and back when they sleep on their side. It consists of a round, flat pillow wedge to support the belly and a triangle wedge for the lower back. There's a Velcro belt across the middle of the two pillows, which you can adjust according to the space your body needs. This was one of my favorite features on this pillow since you can use it throughout all the trimesters as your belly grows. It's also travel-friendly thanks to its compact size. 

This is a smaller pillow compared to some of the others, so if you're looking for something that offers more head or hip support, you're better off with a full-body pillow. I'd recommend the Belly Bandit S.O.S. Side Sleeper Pregnancy Wedge Pillow for most people during the second trimester as your belly grows, but some might not find it supportive enough during the third trimester when most people experience extra discomfort that comes with the final weeks of pregnancy. 

One aspect I found a little uncomfortable was having to adjust the pillow throughout the night every time I shifted sleeping positions. If I started off sleeping on my right side and changed to the left, I'd have to make sure I grabbed both pillows right side up otherwise the Velcro strap would flip one side upside down. But it takes up little space in your bed, so if you share the space with a partner, it won't be intrusive to them. It also won't cause you to overheat the way some of the full-body pillows do. 

• Adjustable belt
• Offers belly and back support

Cons: 

• Limited support
• Firmness:  Medium (5 to 6)
• Support:  Medium soft (3 to 4)

Momcozy Huggable Our Maternity Body Pillow

Best cooling pregnancy pillow.

Speaking of full-body pillows, they can feel a bit over the top if you've never slept with one before. The Momcozy Maternity Body Pillow was one of the better ones I tested because it has a cooling pillowcase cover and it's breathable so you don't overheat. This was important to me, since being heavily pregnant in the middle of summer meant I was constantly trying to stay cool. It is massive and has some weight to it -- initially I thought was too big considering I'm petite. However, it really helped during the third trimester when I needed more support and cushioning around me. I already sleep with the air conditioner on full blast, but between the AC and this cooling body pillow, I didn't feel overheated throughout the night. The cover is also machine-washable so you can remove it easily during laundry day.

This pillow is plush enough that you don't need a regular pillow for your head -- unless you like your head more elevated while you sleep. The other good thing about this pillow is that the memory foam holds its shape no matter your sleeping position. I slept on both of my sides and laid on my back, and it never felt like it was sinking or losing plushness. I should point out that I have a queen-sized bed and it took up enough space on my side of the bed that it didn't interfere with my husband's sleep. But if you have a full-sized bed, it may leave little to no room if you share it with a partner.

• Plush all around
• Good for full-body support
• May not fit all bed sizes
• Firmness: Medium soft (7 to 8)
• Support: Medium (5 to 6)

Newton Baby Pregnancy Pillow

Best organic pregnancy pillow.

If you find most body pillows to be too heavily cushioned, then you'll want to check out the Newton Baby Pregnancy Pillow. Not only is it less cushioned than a traditional full-body pregnancy pillow, but it's made up of organic cotton and has memory foam to provide you with support throughout your body. The arm on this U-shaped pillow is detachable and adjustable so you can customize it based on your needs. 

This pillow wasn't the most cooling, but I did find it comfortable during the second trimester despite it not being as cushioned as Momcozy maternity body pillow. Even though it was obtuse like most full-body pregnancy pillows, the lack of fluff seemed to make it fit better in my bed without taking up too much space. One aspect I didn't love was the cotton cover, which is removable and machine washable. The design didn't seem well-protected and I could see it getting easily ruined if something sharp snagged on it. I also wasn't a fan of the head part of the pillow since it fell flat and didn't fluff up, so if you want extra head support, you'll need to use your own additional pillow. Additionally, it's all white so I worried about staining it as well.  If none of these things are a dealbreaker for you then you'll like the Newton Baby Pregnancy Pillow as a full-sized body pillow for a good night's sleep

• Made of cotton 
• Weight is light for a full-body pillow
• Not heavily cushioned like other body pillows
• Head part could use more cushioning
• Can be flat for people who prefer a pillow with more fluff
• Cover may be prone to getting stained or snagging onto something sharp
• Firmness: Soft (1 to 2)
• Support: Soft (1 to 2)

Hiccapop Pregnancy Pillow Wedge

Best pregnancy pillow wedge.

The Hiccapop Pregnancy Pillow Wedge was my go-to pillow during the second trimester when my belly was starting to grow and I needed a little support as I slept. It takes up minimal space so if you share a bed, your partner won't feel cramped. It's small enough that it can be used for traveling and comes with its own travel bag, which is always a plus. It has a soft CertiPur-US memory foam on one side, and is breathable and remains cool thanks to its airflow technology. The pillow cover is also machine washable. And if you ever ruin your pillow, Hiccapop has a generous lifetime guarantee policy where it will send you a replacement free of charge. You just have to make sure it's a pillow you've bought through the company's direct site or Amazon page.  

I personally preferred using this wedge pillow while relaxing on the couch because I could lay on my side as I watched TV and use it as extra support on the belly area. It's also versatile enough that you can use it for back or knee support if you need it while sitting or lying down. However, if you're looking for more of a traditional pregnancy pillow that offers support all at once for your hips, back and belly, I'd recommend one of the full-body pregnancy pillows on this list.

• Portable and compact
• Can be used for belly or back support
• Travel-friendly
• Can be used in bed or on the couch
• Doesn't offer all around support the way a full-body pillow does
• Firmness: Medium soft (3 to 4)
• Support: Medium soft (3 to 4)

Other pregnancy pillows we tested

Boppy Total Body Pillow :  I found the shape of this pregnancy pillow to be awkward because parts of it are shorter than others so it wasn't as comfortable or supportive as the other pillows tested. I also found myself overheating when I slept with this pillow even though the cover is supposed to be breathable.  

How we picked the best pregnancy pillows

When testing the best pregnancy pillows, we looked at a few factors that pregnant people would appreciate comfort-wise as each trimester requires different needs. 

Firmness:  The ideal firmness of a pillow may vary depending on preference and the person's needs -- for example, if they need more head, belly or back support.

Support:  Support is important as the belly grows and it may also be needed for other parts of the body like the hips, knees and back, which are also affected during pregnancy. 

Design:  We looked at how practical the design of the pregnancy pillows were for the specific support pregnant people need and for everyday use.  

Factors to consider when shopping for a pregnancy pillow

• Budget : Consider your budget for a pregnancy pillow, because they can be pricey. This may also vary depending on if you're buying a full-body pillow or a wedge pillow. 
• Pregnancy needs : Your unique pregnancy needs are the most important factor that should determine the type of pillow that works for you. Decide if you want belly, back, hip or full-body support.
• Temperature : If you already sleep hot, you can expect to feel warmer during pregnancy , so you may want to consider a pillow with cooling properties. 
• Size : If you share a bed with a partner, determine how big of a pillow you can fit on the bed without taking up the whole space.

Best pregnancy pillows compared

Pregnancy pillow faqs, what makes a pregnancy pillow different from a regular pillow.

Pregnancy pillows are more plush and allow you to contour the shape and hug your body better to support your belly, hips, knees or back.

What are the different types of pregnancy pillows that exist?

There are U-shaped, C-shaped, L-shaped, wedge and inflatable pillows.

Can you use a pregnancy pillow postpartum?

Yes, you can use a pregnancy pillow after the baby is born to support you during recovery and as you deal with the body aches that come with caring for a newborn. 

Is the C or U shape pillow better for pregnancy?

If you don't want your pregnancy pillow to take up the whole bed, especially if you sleep with a partner, a C-shaped pillow might be best for you. C-shaped pregnancy pillows support you right underneath your bump. If you are looking to support your spine, a U-shaped pillow is your best bet.

Which month is best to use a pregnancy pillow?

Every pregnancy is different, so the right month for you might not be the best for someone else. Typically, the best time to start using a pregnancy pillow is the second trimester. You can choose to start using one whenever you feel it is best.

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The 10 Best Pregnancy Pillows to Help You Sleep for Two

Our top picks provide extra comfort and support for your growing belly.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Our Review Process and Experts

Factors to consider when buying a pregnancy pillow, your questions, answered.

Parents / Alli Waataja

One part of your life that pregnancy impacts, and not usually for the better, is the quality of your sleep . This seems particularly unfair since growing a baby is hard work. Pregnancy pillows are made to help with this problem and support your growing body in a variety of ways. Whether you are seeking general comfort or need support for a specific area of your body, there's likely a pregnancy pillow that can help you.

"A pregnancy pillow can help alleviate some of the discomfort that may be associated with pregnancy and provide more support while sleeping, which in turn will help you sleep more soundly," Jessica Shepherd, MD , chief medical officer at Verywell Health and board-certified OB-GYN, tells Parents. These pillows are especially helpful for those unused to sleeping on their side, the sleep position doctors recommend at 20 weeks and beyond.

Choosing a pregnancy pillow is all about personal preference, lifestyle, budget, and physical needs. We considered the wide variety of shapes, materials, sleep positions, and sizes to make this list.

Best Overall

Frida mom adjustable keep-cool pregnancy pillow, why we like it.

Our favorite overall, this choice from innovative brand Frida Mom is a great starter pillow that can probably last you through your whole pregnancy. We like that the jointed pillow can be adjusted into C, I, L, and U-shapes. Figuring out the pillow joints may have a learning curve, but once you've got it, it's easy to adjust, and each shape holds well.

Another reason to choose this pillow is that it's not overwhelmingly large, unlike those pregnancy pillows that are as big as a person and really crowd the bed. The zippered packaging doubles as a storage or travel bag, so it's easy to take this pillow with you on the go.

But Take Note

The pillow is stuffed with polystyrene beads, similar to a bean bag (some users may not like it). The filling is intended to keep you cool since heat can pass right through the beads.

The Details:

• Shape: Jointed pillow can be formed into C, I, L and U-shapes
• Dimensions: 12 x 21 x 4.5 in.
• Materials: 46% nylon, 46% polyester, 7% spandex cover; expanded polystyrene (EPS) bead filling
• Care: Machine wash cover in cold water on gentle or delicate cycle

Best Budget

Pharmedoc ceecee pregnancy pillow.

A C-shaped pregnancy pillow wraps around your body, cradling your head and neck while providing pelvic support. If you're curious about pregnancy pillows, this budget-friendly option is a good way to try one for yourself.

The jersey cotton cover is super soft and will feel like your favorite T-shirt. And just like with a good shirt, you can choose from multiple colors. All the cover options are easily removable and washable. A durable and hidden zipper also ensures that you're never resting along a hard zipper.

Samantha Hutten, mom of two, tells us she liked having a bigger pillow. "During my second pregnancy, I had a lot of back/neck pain, and it really helped to have the wedge between my legs." While it's quite big, you can use this pillow postpartum for extra comfort and even nursing support .

If you're extremely tall, this pillow may not be big enough, but for average-size people, this pillow seems to be just right. It's 4.5 feet tall, so it will also take up significant space in your bed. We like that the C-shape means the pillow can be contorted into different positions, giving you support if you're sitting up and reading, watching TV, sleeping, or need some elevation on your legs.

• Shape: C-shaped
• Dimensions: 57 x 30 x 5 in.
• Materials: 100% jersey cotton cover; polyfill insert
• Care: Cover is removable and machine washable

Best for Hip Pain

Contour leg and knee support pillow.

If you're experiencing hip and leg pain , speak to your healthcare provider to understand your specific needs and what may help. A good pillow like this may be the alternative to painkillers you need.

"[Pregnancy pillows] are definitely worth having if you're concerned about sleep and discomfort, especially since a lot of pain relievers are off limits during pregnancy," Dr. Shepherd says.

Hip pain can result from your growing belly. By keeping your hips properly aligned while sleeping, you may be able to reduce the strain on your hips and back and alleviate some of the pain. This pillow is just for that one need; however, if you want support for the rest of your body, you'll probably need a different pillow.

• Shape: Contoured heart shape
• Dimensions: 6 x 10 x 10 in.
• Materials: Polyester-lyocell pillow case, polyurethane fill
• Care: Machine washable cover

Best for Back Pain

Medcline therapeutic full length body pillow.

If back pain is plaguing your pregnancy, a J-shaped pillow may help, especially this one that's filled with enough shredded foam to provide a firm cushion. Dr. Mysore tells us that "firm is better for a pregnancy pillow. You want the pillow to support you while you are sleeping. When it's firm, it can help support your joints and your back while sleeping."

The benefits of a J-shaped pillow are that it's designed for side sleepers to get optimal comfort for your neck, back, and hips, providing a cozy nest to lay in. This pillow works for people who sleep on either the left or the right side . There are hidden seams, so no zipper will bother you while sleeping.

We like that the pillow is available in two sizes. The small size is best for anyone 5 feet 3 inches and under, while the medium/large size is best for anyone taller. It will arrive compressed, so it will need some vigorous fluffing when it arrives. While you can use it right away, it may take up to 72 hours for the foam smell to off-gas and dissipate.

• Shape: J-shaped
• Dimensions: 18 x 45 x 5 in. (Small) and 22 x 50 x 6 in. (Medium/Large)
• Materials: Velour pillowcase, shredded foam filling
• Care: Cover is machine washable

Best for SPD

Cushion lab extra dense orthopedic knee pillow.

This contoured wedge pillow is made to be positioned between the legs, helping to keep them stacked and aligned correctly, which may ease symptoms of symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD) , a condition that can occur during pregnancy. Pregnancy hormones signal ligaments to become more relaxed. As the ligaments relax and stretch, this can lead to the symphysis pubis, or the connective tissue that attaches to the two sides of the pubic bone, to become unstable. The instability can lead to hip and pelvic pain in some women.

Treating pain, especially during pregnancy is a delicate topic. Always work with your healthcare providers to make sure they are all on the same page. Some of the treatment plans may include pelvic floor muscle exercises and physical therapy. A good night's sleep is helpful, but with SPD, it can be even harder than normal to get comfortable.

This pillow has a specific use, so it may not be the only pregnancy pillow that ends up in your bed. While this pillow alone may not solve your SPD pain and won't provide belly support, it will help with your lower body. As Dr. Shepherd shares, "Pregnancy pillows can help with a myriad of symptoms that are more likely to occur during pregnancy." Speak to your doctor about whether to give this one a try.

• Shape: Contoured wedge
• Dimensions: 9.5 x 8.5 x 5.5 in.
• Materials: 100% recycled polyester cover, memory foam filling

Best U-Shaped

Yana body pillow.

A U-shaped pillow is an extra-large option that provides full-body comfort. Shaped like a big letter U, it has a contoured curve on both insides of the pillow so that your belly bump and back are both supported. If you are a side sleeper who often flips from side to side, a U-shaped pillow like this one could be a great help, especially since it's the same on both sides.

Dr. Shepherd also recommends a U-shaped pillow if you're expecting multiples. "U-shape is typically best for those who are expecting twins since the tummy is generally bigger in this case, and a larger pillow will offer better support."

These pillows are big and also expensive, so they're a commitment to your budget and bed space. The nice thing about this one is that it can be folded and used in a variety of ways, from providing some seated comfort to neck support. It even accommodates a spooning partner behind you.

• Shape: U-shaped
• Dimensions: 55 x 28.5 x 8.15 in.
• Materials: Cover: organic cotton on one side, bamboo velour on the other; memory foam filling

Best for Side Sleepers

Boppy side sleeper.

This uniquely shaped pillow, which resembles two connected beans, cradles your bump and back. Your body rests in the middle of the pillows on a stretchy panel, so it helps position you to sleep sideways. Since there's a panel below your body, it won't require constant rearranging during the night or if you flip sides.

" According to the American Pregnancy Association , it's best to sleep on your side for better circulation for you and your baby," Dr. Shepherd says. "Sleeping on your side also alleviates pressure on your veins and internal organs, increases the amount of blood and nutrients that reach the placenta and baby, and helps reduce the potential of swelling, varicose veins in the legs and hemorrhoids."

Since not all pregnant people naturally sleep on their side, Dr. Shepherd praises the aid of a pregnancy pillow, "Using a pregnancy pillow can definitely help you adjust to sleeping in this position if you're normally a back or stomach sleeper."

This compact pillow won't take up a ton of room in bed and is an affordable option, so we think it's a great pick, especially if you're struggling with sleeping on your side. Unlike many other pillow options, both the pillowcase and pillow are machine washable, so keeping this pillow fresh and clean is easy. The pillow is only available with one floral patterned pillowcase, which may not suit everyone's style or bedroom decor.

• Shape: Unique two-bean shape
• Dimensions: ‎24 x 14 x 7 in.
• Materials: Cotton-spandex blend cover, polyester fiber stuffing
• Care: Both pillow and pillow case are machine washable

Best for Back Sleepers

Belly bandit s.o.s. sleep on side pregnancy pillow.

If you're a back sleeper and really struggling with getting yourself to sleep on your side, this "sleep on side" pillow may be your savior. As your pregnancy progresses, side sleeping becomes more important.

This is not your typical pregnancy pillow, so may take a little getting used to before you find the right positioning for you. It's a three-piece system that includes a belt, a belly pillow, and a wedge pillow. To use it, position yourself in between the two pillows while lying on the belt. Your belly gets supported, and the back pillow acts like a wall to prevent you from rolling onto your back.

While this may be a helpful support system, it's not great if you flip from side to side, since you'll need to rearrange which side the back and belly supports are on. Another minor drawback is that the pillow cases should be hand washed.

• Shape: Three-piece set with belt, back support, and pregnancy wedge
• Dimensions: Not listed
• Materials: Polyester, rayon, and spandex blend cover; polyurethane foam filling
• Care: Hand wash cover only

Best C-Shaped

Boppy total body pregnancy pillow.

A C-shaped pillow can provide a good amount of support and comfort for some pregnant people. While they don't have the same full-body support as U-shaped pillows, C-shaped pillows take up less room in the bed.

"For those who may be plus-size, C-shape is more ideal as it allows for a comfier fit," Dr. Shepherd explains. "Additionally, shorter women may prefer this pillow since it's not as large and overwhelming."

The curve of the pillow supports your shoulders, cradles your bump, and aligns your knees and hips. Know that if you flip from side to side frequently, you may need to move this pillow back and forth as well, which could get tiresome (or annoying for a sleeping partner).

Available with patterned or neutral pillowcases, this pillow is on the bigger side, so be prepared for it to take up a good amount of space in bed.

• Dimensions: 48 x 25 x 8 in.
• Materials: Polyester-cotton blend cover, polyester fiber pillow
• Care: Machine washable pillow and cover

Boppy Pregnancy Wedge Pillow

Compact and portable, a wedge pillow is a helpful solution if you've got one area of your body that needs the extra support. This pillow can provide just the support you crave, but if you're looking for full-body (or even multi-area) support, this one won't be enough.

Many women find this budget-friendly wedge helps support their bellies, ensuring a better night's sleep. Another option is to put the wedge between your knees, helping to keep the hips and lower back aligned. This small pillow fits in a tote bag, so you can use it in the car, plane, couch, or anywhere else for back support if you need to sit for a while.

For some people who are overwhelmed by a giant pillow in their bed, this wedge could be a perfect place to start. On the other hand, the wedge can only help one area of the body at a time, which may not be enough support for some pregnant people.

• Shape: Semicircular wedge
• Dimensions: 11 x 13.6 x 3.75 in.
• Materials: Cotton-spandex blend cover, polyurethane fill
• Care: Pillowcase is machine washable

To select the best pregnancy pillows, we spoke with two medical experts about features to look for in pregnancy pillows and how they help during pregnancy. We looked for pregnancy pillows at a variety of price points, shapes, and materials to accommodate pregnant people of all sizes. The experts we spoke with include:

• Jessica Shepherd, MD , chief medical officer at Verywell Health and board-certified OB-GYN
• Navya Mysore, MD , national program director for reproductive and sexual health at One Medical

"Not everyone has to use a pregnancy pillow—every pregnancy is different and everyone's body is different," Dr. Mysore explains. "For some, the pillow may bring comfort, but others may feel better without one."

Keep these considerations in mind as you find the right pregnancy pillow for your needs.

Your Sleeping Position

Sleeping on your side is best for you and your baby during pregnancy. Many people don't naturally gravitate toward side sleeping or may move around a lot in their sleep. Dr. Shepherd says that this is where pillows can be especially helpful.

"Using a pregnancy pillow can definitely help you adjust to sleeping in this position if you're normally a back or stomach sleeper," she says. "You can also try using multiple pillows and position them around you to keep you on your side throughout the night or try propping yourself up a bit which can help avoid turning."

Essentially, the pillow becomes a guard rail in training your sleeping body to stay in the best position.

Pillow Shape

There are a wide range of pillow shapes on the market, each with benefits for different parts of your body and different positions.

"The benefit of a pregnancy pillow is to give added support to your body as your pregnancy progresses," Dr. Mysore says. "Typically, most pregnancy pillows are there to support the belly, but many also help with back and hip support."

Among the many shapes of pregnancy pillows are:

• U-shaped: The biggest of all the pillows, this provides full body support, is suitable for flipping side to side, but also takes up the most room.
• C-shaped: While still big, this shape provides a bit more flexibility. It can be a better option for both larger and very petite bodies, and won't take up quite as much room in the bed.
• Wedge: A wedge shape provides very targeted and specific support. It's beneficial if you know exactly the area on the body that could use the help, but may not provide enough support.
• I-shaped: Shaped like a typical body pillow, these provide help to one side of the body and can take up less room in a smaller bed.
• J-shaped: A bit smaller, this shape can provide both upper and lower body support. Often women can wrap their legs around the bottom of the "J" for pelvic positioning. It can also be flipped upside down to provide additional upper body cushioning.

While you'll want the pillow to be comfortable, a firm pillow is recommended. "Firm is better for a pregnancy pillow," Dr. Mysore explains. "You want the pillow to support you while you are sleeping. When it's firm it can help support your joints and your back while sleeping." A pillow that is too soft will not provide support and will just end up taking up space in the bed.

It's important for the fabric to be breathable, comfortable, and easy to wash. "Consider things like density, as far as how soft or firm the support is, the kind of material it's made out of, and looking for other things like how easy that may be to clean or travel with if needed," Dr. Shepherd says. If the pillow doesn't work for the life you live, it won't be helpful at all.

Choose a pillow that won't overwhelm the space you have in your bed. While your comfort is imperative, also consider your partner and have a discussion if the pillow is overtaking their space in the bed.

"My husband didn't like the pillow–he said it took up too much of our [king sized] bed!" Hutten told us. "But my cat dug it–she slept inside it with me every night!"

It can be helpful to remind your partner that the pillow (and the pregnancy) are temporary.

Which shape pregnancy pillow is best?

This is both a personal preference and a moment to recognize what your body needs. "The best pregnancy pillow is really up to personal preference, comfort, and whatever is going to work best for you and your lifestyle," Dr. Shepherd says. "Taking your body type into consideration should also be a factor when picking out a pregnancy pillow. Overall size of the pillow will be important, as well considering how large your bed is and what extra room you have."

When should you start using a pregnancy pillow?

This is all a personal preference, and it's never too early or too late to use a pregnancy pillow.

"​​There's no set time when you should start using one–listen to your body and when you feel like you've gotten to a point where you could use some extra support, go for it!" Dr. Shepherd says. "When certain positions become more uncomfortable or your sleep patterns are disrupted, pregnancy pillows can help remedy this."

Many pillows can continue to be useful once the baby arrives, lending comfort and support during postpartum healing or breastfeeding positioning.

Maya Polton is a former marketing manager and current freelance writer who covers food, home, and parenting. She's also the mom of a 12-year-old son, 9-year-old son, and 5-year old daughter. Her days of pregnancy pillows are long gone. Maya thanks her lucky stars she inherited her dad's gift of sleep, especially during those three pregnancies. She used a body pillow and liked to position it between her knees while cuddling up to the top of the pillow. Sometimes she misses that pillow cuddling, but now she's got three big kids she can snuggle instead.

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Best Pregnancy Pillows of 2024

Pregnant women need to rest, but getting comfortable enough to fall asleep and stay asleep is no easy feat. Pregnancy pillows offer the support and sleep many women need as they progress through their pregnancy. Depending on the pillow’s size and shape, they help support the belly or alleviate pressure on the back and hips, helping you sleep more comfortably and get the rest your body needs.

While many pregnant women can benefit from a pregnancy pillow, this isn’t a one-size-fits-all purchase. The Queen Rose Classic U-Shaped Maternity Pillow earns our best overall recommendation, but our list includes a range of options to support different needs. If only the best pregnancy pillow could also prevent repeated nighttime bathroom trips!

Table of Contents

• Best Pregnancy Pillows
• Things To Consider When Buying
• How We Chose

Queen Rose Classic U-Shaped Maternity Pillow  »

Offers full-body support

Breathable cover to help regulate body heat

CertiPUR-US certified materials

Might take up too much space in the bed

May be a bit short for taller individuals

The Queen Rose Classic U-Shaped Maternity Pillow offers full-body support to help expectant mothers find a comfortable sleeping position as they near the birth of their baby. The U-shaped design also makes it easy to change positions and still enjoy support where you need it without having to move the pillow, as is necessary with some other pillow shapes.

Customers can choose from two different cover options based on their personal comfort preferences: Cotton and Nylon or Soft Velvet. Both covers and the pillow’s cotton filling are designed to be breathable to help prevent sleepers from overheating as they rest. The materials used to make this pregnancy pillow are also CertiPUR-US certified to be free of potentially harmful chemicals. Choose from a variety of color options including blue, gray, pink, green, and purple. (Availability will depend on the fabric type you select.)

Momcozy J-Shaped Maternity Body Pillow  »

Relatively inexpensive

Not as bulky as some alternatives

Machine-washable cover

Cannot support neck and legs at the same time

Might be too short for taller users

Whether you are looking for a more affordable pregnancy pillow or prefer one that won’t take up as much space on the bed, you might be interested in the Momcozy J-Shaped Maternity Body Pillow. The J-shaped design of this option makes it a bit more compact than U- and C-shaped alternatives, leaving more room for a partner sharing the bed and making storage a bit easier. Additionally, the more compact size makes it easier to bring the pillow with you when traveling or to move it to different areas of the house when lounging.

Depending on their comfort preferences and support needs, users can choose to put the curved part of the “J” between their legs or under their neck. Similarly, they can decide whether they want the long part of the pillow to run behind their back or along their front based on where they need the extra support when sleeping on their side.

“I got this pillow in my third trimester to help me sleep through the night. The J shape aligned nicely with my natural sleeping position, even as my belly grew,” says Megan Wood, senior editor of Home Goods at U.S. News & World Report’s 360 Reviews.

This pillow features a breathable polyester filling and a machine-washable polyester cover.

“The jersey material stayed cool,” Woods noted.

Momcozy U-Shaped Full-Body Maternity Pillow  »

Full back and hip support

Adjustable filling

Filling rebounds for continued support

Not easily portable for travel

Takes up a lot of space on the bed

Dr. Kevin Lees, the director of chiropractic operations at The Joint Chiropractic recommends checking with your doctor if back pain is making it difficult for you to sleep comfortably while you're pregnant. Once cleared of any serious concerns, he says, “For those interested in full body support, a “C” or “U” shaped pillow may be best and can change with you based on your changing needs as the pregnancy progresses.”

This full-body pillow from Momcozy offers a U-shaped design, making it a suitable choice for those looking to alleviate back pain. The pillow’s large size eliminates the need to use multiple pillows to find the support that your back – and your body as a whole – need to rest comfortably. It offers a body-conforming design, delivering hug-like support to the back, belly, hips, and other areas.

The pillow has a soft feel with its polyfill-blend filling. The zipper beneath the cover allows you to access the filling so you can adjust the pillow’s loft to match your specific comfort level, sleeping position, and support needs. A plush velvet cover encases the pillow to help keep you cozy as you rest.

Frida Adjustable Keep-Cool Pregnancy Pillow  »

Can twist, squish, or bend to change the shape

Microbead filling helps with cooling

Packable for travel

Only comes in one color

Shorter than many other full-body pillows

This maternity pillow from Frida is adjustable to help sleepers customize the shape of the pillow and the associated support it delivers to their bodies. It features a jointed design – you can bend, twist, or squish the pillow into a C-, L-, U-, or I-shape. This Keep-Cool pregnancy pillow is filled with microbeads, which facilitate its versatility and flexibility and allow heat to pass through to keep you cool as you rest.

The cover of this pillow also features an innovative design. One side is stretchy and soft for better contouring to your body, while the other side is not stretchy to help prevent the pillow from slipping or sliding as you try to sleep. The cover is machine-washable in a gentle cycle, making it easier to care for. This pregnancy pillow may also be a suitable choice for those who travel frequently. It offers a more compact design than other options and since it folds and bends, you can probably fit it into your suitcase more easily.

Pharmedoc U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow  »

Offers support for a variety of sleeping positions

Cool-to-the-touch cover

Detachable section allows for more versatility

Won’t be able to sleep with your regular bed pillow

Price varies depending on color

Pharmedoc’s U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow is designed to keep expectant mothers supported in a variety of sleep positions. The U-shaped design offers support behind the neck, along the back, and on the front side. One side of the pillow features a detachable extension. Leave it in place to keep both sides long for more support around the front and back sides or between the legs, or detach it to use as a separate body pillow.

For easier cleaning, the Pharmedoc U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow offers a removable cover. When needed, simply take the cover off to wash it in the washing machine. The soft cover is made from a blend of polyester, nylon, and spandex jersey fabric. Its special fabric combination makes it cool to the touch and helps keep sleepers from overheating during the night. Note that while this pillow is available in a variety of colors, the price varies depending on which you choose.

Leachco Snoogle Supreme Total Body Pregnancy Pillow  »

Offers support for entire body

100% cotton cover

Takes up a lot of space in the bed

The Leachco Snoogle Supreme Total Body Pregnancy Pillow features a C-shaped design, allowing users to enjoy support under their necks and between their legs at the same time. You can choose which way to place the pillow – enjoy support along your back or on your belly. The pillow can also be positioned in other ways to support your back, hips, or neck when sitting up in bed to read or watch television.

Deirdre Mundorf , the author of this piece, used the Snoogle during both of her pregnancies. She liked how it supported her back and helped her remain more comfortable when sleeping on her side. She also appreciated the removable and machine-washable cover, though it was a bit difficult to get it back on the pillow. The Snoogle Supreme has a 100% cotton cover with a thread count of 300. There are a variety of color options available, including Blue, Blush, and Peaceful Gray.

Hiccapop Pregnancy Pillow Wedge  »

Two firmness options

Soft Velboa cover

Doesn’t offer support to as many areas simultaneously

Might be too firm for some sleepers

Full-body pregnancy pillows aren’t for everyone. Whether you have more limited space on your bed and want to make sure that your partner still has enough room to sleep or only need a little extra support for one area of the body, such as your belly, back, or between the knees, then a wedge pillow might be the right choice for you. The Hiccapop Pregnancy Pillow Wedge is designed to alleviate swelling, tension, and nerve pain to promote a more peaceful sleep.

This pillow is filled with chemical-free CertiPUR-US certified foam. Each side offers a different firmness level to accommodate the varying preferences of each sleeper. While one side is filled with soft memory foam, the other offers a firmer feel. To prevent individuals from overheating as they sleep, the foam is perforated to minimize moisture and ensure adequate airflow. A machine-washable cover made of Velboa – a plush, velvety fabric that mimics faux fur – encapsulates the memory foam pillow. Each purchase comes with a travel bag to hold the pillow.

Queen Rose Classic E-Shaped Plus Maternity Pillow  »

Convertible design

Design supports side-sleeping

Integrated pillow to support the belly

May not be long enough for those who are very tall

The E-Shaped Plus Maternity Pillow from Queen Rose features a convertible design, making it a versatile option for during – and after – pregnancy. The smaller pillow in the center is intended to support your belly as you sleep on your side but it can also be removed if you prefer. Once removed, the small pillow can double as a head pillow or be used to support another area of your body as you sleep. The upper curved section of this pregnancy pillow is also removable, allowing you to transform it from an E-shaped pillow to an F-shaped one. Once removed, this smaller section can be used as a backrest to prop you up in bed or even as a nursing pillow after your new baby arrives.

The curved shape of the Queen Rose E-Shaped Plus Maternity Pillow also helps to support sleeping on the left side, which is recommended for most pregnant women. While the pillow is a bit bulky, it becomes more compact with modifications and removing select sections. With some of these sections removed, you may even be able to fit it in a suitcase when traveling.

The Bottom Line

Before choosing a pregnancy pillow, it’s important to think about your specific needs and areas of support. We like the full-body support offered by the Queen Rose Classic U-Shaped Maternity Pillow. With its U-shaped design, users are more easily able to switch positions without the need to move the pillow around first. However, depending on what is driving you to shop for a pregnancy pillow and the recommendations of your doctor, you might decide that one of our other recommendations better matches your needs.

Things To Consider When Buying Pregnancy Pillows

Size: Pay attention to size when shopping for a pregnancy pillow. As you shop, you’ll notice that there are a range of sizes to choose from. Some, like wedge pillows, can be relatively small, while others are full-body pillows. To choose the right size, you’ll need to consider your comfort and support needs. Are you looking for a pillow that will cradle your whole body, or do you just need something to support your belly?

Beyond your support needs and sleep preferences, you must also consider the amount of available space. If you sleep with a partner, fitting a larger pregnancy pillow on the bed while leaving space for them to sleep might not be possible. For example, if you only sleep in a full-size bed with a partner, you won’t have as much space to work with as someone who sleeps in a king-size bed with their partner.

As you’re considering size, don’t forget to think about how and where you’ll be storing the pillow when you’re not using it. Do you plan to save it for a future pregnancy? If so, make sure you’ll be able to fit the product you choose in a closet or another storage location.

Shape: Pregnancy pillows are available in a wide range of shapes. The right shape for you will vary based on where you need the most support and your perception of comfort. Here is a little more information about some of the more common shape options:

• Wedge: As the name suggests, wedge pillows can be “wedged” between your belly – or other body parts that need support – and the mattress .
• C-Shape: C-shaped pillows have a curved design with an opening on one side. Dr. Veena Madhan Kumar from iCliniq shares that “These pillows are designed to support your entire body and can be used in a variety of positions, including side sleeping, back sleeping, and sitting.” Pregnant women can place one of the curved edges behind their neck and the other between their legs. Depending on what’s most comfortable, the opening can either go on the belly side or the back side.
• J-Shape: J-shaped pillows function similarly to C-shaped options. However, they only have one curved end, so users need to choose whether they want the support behind their neck or between their legs. These pillows are a bit more compact than their C-shaped counterparts, so they could be a better option for those with more limited space.
• U-Shape: U-shaped pregnancy pillows can offer support for the back and belly simultaneously. Expectant mothers can change positions without the need to move their pillows to the opposite side of the bed. However, with the different support options, these models are very large and can take up a lot more space than other options.

Firmness: As you compare the different pregnancy pillows, don’t forget to also consider the firmness of each option to help you make the right decision. The right firmness for you will depend on your preferences and which parts of your body need support. Different fillings can give pregnancy pillows a different feel. For example, some are filled with foam, which will give them a firmer feel, while others are filled with polyester fibers and will have a softer feel. It may also be possible to find a pregnancy pillow with an adjustable firmness. Some allow users to add or remove filling to suit their personal preferences for comfort and support.

Cover Material: The cover material will impact how comfortable you find it to be when resting. You’ll find that there are different cover materials available. A velvet cover will be soft and cuddly, while a cotton cover might be a better option for hot sleepers.

In addition to considering the overall feel and breathability of each fabric option, it can also be important to look for certifications. For example, you can rest assured that by choosing a GreenGuard Gold certified fabric you aren’t exposing yourself – and your baby– to harmful levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or toxic chemicals.

Fill Type: Beyond considering the cover material, it’s also important to pay attention to the fill type of the pillow. Dr. Lees says that shoppers should start by determining whether they like more firm support or prefer to be able to adjust and reshape the pillow for a more comfortable fit. “Memory foam is a very firm support but isn’t easily moveable. This may be an ideal option for a wedge-type pillow that is used for specific support,” he says. Dr. Lees highlights pillows with microbeads or polyester fiber fillers as another alternative. He explains that these fill materials “allow much more movement and may also sleep cooler.” He says this fill type is particularly favorable for C- or U-shaped pillows since they offer full body support.

For those who are worried about chemicals or off-gassing, Dr. Lees recommends looking for pregnancy pillows with natural fillers, such as cotton, wool, or natural latex. “GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standards) certified pillows are made with organic fabrics that are free of harmful chemicals and toxic dyes. GreenGuard Gold Certified products are free of chemicals and volatile organic compounds. Both are great options for new mothers,” he says.

Versatility: For many, a pregnancy pillow can be a lifesaver during the last few months of their pregnancy. But, some may feel like spending the money to purchase something they’ll only use for a few months isn’t justified. To combat this potential problem, look for pregnancy pillows that offer greater versatility and that you can continue using after giving birth.

As Dr. Kumar shares, “Some pregnancy pillows can be used for multiple purposes, such as nursing or reading." For example, you could wrap a C-, J-, or U-shaped pillow around your waist and use it to support your newborn when breastfeeding. A pregnancy pillow could also be used to prop you up in bed when reading, be placed under your feet to elevate them and alleviate swelling, or even turned into a fort-building accessory for older children.

Care: Look for a pregnancy pillow that’s easy to clean and care for. Manufacturers will offer different cleaning instructions for the products, so take some time to compare these recommendations. Remember, you’ll likely be sleeping with the pillow every night for several months, so you don’t want to choose anything that will be too difficult to clean.

While the pillows themselves may be too large to fit in your washing machine, many come with removable covers that can be cleaned more easily. Dr. Kumar explains that “A machine-washable cover is essential for easy cleaning, especially if you are prone to night sweats.” Moreover, as Dr. Lees points out, “Some pregnancy pillows are used to help support the mom and baby during feeding, so choosing a cover that is easy to wash may be more important after the pregnancy.”

How We Chose the Best Pregnancy Pillows

To help us choose the best pregnancy pillows, we considered feedback and ratings from professional reviewers as well as everyday users. To gain expert insight on selecting the right pregnancy pillow, we also reached out to Dr. Veena Madhan Kumar, an obstetrician and gynecologist with iCliniq ; Dr. Kevin Lees, D.C., the Director of Chiropractic Operations from The Joint Chiropractic, Tricia Kilroy, a physical therapist with Amedisys Home Health , and John Le, a physical therapist with The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics . Finally, we ensured that our list of recommendations included options to match different sleeping and support needs, budgets, and more to make sure each reader could find the right fit for them.

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?

Our contributors and editors have years of experience researching, testing, and reviewing products. This piece’s author, Deirdre Mundorf , has been writing about home- and family-related topics for nearly five years and has also contributed to other sites, such as Bob Vila, House Digest, and Discover Magazine. Marlo Jappen Porto , the editor of this piece, has been a home goods editor at 360 Reviews for more than two years. She’s passionate about helping people find products that improve their health, wellness, and comfort.

“Experts generally recommend that, as the belly grows, sleeping on the left side with bent knees is optimal,” shares Dr. Kumar. She goes on to explain that “This sleeping position is not only more comfortable but also enhances blood circulation for both the pregnant individual and the fetus." Sleeping on the side also places less pressure on the veins and organs than in other positions.

Dr. Kumar explains that “while sleeping on the stomach is considered safe in early pregnancy, it becomes impractical and uncomfortable, typically around the second trimester." Pregnant women should also try to avoid spending too much time sleeping on their back, as lying in this position may decrease the amount of oxygen that’s delivered to the placenta. A pregnancy pillow can help with maintaining the ideal sleep position.

There’s no one right answer to this question; the best time to begin using a pregnancy pillow can vary from one pregnant woman to the next. Tricia Kilroy, a physical therapist who works for Amedisys Home Health , says “Start it as soon as you want! The sooner, the better so you start getting a great night's sleep.”

John Le, a physical therapist with The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics , echoes this recommendation. “As a PT [physical therapist] myself, I encourage patients to use the pillow as soon as possible,” he says. “It’s truly never too soon to get into a comfortable and supportive sleeping position,” he adds.

Many women start using a pregnancy pillow around the midpoint in their pregnancy, as this is when the fetus is growing more rapidly and the mom-to-be’s belly is getting larger. The added strain this expansion can place on the ligaments, coupled with more challenges moving around and getting comfortable in bed, is what often prompts women to turn to a pregnancy pillow for additional support.

Pregnancy pillows are not a one-size-fits-all product. To determine which shape to get, consider your comfort and support needs. If you simply need a little more support beneath your belly, then a smaller wedge pillow might be ideal for you. Those who need a pillow to place between their legs and under their neck, on the other hand, might find that a C-shaped option better fits their need. Others who desire support for both their back and belly could consider a U-shaped option.

There’s no one right way to use a pregnancy pillow. The best position for it will vary based on where you need support and what feels the most comfortable for you. Kilroy of Amedisys Home Health says that she liked to place the top of the pillow underneath her face, and then her knees wrapped around the bottom. Depending on how you’re most comfortable, you might find it best to have the pillow along your back or around your front. Le says, “The best support is under the legs if the woman is lying on her back and between the knees if she’s on her side.”

If you’re using a smaller wedge pillow, the best position for it may also vary. Many find it most comfortable to place it under their bump, while others prefer to put it under their pillow to elevate their head to alleviate heartburn or acid reflux symptoms.

Dr. Kumar explains that “Pregnancy pillows can be highly effective in enhancing comfort and promoting better sleep during pregnancy. They are designed to provide support to the changing contours of the body, easing common discomforts such as back pain, hip pain, and swelling." She explains that another benefit of pregnancy pillows is that they “can also help expectant mothers maintain a recommended sleep position, improving circulation and contributing to overall well-being.”

Yes, you can continue using a pregnancy pillow after giving birth. There are different ways that these pillows can continue to be useful. After delivering your baby, your body will need some time to recover. You might find that the pregnancy pillow helps you maintain a more comfortable sleep position or can keep your feet elevated to reduce swelling. Some pregnancy pillows may also be able to double as a nursing pillow. Wrap the pillow around your waist and use it to keep yourself comfortable and position your baby for feeding.

About Our Team

Deirdre Mundorf

Contributor

Marlo Jappen Porto

Former Editor

U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

The Best Pregnancy Pillows To Stop You From Tossing and Turning at Night

If you’re currently pregnant, you may already be experiencing one of the more unpleasant side effects of expecting: not sleeping well. Between trying to find a comfortable position, heartburn as soon as you lay down, and having to get up to pee all the time, sleeping when pregnant can be a serious challenge. Pair that with back pain, hip pain, and a bulging belly, and it’s a very frustrating mixed bag. That's why finding the best pregnancy pillow is vital to some much-needed shut-eye throughout your three trimesters.

“Before you get too focused on a specific pillow, it’s best to think about your sleep style and how to best accommodate that and troubleshoot any pain or discomfort your current set-up might be contributing to,” says Laura Erlich , holistic fertility and obstetric specialist and founder of Mother Nurture Wellness in Los Angeles.

• Celeste Compton, PT, DT , Celeste Compton, PT, DT is a Physical Therapist & Consumer Content Lead at Origin.
• Christina Burns, L.Ac, FABORM , Dr. Christina Burns is the founder of Naturna and Doctor of Chinese Medicine.
• Felice Gersh, MD , board-certified OB/GYN and founder of the Integrative Medical Group of Irvine
• Laura Erlich , Laura Erlich is a Holistic Fertility and Obstetric Specialist and Founder of Mother Nurture Wellness.

Whether you’re a stomach, back, or side sleeper, there is a pillow for you. While it is recommended that pregnant women sleep on their side , most don’t stay in one position for too long. “Ultimately, people sleep in all sorts of positions throughout their pregnancy—what's most important is that they do sleep and that they sleep well!” says Celeste Compton , PT, DT, physical therapist & consumer content lead at Origin, a pelvic floor and physical therapy center based in California.

Check out our list of the best pregnancy pillows below, with specific expert recommendations included.

• 01 When should you start using a pregnancy pillow?
• 02 Is a U- or C-shaped pregnancy pillow better?
• 03 Is a pregnancy pillow a must?
• 04 Best overall pillows
• 05 Best for back pain
• 06 Best for hip pain
• 07 Best for the third trimester
• 08 Best for feeding
• 09 Bottom Line

{{post.sponsorText}}

When should you start using a pregnancy pillow?

The great thing about maternity pillows is that there aren’t any rules about when to start sleeping with them. “You should start using a pregnancy pillow whenever it becomes difficult to get comfortable in bed,” says Dr. Suzy Lipinski , board-certified OBGYN at Pediatrix Medical Group in Denver, Colorado. Pregnancy pillows can also be used in a variety of ways and, according to Dr. Lipinski, many women start out with using a maternity pillow between the knees to relieve hip pain and then ultimately use it to support their growing baby bumps or for back support later on in pregnancy.   

With that said, Kristin Revere , MM, CED, NCS, a certified birth and postpartum doula, says many mothers she works with begin using a pregnancy pillow during the second or third trimesters. 

Which is better U or C shaped pregnancy pillow?

As far as which pregnancy pillow shape is best, both Revere and Dr. Lipinski says both C and U-shaped pillows are excellent options. “The U-shape provides support front and back and may not have to be completely moved in order to turn over or change position,” says Dr. Lipinski. “However, a U-shaped pillow takes up a large amount of space in the bed,” she adds, noting that this is something to keep in mind when making your decision. 

Is a pregnancy pillow a must?

“No matter what, a pregnant patient needs extra pillows, especially in the third trimester, to support and make sleeping more comfortable,” says Dr. Lipinski. With that in mind, she explains that, while pregnancy pillows are great for this, some might opt for a smaller side sleeper body pillow or additional bed pillows for the body support (and good sleep). 

Best Pregnancy Pillows Overall

This compact two-part pillow keeps you from rolling onto your back or stomach while sleeping. “Pregnant women are generally advised to sleep on their left side for optimal blood flow to the baby,” says Dr. Christina Burns, L.Ac, FABORM, founder of Naturna and doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine,. If you’re not used to sleeping on your side, this can help “train” you to do so, while also supporting your back and belly.

Filling type: Foam

Material: Polyester, rayon, spandex

• It’s compact.
• It prevents you from rolling onto your stomach.
• It has a supportive, ergonomic shape.
• It’s expensive.

“Low back pain gets worse as the belly grows,” explains Erlich. “This is often because the weight of the pregnancy begins to impact posture, leading to stress on the lower back. Overstretched abdominal muscles don’t help matters, so using a supportive pillow is crucial.

Erlich says using a U-shaped pillow, like this highly rated one on Amazon, is often the most dependable for the kind of support needed to keep low back pain at bay.

Filling type: Cotton

Material: Jersey

• It alleviates low back pain.
• It comes in different colors.
• It has detachable parts for customization.
• It’s big and takes up a lot of space.

This plant-based down pillow is perfect for pregnancy. It comes with a 50-day risk free trial, a four-year warranty, and is organic and soft. “The most important place to have a pillow is between the knees and under the head/neck to align the neck and low back,” says Burns. “Longer pillows go between the knees to give support to the back and supply a resting place for the arm. I recommend the Sweet Zzz’s body pillow, especially since it’s organic.”

Filling type: Plant-based down.

Material: Organic cotton

• It’s filled with plant-based down.
• It comes with a 50 day risk-free trial.
• It’s organic.
• It costs over $200.

Best Pregnancy Pillows For Back Pain

This U-shaped pillow is a one and done type of situation. It’s like having four regular pillows cradling your back, neck, belly, and between your knees all at the same time. The pillowcase is washable, and the fill is hypoallergenic. It will also keep you cool thanks to moisture-wicking fibers and alleviate back pain because of the comforting shape.

Filling type: Recycled plastic water bottles

Material: Recycled plastic water bottles

• The pillowcase is washable.
• It has a hypoallergenic fill.
• It’s moisture-wicking.
• It’s large and takes up a lot of space.

This small, compact pillow is great for pregnancy and postpartum. “A wedge pillow can support your belly as it grows and reduce tension in your back. I like this one from Boppy,” says Dr. Compton. This pillow may also be great if you’re more petite thanks to its smaller size.

• It has a removable cover.
• It’s super versatile.
• It doesn’t take up a lot of space.
• It might not offer a lot of support toward the end of pregnancy.

Best Pregnancy Pillows For Hip Pain

This C-shaped pillow has a removable, washable cover with two sides. One side is a soft, jersey T-shirt material while the other is cooling if you sleep warm. The cover is also hypoallergenic and antimicrobial. It relieves pressure on the shoulders, belly, and/or hips, depending on how you position it. Though it’s large, it weighs less than 10 pounds.

Filling type: Memory foam

Material: Air-X fabric

• It’s made from comfortable memory foam.
• It’s not too large.
• It has a cooling design.
• It costs over $100.

This singular pillow supports your head, neck, back, hips, and bump, and can be used in front of you or behind you depending on where you feel pain. By sleeping with it in the front, it will cradle your belly and prop up your knee, leading to more aligned hips. The cover is also washable.

Filling type: Polyester

Material: Polyester

• It costs less than $60.
• It’s large enough to support your entire body.
• The cover is washable.
• We don’t love the pillow cover designs and colors.

This pillow has over 50,000 reviews and 4.6/5 stars on Amazon. “Often a dull ache that wakes you from a deep sleep, pressure on your hips while pregnant can be painful and sleep-disrupting,” says Erlich. “There are a few ways to manage sore hips, the most important being making sure there’s a pillow between your knees and thighs. This helps keep your pelvis in the proper position while you sleep and protects your lower back from getting out of alignment to boot. This can be accomplished with a C-shaped pillow.”

Material: Cotton

• It costs less than $80 for a full-body pillow.
• It comes in lots of colors.
• It has an organic cotton cover.
• It’s versatile.
• Some customers say it’s a bit flat.

Best Pregnancy Pillows For The Third Trimester

This highly-customizable pillow can be positioned in a C, I, L, or U shape to target your specific needs. You can twist and bend the flexible pillow, all while keeping cool thanks to the micro-bead filling that allows airflow. It’s also compact and easy to bring with you if you have to travel.

Filling type: Microbead

Material: Microfiber

• Can be positioned in a C, I, L, or U shape
• It’s machine washable.
• It has a microbead filling, which some might not love.

It can feel impossible to get a full night’s sleep when you’re in your third trimester. As great as body pillows are, we can’t forget about the “regular” head and neck pillow we all need! With a surge of hormones running through your body, you may be experiencing hot flashes. We love this cooling pillow from Allswell which has a special gel layer to transfer heat away from the body. The memory foam fill is comfy and cozy, and the knit cover is machine washable.

When looking for a pillow, Felice Gersh, M.D. , OB/GYN and founder and director of the Integrative Medical Group of Irvine, in Irvine, CA, offers the following advice: “Be sure to check out the types of fabric and quality of the workmanship. Check the return policy in case you are disappointed with either. Also, check on the cooling properties of the pillow, as pregnant women often feel very hot.”

Material: Knit

• It’s cooling.
• The memory foam filling is super comfy.
• It’s antimicrobial.
• You’ll need to provide your own pillowcase.

Best Pregnancy Pillows That Also Work For Breastfeeding / Bottle Feeding

This brand-new launch is a super supportive French cotton that’s quilted and cozy. The cover is machine washable and the fill is comprised of micro-pearls that conform to your body. It can be used in both pregnancy and while breastfeeding a baby, and it’s OEKO-TEX certified.

Filling type: Micropearls

• The cover zips off, so it’s easy to keep clean.
• It has a non-toxic filling.

If basic, boring white pillows just aren’t your thing, may we recommend this chic option from DockATot? It comes in a variety of stylish colors and patterns. Use it between your knees to minimize hip pain, or to cradle your growing belly. It’s designed as a nursing pillow, so obviously it works once you’re postpartum as well and it’s pretty enough to leave on your couch all the time.

Filling type: Not listed

Material: Polyester velvet

• It comes in lots of stylish colors and patterns.
• It boasts a curved, ergonomic shape
• It has a zipper cover so it’s easy to clean.
• It might be a little too small for end of pregnancy.

This best-selling pillow works as a huggable body pillow during pregnancy and then clips closed to form a doughnut for breast or bottle feeding after you have the baby. It can also be used to support your back and neck while you’re in a seated position. The cover is machine washable and it comes in five different prints and patterns.

• You can clip it together to create a donut for breastfeeding.
• The cover is machine washable.
• It costs less than $50.
• We wish it came in more colors and patterns.

The Bottom Line

“Creating a plan to help support great quality sleep while pregnant can be a daunting task,” says Dr. Gersh. “There was a time, not too long ago, when using standard home bed pillows and couch throw pillows were the only options one had when attempting to secure a better and more comfortable sleep experience. Now a wide variety of pillow options exist, produced to facilitate comfort and restful, restorative sleep.”

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12 best pregnancy pillows that provide support and help ease back pain

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Made for use in the second and third trimesters of your pregnancy , pregnancy pillows are ergonomic supports specifically designed to combat common sleep concerns and reduce aches and pains. Having a soft but sturdy support can really help to take the pressure off your hips, back and bump, as well as keep your neck, spine and hips aligned properly during sleep.

With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know which are the best pregnancy pillows. It’s a good idea to first think about what sort of result you want from a pillow. Do you struggle to stay on your side (as recommended by the NHS ) during the night and find yourself rolling onto your back? Would you like something that will take you from pregnancy to postnatal? Consider, too, the kind of material you would like: a breathable jersey or cotton support, or something more cosy? Of course, there’s also the cost to keep in mind.

Leah Hazard , midwife, author of bestseller Hard Pushed: A Midwife’s Story (from £2.99, Amazon.co.uk ) and host of podcast What the Midwife Said , says: “Pregnancy pillows can be great tools for preventing and easing the discomfort that can be part and parcel of any pregnancy, from backache to pelvic-girdle pain and leg cramps.”

She adds: “These pillows can even be used to help you maintain more comfortable, gravity-efficient positions in labour, and can be excellent props for breast or bottle-feeding, once your little one has arrived.”

12 best maternity and nursing bras that are stylish, comfy and practical

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20 best gifts for new parents that they’ll actually use

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10 best baby monitors for peace of mind while your little one sleeps, from video to audio models

How we tested the best pregnancy pillows

To discover the best pregnancy pillows, we thoroughly tested a range of offerings at varying price points. We checked for comfort, support, value for money, innovation and versatility during our third trimester. These pillows were tested throughout the day for their support and functionality as well as during sleep. We’ve included one to suit every sleep preference and budget.

The best pregnancy pillows for 2024 are:

• Best pregnancy pillow overall – Purflo breathe pregnancy pillow, botanical: £59, Amazon.co.uk
• Best budget pregnancy pillow – Little Chick London 4-in-1 pregnancy support pillow: £25.99, Kaleidoscopebabycare.com
• Best full-body pillow – Kally sleep body pillow: £59.99, Amazon.co.uk
• Best luxury pillow – Bbhugme pregnancy pillow: £153, Amazon.co.uk
• Best for back support – Silentnight body support pillow: £27, Silentnight.co.uk

Purflo breathe pregnancy pillow, botanical

• Best : Pregnancy pillow overall
• Dimensions : 43cm x 116cm
• Pillow’s weight : 1.47kg
• Pillow inner material : 100% polyester
• Pillow cover material : 100% polyester mesh with 100% cotton cover
• Great breathability
• Super comfortable
• Helpful for women suffering from hip or pelvic pain
• Versatile size
• Can also be used as breastfeeding support

The breathe pregnancy pillow features an ergonomic shape, designed to provide complete support and comfort for a more restful night’s sleep during pregnancy. The “3D spacer mesh” provides full breathability around your bump, and the pillow also has ultra-soft jersey cotton throughout.

We found that the pillow was extremely comfortable as a curved back support during the day, and it did not require much adjustment or shifting about to get comfortable. It was equally as good when used as a full-body pillow for sleep and would especially support women suffering from hip or pelvic-girdle pain. It’s big enough to support from neck to knees at night, but not so large that it takes up too much space in the bed or that it’s difficult to move when changing positions. The pillow can also be used as a breastfeeding support and for tummy time when your little one arrives.

Read the full Purflo breathe pregnancy pillow review

Little Chick London 4-in-1 pregnancy support pillow

• Best : Budget pregnancy pillow
• Dimensions : 35cm x 30cm x 11cm
• Pillow’s weight : 310g
• Pillow inner material : Polyester
• Pillow cover material : 100% natural bamboo
• Great for side sleepers
• Naturally anti-microbial and moisture absorbent
• Temperature control makes it a great summer option
• Easy to wash cover

Designed to contour the shape of the body, the wedge maternity pillow gently supports the tummy and hips while side sleeping. The supersoft 100 per cent bamboo cover is naturally anti-microbial and moisture absorbent and the breathable design helps with airflow, improving temperature control.

During testing, we found this compact wedge design performed at its best when held between the knees at night to align hips and stop the top knee from relaxing onto the bottom, alleviating pressure. It is also easy and comfortable to push under a heavy bump when side sleeping, and is also a welcome and transportable back support during the day when working from a desk. A good price for a sturdy wedge pillow, it can also be used as a tummy time support for baby, as the cover can be easily removed and washed.

Kally sleep body pillow

• Best : Full-body pillow
• Dimensions : 160cm x 30cm x 35cm
• Pillow’s weight : 1.8kg
• Pillow inner material : Hollowfibre
• Pillow cover material : 50% cotton and 50% polyester
• Not too firm
• Hypoallergenic
• Made by chiropractors

This full-length orthopaedic pillow from Kally Sleep has a soft to medium rating, so it promises not to be too firm. Covered in hypoallergenic and breathable jersey cotton, it was a cosy addition that offered impressive support.

Developed by chiropractors, the pillow is designed to be “cuddled” and can be moulded to your shape. We found it easy to plump up around the back and knees, where support was needed. We found it took the pressure off all the key points that often suffer during pregnancy, and offered a deeper, more comfortable sleep.

Read the full Kally sleep body pillow review

Bbhugme pregnancy pillow

• Best : Luxury pillow
• Dimensions : 150cm x 190cm
• Pillow’s weight : 2.1kg
• Pillow inner material : BioFoam
• Pillow cover material : 95% cotton and 5% spandex jersey fabric
• Award winning
• Developed by female chiropractors
• Range of colours
• Expensive investment piece

Award-winning and loved by influencers such as Chessie King , this pillow is quite the investment for such a short period of time. However, it was developed by three Norwegian female chiropractors specifically to help pregnant women sleep better by supporting the belly, pelvis, lower back and legs, and can be used beyond pregnancy as a nursing support. In our opinion, it’s so attractive it could even get further use around the home.

Coming in a range of colours, the “pebbles” on either end can be adjusted to increase or decrease the firmness of the microbeads inside, enabling it to be shaped around your body. We found the pillow moulded extremely well, and the spandex jersey fabric felt luxe against our skin. It allows for full ergonomic support, whether as a full-length pillow at night, or tied around the back for daily support. It’s not a must-have, but it’s a very worthy investment if your budget can stretch.

Read the full Bbhugme pregnancy pillow review

Dreamgenii pregnancy support and feeding pillow

• Best : For left-side sleeping
• Dimensions : 47cm x 15cm x 35cm
• Pillow’s weight : 1kg
• Pillow inner material : Polyester hollow fibre
• Pillow cover material : 100% cotton
• Encourages an optimal sleeping position
• Encourages maximum blood flow
• Can also be used as a feeding pillow
• Takes some getting used to

Another innovative pillow with a dedicated purpose, this one from Dreamgenii has a unique patented design to encourage you to sleep on your left side – which many believe is the optimal sleeping position during pregnancy . Designed to be used from 20 weeks onwards, the brand says this pillow offers optimised foetal positioning and encourages maximum blood flow between mum and baby.

If you’re prone to sleeping on your back, it might take a couple of nights to get used to this pillow, but we found it did indeed help encourage that left-hand tilt. It’s more comfortable than it sounds – promise. The longer section of the pillow can either be brought up between your legs for knee and hip support at night, or brought around your bump when sitting. When used like this, it can also be used as a feeding pillow, once baby arrives.

Read the full Dreamgenii pregnancy support and feeding pillow review

Silentnight body support pillow

• Best : For back support
• Dimensions : 147cm x 48cm x 4cm
• Pillow’s weight : 1.98kg
• Pillow cover material : Soft microfibre
• Great for those struggling with back pain
• Super helpful for nursing
• Not specifically a pregnancy pillow

While not strictly a dedicated pregnancy pillow, this heavy-duty rectangular model from Silentnight is a good option if you’re struggling with back pain. Crafted from soft, quilted microfibre and filled with squishy hollowfibre, it also comes with a microfibre pillowcase.

We found it to be super-sized and more sturdy and heavy than some of the others on this list. We thought it was great in a V-shape for sitting up in bed to achieve the most comfortable position – extremely helpful for nursing. If you’re looking for great value, excellent supportive padding and versatility, this one’s for you.

Read the full Silentnight body support pillow review

Niimo multifunctional pregnancy pillow and breastfeeding pillow

• Best : For versatility
• Dimensions : 45cm x 43cm x 15cm
• Pillow inner material : Polyester fibre
• Looks adorable
• Super versatile
• Great for feeding
• No overheating

This pregnancy pillow is a semi-circle-shaped support that can be used as a full-body pillow for sleeping, or can be pinned using the wooden hook-and-eye to fit around or behind your body for use as a back support, or, further down the line, to be used as a breastfeeding cushion. The pillow is also advertised as a baby nest , which is a nice touch, but it should be noted this is not its main purpose – babies should not be left to sleep or rest unattended in this product.

We liked the price point and found it to have a medium level of support. The cotton fabric ensured there was no overheating and it was easy to manoeuvre during the night. A supportive pillow at a good price with several different designs to choose from, we think this is an excellent choice for those wanting a few different things out of their chosen model.

Mother&Baby organic cotton support V pillow wedge set

• Best : For value for money
• Dimensions : 59cm x 70cm x 15cm
• Pillow cover material : 100% organic cotton
• Organic cotton great for sensitive skin
• Encourages side sleeping
• Great value

This soft Mother&Baby set is crafted from organic cotton to be gentle on sensitive skin, and can support you in multiple ways. The V-shaped pillow fits around the body to encourage side-sleeping, while the separate wedge can be used between the knees to align hips or as a bump support.

We found this pillow to be best suited to someone who tends to roll onto their back at night, and were impressed by how cooling it felt, thanks to the cotton material. The wedge and pillow, like a few on this list, can double up as a breast, bottle-feeding and tummy-time support, ensuring you get your money’s worth.

Bellamoon the pregnancy and nursing 3-in-1 pillow

• Best : For innovation
• Dimensions : Total length 155cm
• Lots of possible uses
• Looks great
• Easily adjustable

This innovative design from Bellamoon is ideal for pregnancy sleep support, feeding, tummy time, and also for use as a baby lounger. You’ll not find another pregnancy pillow that looks like this one. We enjoyed that the two curved ends could be zipped off and used as standalone pillows for car journeys. When in use as a full-body pillow at night, the unique C-shape meant it could be manipulated easily to give support where it was needed most – either between the legs, or curved around the back.

We found this pillow was a little softer than some others on this list, so, it is best suited to those who want that cosy-but-cool feel. As a bonus, the designs are also beautiful – a welcome addition to the home.

Niimo pregnancy pillow

• Best : Game-changing pregnancy pillow
• Dimensions : Total length 200cm
• Pillow’s weight : 1.48kg
• Prevents rolling onto your tummy
• Keeps you comfy all night long

Having tested for several months, this pillow has been a game-changer. It has stopped us from accidentally rolling onto our tummy, and it now makes us feel comfortable as we’re trying to fall asleep. It fits perfectly through our legs, providing support to regular night-time leg cramps. We also love that it doubles up as a nursing pillow for when baby arrives, and it helpfully buttons up around your waist for hands-free feeding.

There are 12 different designs to choose from, so you can easily find something that will complement your bedding or your baby’s nursery. Thanks to the material being machine washable and tumble dryer-friendly, it meant we didn’t have to spend a night without it – we’ve even used the button to attach it to our luggage for UK babymoons.

Babymoov 2-in-1 U-shape and C-shape maternity pillow

• Best : For back and leg support
• Dimensions : 175cm
• Pillow’s weight : Unspecified
• Pillow inner material : Expanded polystyrene microbeads
• Pillow cover material : 95% organic cotton, 5% elastane
• Supportive memory foam like feel
• Great on hot days
• Makes sitting at a desk much comfier

We were instantly delighted to find this two-in-one pillow had more like four-in-one benefits during testing. While the clever microbeads were a highlight for silently moulding to a comfortable curve shape to support our bump, thanks to memory foam-like fabric, our favourite use of the pillow was for elevating our legs (particularly on hot days, to reduce swelling) and also to wrap around our lower back for optimum comfort. Using the back support really did mean we could comfortably sit at our desk for longer on busy work days.

The pillow comes with a U- and C-shape cover to use for sleep during pregnancy and as a nursing or tummy-time support for when baby arrives. We were grateful for how easy the clever cushion could fit into both pillow cases, which can be machine washed at 30C.

We also loved the handy storage bag to keep the cushion clean when taking away with us on staycations.

AS Awesling pregnancy pillow

• Best : For winter
• Dimensions : ‎139.7cm x 78.74cm
• Pillow’s weight : 2.85kg
• Pillow inner material : 3D PP cotton filling
• Pillow cover material : Velvet
• Perfect for winter snuggling
• Great price

If you’re pregnant throughout the winter season, look no further than this pregnancy pillow, which feels more like a cosy cuddle to comfort all of your body’s aches and pains.

For such a bargain price, we highly recommend this option for back, leg and bump support throughout the night, plus the luxury of the soft, velvet cover is such a bonus for colder months. Without the velvet pillowcase, the cushion feels more breathable for hot days but does feel a little too invasive during heatwaves.

There’s no faff of having to move the pillow if you switch sides during the night as you have double the support. What we can confirm is your lie-ins will definitely be longer than usual because the unrivalled comfort is hard to leave. There’s no doubt this will be a saviour post-birth, too.

It has the longest arms of all the pillows we’ve tested, which make for an excellent nursing pillow when baby arrives, too.

Pregnancy pillow FAQs

What to look for in a pregnancy pillow.

There are a number of things to consider:

• Design – There are different styles available, depending on the support you require. A U-shaped pillow is often the size of your body and can be wrapped around you. C-shaped designs, on the other hand, curve around your body to help ease pressure on your back and bump when sleeping on your side. There are also smaller, wedge-like pillows that tend to support one particular area – for example, your pelvis or back.
• Size – Pregnancy pillows tend to be quite large, so, if you don’t want yours to take up your entire bed, we’d recommend looking at wedge-shaped designs.
• Material – Keep an eye out for breathable fabric, such as cotton, if you tend to get warm at night. It’s also worth bearing in mind what materials make up the pillow’s inner, because, if you suffer from allergies, a hypoallergenic model may be necessary.

How to sleep using a pregnancy pillow

Of course, every pillow may have slightly different instructions on how to get the most comfortable position out of it but, generally, many will follow a U-shape approach. Position the pillow in an upside-down U, lay in the middle, popping your head and neck on the top and following the shape under your belly and in between your legs. This ensures neck, belly, hips and pelvis are all well-supported and should hopefully make for a much comfier sleep.

What stage of pregnancy should you start using a pregnancy pillow?

There is no specific time when the use of a pregnancy pillow is recommended – it’s mostly down to your personal comfort levels throughout your pregnancy. Most people tend to pick one up during their second trimester, as this is when the belly starts to pop and it carries more weight behind it, therefore causing more strain on the rest of your body.

The verdict: Pregnancy pillows

For a soft but supportive sleep with a pillow that will take you from day to night and to breastfeeding and beyond, our best buy is the Purflo breathe .

The Bbhugme – while expensive – is a high contender for its luxury feel as well as its adjustable firmness. For a compact but effective knee, hip or stomach wedge for an attractive price, Little Chick London’s 4-in-1 pregnancy support pillow might just be your winner. Happy sleeping!

For underwear that will keep you comfortable and supported through your pregnancy and beyond, read our review of the best maternity and nursing bras

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15 Best Pregnancy Pillows for Sweet, Back-Soothing Relief

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

You're swollen, nauseous, sore, and achy — just the right combination for a good night's sleep, right? Not. That's when you should ditch your regular pillows and invest in one of the best pregnancy pillows that can actually provide back and belly support, and depending on the shape, cuddle your entire body in comfort. The truth is, your body is going through massive change as it grows a little human, and it can experience a whole host of physical discomforts even before you have the weight of a baby bump to worry about. One word to blame for that: hormones. 

According to Washington D.C.-based board-certified OB/GYN  Stephanie Hack , MD, pregnancy hormones relax the ligaments throughout the body (including the pelvis), which can lead to hip and back pain. As you move further along in your pregnancy and your uterus grows, this can also contribute to pain, as this causes stretching and pulling on the ligaments in your pelvis. And of course, as you enter the second and third trimesters, you have the baby's weight to consider, which can put a strain on your back muscles and pressure on the pelvic floor, says Georgia-based board-certified OB/GYN and medical director at Pediatrix Medical Group  Jill Purdie , MD.

There's no magic wand that can erase all pregnancy aches and pains (wouldn't that be nice?), so the next best thing is to consider using a pregnancy pillow for extra support. "Pregnancy pillows are designed to cradle the abdomen and offer additional support for the growing uterus," says Dr. Purdie. "A pregnancy pillow may be used during any trimester but is the most helpful after 20 weeks when the uterus comes out of the pelvis and becomes part of the abdomen." 

Comfort is the number one priority when it comes to these nifty pillows, which are ideal for taking pressure off of the hips and back since they help keep your spine in a neutral position. (Note: If you find that you're not getting relief from a pregnancy pillow or your symptoms worsen, it's best to contact your doctor.)

Choosing the right pregnancy pillow isn't always intuitive — size, shape, and firmness are all important factors to consider. Here are the 15  best pregnancy pillows to help pregnant people get that much-needed (and well-deserved) rest. Happy snuggling.

Our Top Picks

• Best Overall: Boppy Side Sleeper Pregnancy Pillow , $35
• Best U-Shaped Pillow: Queen Rose Full-Body Pregnancy Pillow , $45
• The Coolest Pillow: Threshold Cool Touch Pregnancy Body Pillow , $49
• Adjustable Shape: Frida Mom Adjustable Keep-Cool Pregnancy Pillow , $70
• Best Full-Body Pillow: Newton Baby Pregnancy Pillow , $80
• Best Memory Foam Pillow: Cocozy CloudSoft Adjustable Maternity Pillow , $150
• Best for Side Sleepers: Belly Bandit S.O.S. Side Sleeper Pregnancy Wedge Pillow , $80

Best Overall: Boppy Side Sleeper Pregnancy Pillow

Boppy Side Sleeper Pregnancy Pillow

Dr. Hack is a fan of this Boppy pregnancy pillow because "it's affordable for most budgets, durable (I've used the same for all three of my pregnancies), and easy to clean," she says. The Side Sleeper Pregnancy Pillow is a fan-favorite for its sheer versatility: Secure it underneath your belly for side sleeping; use it to prop yourself up on the couch; place it underneath your feet for elevating your lower half; or wedge it in between your legs to keep your spine aligned. Its compact size makes it great for those with smaller beds (and easy to store).

Best Full-Body Pillow: Newton Baby Pregnancy Pillow

Newton Baby

Newton Baby Pregnancy Pillow

If you're looking for full body support, Dr. Hack recommends a C- or U-shaped pregnancy pillow like Newton Baby's, which is adjustable to U, C,  and J configurations. Its filling is made up of a memory foam and fiber cluster blend (a.k.a. it's super comfortable) and the hypoallergenic cover features temperature-regulating organic cotton that makes night sweats a thing of the past.

Best C-Shape Pillow: Leachco Snoogle Total Body Pillow

Leachco Snoogle Total Body Pillow

Dr. Purdie explains that a C-shaped pregnancy pillow like Leachco's Snoogle Total Body Pillow offers a good amount of support for either your front or back — the choice is yours. Though this is a full-body pillow, it has a slimmer profile than others in the same category, making it a great option for those with queen-size (or smaller) beds. We also appreciate the fact that the pillow's jersey material keeps it lightweight, making it especially handy for summer pregnancies.

Best for Side Sleepers: Belly Bandit S.O.S. Side Sleeper Pregnancy Wedge Pillow

Belly Bandit

Belly Bandit S.O.S. Side Sleeper Pregnancy Wedge Pillow

Typically, wedge pillows only target one specific area (your belly), but Belly Bandit's S.O.S. Side Sleeper Pregnancy Wedge Pillow does so much more. It's actually a three-piece set that offers all-over relief via a belt, back support, and wedge pillow. Especially good for  side sleepers (or back sleepers needing a bit of encouragement to sleep on their side, as is recommended by the  American Pregnancy Association ), this pick is fully equipped with velcro tabs to help you maintain your sleeping position — plus, it comes with a convenient travel case for on-the-go comfort.

Best for Travel: Momcozy Pregnancy Wedge Pillow

Momcozy Pregnancy Wedge Pillow

If you find yourself traveling during your pregnancy, ease aches and pains wherever you lay with Momcozy's Pregnancy Wedge Pillow. The beauty of this support pillow is it's compact enough to fit in any carry-on or weekend bag and has an adjustable strap to snugly hug your growing bump, no matter what stage of pregnancy you're in.

Best U-Shaped Pillow: Queen Rose Full-Body Pregnancy Pillow

Queen Rose Full-Body Pregnancy Pillow

For a full-body experience that you'll enjoy during and even after pregnancy, snuggle up to the ultra-large, 55-inch Queen Rose Full-Body Pregnancy Pillow. Its unique U-shape provides all-over body support for moms-to-be and it also features a removable cover that's made of plush velvet for a cloud-like feel.

Adjustable Shape: Frida Mom Adjustable Keep-Cool Pregnancy Pillow

Frida Mom Adjustable Keep-Cool Pregnancy Pillow

No matter what shape you want your pillow to take, the Frida Mom Adjustable Keep-Cool Pregnancy Pillow will literally bend to your needs. That's all thanks to this pillow's jointed design, which allows it to bend into a C-, U-, or J-shape and beyond.

Best for All Laying Positions: Buffy Wiggle Pillow

Buffy Wiggle Pillow

Don't let the unassuming design on Buffy's Wiggle Pillow fool you — this pillow conforms to the body no matter where on your body you position it. The Tencel lyocell fabric cover is one of the more breathable fabrics while the recycled-plastic filling is equally cushy and supportive. Throw one of Buffy's cozy, machine-washable covers (for $69 a pop) on top, and  voilà, it doubles as a decorative pillow.

The Coolest Pillow: Threshold Cool Touch Pregnancy Body Pillow

Threshold Cool Touch Pregnancy Body Pillow

Hot sleepers, rejoice. The Threshold Cool Touch Pregnancy Body Pillow is one of the best body pillows for keeping you cool during the summer and beyond. As this U-shaped pillow keeps you cool, its medium-density polyester filling provides moderate support for your growing belly.

Most Design Options: Bamibi Pregnancy Pillow

Bamibi Pregnancy Pillow

Whether you're lounging and need lumbar support or sleeping and need pain relief, Bamibi's Pregnancy Pillow is up to the task. The polyester filling feels comfortable and extends just the right amount of firmness as it wraps around the body. Looks-wise, we like that the pillow features a discreet zipper (which makes for a sleeker look) and comes in six designs (we're partial to the grey hearts).

Most Back Support: Yana 360° Body Pillow

Yana 360° Body Pillow

We know — Yana's 360° Body Pillow costs a pretty penny, but hear us out. There are two fill types available: cooling gel and natural latex. Either way, the pillow hugs every curve of the body and offers maximum support for your back and beyond. Arguably the most impressive feature? To ensure it's not an eyesore when not in use, you can tie up the pillow into a decorative knot. Genius.

Best Wedge Pillow: Hiccapop Pregnancy Pillow Wedge

Hiccapop Pregnancy Pillow Wedge

It's tricky business figuring out what firmness to go for when it comes to pregnancy pillows, but Hiccapop's Pregnancy Pillow Wedge makes the process easy. One side features soft memory foam for when you feel like melting into the bed and the other features firmer foam for when you're in dire need of support. In any case, Dr. Hack notes that a wedge pillow, in general, is ideal for providing additional support to your abdomen, pelvic floor, and lower back.

Two-In-One Pillow: Babymoov B.Love 2-In-1 Pillow

Babymoov B.Love 2-In-1 Pillow

Bloomingdale's

Like efficiency? Babymoov's B.Love 2-In-1 Pillow takes one less thing off of your  baby registry , serving up the benefits of a pregnancy pillow  and  a nursing pillow in one. Its primary use, while you're pregnant, will be to bolster your back, legs, and belly for ultimate comfort, but once you’re officially in your postpartum stage, it converts into the perfect breastfeeding pillow for your little one, conveniently wrapping around your midsection. Other elements we love: This pillow features microbead filling, which is known to hold its shape well and provide considerable support, and the pillowcase is machine-washable on gentle cycles.

Adjustable Firmness: Coop Home Goods Adjustable Full Body Pillow

Coop Home Goods

Coop Home Goods Adjustable Full Body Pillow

We say pregnancy pillow, they say do-it-all pillow. The Coop Home Goods Adjustable Full Body Pillow is good for anyone who appreciates quality sleep — expectant mothers included. Use it to side-sleep when you're pregnant, and then add or remove the fill as needed to accommodate other areas of your body when you're not — especially if you're usually a back or stomach sleeper.

Best Memory Foam Pillow: Cocozy CloudSoft Adjustable Maternity Pillow

Cocozy CloudSoft Adjustable Maternity Pillow

Gone are the days of tossing and turning in bed — Cocozy's CloudSoft Adjustable Maternity Pillow is just what you need for a good night's sleep. This ultra-plush, extra-long pillow is filled with memory foam, which both Dr. Hack and Dr. Purdie note as being the most comfortable fill type. It also comes with a bamboo cover, meaning it's super breathable and will never cause you to overheat.

More on pregnancy:

• "Pregnancy Nose" Reveals Are Sweeping TikTok
• 11 Skin-Care Products That Are Safe to Use While Pregnant or Nursing
• 31 Best Gifts for New Moms That'll Make Their Lives Just a Little Easier

Now watch Jenna Lyons walk through her gorgeous home:

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7 Best Pregnancy Pillows With Nontoxic Materials (2024)

The Good Trade editors endorse products we’ve personally researched, tested, and genuinely love. Learn more about our methodology and business model here .

Our team reviewed dozens of pregnancy pillows to find organic and nontoxic options that are comfortable, supportive, and safe for you and your growing baby. These are our top picks.

Counting sheep, or counting kicks to the bladder? Anyone who’s been pregnant knows the difficulty of getting that much-needed sleep during those crucial months. From the increased movement (it’s practically science that fetuses love midnight karate) to the diminishing real estate (oof!), it’s almost impossible to get comfy enough for a full eight hours by the third trimester.  

According to a 2021 study , pregnancy pillows can improve sleep quality, especially if you’re new to side sleeping. While they aren’t a silver bullet, pregnancy pillows can offer significant support to a pregnant body. Since side-sleeping is an ideal position for optimal circulation, getting that extra support for your neck, hip alignment, and growing belly is essential.

Why consider nontoxic or organic pillows?

Unlike traditional box store pillows, organic pregnancy pillows are made with nontoxic materials and free from harmful chemicals, so you can focus on getting quality rest for yourself and your baby. That’s right: organic and nontoxic means no off-gassing or strange smells (or weird fillers). Quality materials also offer more support, as they are crafted carefully and, sometimes, even made to order by smaller brands.

Our methodology & criteria:

• ORGANIC  | Each of these brands uses non-toxic and organic materials for pregnancy pillows — no toxic chemicals or off-gassing!
• COMFORT  | Comfort is key — our editors have personally tested these pillows and scoured online reviews to find the best of the best so you can have optimal comfort during your pregnancy.
• PRICE  | Each of the brands we’ve included offers a fair value for the pillow’s cost. We considered durability, longevity, and ease of cleaning. These pillows can last beyond pregnancy and make great body pillows for after pregnancy, too.
• SOCIAL GOOD  | The brands below have a variety of social good and environmental initiatives and are brands we love to support.

While you’re probably busy stocking up or creating a registry of essential items for your new baby, don’t forget about yourself: here are our favorite organic maternity clothes , nursing bras , and the best natural prenatal vitamins . To upgrade your sleep beyond pregnancy, check out our organic mattress guide.

Best For | An ergonomic body pillow for before, during, and after pregnancy Nontoxic & Organic Materials | GOLS-certified Melofoam™, GOTS-certified 100% organic cotton cover Price | $199–$328

From one of our very favorite weighted blanket brands comes this squishy ergonomic body pillow—perfect for before, during, and after your pregnancy. Called “The Cuddler,” Bearaby ’s newest innovation is made of GOLS-certified Melofoam™ (basically an all-natural rubber foam that is soft and conforming). What we love most is that, in addition to the white organic cotton cover, you can select covers in warm and cozy colors to match your bedroom or baby nursery. The only downside (which isn’t really a downside) is that it’s quite large at 75” x 8” — our editors wish they could carry it with them everywhere!

Customer Review | “So pleased I finally purchased this. I was intimated by the high cost and after months of looking – I finally decided I was worth this. The best purchase. While I don’t sleep with this, I do use for lounging. It supports my joints- hips, shoulders and back. I don’t get up off the sofa aching. The versatility and lots of different shapes you can make this into. Very supportive- a perfect blend of support and softness.Highly recommend!” – Kathryn P. ( Read all reviews .)

Best For | Hip alignment Nontoxic & Organic Materials | GOLS-certified organic Dunlop latex, organic cotton Price | $248

Coyuchi ’s organic latex body pillow is the perfect, huggable solution for side sleepers who need support between their knees. The large body pillow is designed to fit around you so that your spine and hips are secured in a snug, supported position all night long. The GOLS-certified latex filling is firm yet plush, and the organic cotton case is removable for easy cleaning, making this cozy body pillow a winner for pregnancy and beyond. 

Customer Review | “I purchased this for my partner who had been sleeping with multiple pillows supporting her legs. She loves this pillow and it has now replaced all other pillows she was using for her legs. Success.” – John P. ( Read all reviews .)

3. Naturepedic

Best For | Restless sleepers Nontoxic & Organic Materials | Organic cotton & PLA plant-based filling Price | $219

While not strictly a maternity pillow, Naturepedic ‘s body pillow is a comfortable, safe, and nontoxic pillow for the side-sleeping months of pregnancy. With fill made from non-GMO sugarcane, this certified vegan pillow comes with an impressive pedigree of safety certifications, a 100-night trial, and 1 year warranty to book. Encased in a moisture-wicking organic cotton sateen, you’ll be cozy and cool all night long.

Customer Review | “I use this pillow every night. I am a side sleeper, who just recently had neck and nerve issues. I purchased these pillows solely for that reason. The first night sleeping on them, I woke the next day feeling more revived.” – Nikki ( Read all reviews .)

4. Snuggle Me Organic

Best For | Belly and feeding support Nontoxic & Organic Materials | Organic cotton Price | $82

For a minimal and highly versatile support option, we love the Snuggle Me Organic Feeding Support pillow. This compact crescent-shaped pillow is a low-key workhorse, easily wedged beneath your belly during sleep or in your lumbar while sitting. Available in a wide range of cute hues like gingerbread or gumdrop, these organic cotton pillows are soft, comfy, and safe to use as a feeding pillow too when the time comes!

Best For | Budget-friendly support wedge Nontoxic & Organic Materials | Organic cotton cover Price | $25

The Boppy Pregnancy Wedge offers firm, pinpoint support for moms before and after birth. Its compact design makes it perfect for travel or lower back support while sitting. The wedge provides precise support for your bump, back, and knees, helping with posture and hip alignment. The best part about Boppy is that transitions seamlessly to postpartum support, ideal for nursing or daily back comfort. (Plus it’s a steal for budget conscious folks!)

Customer Review | “This was a really wise purchase for me! I use it sleeping on my side AND to prop up my back on the couch. I’m sure once baby is here I’ll use it in some other creative way. Really glad I bought this, highly recommend.” – Jena G. ( Read all reviews .)

6. Mini Camp

Best For | Thoughtful designs Nontoxic & Organic Materials | OEKO-TEX Certified fiber balls, organic kapok, GOTS-certified cotton Price | $93–$163

If you’re not sure what style of pregnancy pillow you need, Mini Camp ’s collection of C-shaped, U-shaped, and lumbar pillows will take care of all your needs! Their bestselling U-shaped pillow is made with luxury GOTS certified 100% fine poplin cotton, offering extra comfort and breathability. Designed to provide head-to-toe support for your belly, back, knees, and shoulders, it’s perfect for expectant mothers, those with neck or back pain, or anyone needing a good night’s sleep. Choose between PES fiber balls made from recycled PET bottles or organic kapok for the filling. 

Customer Review | “Customer service is so kind and responds very quickly! We just received a pillow today and it is perfect. It is so comfy and big and my son is already obsessed with it!!! BUY IT!” – Cassandra ( Read all reviews .)

7. Woolroom

Best For |  Fully machine-washable pillows Nontoxic & Organic Materials | Organic UK wool, organic cotton Price | $230

Woolroom ’s crafted the world’s first organic washable wool “V” shaped pillow, made from certified organic British wool and cotton. Hand-crafted in the EU, this pillow is fully machine washable and features a quilted cover that adds comfort and regulates temperature. Its firmness is customizable with a zipper, and the filling is made of 100% traceable, washable British wool balls. Give it a whirl with Woolroom’s 30-night sleep trial!

Customer Review | “Absolutely love this pillow. And I also bought a body pillow which is also wonderful. Would highly recommend, quality is outstanding and customer service as well.” -Anonymous ( Read all reviews .)

Featured image by Bearaby

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Best Pregnancy Pillows

Getting a good night’s sleep when you’ve got a baby on the way is essential, but it can also be a real challenge. That’s why many mamas enlist the help of a good maternity pillow to keep them cozy through each trimester. Of course, every sleeper has unique needs, and every pregnancy pillow is different… So how do you know which is the best fit for you?

Well don’t worry, folks, my best pregnancy pillow review is here to help. In this guide, I’m presenting a wide variety of maternity pillows designed to keep you comfortable through all 40 weeks. Plus, I’ll provide you with the need-to-know tips and tricks to consider when you’re out shopping on your own.

Best Pregnancy Pillows 2024

• Best Overall Pillow – Coop Sleep Goods Original Maternity Adjustable Pillow
• Best Cooling Pregnancy Pillow – Buffy Wiggle Pillow

Best Pregnancy Pillow for Hip Pain – Tuft & Needle Body Pillow

Best u-shaped pregnancy pillow – queen rose, best pregnancy pillow for the money – boppy side sleeper, best pregnancy pillows video.

Disclaimer: The content on Sleepopolis is meant to be helpful and informative, but should never replace medical advice. If you have any health questions or concerns during your pregnancy, be sure to consult your doctor or healthcare provider.

Best Overall – Coop Sleep Goods Original Maternity Adjustable Pillow

Coop sleep goods original maternity adjustable pillow.

The Coop Maternity adjustable pillow is plush, soft-to-the-touch, and completely customizable…a mother’s dream. It's made with a microfiber and memory foam blend that's completely hypoallergenic.

When purchasing the best pregnancy pillow, you’ll want to find something with a flexible shape . This allows you to adjust the pillow to your needs as your body changes with the various stages of pregnancy — a time period that’s usually accompanied by new aches and pains.

The Maternity Adjustable Pillow from Coop Sleep Goods fits the bill, as it’s completely moldable. Running the entire length of your body, it has a long, tubular shape that you can coil around your knees, hug with your whole form, or place into any other configuration you can think of. When your little one arrives, you can even spread it out on your lap as a nursing pillow. Also, you can add or remove as much of the cross-cut memory foam filling as you want until you reach your desired fill and loft.

When we tested out the Coop Sleep Goods Maternity Adjustable Pillow, we found its slow-moving foams to be cushioning yet supportive. It felt especially good under the neck, providing pressure relief while still keeping the head and shoulders aligned. We also thought the cover was soft and breathable, which should make this sleep accessory a good fit for any expectant mothers experiencing hot flashes. Additionally, the cover is removable and machine-washable for easy cleaning.

Price: $99, one size only. 

Perfect For: Any sleepers in the market for a n adjustable pregnancy pillow .

Best Cooling Pregnancy Pillow –  Buffy Wiggle Pillow

Buffy wiggle pillow.

The Buffy Wiggle pillow was specifically designed for pregnant side sleepers looking for extra belly support.

Sleepopolis Score

For moms out there wanting a full body pillow that doesn’t trap too much heat, we’d love to introduce the Buffy Wiggle Pillow. It’s got a caterpillar-like design that allows for support throughout the body and throughout the night.

Its super cooling technology comes from a lightweight Tencel fabric, which is also known for its elegant feel and high quality. This extremely effective material is able to absorb moisture and promptly wick it away, so it doesn’t trap heat.

There are a variety of ways to use this body pillow because of its length and adaptable nature. We think that eco-conscious shoppers will especially enjoy this pillow, as Buffy markets it as one that “recycles approximately 55 plastic bottles” with every pillow. Its Tencel fiber is a more eco-friendly option than other materials, and its fill is BPA-free and kid-safe.

Price: $109, one size only. 

Perfect For: Sleepers looking for a unique and cooling body pillow .

Tuft & Needle Body Pillow

Made with breathable and eco-friendly materials, the Tuft & Needle Body Pillow serves as a model for high pillow quality.

Sleepers looking for a pregnancy pillow to relieve their hip pain might be best suited to the Tuft & Needle Body Pillow.

Its longer, more rigid design, as well as its higher loft, pairs great with side sleepers and anyone who wants something to cuddle . Something unique about Tuft & Needle’s model is that it was specifically designed for pregnant side sleepers, so support and comfort were both top of mind. And as for hip pain, placing part of this lengthy pillow between the knees can release tension and relieve discomfort.

This pillow contains a number of high-quality materials constructed to maintain durability and keep its shape throughout the night. The Tuft & Needle Body Pillow is covered with a Supima cotton shell, known for its crispness, and can be gently washed and dried.

Price: $95, with a 120-night trial. 

Perfect For: Side sleepers looking for a body pillow to alleviate hip pain .

Queen Rose U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow

The Queen Rose has a versatile U-shaped design and can be propped up against a wall or headboard to enjoy some back support.

Shaped like the letter U, the Queen Rose was designed to support the natural contours of your body from head to toe and in every trimester. 

If you’re in the early stages of pregnancy and can still comfortably sleep on your back, feel free to nestle right in the middle of this U-shaped pillow and let the lofty sides cradle your body . Or, if you’re strictly side-sleeping, take comfort in the fact that you never have to reposition this pillow, as both sides will be there to support you no matter which way you turn. 

Covered in jersey cotton and amply stuffed with polyester fiber, the Queen Rose pillow offers a plush yet supportive feel. And while the cover fabric comes in a regular cotton option as well, jersey cotton is usually a better pick for those who run hot.

Something my pregnant helpers liked about this pillow is that it can be propped up against a wall or headboard to enjoy some back support while you watch TV or read a book. And while it is bigger than some of the other pillows on this list, keep in mind that it comes in four different sizes .

Price: $40–$65, depending on size. 

Perfect For: Moms looking for a versatile U-shaped pillow for full-body support .

Boppy Side Sleeper Pregnancy Pillow

The Boppy Side Sleeper is great for those transitioning to side sleeping and comes in at an affordable price.

Up next is the Boppy Side Sleeper, a double-bean shaped pillow that’s perfect for moms on a budget. 

The Boppy Side Sleeper features a unique construction wherein two oval-shaped pillows are attached by a stretchy piece of fabric. As I mentioned earlier, this design is a spin on the traditional bean pillow , and is ideal for folks trying to acclimate to side sleeping. Essentially, you lay right in the middle of the beans, and allow each one to support your back and belly. 

What’s cool about this pillow is that the middle panel of fabric is stretchy enough to grow with your belly as it gets bigger. So, both my pregnant helpers were able to comfortably slip between these two beans, despite being at different stages of pregnancy . They said the polyester fiber that fills each bean is plush and super supportive, and this design is perfectly suited to side sleeping. It’s also very reasonably priced at about $25.

Price: $25, one size only. 

Perfect For: Moms who are trying to train themselves to side-sleep .

Methodology: How To Shop For a Pregnancy Pillow

Before we dive into this round-up, let’s cover a few basics. Firstly, sleep is extra important when you’re pregnant, as your body needs extra energy to nourish the new life growing inside you. That said, finding the pillow that meets your individual needs can be a great way to ensure you’re getting the rest you require. ( 1 ) There are a lot of factors to consider when you’re shopping for the perfect pregnancy pillow, including sleeping position, size, shape, and materials.

Trimester and Sleeping Position

It’s important to note that the trimester you’re in has a lot to do with finding the right pillow. For example, if you’re in your first trimester or the early stages of your second , you might still be able to comfortably sleep on your back. If so, you might find that a U-shaped pillow is ideal, as it’s built to support both back and side sleepers.

But if you’re more than 20 weeks pregnant, the side-sleeping position is widely regarded as the only safe and comfortable option. ( 2 ) That’s why third trimester mamas should make sure they have one (or a couple) maternity pillows that offer full-body support for the side-lying position . Luckily, most pregnancy pillows are designed to support side sleepers, as women are generally limited to this position in their third trimester.

Size and Shape

Pregnancy pillows come in a wide range of sizes, but typically fall within four main shapes — the U-shape, C-shape, bean, and wedge. Each one offers its own special kind of support, so let’s discuss the perks and pitfalls of each shape below:

The U-Shape

Perhaps the most popular of the bunch, U-shaped pregnancy pillows are hailed for their versatility and full body support . Quite literally curved in the shape of the letter “U,” these big ol’ sleep accessories pretty much envelop your body in pillow. There’s the top part for your head and neck, and then two long sides that support your back and belly.

Additionally, U-shaped pregnancy pillows are great for sleepers looking for something supportive to hold under their arms and between their legs in order to relieve hip pain and align the spine . Essentially, U-shaped pillows are kind of like having multiple pillows in one.

That said, the main downfall here is size. U-shaped pillows are typically pretty big, and take up quite a bit of real estate on your bed, which might bother your bed partner . They’re also rather difficult to travel, which is something to consider for moms on the go. Of course, if you’re looking for a maternity pillow that’ll support your whole body whether you’re on your back or side, the U-shape is a great way to go.

The C-Shape

The C-shaped design is kind of like the U-shaped pillow, but cut in half. It’s got a curved top part for your head and neck, a long midsection for your back or belly , and a curved bottom that you can hold between your legs. But unlike the U-shaped pillow, this one doesn’t provide support for your back and belly at the same time.

Instead, it’s up to you to position this pillow in a way that’ll provide support where you need it most. That said, many moms may prefer this style because it takes up much less space . Additionally, C-shaped pillows can be coiled up and placed beneath the feet or knees to improve circulation and relieve back pain.

The bean-shaped pregnancy pillow is small, oval, and easy to travel with (whether you’re driving or just moving from the bed to the couch). Most folks use it to support targeted areas of the body like the lower back, especially when sitting in an upright position. But this compact accessory is great for sleeping too.

To boost blood flow and relieve back pain, tuck your bean beneath your knees or feet. You can also hold it between your legs to alleviate lower lumbar pressure and align the spine . Additionally, some bean-shaped pillows feature this double-bean design, wherein two lofty pillows are separated by a thin, stretchy patch of fabric.

We’ll talk more about this in a moment, but it’s worth noting that the double-bean makes a particularly good pick for early trimester moms trying to train themselves to sleep on their sides.

Finally, the wedge pillow is a great pick for folks looking to save space. It’s typically pretty small, easy to carry, and offers versatile support for your back and bump . For example, some sleepers like to slip a wedge pillow beneath their belly to support it while they slumber, while others keep it behind their back to prevent them from rolling over.

And similar to the bean-shape, the wedge pillow is a great pick for folks on the go. You can put it on your seat cushion for extra support, or place it behind your lower back to relieve pressure on a long journey. Another benefit to the wedge is that it tends to be more affordable than other styles.

Filling and Fabric

Once you’ve settled on the size and shape that works for you, it’s time to consider filling and fabric. Again, there are a few major players within the sphere of pregnancy pillows, including memory foam, polyester fiber, and cotton .

Sleepers looking for something more firmly supportive are typically best suited to memory foam, as it tends to be the most dense. Wedge pillows, for example, are often filled with a molded piece of memory foam that’s firm enough to keep your bump propped up and supported (no matter how far along you are).

That said, folks who prefer a cushier feel might prefer cotton or polyester fiber, as these materials are a bit softer and easier to manipulate. Additionally, maternity pillows filled with polyester or cotton are often adjustable , allowing you to make certain areas softer or firmer.

Of course, internal fill isn’t the only thing to consider when you’re shopping for maternity pillows, as cover fabric plays a big role in how cooling your pillow will be . If you need help staving off night sweats, aim for a pillow covered in a breathable or moisture-wicking material like jersey cotton, bamboo, or polyester.

Test Performance

We at Sleepopolis are all about personally testing products, and I’ve thoroughly examined the specs of each pillow on this list. However, I’m not pregnant, so I enlisted the help of two women who are. One is at the end of her first trimester, the other is in her third trimester, and they’re going to help me determine how well these pillows work.

At around 20 weeks, your womb begins to grow, your belly starts to get bigger, and you’ll probably want to relieve some pressure with a pregnancy pillow. That said, you should feel free to start using a pregnancy pillow anytime you want. In fact, first trimester moms might want to take those first 12 weeks to get used to their new maternity pillow.

Toward the later stages of pregnancy, women are encouraged to sleep exclusively on their sides. Putting a pillow between your legs and/or beneath your bump when you’re in the side-sleeping position can relieve pressure at the hips and lower back, and serve to align the spine as well.

Some moms may not want to sleep with a U- or C-shaped maternity pillow, and would prefer a standard body pillow instead. That said, those in their third trimester might find that a traditional body pillow doesn’t provide enough contoured support for their growing bump. However, those looking to relieve lower back or hip pain can place a body pillow between their legs or behind their back for extra support.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve seen my top favorite maternity pillows, you’re well on your way to picking the one that’s right for you. Just remember that every body is different and it’s important to keep a close eye on shape, size, and materials in order to find the one that meets your unique needs. And in the meantime, be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Happy sleeping, everybody.

Sarah Riccio

Former Senior Writer and Bedding Expert

About Author

Sarah is the former senior writer and bedding expert at Sleepopolis. She received her degree in Creative Writing from Brooklyn College and spends her free time doing stand-up, making pasta, and hanging with her cats.

Side Sleeper

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The Best Travel Pillow

By Sabrina Imbler

Short of scoring a row of empty seats—dream on!—your best bet for getting at least a little sleep while flying is a travel pillow.

After asking 10 panelists to try on eight travel pillows and after taking four cross-country red-eyes in window, aisle, and middle seats, we think the comfortable and easy-to-pack  Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow is the best travel pillow for most people.

Everything we recommend

Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow

The best travel pillow.

Its tall memory-foam walls let it offer more support than any other pillow we tested. It’s also shaped to sit flush against a headrest, and it compresses to a manageable size.

Buying Options

Cabeau Evolution Classic Pillow

A travel pillow available at airports.

This memory-foam neck-support pillow is highly adjustable, but without a contoured back, it can’t quite sit flush with the headrest. It’s available at many airport stores, though.

Trtl Pillow

A pillow for one-sided neck support only.

It’s a fleece scarf with a built-in plastic brace—like a one-sided neck brace, but softer and cozier. However, it’s not so great if you tend to shift position while you sleep, and it costs more than the other pillows we recommend.

Bcozzy Pillow

Great with large headphones.

Featuring an adjustable design that accommodates over-the-ear headphones, the Bcozzy is an excellent chin-support pillow for people who nod forward as they sleep.

The uniquely angled back on the Travelrest Nest Ultimate sets it apart from other travel pillows because it can lay flat against the seat back. Most other pillows have a rounded back, which pushes your head away from the headrest. The Travelrest also has rubber grip dots to prevent slipping while sleeping.

This pillow’s spongy memory foam cushions the entire circumference of your neck, preventing your head from leaning far in any direction, and its adjustable Velcro strap ensures it can fit most necks. The pillow’s cozy velour exterior is removable and machine-washable. Although it doesn’t pack flat, the Travelrest weighs less than a pound and compresses to a quarter of its size when rolled into its Velcro-strapped carrying case.

Our only complaint is that the Travelrest’s high walls, while supportive, can push over-ear headphones off of the ears of people with shorter necks. While the memory foam feels plush, it’s also quite firm; this offers excellent support, but not much give.

It also doesn’t let you adjust the fit, like our two wrappable picks: the Turtl and the BCozzy . If the Travelrest fits your neck, it’s an excellent pillow. If your neck is much longer or shorter than this pillow’s 5-inch wall, though, you might prefer the fit of one of our other pillow picks.

If our top pick sells out, or if you find yourself pillowless past security, the Cabeau Evolution Classic Pillow is almost as good a pillow.

It lacks the Travelrest’s angled, lay-flat back, but its U-shape, contoured memory-foam core and machine-washable velour cover still provide comparable levels of comfort. Its adjustable string closure also means that you can fit the pillow much tighter around your neck than you can with the Travelrest, making it a good choice for people with smaller necks or people who prefer a more constricted fit.

Additionally, it’s the only one of our picks that we’ve regularly seen in stores located behind the security checkpoint at many airports.

If you typically lean to the same side while sleeping, the Trtl Pillow’s fleece-covered plastic frame provides unshakeable support to one side of your neck while remaining comfortable to wear. It’s basically a one-sided neck brace.

The pillow’s cozy wraparound fleece will also keep your neck warm, making it a good choice for anyone who gets cold while flying (and a poor choice for those who sleep hot). But the Trtl’s winning quality is its tiny, packable size.

Unlike any of our other picks, the Trtl does not need to be compressed or stuffed into a carrying case. It will always take up about as much space as a PB&J sandwich. (It costs a lot more than one, though.)

The Bcozzy , a variation on the hemi-doughnut theme, is our pick for anyone who wears large over-the-ear headphones on a flight or tends to nod forward while they sleep.

The pillow’s overlapping ends form a snug cushion that holds your chin in place far better than do the Trtl’s plastic frame or the Travelrest and Cabeau’s chin-facing gap. While the pillow does not provide great support to either side of your neck, if paired with a large pair of headphones, the Bcozzy holds a head in place perfectly.

While not as compressible as our other picks, the pillow has a small loop that can be clipped to the outside of most bags so it doesn’t have to take up space inside your bag.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked our best travel pillow finalists, how we tested travel pillows, our pick for the best travel pillow: travelrest nest ultimate memory foam travel pillow, runner-up for the best travel pillow: cabeau evolution classic pillow, also great for portability: trtl pillow, also-great chin-support pillow for forward-nodders: bcozzy pillow, other good travel pillows, the competition.

I am a frequent flyer who often takes red-eyes from coast to coast—I now live in Brooklyn but fly home to San Francisco to visit my parents. I’m also an insomniac, so falling asleep on planes has never been easy for me.

While writing this article, I tested eight travel pillows on two five-hour flights and slept with our four picks on two more cross-country flights. I also spoke with Rebecca Robbins, a postdoctoral fellow at the NYU Center for Healthful Behavior Change at the time of the interview, to see what she looks for in a travel pillow.

In addition, my Wirecutter colleagues as a whole are an exceptionally mobile group. We’ve worked remotely from every continent except Antarctica, so I asked some folks on staff which pillows they like and use regularly. (They’ve also since contributed some additional testing.)

Boarding a red-eye without a travel pillow in your bag is like choosing to sleep on the floor when there’s a perfectly good futon nearby. Sure, it’s no bed, but it’s a hell of a lot better than hardwood.

In an interview she did in 2017 with The Atlantic reporter Kelly Conaboy, Dr. Mary O’Connor, then the director of Yale’s Center for Musculoskeletal Care, said that despite a lack of clinical studies that support the efficacy of travel pillows, “Many of us who travel have experienced falling asleep with our neck in a weird position and it bothering us thereafter. So, I think they can be helpful, but that depends on how they’re used and whether they support the neck.”

In other words, using a supportive pillow may decrease the chances you wake up with an unwanted crick. It certainly has in our experience.

However, not all travel pillows are the same, and if you also happen to have a zealous hatred of your travel pillow, you probably have a bad one. So even if you have a generic pillow you picked up at some airport a few years ago, consider upgrading to one of our picks. And of course, these pillows work well on buses and trains, too.

So how can you tell if a pillow is likely to actually support your head? Rebecca Robbins, a postdoctoral fellow studying sleep at the time of our interview, says the best travel pillows will keep your head elevated and in alignment with your spine: “Look for something that would really be supportive. My one gripe with most travel pillows is that they’re too soft and not too full—you want something that will be supportive as you try to get comfortable in your limited space.” Robbins also recommends finding a pillow that can keep you cozy but not too hot, as she says it’s easier to sleep with a lower body temperature.

Robbins does her best to avoid one common travel situation. “My number one sleep tip is to not take a red-eye if you can avoid it,” she said. “If the flight is five hours, you’re going to only have three hours of true rest, because all the announcements—‘lower your window,’ ‘raise your window.’ Those can be significant distractions.”

We also looked at existing editorial reviews for guidance. Ethan Green , founder of the sleep resource blog No Sleepless Nights, compiled an extensive comparative review of popular travel pillows that we found helpful when deciding what models to test.

For people who want a travel pillow that will ease some of the discomfort of sleeping upright on a bumpy plane ride, we’ve identified the following key features:

• Comfort and support: The pillow should offer ample support for the weight of your neck and head but not restrict your movements or feel too tight.
• Portable (but not inflatable): You don’t want your travel pillow to take up so much space in your carry-on that you can’t bring other things you need, so it should compress to a smaller size. Barring that, there should at least be a way to clip it to the outside of your bag or luggage. Inflatable pillows are easy to pack but should be avoided. They inevitably spring a leak, often sooner rather than later.
• Soft: The material should feel plush against your skin but not trap so much heat that it’s uncomfortable to wear.
• Universal fit (or as close as possible): The pillow should allow space for people to sleep with a ponytail or accommodate bigger hair, as well as a whole variety of head shapes and sizes and neck lengths.
• Sleeping styles: It should also accommodate people who move their head in any direction while they sleep. It should also work in a window, a middle, or an aisle seat.
• Speed of compression/decompression: In case you need to quickly stow your pillow before exiting the plane, or if you want to catch some shut-eye in a moment’s notice, it shouldn’t take too long to stuff the pillow into its carrying case or unfold it to full size.
• Weight: Ideally, the pillow shouldn’t add undue burden to your carry-on. While inflatable pillows will always be the lightest option, memory-foam pillows don’t weigh much more and can offer significantly more comfort.
• Grip/traction: Your head will likely move around a bit while sleeping on a plane, especially if there’s turbulence. So any kind of grip or traction around the bottom of the pillow will help it stay in place and keep you snoozing.
• Machine washable: As you might expect from a vessel that ferries hundreds of people back and forth across the sky on a daily basis, planes can be filthy. So you’ll want to be able to wash the whole pillow—or at least its cover—before you take it on your next trip.

We researched more than 40 travel pillows—which ranged from variations on a hemi-doughnut to inscrutable crowdfunded designs—and after comparing hundreds of glowing and enraged Amazon reviews, we decided to test eight. We asked a panel of 10 people to try each of the pillows in a chair pushed against the wall of a conference room (the closest we could come to airline conditions in our office) and surveyed them on the fit, comfort, and support of each pillow. The panelists all had a variety of neck lengths and jaw sizes, and one even had a substantial beard. We also ran all of the pillows or their detachable pillowcases through a washing machine as instructed to see how well each stood up to a spin cycle and tumble dry.

And because simulations are rarely enough, I brought eight travel pillows on two cross-country flights to see how the pillows felt in the specific back design of an airplane seat. As I was lucky enough to have unnecessarily kind and understanding neighbors (thank you, Mike and Deborah!), I wore each of these pillows in a window, a middle, and an aisle seat to see if they felt comfortable in each configuration. I also tried on Deborah’s Muji travel pillow (as she offered), but determined it had much less support than our picks. I also carried all of our picks on two more cross-country flights on a different airline to ensure the pillows did just as well in different seat designs.

The Travelrest Nest Ultimate remains our top pick after several years because its plush but firm memory-foam core offers more support to your neck than that of any other pillow. It’s also one of the few pillows we tested that felt specifically designed for an airline seat, with an angled, grippy back that aligns perfectly to both upright and reclined positions and ensures the pillow won’t slide down as you nod off.

The velvety-soft pillow supports heads and necks of all sizes and can be fitted with an adjustable cord and clasp. In the tried-but-true shape of a hemi-doughnut—imagine a doughnut with a bite taken out—the Travelrest Ultimate may look like other pillows, but a number of thoughtful details make it a softer, more supportive pillow than all the rest.

The Travelrest offers better all-around support than any other pillow we tested. Its broad, marshmallowy walls hug the whole circumference of your neck. It feels supportive but not stifling. The easy-to-fasten Velcro strap means it can be adjusted to a snug fit for necks of many sizes. There’s even a small crevice for curlier hair or a ponytail.

In addition to fitting your neck, the Travelrest’s back tapers up to a point to fit flat against an airline seat back. Most neck pillows lack this tapering on the back and the excess padding can push your neck away from the headrest, causing your neck to droop forward. Additionally, the Travelrest has grippy dots on the back that prevent it from slipping.

In addition to its excellent support, the Travelrest is very comfortable and cozy to wear. Its memory-foam core is wrapped in velour, which kept my neck warm without overheating it. The Travelrest’s velour also felt softer and smoother against my skin than similar coverings on other pillows, such as the Cabeau Evolution. It’s also easy to clean: The Travelrest’s cover is easily unzipped and machine-washable. The velour retained its softness after going through a wash and dry cycle.

While the Travelrest isn’t inflatable, it packs down to the size of a roll of toilet paper in its carrying case. Once you fold it cinnamon-roll style and it’s small enough to fit inside the bag, a Velcro strap on the pouch helps you compress it even further. If there’s still not enough space for it in your bag, you can always clip its drawstring to any exterior loop.

All of these thoughtful details were not lost on our testing panel. They gave the Travelrest the highest marks of any pillow in comfort and neck support, and two-thirds of our testers picked it as their favorite pillow.

How the Travelrest has held up

After over a year of use, this pillow had lost none of its supportiveness. The memory foam was just as firm and springy as it was when we bought it. Its velcro strap was still easy to secure. If it fits you, this is a pillow that stays secure and comfortable on your neck for the duration of a long flight. However, we’ve also heard from multiple travelers that this pillow doesn’t fit them. The memory foam is quite firm, which offers excellent support, but not much give. If a pillow of up to 5 inches doesn’t fit comfortably on your neck, we think you’ll be happier trying one of our other picks.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

The Travelrest Nest Ultimate will never compress to the thin, flat size of a tiny pillow like the Trtl . But its unparalleled, cushiony support can still pack down to a reasonable size, and its 13 ounces won’t make your carry-on noticeably heavier. And if saving space is your highest concern, we think the Trtl provides space-conscious support without the spit-filled fuss of an inflatable pillow.

While the Travelrest’s voluminous plush can support all heads that lean left, back, or right, the pillow may not hold up the chins of people with smaller faces. When my head bobbed forward, my small face sank into the gap between the pillow closure and my neck. You can adjust the Velcro strap for a tighter fit, but the short strap cannot be pulled as tight as the Cabeau’s adjustable strings.

The Travelrest’s unbeatable support is in part due to the height of its sides, designed to come up to the jaw of the wearer. This means the pillow may be incompatible with larger over-the-ear headphones for people with shorter necks. For instance, when I tried to wear the Travelrest with my noise-cancelling Bose headphones , the pillow pushed the headset uncomfortably far up on my head, taking my earlobes with it. However, my editor, who has a longer neck, didn’t have this problem.

If you want a tighter, more adjustable fit, the Cabeau Evolution Classic  (which used to be called just the Evolution) is the way to go. Its contoured memory-foam design offers almost as much neck support as our main pick does, albeit without some of the Travelrest’s luxurious height. But the Cabeau’s adjustable clasp allows a far greater range of cinching than the Travelrest. In other words, the pillow can fit as tightly as you like.

Like the Travelrest, the Cabeau’s hemi-doughnut shape offers 360 degrees of support for anyone wearing it. It also boasts a cushioned memory-foam core and a contoured top that will keep your neck upright and head in place. But unlike the Travelrest’s gently arched bottom, the Cabeau’s flat bottom won’t sit as securely on your shoulders and may move around during your sleep. The Cabeau also lacks the Travelrest’s smartly tapered, grippy back that helps keep the pillow in place during flight. The Cabeau’s velour cover is also machine-washable, but it feels less soft than the Travelrest’s.

Although the Cabeau’s fit and shape aren’t quite as good as the Travelrest’s, this pillow is more adjustable. It can be tightened or loosened with two adjustable strings that clip together, which results in a far more adjustable range than the Travelrest’s short strip of Velcro. If you have a smaller neck and know you find a tighter grip on your neck comforting, the Cabeau may be the way to go.

Like the Travelrest, the Cabeau also packs down to a quarter of its size, thanks to an adjustable strap bisecting its carrying case. But at 15.2 ounces, it’s a bit heavier than the Travelrest.

Unlike any of our other picks, the Cabeau Evolution Classic is sold in many of those ubiquitous news stores inside airports. So if you find yourself lacing up your shoes after security and wishing you had bought one of our picks before your flight, look for the Cabeau’s contoured shape among the novelty hemi-doughnuts dangling off the travel pillow racks. It’s the best pillow you can buy at an airport. But if you have the chance to order online, the Travelrest offers more support.

There is a newer model of the Evolution Classic, the S3 , which has straps to hook onto a seat’s headrest. We think it’s a good choice if the Classic version is out of stock or otherwise unavailable. It’s still supportive and comfortable, but not as thick or soft as the Classic.

The Trtl Pillow , though odd-looking and unconventional, won a contingent of ardent fans with its firm support and slim, packable size. But it’s not our top pick because it works on only one side, and its warmth-trapping fleece can cause your neck to overheat. It’s also the most expensive of our picks.

The Trtl consists of an arched plastic skeleton inside of a soft, fleece scarf that wraps once around your neck and then closes with Velcro to hold the pillow in place. You just lean your head against the convex end of the bendy frame, wrap the pillow around your neck, and your head has a soft but firm pedestal on which to rest while you sleep. It sounds weird, but it’s not that different from a neck brace—only it’s one-sided and softer.

Because the Trtl Pillow is little more than a scarf with a plastic plate in it, it packs down to the size of a sandwich and can lay flat against the back of your bag. This is the smallest travel pillow we tested and also requires none of the squashing or awkward cinching it takes to stuff the Travelrest or Cabeau into their holding bags, which are also easy to lose. Unlike any of the other pillows we’ve seen, the Trtl is small enough to fit inside a briefcase or handbag, making it the best option for people who don’t normally travel with backpacks. And at a featherweight 5 ounces, the Trtl is the lightest pillow we tested.

Though the Trtl can support your head from only one side, the tall, bendy plastic frame inside offered more support on that one side than either the Travelrest or Cabeau . Yet even with its soft, wraparound design, it lacks the all-around support provided by our top and runner-up picks. If you are an asymmetrical sleeper (if you prefer sleeping with your head leaning to one side), the Trtl may be a good choice. However, it’s not a good choice for people who nod forward—the plastic insert is too stiff. If that’s you, we prefer the Bcozzy .

Some testers found the Trtl’s quasi-corseted-turtleneck design off-putting. But then again, no one looks cool wearing any travel pillow. And on that note, the Trtl’s cozy fleece will keep your neck toasty. So if you know you run hot, the Trtl may not be the pillow for you.

Wirecutter’s Ganda Suthivarakom swears by the Trtl: “It packs almost flat, weighs next to nothing, and can be helpful for sleeping even when you are stuck in a middle seat. As someone who is always cold on the plane, I don't mind the whole fleece scarf design, either.”

Trtl has a more padded version of the pillow that claims to be more adjustable; one of our longer-necked staffers tried it and reported that it is indeed more comfortable for him than the original Trtl was. However, the same limitations of the original apply to the new version.

The Bcozzy is a snakelike spin on the traditional hemi-doughnut that’s perfect for anyone traveling with large headphones or people who tend to nod forward while sleeping and wake themselves up. It lacks the tall, supportive sides of our other picks, but the overlapping front is the perfect height to keep your chin from nodding forward as you doze off. It’s not as supportive on the sides, but this leaves ample room for big headphones.

The Bcozzy’s best advantage is its overlapping circular design, which allows you to adjust the pillow to degrees of personal preference. You can place the overlapping ends of the pillow around any point of your neck (though it only really makes sense in the front or on the sides), and wear the pillow as loose or as tight as you’d like. We think it’s most comfortable when the ends meet right under your neck—and in that position, it cushions your chin better than any other pillow we tested.

The longer, leaner Bcozzy lacks the plush, ensconcing neck support of the Travelrest Nest Ultimate or Cabeau Evolution Classic . It lays so low on your shoulders that it might not even touch your jaw. But this makes the pillow perfect for anyone who likes to wear over-the-ear headphones along with a travel pillow while they sleep on the flight. I personally like to fall asleep to music and drown out the dull roar of an airplane, so the Bcozzy works perfectly for me.

We still think the Travelrest Nest Ultimate is a superior overall hemi-doughnut pillow, but the Bcozzy is an excellent choice if you plan to wear big headphones or know the feeling of that sharp, waking drop when your head falls forward on a plane.

The Bcozzy is also one of the least packable pillows, as it doesn’t come with a carrying case and does not compress particularly well. But its 7.4 ounces is around half the weight of the Travelrest or Cabeau, and it does comes with a little loop that clips onto the outside of a backpack or duffel. And even when squished down at the bottom of a bag, it doesn’t take up that much more space than the Travelrest or the Cabeau.

If you’re a back sleeper who can fall sleep sitting upright in your seat, facing forward, and not need to curl up or lean your head on the airplane window: You may want to try the Posture+ Travel Pillow, which is a U-shaped neck cushion, padded with memory foam, that looks like the back half of a cervical collar. When testing it, we slept surprisingly well, but it won’t suit all (or even most) sleep styles. It’s also not machine-washable.

If you have a shorter neck and tend to run hot on planes and would prefer a pillow designed to keep you cool: Consider the ventilated Cabeau Evolution Cool —the combination of a silky polyester cover (similar to spandex) and vented design did feel mildly cooler against our necks. And we liked the pillow’s silky feel, packable size, zippered carrying case. But it was significantly smaller than the standard Cabeau Evolution Classic and the Travelrest Nest Ultimate, and it left the chins of long-necked testers totally unsupported. It’s also more expensive.

If you always lean to the same side when sleeping: Consider Travelrest’s All-in-One , which has a novel across-the-shoulder design that could be comfortable in such a situation. It has a similar fabric to the company’s winning Ultimate Memory Foam Neck Pillow, but in our tests its bulky inflated tube offered no structured head support, which could pose a problem in bumpy conditions.

If you tend to be a forward-falling head bobber: Consider the Caldera Releaf , which is less travel pillow and more neck brace. It does offer superior neck support, but it constricted the throat too much for our comfort.

The Trtl Pillow Plus , a later addition to the Trtl lineup, is more height-adjustable and has more padding than its older sibling . Our self-described “giraffe-necked” tester said that it did indeed fit him better than the original Trtl had. However, it still supports your head from only one side, making it not a great choice for sleepers who nod forward. It’s also bulkier than the original and costs more.

The Cabeau Evolution S3 is a newer version of our runner-up pick , the Evolution Classic. We liked it, and we think it’s a solid choice if the original Evolution isn’t available. It has added straps that you can hook onto a headrest to keep your head from falling forward while you sleep, but our runner-up pick is softer and slightly thicker, which offers a bit more support. We did find the S3 to be easier to roll up into its carrying case, however.

Intrigued by one of the stranger innovations that we’ve seen in travel pillow design, we tested the Huzi Design Infinity , but we can’t recommend it. Instead of cinching or clasping at the front, it is designed to be looped several times around the wearer’s neck like an infinity scarf. But the pillow failed to support our testers’ necks. Regardless of who tried it, testers found that looping it twice was too loose and thrice was too tight. It was also the largest and least compressible pillow we tested.

The J-Pillow offered a singular, three-pronged design that proved impossible for anyone to figure out without instructions. After some explanation, our testers could wear the pillow correctly, but they still felt that its squishy stuffing offered insufficient support, and only to one side of the head. It’s also impossible to pack away efficiently due to its pyramidal shape. If you want a one-sided pillow, skip this and go for the Trtl instead.

We tested the inexpensive Travelrest Curl because we loved its plush and contoured big cousin, the Travelrest Nest Ultimate. But while the Curl contains the same luxurious memory-foam filling as the Ultimate, the pillow is so small that many testers found that it didn’t even come up to their jaws when worn. It does have an attractive price, but its skimpy size and unsupportive design could support only the shortest of necks.

We found the air-filled Sea to Summit Aeros Traveller Pillow to be similarly lacking. We liked how easy it was to fill—its dual-valve inflation mechanism means it won’t let air out between breaths—and we appreciated that it weighed only about a fifth as much as the Travelrest, but the Travelrest’s 360-degree support made it too hard to go back to an open-ring design that offers no support in the front. Also, one of our former freelance writers recently reported that when she pulled her pillow out of storage, after a few years of not using it, its internal bladder disintegrated in her hands.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Rebecca Robbins, postdoctoral fellow at the NYU Center for Healthful Behavior Change , phone interview , October 20, 2017

Meet your guide

Sabrina Imbler

Sabrina Imbler is a former staff writer for Wirecutter, where they covered kitchen tools and HVAC.

Further reading

Pluto Pod Travel Pillow: A First-Class Sleep Experience in Economy

by Dorie Chevlen

This travel pillow is so great you won’t even care if you look silly wearing it.

The Silly-Looking Trtl Travel Pillow Is the Only Way I Can Sleep on Flights

by Elissa Sanci

You might look funny while wearing the one-sided Trtl travel pillow in flight, but you won’t care when you land at your destination bright-eyed and bushy-tailed.

The Best Lumbar Support Pillow

by Ayanna Redwood-Crawford

If you slouch while sitting at your desk for long periods or suffer from back pain after a long workday, a lumbar support pillow can make all the difference.

The 36 Best Gifts for Frequent Travelers

by Samantha Schoech

We’ve put together a selection of fun, useful and clever gifts for that person who always has a trip planned.

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Pharmedoc Pregnancy Pillows, U-Shape Full Body Pillow – Removable Cooling Cover -Dark Grey – Pregnancy Pillows for Sleeping – Body Pillows for Adults, Maternity Pillow and Pregnancy Must Haves

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About this item.

• Our new U-Shape Pillow now comes with a special Cooling cover that is cool to the touch and helps disperse heat. Perfect for the summer or during pregnancy to help you feel cooler through the night.
• The pregnancy pillow features a detachable extension that can be used as its own full body pillow, or attached the main body pillow for additional back or belly support, making this an excellent pillow for pregnant women and just about anyone else!
• This maternity pillow measures 53" inches long, 31" inches wide, and 7" inches high, making this the ideal contoured support pillow for your back, belly, legs, and neck... all in one!
• MORE THAN JUST A PILLOW FOR PREGNANT WOMEN - This full body pillow is perfect for ANYONE needing more support, recovering from surgery, or tired of having to use separate pillows to support their head, neck, legs, and back
• Try the PharMeDoc U-Shaped maternity pillow today, RISK-FREE. You're covered by our lifetime manufacturer warranty and 100% satisfaction guarantee.

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Pregant Review of the Pregnancy Pillow

Mark Morinii

Pregnancy Pillow- Does it Really Help?

Life With Eileen

Is This Pharmedoc Pregnancy Pillow REALLY Worth The Price?

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Why I wouldnt buy this again

Pregnancy cooling pillow!!

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• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 3 star 68% 13% 9% 4% 6% 9%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 2 star 68% 13% 9% 4% 6% 4%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 1 star 68% 13% 9% 4% 6% 6%

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Customers say

Customers like the comfort and sleep quality of the body positioner. They mention it's super soft, fluffy, and wraps around them like a hug. Some also like the pillow quality. However, some are disappointed with its flatness. Opinions are mixed on the support, value for money, build quality, and size.

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Customers like the comfort of the body positioner. They mention it's soft enough to feel like a pillow and wraps around them like hugs.

"...I got comfortable quickly , fell asleep quickly, slept all the way through the night without tossing and turning, and I woke this morning without any..." Read more

"...It offers exceptional comfort , support, and functionality. The cooling cover is a thoughtful addition, and the quality of the pillow is top-notch...." Read more

"...It’s extremely soft but durable enough to not collapse under your weight...." Read more

"...increasingly less tossing and turning and definitely waking up without back and hip discomfort ...." Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the support of the body positioner. Some mention that it has good support and a useful shape. They appreciate that it cradles their body, helping to maintain proper posture. However, others say it doesn't provide the greatest back support depending on how tall they are.

"...It offers exceptional comfort, support , and functionality. The cooling cover is a thoughtful addition, and the quality of the pillow is top-notch...." Read more

"...I like that it has support on both sides that way if I want to turn onto my other side I have that added support between my knees...." Read more

"...When sleeping with butt facing the opening, it doesn't provide the greatest back support depending on how tall you are because you have to keep the..." Read more

"...shape and size are perfect for my needs, and I appreciate how it cradles my body , helping to maintain proper alignment...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the sleep quality of the product. They mention it does wonders for side sleeping and helps them relax. They also say it has helped them feel well rested and has provided a significant improvement in their overall quality of rest.

"...I got comfortable quickly, fell asleep quickly , slept all the way through the night without tossing and turning, and I woke this morning without any..." Read more

"...It’s great for lounging , reading, or watching TV, and I’m sure it will continue to be useful long after my pregnancy...." Read more

"...The pillow helps relieve some of my unbearable pains " Read more

"...may not like this as I feel it keeps you cozy and helps with needing less blanketing at night ...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the quality of the pillow. They mention it's amazing, nice, and comfortable. The cover is soft and luxurious. The fabric is super soft and cool. There's give to the pillow, which makes it easier to maneuver around at night. It just cocoons them in perfectly, giving them a pillow between their knees.

"I'm NOT pregnant, just a side and belly sleeper. This pillow is amazing . I stacked it on my regular pillow and it just wraps around you like a hug...." Read more

"...I'm glad I took a chance on this pillow because it truly is amazing . It's soft yet supportive. It wraps me in comfort and security. It's adjustable...." Read more

"...This pillow has been great! The fabric is soft and cool . I love that the knee pillow detaches to fit tour need and comfort...." Read more

" This pillow is amazing . I got the organic cotton and it was well worth the extra money because it’s soft and nice and cool...." Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the value for money of the product. Some mention it's worth the money, while others say it'll rip and is not practical.

"...It takes and a day or two to fully expand... Well worth the money ." Read more

"This pillow is amazing. I got the organic cotton and it was well worth the extra money because it’s soft and nice and cool...." Read more

"...Overall with all these discomfort it is not a good value ." Read more

"...I’m 22 weeks pregnant and I use this every night. Worth the buy ." Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the build quality of the body positioner. Some mention it's well-made and holds up its shape quite well, while others say it'll fall apart or tear easily. The cover is very bulky and the top pillow for the head is pretty flimsy.

"...how well the stuffing will hold up in the long run, it feels like it may breakdown over time ...." Read more

"...Durability and Quality: The pillow feels well-made and durable . The fill is plush yet supportive, and the overall construction is sturdy...." Read more

"... Durability not the best but works great for what we paid.. 👍🏼..." Read more

"...It’s extremely soft but durable enough to not collapse under your weight ...." Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the size of the body positioner. Some mention it's a great size and has the perfect amount of cushion for support. Others say it takes up a lot of room and doesn't compact easily.

"...I've washed it several times and haven't had a single issue. It is very jumbo though!..." Read more

"...Pros: -Size is perfect for me (I am 5' tall and weigh 132 lbs) and seems to be versatile as my husband and daughter have both laid on it and..." Read more

"great product however it is very hard to store as it is so big and bulky." Read more

" It is big and so you can move it around but the curve is a bit short for me - I’m 5’6” and if it was a bit longer on the straight side would be..." Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the flatness of the body positioner. They mention it gets flat very quickly, and the seams come apart. Some say the pillow is not firm and will go flat while sleeping on it.

"...It seems that the pillow is already starting to flatten out in the areas where my legs typically rest...." Read more

"...did not have as much filling as the rest of the pillow and was too flat for me ...." Read more

"...Also, at first the flat bit seems really weird , but that's been my favorite feature as I've found that I've been able to lie most comfortably facing..." Read more

"I really love the shape of this pillow, but the filling seems kind of flat ...." Read more

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THE JUMBO GREY COLOUR IN THE AD DOES NOT MATCH IRL (IRL, THE COLOUR IS A NICE LIGHT GREY)

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How to Use a Pregnancy Pillow: 9 Positions to Try for Optimal Sleep

When I got pregnant with my first son, I thought the idea of a pregnancy pillow was ridiculous. I was sleeping just fine. However, as my pregnancy progressed, sleeping with a beach ball essentially attached to my abdomen became more and more difficult. My husband surprised me with a pregnancy pillow, and after one night, I never turned back.

That pillow came back early in my second pregnancy and I wouldn't do a third without it. If you are wondering how to use a pregnancy pillow to maximize sleep, we detail the different pillow styles and the best pregnancy pillow positions to try so that you can get the best sleep! 

Pregnancy Pillow Types

Before we jump straight into how to sleep with a pregnancy pillow, it's helpful to know the various types. There are three main styles to choose from — U-shaped, C-shaped, and wedge. You also have the option of using a basic body pillow to get a similar result. As you might guess, these pillows look exactly the way they sound. Here are the key details to know about each:

• U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow: This bedding accessory provides expectant moms with head, belly, and back support. This does take up a lot of space on the bed, so it is best larger sleeping spaces.
• C-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow: This pillow provides less support. Moms can either prioritize their belly or their back, along with their head. However, it also takes up much less space.
• Wedge Pregnancy Pillow: The wedge pillows are the smallest options, and they are designed to prop up any area of your body. This includes your head, belly, back, legs, or feet. 
• Body Pillow: This is a long and narrow pillow that can be used under your belly or against your back. It will not provide proper head support, though. Many people already have these bedding accessories in their homes, so if you are hesitant about buying a pregnancy pillow, this can be a good option to try first. 

Helpful Hack My husband purchased me the  Pharmedoc U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow . I loved this product because it can be converted into a C-shaped pillow thanks to a simple zipper. This allowed me to customize my sleep aid as my pregnancy progressed and my needs changed. If you detach the one side, it can be used to prop up your legs or feet. The pillow case also comes off for easy washing!

How to Use a Pregnancy Pillow: 9 Positions for Comfort and Support

Once you've selected the pillow best suited for you and your bed, you need to know how to get the most out of this sleeping accessory! Here's how to use a pregnancy pillow to optimize sleep and the variety of pillow positions that you can choose from to stay comfortable during pregnancy . 

U-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow

For this pillow, place the "U" upside down on your bed, with your head positioned in the curve. You can then prop your belly onto one side of the pillow. For optimal support, also place the top of the sides of the "U" between your knees. 

C-Shaped Pregnancy Pillow

Since the C-shaped pillow can be used to support either the belly or the back, it can be used in two ways. For belly support, place your head in the curve with the side of the "C" facing your belly. Prop your stomach onto the side and then slide the bottom of the "C" between your knees.

Conversely, for back support, place your head in the curve with the side of the "C" laying against your back. Then, slide the bottom of the "C" between your knees. 

Wedge Pregnancy Pillow

Wedge pregnancy pillows are extremely versatile bedding accessories. Here's how to use a pregnancy pillow of the wedge variety based on your specific needs:

• For Acid Reflux Relief: Slide it under your normal pillow with the higher end at the head of the bed and the smaller end closer to you. This pregnancy pillow position will keep you at an incline, helping to prevent pregnancy heartburn and indigestion.
• For Stomach Comfort: When you sleep on your side and you are farther along in pregnancy, gravity pulls your belly downwards, which can lead to discomfort. Slipping the smaller side of the wedge pillow under your stomach can help to provide support and prevent this pulling feeling. 
• For Pelvis and Leg Support: Your pelvis is likely already feeling uncomfortable, and when you lie down on your side, your legs are no longer aligned properly. Placing the wedge pillow between your knees (with the shorter end situated between them) can put your pelvis in a neutral position and keep your spine aligned properly. 
• For Swollen Feet: While sleeping on your back is never recommended during pregnancy, you can use a wedge pillow to prop up your feet (with the higher end farthest away from you) to help direct blood flow back into your legs and diminish swelling in your feet.

Need to Know Doctors recommend that expectant moms sleep on their left sides throughout their pregnancies. This is to ensure proper blood flow to your baby and to you! By sleeping on your back, stomach, or right side, you risk cutting off the blood supply to your inferior vena cava. This is what routes blood to your growing baby and to your brain!

Body Pillow

Body pillows are designed for anyone to use, which means that you might already have one laying around the house. Simply hug the pillow with your belly propped on top. This will not provide head support, but it can be useful for remedying belly pain.

And for those ladies who are back or belly sleepers and struggling to not flip over in the night, you also have the option to place the body pillow against your back. This can inhibit movement during sleep, keeping you in a safe position. 

Fast Fact For women who don't like sleeping with a pillow between their legs, another pregnancy pillow option is a J-shaped pillow. Similar to the C-shaped option, this allows you to support your head as well as either your belly or back, but leaves your legs free to stretch out. 

Find the Pregnancy Pillow Position Best for You

Throughout those long nine months, your body is changing rapidly, and while most people advise sleeping as much as possible before the baby comes, this can be a difficult task once you get into your third trimester.

Trying out different pregnancy pillow positions can help you find the most comfortable stance for sleep at that time in your pregnancy. Don't be afraid to change things up as your body continues to grow. You may find that what worked at week 28 doesn't cut it at week 35. 

5 Best Pumping Bras

Express breastmilk hands-free with one of these bras designed to work with your breast pump.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall Pumping Bra

Kindred bravely sublime contour hands free bra.

Best Value Pumping Bra

Momcozy hands free pumping bra.

Best Pumping Bra for Small Breasts

Simple wishes supermom fixed padding pumping bra.

Lactating women might not only want a great nursing bra and a nursing pillow , but also a bra that's built to make pumping hands-free. That's because most nursing moms also pump so that others can serve their baby breastmilk from a baby bottle . A 2024 study in the Journal of Pediatrics found that using a pump is associated with being able to provide breast milk longer — on average, pumping moms in the study breastfed for 21 weeks longer than those who didn’t pump at all.

Many pumping bras can do double duty — allowing you to pull down two layers to nurse, or just one layer to hold a traditional pump. For this list, our Good Housekeeping Institute experts focused on the bras that do the best job of holding a traditional or hands-free breast pump in place for easy pumping at home, at work or away, and that are comfortable enough to wear all day.

It may be the most expensive on our list, but several of our tester moms and our Lab pros who are new parents are big fans of the Kindred Bravely Sublime, which is also our top pick for the best nursing bra and a winner of a previous Parenting Award . "I’m not pumping anymore and I still love wearing this one," a tester told us. It has smooth, molded cups that keep you looking "normal" all day even as your breasts swell and shrink through the cycles of nursing and pumping.

The brand confirms that this works with the flanges of popular, traditional pumps like Spectra and Medela as well as with hands-free pumps such as the Willow and the Elvie. It fastens with hook-and-eye closures in the back and the brand includes a two-inch optional extender.

Sizes: S, M, L, XL and 1X for cup sizes B–D and E–I | Colors: Black, Twilight (mauve) and Beige (pictured) | Fabric, according to the brand: 91% nylon, 9% spandex | Care: Hand wash and line dry

RELATED: The Best Hands-Free Breast Pumps

If you're looking for a good pumping bra under $25 , this is our recommendation. Our Textiles Lab has evaluated Momcozy bras and our Lab pros say they are great quality for the price. More than 35,000 five-star Amazon reviews back that up, though a common complaint is that this soft, thin cotton bra is not as supportive as others. Some moms may find the thinner fabric to be less supportive but more comfortable, so the tradeoff can be worth it.

This bra holds standard traditional pumps like those from Spectra and Lansinoh as well as wearable breast pumps. (Momcozy makes its own hands-free wearable pump, called the M5 Breast Pump .) If you're still pregnant, the brand's affordable Omni Maternity Nursing Bra won one of our most recent Parenting Awards for its seamless design with built-in padding.

Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL and XXL for cup sizes A–G and band sizes 30–44 | Colors: Black, Beige, Blue, Mocha (tan) and Gray (pictured) | Fabric, according to the brand: 93% cotton, 7% spandex | Care: Hand wash and line dry

This winner of one of our previous Parenting Awards earns high marks for its fixed padding (instead of removable cups that can shift around) and straps that are both convertible and adjustable. Because of the padding, the cup size starting at A and the band size starting at 30, we've found this to be among the best for smaller breasts .

One of our testers said she was able to pump on one side while nursing her baby on the other using this bra. Testers agreed that this nylon-and-spandex bra is both comfortable and supportive. It fastens with hook-and-loop closures and comes with a two-inch extender. Several online reviewers recommended using the optional Comfort Sling that comes with it to extend the bra cup for wearable pumps like the Willow and Elvie and to help hold up standard pumps like the Spectra as they become heavy with milk.

If you need to spend less, check out the Simple Wishes original Hands-Free Pumping Bra to save a few dollars. However it's a strapless bustier rather than a bra with straps, so we prefer the newer one, which you can easily leave on all day between pumping sessions.

Sizes: Cups sizes A–H, band sizes 30–44 | Colors: Beige, Brown, Pink and Black (pictured) | Fabric, according to the brand: 80% nylon, 20% spandex ) | Care: Machine wash cold and line dry

RELATED: How to Measure Your Bra Size

Bravado 2-in-1 Pumping & Nursing Bra

Lactation consultant Sheila Dukas-Janakos, IBCLC , recommends this bra to clients at Healthy Horizons , a breastfeeding support company. "It's our most popular with a reasonable price and each size is also available in a full-cup version ," for nursing moms with cup sizes E, F or G, Dukas-Janakos said.

You just pull this stretchy racerback bra over your head rather than using any closures in the back. It works with both traditional pumps and wearable pumps, as well as for breastfeeding. There is no added padding on this Bravado bra.

Sizes: S, M, and L all available in regular (cup sizes B, C, D) and full-cup (cup sizes E, F, G) | Colors: Pink Leopard, Gray and Black (pictured) | Fabric, according to the brand: 49% organic cotton, 32% Tencel Modal, 19% spandex | Care: Machine wash and line dry

Bodily Do Anything Bra

The Bodily bra is designed with just a single layer of fabric so it is even easier to switch between nursing and pumping while wearing the same bra. Though it's on the pricey side, the material is silky and soft, so this style gets high marks as one of the softest pumping bras.

The straps can convert to a racerback style for extra support. There's no added padding on the front and it hooks in the back. Though this picture shows it used with a wearable breast pump, you can also push the fabric aside to hold the flanges of a traditional breast pump.

Sizes: S, M, L and XL for cup sizes B–F and band sizes 32–44 | Colors: Black, Pink, Sandstone (rust) and Slate (pictured) | Fabric, according to the brand: 76% polyamide, 24% elastane | Care: Machine wash and line dry

RELATED: Expert Breastfeeding Diet and Nutrition Advice From Registered Dietitians

How we test the best bras for pumping

The Lab pros across the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles Lab and the Parenting and Toys Lab combined forces to look at data on the best bras for pumping. Bras are evaluated in the Labs for material quality and function. At-home testers, many of whom participated in research for the annual Parenting Awards , provided real-world feedback.

As a final step, we combed through online reviews to get a better sense of the pros and cons of each bra, and we spoke to Sheila Dukas-Janakos, IBCLC , CEO of Healthy Horizons, which serves both corporations and consumers with breastfeeding support.

What to look for when shopping for the best pumping bra

When you're lactating, avoid underwire or a bra that's too tight, as either can affect your milk ducts and your supply. For a great pumping bra, you'll want:

✔️ Comfort: A good pumping bra shouldn’t dig into your shoulders or ribs. It should have a snug fit, but not so tight that you can't sit or move around with ease.

✔️ Stretch: Lactation consultant Dukas-Janakos likes bras sized small, medium, large and so on to reflect the fact that lactating women don't stay the exact numerical size all day — they fluctuate. "That's why stretch is important," she said. "Brands do make bra extenders, but most people don't want to be bothered with those. They want a bra that will stretch."

✔️ Stability: The sole purpose of a pumping bra is to allow for hands-free control of breast shields and bottles. The bra should firmly hold the pump equipment without feeling wobbly or slippery. Make sure you can move around, sit, stand up and lean forward without causing the flanges or bottles to fall.

✔️ Versatility: The ideal pumping bra can work with a traditional pump and a wearable pump in addition to nursing. "The majority of people get their traditional pump from their insurance coverage and then buy themselves a wearable version too," Dukas-Janakos said. Wearable pumps can in theory be worn inside nearly any kind of bra, but a supportive pumping bra should be especially built to stretch to fit them.

Can you hack a sports bra into a pumping bra?

We've had Lab pros do just that, with the catch that you should only wear it while you pump because a regular sports bra is too compressive for lactating women to wear all day without affecting their milk supply, said lactation consultant Dukas-Janakos.

"To use a sports bra, cut a small hole at the nipple (you can always make it larger, but don’t make it too large to start) and insert the flange when it’s time to pump," said Lexie Sachs , Good Housekeeping Institute Executive Director, Strategy & Operations, and a mom of two who learned this trick from another Lab analyst. "I liked being able to wear my preferred bra all day and just slip this one on for pumping sessions."

Nowadays, many moms like to have one bra they can wear all day without ever needing to change, which is the appeal of the pumping bras on our list. Dukas-Janakos liked that bras are evolving. "Back in the day we had to get creative!" she said. "I remember cutting up diapers to use as nursing pads before we had those. But cutting a hole in your sports bra can cause it to run and the hole can grow bigger than intended, so purchasing a bra that's built for both nursing and pumping might be better."

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Scientists, engineers and market experts have evaluated consumer products at the Good Housekeeping Institute for more than 100 years. Our Good Housekeeping Seal has been a badge of trust for generations. Every week, our pros publish new lists of tried-and-tested products including must-haves for new parents like the best crib mattresses and the best infant car seats .

This list was written by Contributing Editor Jessica Hartshorn who nursed and pumped for two years for each of her two children while she worked at American Baby magazine. She went on to be a senior editor at Parents magazine, covering the juvenile products market, before joining the Good Housekeeping Institute Parenting and Toys Lab to help evaluate products such as the best double strollers and judge submissions for programs such as the Family Travel Awards and the Parenting Awards .

Jessica (she/her) is a freelance writer with several decades of experience writing lifestyle content and evaluating home and parenting products. A mom of two teens and two cats, her previous work can be seen in American Baby and Parents .

Lexie Sachs (she/her) is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute and a lead reviewer of products in the bedding, travel, lifestyle, home furnishings and apparel spaces. She has over 15 years of experience in the consumer products industry and a degree in fiber science from Cornell University. Lexie serves as an expert source both within Good Housekeeping and other media outlets, regularly appearing on national broadcast TV segments. Prior to joining GH in 2013, Lexie worked in merchandising and product development in the fashion and home industries.

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The Four Best Neck Pillows for Travelers

Nothing sucks more than a nodding head on long flights. These are the only neck pillows worth carting along, according to our travel editors.

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I love to travel. I don’t love sleeping on the go. Why? Think about it: the average adult human head weighs roughly 11 pounds—as much as a bowling ball—and balances on the very precious neck. So when you nod off, seated upright, or even reclined , all that pressure dumps into your vertebrae and shoulders causing unwanted kinks and muscle soreness that can make flights, road trips, and train rides a living hell.

Enter: the neck pillow.

I asked Outside ‘s travel editors to search long and hard for the comfiest, most supportive, and portable neck pillows for travel—because we like going to cool places pain free. From long-haul and red-eye flights to cross-country and worldwide road trips to train travel , here are the neck pillows that are actually worth bringing along. Plus, one puffy jacket hack if you don’t have space in your suitcase. You’re welcome.

If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more .

Best for the Lightweight Packer

Sea to summit aeros premium traveller pillow.

$50 at REI $50 at Sea to Summit

As a traveler who prides myself on lugging around the least amount of stuff possible, I’ve always been a neck pillow skeptic. Really—are they absolutely necessary? But recently, I picked up the Sea to Summit Aeros Premium Traveller Pillow ($50) from REI out of curiosity.

Boom, I was hooked overnight. This inflatable neck pillow blows up for travel with just a few deep breaths, and at only 2.5 ounces, it packs down conveniently into a small, zippered case that’s stuffable into any bag.

When my husband and I tackled a 5,000-mile summer road trip from New Mexico to Canada this summer, it became my napping go-to. I used it daily for siestas in our rig, which was packed to the gills with gear and impossible to recline my seat. It’s a perfect lightweight option for quick snoozes on short flights, and when we take our long-haul to Thailand next year, you can bet I’m bringing this puppy along.

Its soft, comfy polyester knit cover and inflate/deflate options provide just the right amount of pressure and support for serious Zzzs. I never thought I’d say this, but I’m a complete neck pillow convert now. And if, like me, you loathe carrying extra crap, this lightweight option is best for you. —Patty Hodapp, Senior Contributing Travel Editor, Outside

Best for the International Traveler

Bcozzy neck pillow for travel.

$50 on Amazon

First, an intelligent appeal to commercial airlines: You should offer neck pillows to all passengers, just like you do blankets and pillows. In fact, scrap those sorry excuses for regular pillows you hand out and replace them with the modern kind we all really want. Preferably the BCozzy ($50) , which is soft and supportive and caters to the head nodder and the side angler alike.

Last fall, settling into our seats for our 12-hour flight from Los Angeles to Tokyo, my brother and I pulled out our choice in neck pillows and mocked each other’s briefly. “Nice padded python you’ve got there,” I said. “I’d rather wear this than your rigid medical neck brace,” he countered. But his pick was perfect—the BCozzy—and when he opted not to sleep, I gave it a try and was immediately won over.

The BCozzy was cushy yet not suffocating or overly hot. Its “arms” were long and flexible enough for me to wrap it comfortably around my neck twice and beneath my chin, yet it didn’t feel restrictive. I found I could actually relax in an upright position instead of trying to determine how my seat plus pillow would best support my head without giving me a neck ache.

BCozzy doesn’t pack down as much as some other neck pillows, but it does come with a carrying bag that helps compress it enough to be easily stuffed at the bottom of a daypack. And for its midrange price, it does the job way better than the standard, ubiquitous U-shaped ones as well as the high-end contraption I ended up chucking at the Tokyo airport.   — Tasha Zemke, Managing Editor, Outside

Best for the Traveler Who Hates Neck Pillows

Flyhugz neck travel pillow.

$40 on Amazon

I’m a minimalist, carry-on only packer, and I’ve never wanted to lug along a neck pillow on trips. But I’m also always sitting in coach and don’t sleep comfortably on longer flights, so I’ve been on a mission to find a neck pillow that packs down small and actually works.

I kept seeing ads for the FlyHugz travel pillow on Instagram. Their smart marketing campaign sucked me in, so I ordered it. I was going to test it out on a trip back east (I live in New Mexico), but that was canceled. So I tried it out on road trips in my car, where the seat mimics a stiff, upright airline seat.

The pillow, which is made of memory foam, wraps around your neck and attaches with velcro. At first it felt a bit claustrophobic. It took me a while to get the pillow to a comfortable place where it was loose enough and would still support my head. One thing I immediately liked is that the part of the pillow behind the neck has a slim profile and allowed me to lean back comfortably; other neck pillows I’ve tried have been too fat at the back of the neck.

Without a neck pillow, when I’m sleeping on a flight my head generally falls back with my chin up and mouth wide open, snoring. Lovely! This pillow kept my head from nodding backward or forward and supported my chin in a stable position. I also found it really comfortable to lean my head to the left to sleep. For some reason it didn’t support my head as well when I tilted it to the right. I need to keep messing with that position to get comfortable on the right side.

The pillow is lightweight—4.5 ounces—and packs down to about the size of a roll of toilet paper. I will definitely be taking it with me on my next long flight. —Mary Turner, Senior Brand Director, Outside

Best for the Memory Foam Enthusiast

Cabeau evolution s3 travel neck pillow.

I’ll admit it: if Outside hasn’t reviewed something I’m considering buying, I almost always check Reddit before making purchases on gear. I don’t care much about how brands want me to see them; I want to know what real people—who aren’t getting any sponsorship dollars for their opinions—think of things. Multiple Reddit threads brought me to the Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Neck Pillow ($40) . It’s made of memory foam, which is great, but the feature that Redditors really seem to love are the two straps that allow you to secure the pillow to your headrest.

I should also admit that I suffer from a serious case of tech neck. I’m stiff and sore and misaligned frequently, so I try to do all I can to counteract the time I spend on computers in both the exercise that I do and the ergonomic support I give myself when I travel.

I put the Cabeau to the test on a 14-hour road trip, and I’ll gladly admit that, yet again, Redditors delivered! This neck pillow is SERIOUSLY comfortable, and it doesn’t move around, which allows you to adjust yourself without having to constantly re-adjust the pillow. I was able to sleep with the pillow, and I woke up without that crunchy, over-exerted feeling my neck can sometimes get when I cram it into the door of the car, using only my arms as support.

The Cabeau bills itself as the “Best Travel Pillow of 2024” according to CNN Underscored, and I can honestly say it gets my vote, too. — Ryleigh Nucilli, Digital Managing Editor, Outside

BONUS: Best for the Low-Maintenance Traveler

The puffy jacket hack.

$239 on Patagonia $239 on REI (Women’s) $239 on REI (Men’s)

The best story I ever heard about head-tipping, that jolt that startles you awake when you were just drifting off to sleep while upright, was from two climbers on El Capitan who got stuck—ughhh—sitting out the night in their harnesses. One of them got tired of the tilt, pulled out a roll of duct tape, and—kid you not— taped his head to the wall.

I have certainly awoken due to the same movement on a plane, but I’m not going to tape my head to the seat. Nor do I want to carry a neck pillow. I had one once, but gave it away. I’m juggling enough when I go anywhere: I’ve always got my phone out, and a laptop in a carry-on, and am now strict about carrying a water bottle rather than wasting more plastic. No need to be dropping a pillow on the dirty floor.

The perfect trick came from my friend Eliza, an international flight attendant, who over the years tried all manner of neck pillows purchased at home and abroad. And it turns out that her favored method meshes with my habits. If there is one thing I always carry to travel, it is a light, packable puffy jacket, which will save you if you get stuck in an airport overnight or even in cold airplane AC.

I have a Patagonia Nano $239 , but other kinds would do; I pack it into its own pocket, as intended, while leaving the jacket arms hanging out. Boom, it makes a firm little shoulder pillow. Tie the arms together to hold the padding in place on either side of your neck. —Alison Osius, S enior Travel Editor, Outside

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