Nursing pillow, bottle and dummy choices: a judgement-free guide

Every family’s feeding journey is different: some babies are breastfed only, some are formula-fed, and some get both. Whichever path you choose, the right equipment can make life easier. Here is what to look for, without recommending brands.

Nursing pillows

A nursing pillow helps hold the baby at breast height and eases your arms and back.

• There are U-/C-shaped and half-moon designs.
• A firm filling that does not collapse completely when pressed and a removable washable cover make life easier.
• The pillow should bring the baby up to you, not you down to the baby; you should be able to feed without leaning forward.
• Ordinary pillows or a folded blanket can work for a while; it is not a must-buy.
• Do not place a nursing pillow in the baby’s sleep space; it is not made for sleeping.

For positions and the first days, see the Guide article “starting breastfeeding”.

Dummies and bottles while feeding settles in

In line with WHO and NHS advice, bottles and dummies are generally put off until breastfeeding is established, usually the first few weeks. This gives the baby’s sucking technique and your milk supply time to settle. This is general advice, not a judgement; some families have other needs or medical reasons.

• If you are breastfeeding, see how your routine goes first; if needed, expressed milk can be given with a spoon, cup or bottle.
• If your baby struggles to latch or you are worried about weight gain, ask your midwife or doctor.
• If you would like to use a dummy, you can try once breastfeeding is going well.

“Breastfeeding problems and solutions” may also help with difficult moments.

Choosing bottles

• One small (around 120–150 ml) and one large bottle are enough to start; do not buy everything at once.
• Glass, plastic or silicone each have pros and cons. Replace plastic that is scratched or discoloured.
• Teat flow rates vary with age; follow the manufacturer’s label.
• Buying one type first lets you see your baby’s preference.
• If formula-feeding, follow the tin’s instructions and your doctor’s advice on preparation and amounts.

Cleaning bottles

Bottles can encourage bacterial growth while a baby’s immune system is still developing, so cleaning needs care.

• Wash your hands; take bottles apart straight after use.
• Wash in hot, soapy water with a bottle brush and rinse well.
• Sterilise in the early weeks and for as long as your doctor advises (boiling, steam or cold methods); follow the maker’s instructions.
• Air-dry parts on a clean surface; do not wipe with a cloth.
• Do not reuse made-up formula or milk the baby has left.

Using a dummy

• A dummy can help a baby settle; whether to use one is up to you.
• If a clip is needed, use a short safe one following the maker’s guidance, not a cord around the neck.
• Replace dummies that are cracked, torn or discoloured.
• Do not sweeten a dummy with honey, sugar or anything else.

When to contact your doctor

• If your baby keeps refusing the breast or bottle or is not feeding enough
• If wet nappies drop noticeably
• If your baby is very sleepy, limp or losing weight
• If you see frequent forceful vomiting or breathing difficulty after feeds, call 112 (in Turkey) or your local emergency number.

Frequently asked questions

Do I really need a nursing pillow? Not strictly. It is worth it if it helps you; if not, folded pillows will do.

Can formula and breastfeeding be combined? Yes. Many families use both; discuss details with your midwife.

This text is for information; for your own situation, your health professional’s advice comes first.