In short: The Koala Babycare Hug is a 225 cm U-shaped pillow that helps you sleep comfortably on your side during pregnancy and supports you while breastfeeding and sitting after birth. It is filled with quiet silicone fibres, and the cotton or bamboo cover is removable and washable. The Hug+ model adds a removable lumbar support.
Author: Eva Birsa, mom and co-founder of Evitas · Updated: 27 September 2026
As your bump grows, finding a comfortable sleeping position gets harder every night. Many pregnant women feel discomfort in the back, hips or legs. That's why a pregnancy pillow is one of the most popular buys for mums-to-be – and one of the few you'll keep using long after the birth.
Koala Babycare Hug models compared
| Model | Cover | Special feature | Ways to use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hug Comfy | 100% hypoallergenic cotton | Ties to fasten into a U shape | 6 |
| Hug+ Comfy | 100% hypoallergenic cotton | Removable lumbar support (38 × 53 cm) | 8 |
| Hug Comfy Bamboo | 100% bamboo fibre | Hidden zip for easy cover removal | 6 |
All models are 225 cm long with a 60 cm circumference, filled with quiet silicone fibres that don't rustle, and certified OEKO-TEX® Made in Green and IGR (ergonomic support). You can also choose sets with the Belly Band maternity support belt or silver nursing cups.
Side sleeping in pregnancy
The UK pregnancy research charity Tommy's advises going to sleep on your side from 28 weeks of pregnancy, because going to sleep on your back in the third trimester is linked to a higher risk of complications. The position you fall asleep in is the one you spend most of the night in. If you wake up on your back, there's no need to worry – simply settle back onto your side.
Tommy's also notes that regular pillows and pregnancy pillows are equally effective for support behind your back. The main benefit of the Hug is comfort: one pillow supports your back, bump and knees at the same time, so you don't have to build a nest of smaller pillows every night.
How to use the pillow for sleep
- Lie on your side in the middle of the U, with one arm of the pillow supporting your back and the other your bump.
- Place the lower part between your knees to keep your hips aligned and ease pressure on your back.
- The arm behind you helps stop you rolling onto your back as you sleep.
- When you turn to the other side, you don't need to move the pillow.
After birth: breastfeeding, sitting and rest
- Breastfeeding: wrap the pillow around your waist to raise your baby to breast height and take the strain off your arms and shoulders. See more options among our nursing pillows and in the breastfeeding category.
- Sitting: as back support in bed or on the sofa; the Hug+ adds extra lumbar support.
- Rest: as a leg rest when you want to put your feet up.
Important for safe infant sleep: only use the pillow shaped into a nest while your baby is awake and supervised. For sleep, your baby should lie on their back on a firm, flat surface with no pillows, duvets or nests, as recommended by the NHS.
Washing and care
- The cover is removable and washable – follow the temperature on the care label.
- The pillow is vacuum-packed: after opening, shake it so the filling spreads evenly and allow about 24 hours for it to regain its shape.
- Give the silicone fibres a shake now and then, especially after washing the cover, to keep the pillow full.
What moms say
“My sleep has completely changed since I started using the Koala Babycare Hug.” – Nina, mum-to-be
“I use it for everything – from resting to breastfeeding. Truly indispensable!” – Maja, new mom
Frequently asked questions
When should I start using a pregnancy pillow?
Whenever it feels comfortable – most moms start in the second trimester as the bump grows. From 28 weeks, going to sleep on your side is recommended.
What's the difference between the Hug and the Hug+?
The Hug+ adds a removable lumbar support (38 × 53 cm) and 8 ways to use it, while the classic Hug has 6. Length (225 cm) and filling are the same.
Can I wash the cover?
Yes, the cover is removable and washable. Check the washing temperature on the label.
Can I use it as a nursing pillow?
Yes, after birth you can wrap it around your waist to support your baby while breastfeeding.
Can my baby sleep in a nest made from the pillow?
No. Use the nest only while your baby is awake and supervised. For sleep, your baby should lie on their back on a firm, flat surface.
Sources
- Tommy's – Sleep position in pregnancy Q&A
- NHS – Reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome
- Koala Babycare product descriptions in the Evitas online shop
This content is for information only and does not replace advice from your doctor, midwife or paediatrician.
