Benefits of Baby Pillows
The perfect baby pillows can help your little one enjoy a more restful and comfortable sleep. Here are some other benefits of baby pillows:
- Better Sleep Support: Toddler pillows are sized and shaped to gently support a child’s head and neck, which can lead to more restful, uninterrupted sleep.
- Healthy Alignment: The right pillow helps keep the neck and spine in a natural position, encouraging proper posture and reducing the chance of stiffness or discomfort.
- Designed for Safety: Unlike standard pillows, toddler pillows are flatter and more compact to lower the risk of suffocation and keep sleep safe.
- Comfort and Routine: A soft, familiar pillow can help toddlers feel more secure as they transition to a toddler bed, making bedtime smoother and more comforting.
How to Choose the Best Baby Pillow
There are a few things to consider when choosing the best pillow for your baby:
Material
Cotton is often the preferred material for baby pillows, as it offers better breathability and is soft to the touch. Better breathability means a steady temperature, which is important to keep your baby cool in hot weather. Cotton is also more absorbent, helping to remove any sweat or drool and keeping your baby happy throughout the night.
Our baby pillows enjoy the best of both cotton and linen, using a 55% linen 45% cotton blend that is OEKO-TEX® certified. This fabric has been rigorously tested for harmful substances, ensuring utmost safety and peace of mind. It is woven with luxurious European linen fiber and each pillow contains a 100% polyester batting fill.
Comfort
Pillows for baby should be firm enough to support your baby's head and neck while also being soft and comfortable at the same time. A pillow that is too firm can lead to your baby feeling uncomfortable. Too soft, and it may not support your baby's head and neck properly.
Safety
Safety should always be your utmost priority. Opt for a pillow that is specifically designed for babies to minimize the risk of suffocation or SIDS. Avoid regular adult-size pillows that could pose a choking or breathing hazard.
Our baby pillow cases are designed to perfectly fit our soft and supportive baby pillows. For added comfort, pair it with our baby quilt. And to create a cozy, safe sleep environment, check out our fitted crib sheets.
Difference Between a Toddler Pillow and a Regular Pillow
A toddler pillow is designed specifically for young children with a smaller, flatter shape that supports proper neck and spine alignment. Unlike standard pillows, which are often too thick or lofty, toddler pillows provide gentle support without overwhelming a child’s developing body. They’re also typically made from breathable, hypoallergenic materials, helping to create a cleaner, safer sleep environment. Regular pillows may pose risks like improper support or restricted airflow, making a toddler pillow the better choice for early sleep stages.
Toddler Pillow FAQs
Are Baby Pillows Safe for Newborns?
Parents should never let a newborn sleep with a pillow. Newborns should always sleep on their backs without any pillows or blankets. Adding a baby pillow for a newborn will only increase the chance of suffocation, which is dangerous for newborns. Many pediatricians recommend waiting until your baby is at least one year old before they use a pillow.
When Should a Baby Start a Pillow?
According to pediatric experts, babies should not use pillows until they are at least 18 to 24 months old. Introducing a pillow too early can increase the risk of suffocation or improper spinal support. Once your child transitions from a crib to a toddler bed, typically around their second birthday, it is generally safe to offer a toddler pillow. Look for one that is small, flat, and designed specifically for young children to ensure proper neck alignment and safe sleep. Always follow your pediatrician’s guidance and your child’s readiness cues before making the switch.
What Are the Risks of Using a Baby Pillow Too Early?
ng a baby pillow before the recommended age can pose serious safety risks. Babies under 18 months have limited head and neck control, so a pillow can increase the risk of suffocation or accidental airway blockage during sleep. Soft bedding like pillows can also contribute to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Additionally, a thick or oversized pillow may misalign a baby’s developing spine and neck. Until your child transitions to a toddler bed and shows signs of readiness, it’s safest to keep the crib free of pillows, blankets, and other soft items.
Are Toddler Pillows Machine Washable?
Yes, many toddler pillows are machine washable, but it’s always best to check the care label first. If the pillow is machine washable, use a gentle cycle with warm water and mild detergent, and consider an extra rinse to remove any leftover soap. Be sure to remove any covers or protectors before washing, and make sure the pillow is completely dry before your little one uses it again. Either by tumble drying on low or air drying. If the label advises against machine washing, hand washing in warm water with mild detergent is a safe alternative. At WildBird, our Toddler Linen Quilted Pillow features a removable linen cover that’s easy to care for: machine wash cold inside out with like colors, line dry in the shade, and avoid bleach or soaking. You can warm iron the cover inside out if needed; just skip any prints or embellishments.
