There is a lot of conflicting advice about when is the best time to let your child start using a pillow. They definitely shouldn’t be used by children under 12 months of age, but it’s best to wait until your child is at least 2 years old. When you do decide to buy your child their first pillow, choose one which is designed for toddlers, as they tend to have features which make them safer and more comfortable for little ones.
Different Types of Toddler Pillow
- Hypoallergenic – This is a great choice for children who suffer from allergies.
- Memory Foam – Foam is a great material for giving children head and neck support whilst they sleep.
- Organic Cotton – This is the ideal choice for parents who like to keep things as natural as possible for their children.
Does Your Toddler need a Pillow?
Whilst there are several baby pillows on the market, they are not recommended by pediatricians. Even some toddlers don’t really need a pillow – if your child sleeps well without one there is no need to introduce one just because they are a certain age. Babies under the age of 12 months old shouldn’t have anything in their crib, including pillows, quilts, bumpers and stuffed animals. All a baby needs for a safe and comfortable sleep is a firm, supportive mattress with good-quality sheets and layers of blankets which are well tucked in, or ideally a baby sleeping bag.
How to Choose the Ideal Pillow for a Toddler
You should choose a pillow which offers a decent level of support for your child’s head and neck, but which isn’t too firm. Look for materials which are suited to your needs, and ideally which can be washed and dried. Check the size of the pillow to make sure it isn’t too large or thick – toddlers need much smaller pillows than adults do.
The Reviews: Best Toddler Pillows
Here, you will find reviews of different styles of pillows to help you find the perfect addition to your child’s night-time routine.
Dreamtown Toddler Pillow
This pillow is made from a polyester and cotton blend, and is hypoallergenic. The pillow comes with a case, and both can be machine washed and tumble dried. It measures 14 x 19 inches, and is recommended for children over the age of 2 years old. The pillow is not treated with any chemicals, and it is also mold and mildew resistant. It is made by a small family-run business in the USA , perfect for parents who prefer to support the national economy.
Little Sleepy Head Infant Pillow
This small pillow for toddlers is just the right size for a toddler bed, and can easily be taken anywhere. The pillow is the ideal thickness for young children too – neither to thick nor too flat. It holds its shape well, even after being washed and dried. The pillow is made by a family-run company in the USA. If your child is on the smaller side, or sleeps on their stomach, Little Sleepy Head can custom-make the pillow to be less stuffed, meaning it’s flatter.
Organic Cotton Child’s Pillow
This 100% organic certified pillow is a great first pillow for toddlers and young children. The pillow is chemical-free, with no pesticides, herbicides or flame retardants. It features a poly cluster fiber filling, which is hypoallergenic and washes very well, without getting lumpy. The pillow is a good balance between fluffy and thin, but if your child does not find it comfortable, the manufacturer will send a new pillow filled exactly to the level you require. The pillow is ideal for all sleeping positions, including stomach, back and side, and will adapt to your child’s needs no matter how they prefer to lie. It can be washed on a gentle cycle, as well as tumble dried on low.
Washable Organic Cotton Pillow
This organic toddlers first pillow is perfect for children aged between 2-5 years. It measures 13 x 18 inches, and is 3.5 inches thick. The pillow is 100% chemical free, and is hypoallergenic. It is breathable and soft, yet also offers enough support for young children’s developing neck muscles. The pillow can easily be machine washed and tumble dried, meaning it’s always ready to use. It’s the perfect size for traveling – kids will want to take it everywhere!
Hypoallergenic Toddler Pillow
This toddler pillow is ideal for young children who are needing their first pillow. It can be used without a pillowcase, so it comes in a choice of colors and patterns to ensure there’s something to match your toddler’s bedroom colors. The pillow is made from hypoallergenic materials, and it can machine washed and dried. By using some drier balls or tennis balls when drying the pillow, it will remain soft, fluffy and comfortable. The pillow is the correct size as recommended by pediatricians, so it’s sure to offer maximum comfort and safety for your child.
My First Memory Foam Pillow
A foam pillow is a great choice for maximum comfort and support. This one comes with a removable, waterproof, cover which is easy to wash, and is soft and comfortable. The pillow is mildew-resistant and mite-proof, as well as being hypoallergenic. The pillow is 3 inches thick, therefore it’s the ideal size for children aged between 2-5 years old. It comes in a choice of three different colors, either pink, blue or cream, making it ideal for both boys and girls. Memory foam is ideal for supporting the head and neck, and keeping them in a natural alignment, to help prevent problems later in life.
Our Pick: Best Pillow for Toddlers
The Little One’s organic cotton pillow is one of our favorites for toddlers and young children. The manufacturer can make a pillow stuffed exactly to the level you require, meaning your child is sure to be happy and comfortable every night. The pillow is completely chemical-free, and is made using a poly cluster fiber filling, meaning it can easily be washed and dried.
