When most of us were growing up, pillows were coveted and yet taboo items for us. Like taking their first steps and having the first sip of juice, a child’s first pillow is a beautiful milestone.
However, when is the right time to give your baby a pillow, and what kind of pillow should you invest in for them? Here is everything you should know.
What you will learn:
Why Should a Baby Not Have a Pillow?
Using pillows, loose bedding, blankets, and toys such as stuffed animals increases the risk of Sudden Infant Death Symptoms (SIDS).
As an adult, it is impossible to fathom a good night's sleep without a pillow. However, for a baby, it is possible for their face to press against the pillow, increasing the risk of suffocation. The pillow may also cause overheating at night, which can be very uncomfortable and may lead to SIDS.
It is also very likely that your baby may try to use the pillow as a step to climb out of the crib, which could lead to falling and injury.
When Is It Safe for Babies to Use a Pillow?
Children should only start using pillows as toddlers; this means they should be more than one year old. Before that, the only thing on the crib should be a well-fitted sheet.
According to the American Academy of Paediatrics safe sleep guidelines, the use of pillows, blankets, and other soft bedding can increase the risk of suffocation or strangling for the baby at night. The baby should lie on a firm, flat surface until they transition to their toddler bed between eighteen months and three and a half years.
4 Signs It Might Be Time to Give Your Kid a Pillow
- They transition to their toddler bed.
- The child starts using other objects, such as their clothes, as pillows.
- They are old enough to ask for a pillow.
- Your child seems uncomfortable sleeping.
What Is the Right Pillow for Your Toddler?
Once your toddler is ready for a pillow, it is important to choose the right pillow for them. The big, fluffy pillow on your bed that you love so much is not the right fit for them. Invest in a small, flat, and firm model made specifically for toddlers. This cradles their neck comfortably while protecting their spine.
What to look for when choosing a pillow:
- Ensure the pillow is the right size for a toddler, typically smaller and flatter than an adult pillow, to support their smaller necks and heads properly.
- Select a pillow with the right balance of softness and support. It should be firm enough to support the head but soft enough to be comfortable.
- Look for hypoallergenic and breathable materials, such as organic cotton, to reduce the risk of allergies and ensure comfort.
- Choose a pillow that is machine washable to keep it clean and free from dust mites, which is crucial for maintaining hygiene.
- Ensure the pillow meets safety standards and certifications for children’s products, indicating it has been tested for harmful chemicals and other safety concerns.
Polysleep Takeaway
Your child’s first pillow is a big deal, and so is their safety. The tips we have offered you will help make this transition easy and fun for both you and your baby.
If you want to get pillows for your whole family...
Why not check out the Polysleep collection? They are high-quality, certified materials, and the best choice to pair with a polysleep mattress. Made with the best sleeping experience in mind.
