Infant pillow

New mothers are generally aware that giving a baby pillow to a newborn is not something you should do. Quilts and pillows can often be dangerous for newborns and small infants, and should only be used under a parent’s direct supervision. But in the desire to keep their baby safe, many moms avoid giving their child a baby pillow for longer than is really necessary.

After your infant reaches a certain age, it is safe for you to give them a baby pillow… and will make them a lot more comfortable. Generally, doctors say that at the age of 12 months, when a child has gained some mobility, it may be time to give them a baby pillow. Though when to give your child a pillow is your choice, and many mothers wait several years, the truth is that giving one to your 12 month old (or older) child may really help him or her to sleep through the night. Why? Because an appropriately sized and shaped baby pillow can really help a baby to be more comfortable, and also help them to breathe more easily during the night.

Toddler Baby Pillow Guidelines

Toddlers and older infants are more comfortable with a baby pillow than they are without. But even if the pediatrician has given you a green light to give your child a baby pillow, that does not mean that any type of pillow is a good choice. There are still safety concerns to keep in mind, and adult sized (or even child sized) pillows can be dangerous. Because even if your 1 to 4 year old gets around well, there is still a risk of him or her being smothered by a larger pillow.

So it is important to do your shopping wisely, and buy the right sized baby pillow for your toddler. As well as being a bit dangerous, grown up sized pillows are just plain uncomfortable for a baby or small child. A baby pillow, on the other hand, is designed with the proportions of your baby’s head, neck, and shoulders in mind. Generally measuring in at 12 by 16 inches, a baby pillow supports him or her just as your pillow supports you, but is much more in proportion to his or her body.

There are also a few additional considerations to make when you are looking into buying a baby pillow for your child. For instance, it is generally better to purchase a hypoallergenic baby pillow if possible. A hypoallergenic pillow will reduce the amount of allergens your child is exposed to as he or she sleeps, and will usually be of the highest quality. You will also want to shop for a baby pillow that is easy to clean. While a baby pillow with a plastic layer will be the simplest type to clean, the plastic layering may make your child feel overheated. The best option is a breathable but durable and easy to clean fabric.