Babies are the center of the parents’ universe. Every waking moment of the parents is spent making sure that the baby is comfortable and happy. Naturally, at some point, parents start to question whether it is safe for a baby to sleep with a pillow or not.
In this ultimate guide about babies and pillows, you will learn everything there is to know about the topic.
Does my infant baby need a pillow?
A straightforward answer? No.
Infants do not require a pillow while sleeping. The baby is still getting used to sleeping on their back, so there is no reason to make it more uncomfortable. Even if you think that you have bought the softest, fluffiest pillow, your baby does not like it. On the contrary, it can be a choking hazard for the child.
During the first year or so, a firm flat surface is all an infant need for sound sleep. The safe sleep guidelines by the American Academy of Pediatrics also state this clearly.
Another reason why pillows are not ideal for infants is the health aspect. Babies are very sensitive to allergens. Components from the pillows such as the fabric, feathers, and dust mites can adversely affect the baby.
Therefore, unless you and your baby are in exceptional circumstances, and the pediatrician recommends it, infants do not need a pillow.
Does my toddler need a pillow while sleeping?
When a child is more than a year old, he or she will most likely need a pillow. However, it is best to wait until the baby is out of the crib to use a pillow. This is typically after he or she is 18 months old to two years and above. When you put a pillow in your baby’s crib, he or she might use to climb out of the crib. Another safety aspect is that the pillow can become a choking hazard.
However, you need to consider the fact that your baby’s body still does not need a pillow. Therefore, you can wait to see until he or she becomes interested in using it.
Which type of pillow is best for babies?
Choosing the right time to give a pillow to a baby is as important as the pillow itself. In the beginning, it is always wise to start with a soft and small one. You should resist the urge to give a super-soft pillow to your child. The best pillow for a baby is one that is relatively flat and firm.
There are varieties of toddler pillows from different brands. These special pillows consist of baby skin-friendly materials, are hypoallergenic, and are smaller. Therefore, you and your baby can use it without any concern. Check out these baby pillow bed at Bluebird Baby.
You should consider looking for a toddler pillow that has hypoallergenic materials. You should also machine wash it frequently to keep it clean and sanitary.
A mistake that many parents make is taking one of their pillows and giving it to the child. It is neither safe for the child’s tender bones, nor is it sanitary. Irrespective of how soft or clean you think your pillows are, it is not suitable for the child.
Tips for choosing the best pillow for babies
If you are looking for the best pillow for your child, here are some tips to get you started.
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Look for toddler pillows that have organic materials in construction. These pillows do not cause allergies and are safe for the child. Pillows, as well as covers, made of organic cotton, are the best ones for children.
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Pillows in light, bright colors are best. In addition to brightening up the room and the bed, they also make it easy to spot when your baby has soiled it.
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Avoid buying toddler pillows that consist of microbead fillings. The beads can fall out of the pillow and cause a child to choke when they accidentally swallow them.
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You should also stay away from pillows made of feathers as these can cause allergies. You should also avoid scented baby pillows as they also cause allergies for the babies’ sensitive skin.