Early in life, it is not recommended that you use a pillow in your baby’s crib to avoid the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), but as your baby grows, a toddler pillow is something you will want to consider. Smaller than a full size pillow, a toddler pillow lets your child transition into sleeping in a bed while also providing elevation of the head that can help when you toddler has a cold, as they so often do!
Toddler Pillow Sizes
A toddler pillow can be used in either a crib or in a toddler bed, which uses the same size mattress as your crib. The size of a toddler pillow is just right for a little head. Most toddler pillows measure 11 x 14, but some slightly larger 11 x 20 models are also available. You will need a toddler sized pillow case to cover the pillow and keep it clean, and these can usually be purchased right along with your new toddler pillow.
Toddler Pillow Fills
There are a few types of toddler pillow on the market. The most common type is the standard synthetic filled pillow that is similar to the ones most people use on their beds, except smaller. These are hypoallergenic pillows that are safe for even children with allergies to use. Usually the outer lining is cotton for softness and breathability.
Just as there has been a trend in adult pillows towards the use of memory foam for better support, there has also been a similar trend in the toddler pillow industry. You can purchase a memory foam toddler pillow that is designed to keep your toddler’s neck and spine in proper alignment throughout the night for proper development. These pillows tend to be a little more expensive that the standard pillow, but are popular for those concerned with strain on the neck muscles and the spine.
Use as a Travel Pillow
The small size of the toddler pillow also makes it a great travel pillow for both kids and adults. It is easy to bring along wherever you go, and you will find it convenient to have the right size pillow for your little one when away from home. A standard pillow is often to large and overfilled for a small head, and this can make the strain on the neck even worse by keeping the head up too high. Choosing a toddler pillow will avoid the problems associated with one that is too large.
Allergic Reactions
Choose a toddler pillow that is free of allergens – although you may see down filled pillows out there, you should avoid them until your child is older. A synthetic filling is easier to wash and dry, and you will need to keep your toddler pillow clean. Be sure to use a pillow protector as toddlers do have the tendency to get their pillows quite dirty on occasion.
Your toddler should be able to use a small toddler pillow until the age of around four years old, depending on the child’s size, at which point you can switch to a larger one. The toddler pillow is the perfect transitional pillow for a little one growing up.
