At What Age Do Children Need Pillows?

Most of us adults have a hard time dozing off without a comfy pillow under our heads. But what about the kids?

When do children need a pillow?

Kids don't need pillows until after their first birthday! In fact, babies should never sleep on a pillow. Putting pillows on the bed is extremely dangerous for babies. This includes so-called head shaping pillows. Not only are these pillows not good for flat heads, the FDA has declared that using shaped pillows creates an unsafe sleeping environment for babies and can lead to a risk of suffocation and death.

Pillows -- along with loose blankets, comforters, stuffed animals and the recently banned crib bumpers -- pose a suffocation risk for babies. That's why our experts recommend that babies have nothing in their crib (other than a sheet) until they're at least a year old. The pillow may cover the baby's face or cause the baby to overheat -- another risk factor for SIDS.

When is it safe for children to use a pillow?

It's completely over after the baby turns 1, so it's technically safe to use pillows and blankets. However, when your little one blows out that shaped birthday candle, there's no need to rush and buy them a pillow. In fact, most young children can sleep well without a pillow.

When your baby is a toddler, pillows can present new risks. Some enterprising children may use the pillow to lift themselves up, climb into the crib or fall out of the crib! So, I recommend using the blanket in the crib after the first year of life, and the pillows after the child is moved from the crib to the bed …and that might not be until their third birthday, or even later.

What are the best pillows for kids?

When you decide your child is ready for pillows, keep in mind that the big, fluffy pillows that adorn your own bed may not be right! Chunky pillows may not be right for your child's still-developing little neck and spine. Comfortable. Instead, find a small, flat, firm pillow that cradles and supports the head without straining your child.

Just like different types of pillows work better for some adults than others, finding the perfect pillow for your child can take some trial and error (so buying one with a generous return policy isn't a bad idea!) But No matter which pillow you decide to use for the first time, the bottom line is that you wait until your child's SIDS risk has completely subsided. This way, you can also rest assured that your lover is sleeping safely.