This has been a long time debate between parents and a whole host of others--grandmas, siblings, and even baby stores. Can babies use pillows in their bassinet, play yard, or crib? The answer is a most definite “no” and should be enforced at all times. I understand that siblings (or even parents) think that the baby would be more comfortable with a pillow. Yes, grandma has plenty of tales about how she (or her children) survived despite having baby pillows. And don’t get me started on the crib displays in the baby department...it looks all pretty, but it’s definitely all wrong.

Why can’t babies use pillows?

A pillow can block your baby’s nose and mouth, which poses a suffocation risk. By the way, babies also shouldn’t use blankets and fluffy stuffed animals for the same reason. From 1992 to 2010, the Consumer Product Safety Commission estimated nearly 700 deaths related to pillows placed in or near a baby’s sleep environment. Since babies don’t really need pillows for head or neck support, it’s certainly not worth the risk.

When can my child have a pillow?

Babies are at the highest risk for suffocation and SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) in the first four to six months. However, the risk is still present up to eighteen months old. For this reason, you should hold off on pillows and fluffy bed items until your child is eighteen to twenty-four months old. This is also the same age that many children transition from a crib to a bed, so it’s the perfect time to add a pillow. What’s the best pillow for my child? Don’t make the mistake of just buying a standard size pillow for your child. An adult-sized pillow will put strain on your child, which could lead to sleepless nights or poor developing posture. A standard pillow is made for an adult’s head and neck, but your child is much smaller, so you need a smaller pillow. A 12x16, or travel size, pillow is a great start for toddlers and young children. For filling, you’ll want to get something firm and hypo-allergenic (so avoid feather or down pillows).

Sweet Dreams!