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Top 5 Best Toddler Pillows

Written by Andrew Le, MD

UpdatedJuly 31, 2024

It is something that is good for everyone though it is more important for the toddlers since they require ample amounts of rest to enable the grow physically as well as mentally. Early parenthood is such a nice thing to be a parent; we all wish our children to sleep nicely at night. That is when a toddler pillow comes in handy.

Toddler pillows are intended for kids, who are between two and five years of age. These ones are fairly different from the regular size pillows of an adult and are ideal to support the neck and head area of a toddler. A good toddler pillow will help eliminate neck pain and other forms of discomfort in your child and enhance their sleeping pattern.

However, to get the best toddler pillow, the following factors should be considered. The two key factors to consider would therefore be; Ensure that the pillows have great fabric materials that are friendly to the skin especially for those with skin allergies or any types of diseases. There is also the factor of the size and the firmness of the pillow that has to be looked at. A pillow that is too soft or too firm is a health concern because it will at times cause discomfort and suffocation.

In this article, after analyzing the available toddler pillows, we present the options that provide optimal comfort, safety, and support for your child. In the following sections, you will find the detailed descriptions of each product and the peculiarities of their usage.

Top 3 Best Toddler Pillows

  1. KeaBabies Toddler Pillow
  2. Little Sleepy Head Toddler Pillow
  3. Coop Home Goods Toddler Pillow

Like any good parent, every child and parent knows that well rested children are healthy children. That is why when looking for appropriate toddler pillows, we have done our homework and brought you the top options. As a wide selection of pillows is presented in the list, you can find the one needed for your child, whether it is hypoallergenic or has funny prints on it. Keep on reading to find out our recommendations for the best pillows for toddlers.


KeaBabies Toddler Pillow

Editor's Choice

KeaBabies Toddler Pillow

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If you’re searching for a good pillow for your toddler, then KeaBabies My Little Dreamy Toddler Pillow will be a perfect choice.

Pros

  • Ergonomically designed and tested on kids for the best spinal support without compromising on their comfort
  • Machine washable for both the pillow and pillowcase, keeping it clean and fresh all the time
  • Made from OEKO-TEX 100 Standard Certified Cotton and GOTS Certified CU 1042833, making it gentle, breathable, and natural

Cons

  • May not be suitable for older or larger toddlers who need a larger pillow
  • Some parents may prefer a pillow with a firmer feel
  • Only comes in one size

We have employed this pillow with our two-year-old child and found this pillow to be quite helpful and comfortable. The design is somewhat ergonomic with a good support for the spine and the pillow is fine for our little one and comfortable to sleep on. We found washing the pillow and the pillowcase easy and the fact that the product is made from natural non-toxic material was what we liked most.

What consumers should note is that the pillow is relatively small and may not be suitable for the older or the larger toddlers who require a bigger pillow. Furthermore, there could exist certain users, specifically parents, who would want a firmer pillow. Nevertheless, taking everything into consideration, we would like to suggest the KeaBabies My Little Dreamy Toddler Pillow for those parents who are in the search for a good support for their toddler.


Little Sleepy Head Toddler Pillow

Little Sleepy Head Toddler Pillow

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Little Sleepy Head Toddler Pillow could be what you need if you are searching for a soft and hypoallergenic pillow for your toddler.

Pros

  • This pillow is the perfect size and softness for your baby or toddler.
  • It's 100% hypoallergenic, which is always a plus.
  • It holds its shape over time and is easily washable.

Cons

  • The pillow might be a bit too bulky for some toddlers.
  • It doesn't come with a pillowcase, so you'll have to purchase one separately.
  • The pillow might be too small for some toddlers as they grow.

Since we have been using this pillow for some time now we can admit that we are satisfied with it. It is comfortable and smooth and our toddler seems to love sleeping on it. We also like that it is hypoallergenic, which helps us to be calm and worry-free.

However, one thing to note is that the pillow might be a bit large for some toddlers to handle. Our little one did not appear to have a problem with this but we can understand how some people might be affected by it. Furthermore, the pillow is not packaged with a pillowcase; thus, you will have to buy one on your own.

ALL in all, the Little Sleepy Head Toddler Pillow is useful for parents who seek a safe and soft pillow for their toddlers. It has stood the test of time and is very easy to clean, so it’s a very functional material as well.


Coop Home Goods Toddler Pillow

Coop Home Goods Toddler Pillow

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If you are searching for a good quality and a nice hug Pillow for you toddler, the Coop Home Goods Toddler Pillow is a right choice.

Pros

  • The pillow is adjustable, so you can add or remove fill to ensure maximum support for your child's neck, back, and spine.
  • The breathable Lulltra fabric cover provides a gentle, soft, and cushy feel, making it comfortable for your child to sleep on.
  • The pillow is machine washable, making it easy to clean and maintain.

Cons

  • The pillow may be too high for some toddlers, so you may need to remove some of the fill to adjust the height.
  • The pillow may not be suitable for children under the age of 2.
  • The price point may be higher than some other toddler pillows on the market.

It has been several weeks that both my daughter and I have been using the Coop Home Goods Toddler Pillow and we are satisfied with the product. The pillow is of a decent size for our toddler and it is friendly to our toddlers neck and spinal column. That is why we like that it may be easily adjusted and thus we can constantly add more fill or take it out depending on what is required for the proper support. The fabric cover of the mattress is also soft and breathable; it allows our little one to be cool and comfortable when sleeping.

Cleaning the pillow is also very easy, the pillow is machine washable and I am able to just put it in the wash with everything else that is my toddler’s and has her bedding. All in all, the Coop Home Goods Toddler Pillow is a highly recommended brand for parents seeking an excellent toddler pillow in the market.


Purple Harmony Pillow

Purple Harmony Pillow

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For those seeking a comfy pillow that offers proper support and coolness during night, the Purple Harmony Pillow is a perfect match.

Pros

  • The honeycombed GelFlex layer and Talalay latex core provide both cradling and support, making it comfortable no matter your preferred sleep position.
  • The Grid, ventilated latex, and moisture-wicking mesh cover work together to keep the pillow cool and comfortable all night long.
  • The ultra-durable materials ensure that the pillow keeps its shape throughout time and use, meaning you get to enjoy that amazing float feel night after night after night.

Cons

  • The pillow is on the pricier side, so it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget.
  • Some users may find the pillow too firm or too soft, so it may take some time to find the perfect level of support.
  • The pillow has a distinct smell that may take a few days to dissipate.

It has been a few weeks since we started using the Purple Harmony Pillow, and the results have left us rather pleased. The pillow offered proper support and most of us observed that the problem of having a stiff neck was no longer there because of this pillow. We also like the fact that the pillow remains relatively cool at night as we have a tendency of sweating at night.

The pillow is relatively expensive, but we recommend this pillow because it can serve you for years of use and is of top quality. Nonetheless, it might take a while to grow into the general texture of the pillow and some customers considered it too firm or too soft.

In conclusion, the Purple Harmony Pillow is a product that we would personally and strongly vouch for especially for anyone who is in the market for a new pillow that’s not only supportive, but also cool while you sleep.


PUREgrace Organic Cotton Toddler Pillow with Pillowcase Natural GOTS Certified

PUREgrace Organic Cotton Toddler Pillow with Pillowcase Natural GOTS Certified

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If you are searching for an organic, soft, comfortable toddler pillow then you can go for PUREgrace Organic Cotton Toddler Pillow with Pillowcase. It’s produced from TENCEL eucalyptus based fibers and presents a smooth and luxurious face for the child to sleep on. The material used for the pillowcase is also fully machine washable which will also prove to be quite convenient.

Pros

  • The TENCEL pillowcase is 100% natural and soft, providing a comfortable sleeping surface for your child.
  • The pillowcase fits all brands of toddler pillows perfectly, so you don't have to worry about compatibility issues.
  • The pillow and pillowcase are machine washable, making it easy to keep them clean and fresh.

Cons

  • The pillow may not be firm enough for some children who prefer a firmer pillow.
  • The pillow may flatten over time with extended use.
  • The pillow is not completely organic, as the stuffing inside is not organic.

For this reason, in our interaction we noted that the PUREgrace Organic Cotton Toddler Pillow with Pillowcase to be a perfect fit for parents who would like their child to have a comfortable and safe pillow. I liked how soft the TENCEL pillowcase was and the pillow itself is just the right size for a toddler. The pillowcase is also so designed that it can be machine washed thus ensuring one does not struggle with washing it.

However, this specific pillow might not be as firm as some children prefer their pillow to be and therefore may not be as suitable for them. In the same way, a mattress pillow’s usage over a longer time, it shall flatten out due to the constant pressure exerted on it. That said, we do think that the benefits of this pillow hugely outweigh the drawbacks, and thus we would suggest this pillow to any parent who needs a toddler pillow that is safe to use, comfortable, and easy to wash.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying a toddler pillow, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind to ensure you choose the best product for your little one:

Size and Shape

The type of pillow and its dimension is another aspect that one needs to take into consideration. You will need to confirm that the pillow is of the correct size for the bed of your toddler and size of their body. Inappropriate size of a pillow causes discomfort to the child and hence, hinders them from having a good sleep. Hence, shape of a Pillow also plays great role in choosing it. An example of a recommendable product is a contoured pillow to help support your toddlers head and neck.

Material

The other aspect that is considered is the material that is used to make the pillow. Select a pillow that is made of a hypoallergenic material it should be made of cotton or bamboo to enhance air circulation and reduce heat build up. Also, it is worth noting that, softer materials that have lower chances of causing allergies or skin irritations on the bundle can also help the children who have sensitive skin.

Firmness

The density of the pillow is also relevant. At the same time, if the pillow is too soft, the toddler’s head will sink in too deep and if it is too firm, it will be uncomfortable for the child. Ensure that the particular pillow is firm enough to give support but soft enough to suit your little one.

Washability

Due to the nature of toddlers, they are bound to make a mess, and, therefore, the selected pillow should be easy to wash. Avoid one that is not easy to remove and wash the cover as well, look for that pillow that can be easily washed in a washing machine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the safety considerations when choosing a toddler pillow?

When considering the type of pillow to be used for toddlers, it is recommended that one focuses on the safety of the dominantly used pillow. Pillow selection must both be soft enough that will not result in suffocation and at the same time not hard enough that will be uncomfortable. Choose pillows that are produced from materials that are comfortable for the skin and will not cause an allergic reaction. Pillows should not have loose fillings or be very fluffy because a child can suffocate on it .

How does pillow material affect a toddler's sleep quality?

The quality of a toddler pillow can be profoundly influenced by the material of the product. Using quality material that is mild on the skin and easy to breathe on like cotton fillings or bamboo fillings helps in regulation of temperatures and no allergens. Memory foam pillows for toddler can be very useful they offer additional support and comfort but not all toddlers should use them because they’re too firm. Thus it is recommended to find a pillow that provides comfort and support to the child with reference to their body type.

What pillow size is appropriate for a 2-year-old child?

Pillows for the child at this age should be size 12 inches x 16 inches, thus a pillow with such dimensions will be suitable for a 2-year-old child. This calls for selection of pillows that are in right size for the kids age and size so that they get right support and comfort. In this case, the size of the pillow affects comfort and thus the quality of the sleep the person will have.

Are there any recommended pillows for children with allergies?

For children with allergies, use of pillows that are free from allergens and can be made from natural fabrics such as cotton or bamboo is advised. Chemical and synthetic materials should also be avoided when selecting the pillows because they may cause allergy. There are pillows which are created to be allergen-free, and are thus duly processed to ensure that they have no dust mites or any other allergens.

What are the benefits of using an organic pillow for toddlers?

Organic pillows for toddlers are made from natural fabric that has not been treated with any chemicals or toxins. They are non-allergic and assists in controlling temperature thus assisting in acquiring a wholesome slumber. Organic pillows are also renewable which is good for the environment hence should be appreciated by parents who wish to protect the environment.

How often should a toddler's pillow be replaced for hygiene and support?

It is advisable for every toddler to change his or her pillow at least once every one to two years for cleanliness and optimal performance. Pillows also deteriorate with time and end up being lumpy hence uncomfortable and do not properly support the child’s neck and spine. Cleaning and refreshing it by fluffing it using hands is also a good way of longer lasting of the pillow but one has to consider replacing it whenever it is not supportive enough or when it has worn out.

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