When Can a Toddler Sleep with a Pillow? A Safe Sleep Guide for First-Time Moms

As a first-time mom, it's only natural to wonder when your growing toddler is ready for some of the comforts we adults take for granted—like a soft, cozy pillow. You may notice your child resting their head on stuffed animals or even bunching up blankets, and it might seem like the perfect time to introduce one. But before you add a pillow to the crib, it’s important to understand the right age and safety guidelines.

So, when can a toddler sleep with a pillow safely? Let’s break it down.

The Safe Sleep Recommendation

According to pediatric sleep experts and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), most toddlers are ready to use a pillow after 18 months, but many parents wait until closer to 2 years old. This guideline exists to reduce the risk of Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID) and suffocation hazards in younger children.

Why Timing Matters

Babies under 1 year should never sleep with a pillow due to the risk of suffocation. Even toddlers need time to develop the motor skills and awareness to safely use a pillow without it interfering with their breathing.

Waiting until your child is:

Out of the crib and in a toddler bed, or
At least 18–24 months old,
adds a layer of safety and ensures they’re developmentally ready.

Signs Your Toddler Might Be Ready for a Pillow

Every child is different, but here are a few signs your toddler could be ready:

They’re consistently trying to rest their head on soft items.
They’ve transitioned to a toddler or big kid bed.
They can roll over and reposition themselves confidently.
They seem uncomfortable lying flat.

Even with these signs, you should still use a pillow that is specifically designed for toddlers—not a regular adult-sized one.

Choosing the Right Toddler Pillow

When your child is ready, here’s what to look for in a toddler pillow:

Flat and firm: Toddlers don’t need much elevation.
Hypoallergenic materials: Sensitive skin and allergies are common.
Proper size: Toddler pillows are usually around 13x18 inches.
Machine washable: Because, well… accidents happen.

Avoid memory foam or overly soft pillows, which can still pose a suffocation risk.

Do Toddlers Even Need a Pillow?

The truth is, many toddlers sleep just fine without a pillow. Introducing one isn’t always necessary unless they seem uncomfortable or ask for one. Your toddler’s comfort and safety should be your top priority—not rushing milestones.

What About Blankets?

If you're also wondering when it’s safe to introduce a blanket along with a pillow, we've covered that too in our full guide:

👉 When Can Toddler Use a Pillow and Blanket?

Final Thoughts from First Time Mom

Introducing a pillow is a small but meaningful step in your toddler’s growing independence. When done at the right time, it can improve sleep quality and comfort—just be sure to follow safe sleep guidelines.

Remember, every child develops at their own pace. Trust your instincts, keep safety first, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician with questions.

Need help choosing the best toddler pillow or navigating sleep transitions? Explore more sleep tips and parenting resources at First Time Mom. We're here to make your journey easier—one bedtime at a time.