10 Best Pillows for Kids and Toddlers for a Full Night’s Sleep
Does your toddler need a pillow, and if so which one is best? We talked to the experts to find out.
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It seems like just yesterday you were gently placing your baby in their crib for their nap. Now, all of a sudden you have a toddler on your hands and you’re shopping for a big kid’s bed.
Wait, where did the time go?! And does your child need a pillow now? If so, which type is best?
To find out, we talked to Baby and Child Sleep Expert Maryanne Sayers, who understands only too well the importance of finding the right pillow for your child.
“I often say a pillow is an ‘extension’ of the mattress and a good, supportive pillow is an essential ingredient to getting a good night’s sleep and waking up feeling well-rested,” says Sayers.
“Children require pillows to support their delicate necks and help them sleep well.”
According to Sayers, a suitable pillow for your child should do the following:
- Encourage the natural alignment of the spine during sleep
- Provide enough support to their developing necks
- Prevent or lower allergies
- Aid in proper spinal alignment
With this is mind, we’ve sourced the best pillows for kids and toddlers to suit a range of budgets. The right pillow can really make all the difference – so read on and get ready for many nights of blissful sleep to come.
OUR TOP PICKS
BEST OVERALL PILLOW FOR KIDS AND TODDLERS
Tontine My First Extra Soft and Low Pillow, $22.99 at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: Comfy low profile to ease toddlers in
What to consider: It appears higher but soon flattens
Materials: Cotton cover, polyester fill | Age range: 2 to 5 years | Machine washable: Yes
What You Need To Know
This pillow from trusted brand Tontine is a number one bestseller on Amazon, with more than 400 selling over the past month. Suited for children aged two to five years, it’s ideal for little ones moving into a big bed as it’s soft with a low profile. It’s also filled with premium polyester to prevent the growth of bacteria, mould and dust mites – and covered in natural and breathable cotton, all of which is machine washable.
The star design will appeal to kids while the price will certainly entice parents. One Amazon shopper left the comment, “Super happy with the quality. Perfect for my two children aged 2 and 4.” Another said, “The pillow is high quality and very soft, my daughter adapted to it from the very first time.”
BEST AUSTRALIAN-MADE PILLOW FOR KIDS AND TODDLERS
MiniJumbuk SleepCalm Kids Wool Cotton Quilted Pillow, $40 (down from $79.99), Myer
Why we love it: Comes with a two-year warranty
What to consider: Wool filling contains 40 per cent polyester
Materials: 60 per cent wool, 40 per cent polyester filling; cotton casing, Age range: 2 to 6 years | Machine washable: Yes
What You Need To Know
This Aussie-made pillow features 60 per cent Australian wool filling and a soft cotton casing. This helps regulate airflow and prevent overheating, making for a comfortable night’s sleep. What’s more, it’s suitable for those with allergies and asthma, plus it’s machine washable and comes with a two year warranty.
One happy parent reported, “Very comfortable and soft. 3.5-year-old is very happy with her big girl pillow” while another said, “Really happy with the quality and perfect thicknesses for my 3-year-old. Definitely recommend.”
BEST MEMORY FOAM PILLOW FOR KIDS AND TODDLERS
Clevamama Junior Pillow for Kids, $54.99 (down from $64.95) at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: Infused with relaxing lavender essences
What to consider: Only the cover is machine washable
Materials: Memory foam Age range: 3 years plus | Machine washable: Cover only
What You Need To Know
Sayers recommends only using a memory foam pillow for children who are aged seven and older. This pillow, crafted from Reflex Support Foam, is good for supporting little necks and heads and is infused with lavender essence to promote a calm stress-free sleeping environment.
It’s hypo-allergenic, breathable and suitable for kids suffering from asthma and allergies. It also comes with a cover that’s removable and machine washable. One parent commented, “Great support for my daughter. Makes sure her neck isn’t bent from adult pillows being too high.”
BEST LATEX PILLOW FOR KIDS AND TODDLERS
Bianca Sleep Easy Kids Pillow, $89.99 (down from $169.95) at Temple & Webster
Why we love it: 10 year warranty
What to consider: Pillow is not machine washable
Material: Latex with cotton cover | Age range: Kids | Machine washable: No
What You Need To Know
Specifically designed for children, this pillow is crafted from top tier Talalay latex with a soft plush cotton velour cover. It offers superior support and alleviates pressure points for maximum comfort and a good night’s sleep.
The pillow measures 60cm x 40cm x 14cm and comes with a 10-year warranty.
One parent commented, “Perfect for my 2-year-old. Very soft”, while another said, “Great pillow for kids. Low profile but super comfortable.”
BEST ORGANIC PILLOW FOR KIDS AND TODDLERS
Organic Toddler Pillow and Case, $39.95 at ergoPouch
Why we love it: Comes with a cover and there are a wide range of patterns on offer
What to consider: Very low profile
Material: 100 per cent organic cotton filling and cover | Age range: From 2 years on | Machine washable: Yes
What You Need To Know
You may have gone to ergoPouch in search of their beautiful sleeping bags for babies – and now you can shop pillows as well. These toddler pillows with pretty pillowcases are made from 100 per cent organic cotton, which is non-toxic and free from harmful chemicals and pesticides. The pillow is designed to support the correct alignment of your child’s neck from two years of age onwards. You can even buy a snug toddler sleeping bag in matching fabric. Available in a range of cute patterns and chic subtle tones, this is a must-have when your kid is ready for a pillow.
“I bought this pillow as my 18-month-old was starting to put blankets and soft toys under her head when going to sleep,” says one parent. “It’s really thin and gives her just enough lift to be comfortable and stop putting other things under her head. I’m really happy with this purchase.”
Another said, “My 2-year-old loves his pillow and his mum gets to relax knowing its safe and easily cleaned when accidents happen.”
KeaBabies My Little Dreamy Pillow, $37.96 at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: Highly rated on Amazon
What to consider: Extremely soft
Materials: Organic cotton and filling | Age range: Toddlers | Machine washable: Yes
What You Need To Know
Extremely well-reviewed on Amazon, this pillow is ergonomically designed to give the best spinal support to your toddler without compromising on comfort. Made from organic materials, it’s soft, gentle and breathable – and machine washable! It comes with a pillow case, which is offered in a wide range of super cute prints and patterns.
There are plenty of five-star reviews on this pillow – one parent raved, “My toddler loves this pillow, have purchased a second as back up. Very happy.”
Another commented, “We absolutely love this pillow for our daughter. She’s 2-years-old and she sleeps on it every night now. It’s so easy to wash too, we just take the cover off of it and throw both the pillow and the cover in with her wash and then dry it with her clothes as well. It’s great, and they have super cute designs too! We got the butterflies and the fantasy pony one.”
BEST BODY PILLOWS FOR KIDS AND TODDLERS
Byriver Curve Long Body Pillow for Kids, $79.23 at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: Gorgeous design that looks great in the bedroom
What to consider: Not for children under the age of 3
Material: 7D hypo-allergenic polyester filling, cotton cover Age range: 3 years plus | Machine washable: Cover only
What You Need To Know
This versatile pillow is ideal for helping your toddler sleep, propping them up while reading or even lounging on the sofa. Its cute animal design in either baby Shark or Kitten is totally appealing and the soft cover zips off and washes in the machine. Great for kids – and adults too! (I think I want one now …)
“This pillow has been magical for my daughter who would want to sleep with me almost every night to cuddle,” said a five-star reviewer. “She sleeps so much longer and deeper on this pillow.”
BEST TRAVEL PILLOW FOR KIDS AND TODDLERS
Trtl Pillow Junior, $74.99 at Trtl
Why we love it: So easy to pack into luggage
What to consider: Suited to older children
Material: Foam and hypo-allergenic fleece | Age range: 8 years plus | Machine washable: Yes
What You Need To Know
This innovative travel pillow made of soft fluffy fleece simply wraps around the neck and secures with velcro. Easy to put on, adjust, take off and store in luggage, its clever design looks just like a scarf, yet offers support and rest without neck pain, aches or strains.
There’s also a 30-day risk-free trial so you can always get your kid to try it out before you leave on holiday – and many petit sized adult customers have actually bought this for themselves.
“My kid love it for the long car ride!” wrote one happy customer.
Another said, “Perfect for my 11-year-old for flying.”
BEST DECORATIVE PILLOW FOR KIDS AND TODDLERS
Hallie Rainbow Cushion, $20 at Target
Why we love it: Cute decorative cushion at an affordable price
What to consider: Not suitable for sleeping
Material: Polyester filling, cotton cover | Age range: Decor for toddlers | Machine washable: No, spot clean only
What You Need To Know
Decorative cushions can be a cheap way to add colour or refresh the look of your kid’s bedroom. They also add comfort when lounging on the bed or floor – and can make fun birthday presents for your child’s friends. Target offers a huge variety of fun designs at reasonable prices – we particularly love this textured rainbow pattern, which is both cute and affordable.
Adairs Kids Roar The Lion Classic Cushion, $34.99 (down from $49.99) at Adairs
Why we love it: Appealing lion design
What to consider: Not machine washable
Material: Cotton canvas cover, polyester fill | Age range: Toddler decor | Machine washable: No, spot clean only
What You Need To Know
This lion cushion is cute, stylish and soft to lounge on. Decorative cushions are a fun and easy way to capture your little one’s interest – and easily changeable when they move onto something else!
“Love this cushion!” enthused a five-star reviewer. “It’s really cute, soft, bigger than I imagined, and brightens up the space. Very happy!”
“Absolutely love this cushion,” agreed another. “Adds a cute touch to my son’s room but it is also soft enough to take with us for naps on it.”
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WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A PILLOW FOR YOUR CHILD
According to Sayers, you don’t have to be a world expert on pillows, but understanding the different types of pillows and their specific benefits is helpful in selecting the right one for your child.
Here are some top tips from Sayers to consider when looking for a pillow for your child:
Safety/age
“My advice is no pillows for toddlers under 2-and-a-half years of age and/or toddlers still in a cot as this can be a safety and suffocation hazard. I am often asked ‘does my baby/young toddler need a pillow?’. And the answer, quite simply, is no as babies and young toddlers do not need pillows. I recommend providing a pillow only when your toddler moves into a bed which ideally should happen between the age of two and a half years and three years.
Pillow height
Low and firm is best for children. Generally, paediatric specialists recommend a low-profile pillow that doesn’t have a lot of height. This is to keep an even distribution of weight between your child’s head and neck. The lower profile pillow will also limit excessive movement throughout the night which can lead to restless sleep.
Firmness
My suggestion is to err more on the firmer side for your child. Your child’s pillow should generally be firm enough to support their head, but not so firm that it places excessive pressure on your child’s face, head or neck.
Material
It does come down to personal preference in relation to what material you want your child’s pillow to be made from. Synthetic materials, such as polyester or foam, can be a good choice as they are hypo-allergenic and provide good support. Organic cotton (pillows are) a good option, as they are free of harmful chemicals. It is important to note though that organic cotton pillows are more expensive than synthetic options, so parents should weigh the benefits against the cost before making a purchase.”
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT SIZE PILLOW IS BEST FOR MY TODDLER?
According to Sayers, toddler pillows have an average size of 13 by 18 inches, which is perfect for those aged between 2-and-a-half and 5.
“The more compact size also makes the pillow travel-friendly for preschool, daycare, and car or plane trips,” she says. “Once children get to around age 6 or 7, they can move to a larger size pillow, however use your best judgement and observation with this.”
SHOULD A CHILD HAVE A MEMORY FOAM PILLOW?
Memory foam pillows are really only fine for older children, aged 7 and beyond. “Due to the way that memory foam moulds to the head, it can pose a possible suffocation hazard for young children of preschool age who end up sleeping on their tummy, where often their face will be buried downwards slightly,” says Sayers.
CAN KIDS WITH ASTHMA USE PILLOWS WITH DOWN OR FEATHER FILLINGS?
Sayers definitely does not recommend a down or feather filling for any child with asthma. “Research has shown that these fillings can trigger and/or exacerbate asthma symptoms,” she cautions. “Steer clear of them if your child has asthma or any other respiratory/allergy issues.”
CAN I CHOOSE A CHEAP PILLOW OR DO I NEED TO BUY A MORE EXPENSIVE ONE?
Like any product, you can pay a lot or a little and Sayers lands somewhere right in the middle of the two and feels that “middle of the road” will be just fine. Over the years, she’s had pillows that were real “cheapies” that lacked the quality and didn’t last more than three months.
“They lost their shape and were providing little to no support and you really don’t want this for your child’s pillow,” she says. “On the flip side, you don’t need to break the bank – not at all. Look for a good quality, middle-of-the-price-range pillow that is affordable for you.”
WHEN DOES MY CHILD’S PILLOW NEED TO BE REPLACED?
Sayers suggests replacing your child’s pillow every 12 months to 2 years – and a good way to know if it needs replacing is to fold the pillow in half and hold it there for 30 seconds. “When you let go of the pillow it should spring back into shape, but if it stays folded or doesn’t have that spring back formation, it’s a clear sign that the pillow’s structure is compromised,” says Sayers. “This means it is no longer providing your child with the support needed for healthy sleep.”
Meet our sleep expert
More Coverage
Maryanne Sayers is one of Australia’s leading baby and child sleep experts. She’s helped thousands of families over the years and provides parents with the right education, knowledge and understanding on baby sleep. Her education is based on going back to basics and having a big picture understanding of the foundations around baby and child sleep from newborns all the way up to teenagers.
Maryanne is a certified Maternity and Child Sleep Consultant, having completed her diploma-level studies with the IHPI (International Health and Parenting Institute). She is also a member of the APSC (Association of Professional Sleep Consultants). She has recently been appointed as official Baby Sleep Expert for kidspot. Maryanne has been featured in various national Australian media and is also a frequent guest speaker and contributor at many community parenting forums and seminars. In 2019, Maryanne was invited as a Keynote International Speaker to attend a toddler health and wellness Conference in Doha, Qatar (Middle East). Maryanne provides one-on-one consultation packages to families via phone or video call, and she also has an online baby sleep program available. Website: https://maryannesayers.com.au.
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