Choosing a Baby Pillow

Most new moms already know that the youngest of infants do not need a baby pillow. Pillows and blankets can be dangerous for very young infants, are better kept aside for times when Mom can keep an eye out. But in reality, many mothers end up sacrificing their babys comfort for safety longer than they actually need to.
After your infant reaches a certain age, it is safe for you to give them a baby pillow... and will make them a lot more comfortable. Generally, doctors say that at the age of 12 months, when a child has gained some mobility, it may be time to give them a baby pillow. While you can wait several years to give your child a pillow if you choose, giving him or her one earlier on is a great way to have your one year old (or older) baby sleep through the night. The right size and shape baby pillow can do a lot for your childs comfort, as well as helping him or her breathe better during cold and flu season.
A Baby Pillow for an Older Infant
Toddlers and older infants are more comfortable with a baby pillow than they are without. But even if the pediatrician has given you a green light to give your child a baby pillow, that does not mean that any type of pillow is a good choice. It is always important to think about your childs safety, of course, and grown up sized pillows can pose a danger to your toddler. Though a toddler is more mobile than a newborn, he or she can still be smothered by a large pillow.
So of course shopping for the right type of baby pillow for your baby is very important. In addition to being somewhat dangerous, adult sized pillows are just not comfortable for a toddler. A baby pillow, though, is perfectly proportioned to a young childs head and neck. With toddler sized dimensions, only twelve inches by sixteen inches, a baby pillow supports your child in just the same way an adult pillow supports an adult, but geared towards the angles and dimensions which are comfortable for a baby.
There are also a few additional considerations to make when you are looking into buying a baby pillow for your child. For instance, it is generally better to purchase a hypoallergenic baby pillow if possible. A hypoallergenic pillow will reduce the amount of allergens your child is exposed to as he or she sleeps, and will usually be of the highest quality. You will also want to shop for a baby pillow that is easy to clean. While a plastic coated baby pillow is easiest, it might make your childs head and neck feel overly warm. The best option is a breathable but durable and easy to clean fabric.