Baby helmets offer a cushion against hard floors and sharp corners, giving you peace of mind while your baby builds confidence. We researched the safest, most comfortable options to help you protect that precious noggin without getting in the way of fun.
- Impact resistance to absorb blows
- Washable and eco-friendly material
- Good air permeability
- Can be used as bike helmet
- Integrated visor for sun protection
- CPSC approved
- Ultra adjustable & lightweight
- Endorsed by medical experts
- Soft elastic adjustable chin strap
- Comfortable with lightweight materials
- Sweat resistant
- For longer-term use
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Several designs to choose from
What Is a Baby Safety Helmet?
A baby safety helmet is a lightweight, padded headgear designed to cushion your child’s head from minor bumps and falls. Unlike hard bicycle helmets, these are typically made from soft foam and breathable cotton.
They secure under the chin and provide coverage around the forehead, sides, and back of the head. Parents often use them when babies are learning to crawl, pull themselves up, or take their first wobbly steps.
Do Crawling Babies Need Helmets?
This is a common debate among parents. For most neurotypical children, minor bumps are part of the learning process. They teach a child about cause and effect and help them develop better balance and spatial awareness.
However, there are specific scenarios where a helmet is incredibly helpful:
- Hard flooring: If your home has tile, hardwood, or marble floors throughout, a fall can be much more painful and dangerous.
- Special needs: Babies with bleeding disorders, epilepsy, or balance issues often require extra protection.
- Super active babies: Some children are simply more reckless or energetic than others and prone to throwing themselves backward.
- Babyproofing gaps: If you are visiting a relative’s house that isn’t babyproofed, a helmet can be a temporary lifesaver.
Potential Risks and downsides
While they offer protection, these helmets aren’t without their drawbacks. It is important to weigh the pros and cons before strapping one on your little one.
First, there is the risk of overheating. Even with ventilation holes, foam retains body heat. You need to monitor your baby closely, especially during active play or in warm weather.
Second, there is the “false security” factor. If a baby never feels a light bump, they might not learn to be cautious.
Finding Balance
Finally, the added weight can potentially affect neck muscles if the helmet is too heavy, though most modern bumpers are incredibly light.
How to Choose the Right Helmet
Before buying, consider these three factors to ensure your baby actually keeps the helmet on:
- Ventilation: Look for large airflow vents or breathable cotton liners to prevent sweating.
- Weight: It must be featherlight. If it’s heavy, your baby will try to pull it off immediately.
- Adjustability: Look for Velcro straps and adjustable chin chords so the helmet grows with your baby’s head circumference.
Product Reviews
We tested and reviewed the top-rated head protectors to help you choose the right fit for your adventurous little one.
Simplicity Infant Safety Helmet
Best for Newbie Walkers
The Simplicity Infant Safety Helmet is a top contender for parents who need a balance of protection and breathability. It is constructed with damping and cushioning materials that effectively reduce the impact of falls without feeling like a heavy weight on your baby’s neck.
One of the standout features is the facing and lining material. It is 100 percent cotton, which is gentle on sensitive skin and helps wick away sweat. While no helmet eliminates sweat entirely, the ventilation strips on top do a decent job of keeping airflow moving. It fits a wide range of head sizes, making it a solid investment for the crawling-to-walking transition.
Pros
- Non-toxic and skin-friendly materials.
- Super soft lining for all-day comfort.
- Velcro adjustability grows with your child.
- Top ventilation strips help combat overheating.
- Extremely lightweight design.
Cons
- May leave temporary pressure marks if worn too long.
- Determined babies might figure out how to pull it off.
Our Ratings
Simplicity Baby Infant No Bumps Safety Bonnet
Best for Crawling and Playing
If the full “helmet look” feels too bulky for your child, the Simplicity Safety Bonnet offers a lower-profile alternative. It functions more like a padded hat than a helmet, which many babies find less intrusive and easier to tolerate.
The design relies on cushioned strips rather than a solid shell. This open concept provides excellent ventilation, making it ideal for warmer homes or active playdates. It fits head circumferences from 18 to 23 inches. While it may not offer the same level of impact absorption as thicker models, it is perfect for taking the edge off minor bumps against furniture or floorboards.
Pros
- Flexible design moves with your baby.
- Less intrusive fit feels like a standard hat.
- Highly affordable option.
- Available in over 20 fun prints and colors.
Cons
- Offers less coverage than full helmets.
- String ties can be finicky compared to clips.
Our Ratings
ESupport Adjustable Baby Head Protector for Infants
Full Protection for Babies
The ESupport Head Protector is designed for parents seeking maximum coverage. It provides 360-degree protection, wrapping securely around the forehead, sides, and back of the head. This is particularly useful for babies who tend to fall backward when learning to sit or stand.
It is suitable for babies from 8 months up to 36 months, thanks to a wide range of adjustability. The shock-absorbing foam is dense enough to handle harder knocks, yet the outer layer remains soft to the touch. The chin strap allows you to dial in a snug fit, ensuring the helmet doesn’t slide over your baby’s eyes during play.
Pros
- High impact resistance absorbs blows effectively.
- Made with eco-friendly, breathable materials.
- Good air permeability reduces sweat buildup.
- Practical design is easy to put on and take off.
- Machine-washable for easy cleaning.
Cons
- Bulky look takes time for some babies to accept.
- Not suitable for biking (soft protection only).
Our Ratings
Schwinn Teddy Bear Infant Safety Helmet
Great for Baby Bikers
Unlike the other soft bumpers on this list, the Schwinn Teddy Bear Helmet is a true hard-shell helmet. This means it is CPSC-approved for use on bicycles, in bike trailers, or in carrier seats. If you want to take your little one on a ride, this is the type of gear you need.
It features an adorable 3D teddy bear design that makes safety gear look fun. The dial-fit system offers 360-degree adjustability, ensuring a secure fit on smaller heads. While it is heavier than walking bumpers, the extended rear coverage provides crucial protection for the back of the head.
Pros
- Extended coverage protects the back of the head.
- True hard-shell safety for bike riding.
- Integrated visor helps block the sun.
- Ten airflow vents keep the head cool.
- Meets CPSC safety standards.
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier than soft walking helmets.
- Ventilation is decent but can still get warm.
Our Ratings
Thudguard Protective Infant Safety Helmet
Cute and Comfortable
The Thudguard is one of the most recognizable names in the baby helmet industry, often praised by medical professionals. It features a unique design with distinct “ears” that aren’t just for looks, they help accommodate the helmet’s structure while keeping it lightweight.
The half-inch thick foam is impact-tested, giving you confidence that it can handle real-world tumbles. A stretchy circumference band allows it to conform to different head shapes without the need for complicated velcro adjustments. It is a “one-size-fits-all” solution that typically works well for ages 7 months to 2 years, minimizing the fuss of sizing.
Pros
- Easy one-size-fits-all stretchy design.
- Endorsed by emergency and medical experts.
- Soft elastic chin strap prevents chafing.
- Ultra-lightweight to protect developing neck muscles.
Cons
- Higher price point than generic brands.
- Lacks a visor for face protection.
- Soft foam only (not for biking).
Our Ratings
Beyonder Adjustable Infant Helmet
Like Bubble Wrap for Baby's Head
The Beyonder Adjustable Helmet focuses on comfort and sweat absorption. It uses a specialized IXPE lining material that is soft against the skin and helps manage moisture, which is a huge plus if you live in a warm climate.
This helmet sits somewhere between a bonnet and a full helmet. It ties under the chin, which gives it a nostalgic, handmade feel. The Velcro adjustment on the back allows it to expand significantly, fitting heads up to 23.6 inches. While it provides good padding for the top and back of the head, it feels less restrictive than stiffer foam models.
Pros
- Lightweight and breathable construction.
- Less constricting fit encourages longer wear time.
- Sweat-resistant fabric lining.
- Generous sizing grows with your toddler.
Cons
- String ties are easier for toddlers to undo than clips.
- Does not offer complete 360-degree rigid protection.
Our Ratings
Huifen Baby Protective Harnesses Cap
For Outdoor Adventures
The Huifen Protective Cap is a versatile option that works well for both indoor playtime and outdoor adventures. It features a strategic design with large openings between the padded sections. This structure maximizes airflow while ensuring the critical impact zones remain covered.
The exterior is durable enough to handle grass and pavement scuffs, while the interior remains soft. It adjusts easily via a rear Velcro strap and a secure chin buckle. If you plan on letting your little one roam in the backyard or at the park, this helmet provides the necessary buffer against rougher terrain.
Pros
- Lightweight design won’t weigh baby down.
- Excellent airflow through design gaps.
- Adjusts easily to fit developing heads.
- Durable enough for outdoor use.
Cons
- Clever babies may learn to unbuckle it.
Our Ratings
Common Concerns and Controversy
You might get a few sideways glances when you take your baby out in a bumper helmet. Some people believe they are unnecessary or that they “coddle” children too much.
We believe that parenting isn’t a one-size-fits-all sport. While we agree that children need to experience the world to learn from it, preventing a concussion on a marble floor takes priority.
Think of a baby helmet like knee pads for a skater. It doesn’t stop them from falling; it just makes the landing a little safer so they can get back up and try again.
Parenting Your Way
FAQs
What Age Should a Baby Wear a Safety Helmet?
Babies can typically start wearing safety helmets once they begin crawling, pulling to stand, or cruising furniture, which usually happens between 7 and 10 months.
How Long Should a Baby Wear a Safety Helmet During the Day?
There is no set time limit, but it is best to use them only during active play to prevent overheating. Remove the helmet during naps, meals, and calm activities.
What Are Helmet Alternatives for Babies?
If you prefer not to use a helmet, you can create “safe zones” using baby gates, large foam playmats, and corner guards on sharp furniture.
Which Baby Safety Helmet Is Best?
The best helmet is one that stays on your baby’s head. We recommend the Simplicity Infant Safety Helmet for its balance of weight, ventilation, and protection.
Can My Baby Sleep in a Safety Helmet?
No, you should never let your baby sleep in a safety helmet. It poses a suffocation risk and can cause your baby to overheat dangerously while sleeping.
Are These Helmets the Same as Cranial Helmets?
No. Soft safety helmets are for bump protection only. Cranial orthoses (hard helmets) are medical devices prescribed by doctors to correct flat head syndrome (plagiocephaly).
The Bottom Line
Our top pick for the best baby safety helmet is the Simplicity Infant Safety Helmet. It offers the best mix of breathability and shock absorption, making it a comfortable choice for active crawlers.
For parents who need something for family bike rides, remember to grab the Schwinn Teddy Bear Helmet, as soft bumpers won’t protect against high-impact cycling accidents.
Whichever you choose, these helmets are a great tool to bridge the gap between wobbly first steps and confident walking.
