Watching your little one graduate from a crib to a big kid bed is a huge milestone. naturally, you might want to complete the setup with a fluffy pillow.
But before you toss them a spare from the hallway closet, pause for a second. Adult pillows are often too high and soft for toddlers, posing potential safety risks.
We created this guide to help you navigate the transition safely. We’ll cover the signs of readiness, safety tips, and our hands-on reviews of the best toddler pillows (and cases) to keep your child sleeping soundly.
- 100% hypoallergenic
- Hygienic design
- 1-year money-back guarantee
- Comes with organic pillowcase
- Machine washable and dryer friendly
- Super-soft outer shell
- Quickly adjusts to all children
- Never goes flat
- Hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant
- Satisfaction guaranteed
- Lots of cute prints and colors
- Pillowcase included
- Attached pillow, mat, and blanket
- Soft, lightweight material
- Washable
- 100% polyester
- Multifarious designs to choose from
- Universal size
- 100% organic cotton
- Soft but durable fabric
- Pillow is fully enclosed in case
Is Your Toddler Ready for a Pillow?
There is plenty of debate regarding exactly when to introduce pillows to your toddler. Generally, parents make the switch between 18 and 24 months, usually coinciding with the transition from crib to toddler bed.
However, there is no rush. Some children happily sleep flat on the mattress for years. It is ultimately your call, but if you have doubts, a quick chat with your pediatrician is always a smart move.
Here are a few signs your child might be ready for a lift:
- Propping attempts: They struggle to sleep unless their head is propped up on a stuffed animal or blanket.
- Restlessness: They seem uncomfortable, tossing and turning more than usual.
- Imitating you: They seek out pillows when cuddling in your bed or lounging on the couch.
Toddler Pillow Safety
Safety is the priority. The wrong pillow can be more than just uncomfortable; it can be dangerous.
If your child is ready, avoid these specific hazards (1):
- Too soft: A pillow that is overly fluffy poses a suffocation risk. You want support, not a sinking feeling.
- Too big: Standard adult pillows are massive for a toddler. The excess height can strain their developing neck and spine.
- Loose fabric: Never put a standard pillowcase on a small toddler pillow. The extra loose fabric is a strangulation and safety hazard.
- Pellet fillings: Avoid bean-bag style fillings (micro-beads or buckwheat) for this age. If the casing tears, the filling becomes a major choking hazard.
- Allergens: If your child wakes up with the sniffles, the pillow material or filling might be aggravating their allergies.
Key Features to Look For
Finding the right pillow involves more than just picking a cute print. Here is what to look for to ensure safety and comfort.
Allergies
If your child has sensitivities to wool or specific synthetics, check the label closely. Hypoallergenic pillows are usually the safest bet to prevent nighttime congestion or skin rashes.
Firmness and Loft
You need a balance. If the pillow stays flat as a pancake when you press it, it’s too firm. If it doesn’t regain its shape at all, it’s too soft. Look for a “low loft” pillow (flatter than an adult’s) that offers gentle resistance to support the neck without forcing the chin to the chest.
Satisfaction Guarantee
Toddlers are picky. A pillow that feels great to you might feel “yucky” to them. Look for brands that offer a sleep trial or money-back guarantee so you aren’t stuck with a pillow your child refuses to use.
Thread Count
While not as critical as it is for adult luxury sheets, a higher thread count generally means a tighter weave. This keeps the filling inside where it belongs and offers a smoother surface against delicate skin.
Fill Material
Polyester fiberfill is common because it is inexpensive and holds its shape. Memory foam offers great support but can retain heat. Cotton is breathable and natural. Choose a fill that balances washability with comfort.
Outer Shell
Even if you use a pillowcase, the shell matters. 100% cotton shells are breathable and keep the pillow from getting too sweaty during nap time.
Hypoallergenic
Toddlers have sensitive skin. Hypoallergenic materials resist dust mites and mold, keeping the sleeping environment cleaner and healthier.
Washability
This is non-negotiable. Toddlers get sick, have potty accidents, and spill milk. You need a pillow that can survive a cycle in the washing machine without becoming a lumpy mess.
Product Reviews
We tested comfort, washability, and durability to find the best pillows for little sleepers.
KeaBabies Hypoallergenic Toddler Pillow With Pillow Case
Best Toddler Pillow for Allergies
If sneezes and sniffles are keeping your kiddo up at night, the KeaBabies pillow is a solid line of defense. It is sized perfectly for tiny heads (13×18 inches) and uses hypoallergenic fiber filling to minimize reactions.
We like that this pillow comes with a perfectly fitted pillowcase, saving you an extra purchase. The case is soft, breathable, and adds another layer of protection against dust and dander. It is an ideal size for children aged 2 to 5.
Ergonomically, it offers a nice balance of fluff and support, ensuring the spine stays aligned without craning the neck. Plus, the whole thing is machine washable, which every parent knows is a lifesaver.
Pros
- 100% hypoallergenic materials.
- Includes a fitted pillowcase.
- Machine washable and durable.
- One-year money-back guarantee.
Cons
- Only comes in one size (13×18 inches).
- Synthetic filling, not organic.
Our Ratings
My Little North Star 100% Organic Toddler Pillow
Best Organic Toddler Pillow
For parents trying to keep the nursery chemical-free, My Little North Star is a fantastic option. It features a 100% organic cotton shell that is GOTS certified, meaning no pesticides or harsh chemicals touch your child’s face.
The filling is a hypoallergenic poly-cluster fiber that mimics the feel of down without the allergy risk. We found that it holds its shape well, even after a spin in the washing machine.
It is designed for ages 2 to 5 and was developed with chiropractor input to ensure proper neck height. Because the shell is organic cotton, it feels smooth and cool, so you can technically skip a pillowcase if you want (though using one helps keep it cleaner longer).
Pros
- 100% organic cotton shell.
- Hypoallergenic cluster fiber filling.
- Machine washable and dryer friendly.
- Made in the USA.
- Does not clump easily after washing.
Cons
- Requires occasional fluffing to maintain loft.
- Pricier than non-organic options.
Our Ratings
Snuggle-Pedic Toddler Pillow
Best Memory Foam Toddler Pillow
Standard down alternatives can sometimes go flat, but the Snuggle-Pedic uses shredded memory foam to maintain consistent support. It molds to your toddler’s head and neck, providing a custom fit that doesn’t require constant fluffing.
The standout feature here is adjustability. Because the foam is shredded, the pillow is flexible, not a solid brick. The bamboo-derived cover is micro-vented, which helps with breathability, a huge plus since memory foam can sometimes run hot.
It is fully machine washable (entire pillow), which is rare for memory foam. If your child needs consistent neck support and you want a product that won’t flatten out in a month, this is the one.
Pros
- Conforms to the child’s head shape.
- Fully machine washable.
- Resistant to flattening.
- Hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant.
- 90-day sleep trial.
Cons
- No zipper to remove filling for height adjustment.
- Firmer feel than fiber-fill pillows.
Our Ratings
Dreamtown Kids Toddler Pillow
Best Flat Toddler Pillow
If you are worried about straining your toddler’s neck with a pillow that is too high, Dreamtown Kids has the solution. This pillow is intentionally designed with a lower loft (height) to keep the spine neutral, making it an excellent “first pillow” choice.
The filling is dense but soft, so it doesn’t billow up around the face. It is hypoallergenic, mildew-resistant, and free of toxic flame retardants.
It comes with a simple pillowcase, giving you a complete set right out of the box. While it might feel “too flat” to an adult, it is usually just right for a toddler transitioning from a flat mattress.
Pros
- Low loft is ideal for neck alignment.
- Made in the USA.
- Includes a pillowcase.
- Mold and mildew resistant.
Cons
- Stitching could be reinforced better.
- Fabric is functional but not luxuriously soft.
Our Ratings
Pillow Pets Cute Plush Pillow
Cutest Toddler Pillow
Sometimes the struggle isn’t comfort, it’s getting your toddler to stay in bed. A Pillow Pet bridges the gap between a toy and bedding, making bedtime feel a little friendlier.
By day, it’s a plush stuffed animal. By night, you undo the velcro strap, and it flattens into an 18-inch pillow. The chenille fabric is incredibly soft and comforting for sensory-seeking kids.
While it isn’t the most ergonomic option for all-night sleeping compared to a dedicated contour pillow, it is fantastic for travel, naps, or kids who are resistant to using a “boring” white pillow.
Pros
- Machine washable (in a pillowcase).
- Huge variety of characters.
- Extremely soft plush fabric.
- Helps with bedtime anxiety.
Cons
- Not hypoallergenic.
- Velcro can snag if not carefully washed.
Our Ratings
Baby Boom Nap Mat Set
Best Toddler Pillow and Blanket Set
If your toddler is starting preschool or daycare, you need something portable. This Baby Boom set integrates a pillow, fleece blanket, and padded mat into one roll-up bundle.
The attached pillow is thin and simple, which is exactly what you want for a nap mat that needs to be rolled tight. It features Velcro closures and a carry handle, empowering your toddler to carry their own bedding to school.
There is a designated name tag window, which is a thoughtful touch for avoiding mix-ups at school. It’s machine washable, though we recommend hanging it to dry to keep the fleece soft.
Pros
- All-in-one sleep solution.
- Portable with carry handle.
- Fun prints kids love.
- Includes name tag window.
Cons
- Not hypoallergenic.
- Blanket is attached, which restricts movement slightly.
Our Ratings
Cloudz Kids Plush Unicorn Neck Pillow
Best Travel Toddler Pillow
Sleeping upright in a car seat or on a plane is tough for toddlers. Their heads tend to loll forward, leading to sore necks. The Cloudz neck pillow provides that crucial U-shaped support to keep them comfortable during long journeys.
Filled with polystyrene microbeads, it conforms to the neck better than stiff foam options. One side is plush and cozy for winter, while the other is smooth spandex for cooler sleeping.
It features a snap closure to secure it around your child’s neck (so it doesn’t fall off) or to clip it onto luggage. Just note: this is strictly for travel use, not for sleeping in a bed.
Pros
- Prevents head drooping during travel.
- Dual-sided fabric (warm/cool).
- Fun animal designs.
- Snap closure for security.
Cons
- Spot clean only (microbeads).
- Fixed shape cannot be adjusted.
Our Ratings
My Little North Star Pillowcase
Best Toddler Pillowcase
Already have a pillow but need a spare case? You want something that withstands drool and frequent washing.
This pillowcase from My Little North Star uses the same high-quality organic cotton as their pillows. It is GOTS certified, incredibly soft, and gets softer with every wash. The envelope closure is a major safety plus, it fully encases the pillow so the insert doesn’t slide out during the night.
The neutral star design fits almost any nursery theme, and because the dye is minimal, the fabric remains breathable.
Pros
- 100% organic GOTS certified cotton.
- Envelope style closure keeps pillow inside.
- Soft and breathable.
- Neutral, calming design.
Cons
- Cotton may shrink slightly in high heat.
Our Ratings
FAQs
Do Toddlers Need Special Pillows?
Yes. Adult pillows are too high and can strain a toddler’s neck or obstruct their breathing. A toddler-specific pillow is smaller (usually 13×18 or 14×19 inches) and flatter to ensure safe spinal alignment.
How Thick Should a Toddler Pillow Be?
A toddler pillow should be roughly two to three inches thick. The goal isn’t elevation; it is filling the small gap between the ear and the mattress to support the neck neutrally.
Is Spring or Memory Foam Better for a Child?
Memory foam is generally better for toddlers than springs or down because it provides consistent support and is hypoallergenic. Just ensure the foam is breathable to prevent overheating.
Can I Use a Standard Pillowcase on a Toddler Pillow?
No. A standard pillowcase is much larger than a toddler pillow. The excess loose fabric can bunch up and create a suffocation or strangulation hazard. Always use a fitted toddler-size case.
How Often Should I Wash a Toddler Pillow?
You should wash the pillowcase weekly. The pillow itself should be washed every 3 to 6 months, or immediately after any illness or spills, to keep it free of dust mites and bacteria.
The Bottom Line
Our top pick for the best toddler pillow is the KeaBabies Hypoallergenic Pillow. It hits the sweet spot between comfort, safety, and price, plus the included pillowcase makes it an easy choice for busy parents.
If you prefer organic materials, the My Little North Star is a fantastic chemical-free alternative.
Remember, the transition to a pillow is a marathon, not a sprint. If your toddler rejects it at first, put it away and try again in a month. The right pillow will help them sleep soundly, which means you get to sleep soundly too.
