When it comes to pillows, we often get asked, when should I introduce a pillow and what sort of pillow is best? As adults, we know that the right pillow can make a big difference for a good nights' sleep and this is no different for our toddlers or older children.
We recommend that pillows only be introduced after 18 months of age. A good first pillow, should be low profile to gently support your child’s head and neck. From then on, it really becomes a question of how your child sleeps (hello wrigglers, tummy sleepers and kids who end up sideways!), their age, size, and the right depth & fill.
To make things easy, we’ve put together a simple comparison chart of The Sleep Store brand pillows, so you can quickly find the best match for your little one.
Pillow Comparison
Table scrolls right on mobile
| Low Profile Toddler Pillow with Pillowcase - Cot Size | Low Profile Kids Pillow - Standard Size | Mid Profile Kids Pillow - Standard Size | Mid Profile Soft Pillow with Pillowcase - Standard Size | Wool Toddler Pillow with Pillowcase - Cot Size | Wool Pillow with Pillowcase - Standard Size | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Image | ||||||
| Size | 42 x 61 cm | 50 x 75 cm | 50 x 75 cm | 50 x 75 cm | 42 x 61 cm | 50 x 75 cm |
| Profile | Low-profile | Low-profile | Mid-profile | Mid-profile | Low-profile | Low-profile |
| Depth | 8–9 cm | 10–11 cm | 12–13 cm | 14–15 cm | 6–7 cm | 8–9 cm |
| Fill | 250 gsm 30% Tencel 70% Polyester |
350 gsm 30% Tencel 70% Polyester |
450 gsm 30% Tencel 70% Polyester |
750 gsm 30% Tencel 70% Polyester |
320 gsm 100% Wool |
450 gsm 100% Wool |
| Outer | 100% cotton | 100% cotton | 100% cotton | 100% cotton | 100% cotton | 100% cotton |
| Best for | A first cot pillow from 18 months | A first pillow from 18 months + or tummy sleepers | Back or side sleepers, as a follow on from the low profile pillow. | Back and side sleepers. Older children & adults | A first cot pillow for toddlers over 18 months of age | Back and side sleepers as a follow on from the cot pillow |
| Age suitability | 18 months plus | 18 months plus | From approx 5 years | From approx 5 years | 18 months plus | 18 months plus |
| Shop now | Low Profile Toddler Pillow with Pillowcase - Cot Size | Low Profile Kids Pillow with Pillowcase - Standard Size | Mid Profile Kids Pillow with Pillowcase - Standard Size | Mid Profile Soft Pillow with Pillowcase - Standard Size | Wool Toddler Pillow with Pillowcase - Cot Size | Wool Pillow with Pillowcase - Standard Size |
When can children start using a pillow?
This is one of our most common questions. As adults, we can't imagine sleeping without a pillow, but for young children, they don't necessarily know any better.
As a general guide, pillows are best introduced from around 18 months+, and only when your child is developmentally ready. If you’re unsure, it’s okay to wait a little longer as many toddlers sleep happily without a pillow for quite some time.
How to Choose the Right Pillow
If you're not sure where to start, a few things that might help guide your decision:
1) Choose the right size for your child's bed
If your toddler is 18 months + and is still in a cot, choose a cot sized or toddler pillow. They are small in size and therefore won't dominate the cot.
If your little one is already in a big bed, then a standard size pillow is perfectly fine, as long as it's low-profile. This will likely last longer and look better as it will fit with the standard sized bedding.
2) Think about the profile (also referred to as depth)
This is one of the biggest factors in safety & comfort. Toddlers and young children should always be started on a low profile pillow because they are supportive without lifting the head too high.
Mid profile pillows or pillows with denser fill are better as a follow on pillow when your child has grown.
3) Pick a fill that matches their sleep needs
Different fills feel different, and some are better for certain sleepers than others, but mostly it comes down to personal preference. We have a range of fill options, including 100% wool, latex and a Tencel/polyester blend.
Tencel blend pillows are a good all-rounder and generally excellent value for money. They are soft, breathable and easy-care. The polyester helps the pillow keep its loft and shape, whilst the Tencel helps with breathability.
If you want something natural & breathable, our 100% wool pillows are a great option. Wool is known to be a breathable, temperature-regulating natural fibre, which can be especially helpful for kids who run warm at night. Wool pillows are denser than Tencel/polyester and are generally flatter. Because they are denser, they will generally maintain their height better when a head is on them.
Frequently Asked Pillow Questions
Is wool a good option for kids?
Yes! Here at The Sleep Store, we love Wool! It's naturally breathable and helps regulate temperature, which can be a great choice for kids who get warm overnight.
What about Latex?
Latex pillows are generally firmer and harder wearing than wool or Tencel/polyester blends. They tend to hold their shape better over time. Latex is also great for people with allergies because it's resistant to dust mites, mould and mildew. Like wool, it is highly breathable, so another great option for hot sleepers.
When should I switch to a higher profile pillow?
If your child’s pillow feels flat or they seem to need a bit more support, a mid-profile pillow can be a great next step, especially as they grow. If your child is a side or back sleeper, a higher-profile pillow is likely to work better once they get past the primary years. Tummy sleepers are likely to prefer a flatter pillow.
