Pillows are mostly associated with adults, but kids or toddlers can also use them, keeping the risks in mind. Traditional pillows come in standard sizes, which are a bit big for kids. Over recent years, manufacturers have produced small-sized pillows to suit children and fit in their beds. Junior pillows are pretty common nowadays, and most parents are looking to buy them, especially when their kids transition into their bedrooms or big beds. In this article, we highlight tips for choosing junior pillows.
How to Select Junior Pillows
Toddler pillows are designed to suit the kid’s neck curvature as well as support their head. There are very many types of pillows in the market, and not all are suitable for children. Great care must be taken when shopping for one as kids are more delicate and sensitive compared to adults. Always consider the following factors before buying a junior pillow.
1. Size of the pillow
Pillows are made in different sizes due to the various bed sizes available. There are beds ranging from standard, queen size, king size, and it’s evident that the pillows get bigger with an increase in bed size. Toddler beds are way smaller in terms of length and width, so appropriately sized pillows would be ideal. Also, they have smaller heads, so a pillow ranging between 13 inches and 18 inches would be best.
2. Casing material
When considering the stuffing material of the pillow, remember the outsider cover too. Kids are more prone to allergic reactions than adults. First, consider if your child has allergies and what the allergens are that cause the reaction. Keep in mind that this is something they will be sleeping on every night. You don’t want to have them in an uncomfortable situation or have to run to the hospital at night. Pick a pillow with a hypoallergenic cover to prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, or breeding dust mites.
3. Pillow filling
Pillows have various kinds of fillings, for example, cotton, memory form, feathers, down, and others. Recently, manufacturers are filling them up with environmentally friendly materials; however, most are still dangerous, especially for kids. Hemp and buckwheat stuffings are perfect eco-friendly choices, but they are not suitable for junior pillows due to choking risks. Memory foam is ideal for kids as well as synthetic fibers. Feather pillows are soft to feel, but they may trigger some allergic reactions.
4. Proper support
How you’d want your pillow to support you is totally different from a kid’s support. Comfort is your number one priority, but it goes hand in hand with the support level. The junior pillow should be a bit firm and soft but not exceedingly soft. Avoid fluffy pillows because they move a lot, may cause difficulty breathing, and have less support.
Bottom line
Most toddlers can sleep without pillows, but some extra support and comfort aren’t bad. However, you should be careful as the risk of suffocation is high with kids. Buy suitable pillows keeping in mind the tips mentioned above. Also, note how ready your child is to start using a pillow because all kids are different and grow at a different rate.
