Of course, you want your little one to sleep just as soundly as you do.
A supportive pillow and a cozy duvet are essential parts of that. But at what age can your child start sleeping on a pillow? And when is it time for a real duvet?
What is the best bedding for babies?
The standard advice is that children between 0 and 2 years old should not use a pillow. The primary reason for this is safety; children can end up in a position where their oxygen supply is restricted, posing a suffocation risk.
A duvet is also unnecessary for children under the age of 2. Because a duvet sits loosely on the bed, there is a risk of your child sliding underneath it, which creates dangerous situations. Instead, it is better to use a thin sheet or a blanket that can be securely tucked in. A baby sleeping bag is also a great option, as it prevents your child from kicking the covers off and provides extra warmth throughout the night.
Bedding for children from 2 years old
Children often let you know when they are ready for a pillow or duvet. Usually, they start 'searching' for support under their head or bunching up their blanket. If you don't notice this yet, it is perfectly fine to let your child sleep without a pillow for a bit longer.
A great choice for a first purchase is the 'My First Pillow' from Silvana. This pillow consists of an inner and outer cover that creates a highly breathable space in between, allowing your child to breathe right through it. The Silvana Start pillow, the red Silvana Comfort, and our bamboo pillows (where you can adjust the filling yourself) are also excellent pillows to start with.
Bamboo, Cotton, and Wool Duvets
From the age of 2, it is safe to transition to a duvet. We always recommend choosing duvets that are machine washable. Excellent options for toddlers include:
In addition to the bedding, always ensure the rest of the room is safely arranged! This includes choosing the right bed (avoid high sleepers or bunk beds for children under 6), covering electrical outlets, and installing a secure stair gate.
Do you still have questions after reading this article? Don't hesitate to contact us! We are more than happy to provide you with personal advice.