Medically Reviewed by: Fi Star-Stone
While newborns shouldn’t use pillows for safety reasons, the transition to a toddler bed marks an exciting milestone where a pillow can become part of your little one’s bedtime routine.
We’ve tested the best toddler pillows of 2025, all recommended by real parents for their comfort, support, and safety. To help guide you, we also spoke to Fi Star-Stone, a parenting expert with over 25 years of experience, who shares her insights on choosing the right pillow for your toddler’s needs.
This guide covers everything you need to know to pick the perfect toddler pillow, ensuring your child gets the best sleep possible.
Best toddler pillows at a glance:
Take a look at our picks of the best toddler pillows available for you to buy right now...
How Mother&Baby selected the best toddler pillows
Our product recommendations are based on a combination of real-world testing from our burgeoning army of mum testers and the extensive knowledge of our experienced editorial team and product specialists. Where we can, we also consult experts who specialise in that field to ensure you get the right advice along with the right product, and we listen to what you say as well.
Our thriving mum community on our Facebook group #mumtribe also often hold great insights as to which products mums really like best and why, helping us highlight the products that meet what you really want.
For the essential products, our annual Mother&Baby Awards shortlist the top products tested, and you can find full reviews from our mum testers provided on the product page. The winners and runners-up for each category then will appear in our top picks article for that product, along with other products that were rated highly by our team.
How we chose and tested the best toddler pillows in 2025
When it comes to selecting the best toddler pillows, we go the extra mile to ensure our recommendations are based on thorough, real-world testing. Our dedicated team of parent testers, alongside our experienced editorial team and product specialists, has carefully reviewed each pillow. We also consult experts in child sleep safety and comfort to provide expert-backed advice for your little one's rest.
If we can’t test a product personally, we make sure to only recommend those from reputable brands. We comb through online reviews, parent forums, and real-life experiences to ensure each pillow lives up to its claims and is truly a worthy addition to your home.
For the best toddler pillows, we considered the following criteria:
Safety and hypoallergenic features
Ensuring the pillow is safe for little ones with sensitive skin or allergies.
Material quality and durability
Choosing pillows made from high-quality, long-lasting materials.
Comfort and support
Ensuring the pillow offers the right amount of comfort and support for a toddler’s growing body.
Design and ease of cleaning
Opting for pillows with removable, washable covers and practical designs for easy maintenance.
Size and fit
Considering the ideal size for toddlers, with the right height and shape to promote restful sleep.
Value for money
Finding pillows that offer a good balance of affordability and quality.
After extensive testing, the top overall pick was the ClevaMama ClevaFoam Toddler Pillow. Made from breathable and hypoallergenic ClevaFoam, it provides great head, neck, and spine support while keeping little ones comfortable. Our parent testers appreciated the PH-balanced design, which is especially helpful for kids with asthma or allergies. Plus, the removable cover is easy to wash, although testers wished it came with an additional pillowcase.
For those who want a pillowcase included, the KeaDreams Toddler Pillow is a great option, though testers noted the label on the outer seam was a bit annoying.
The Panda Kids Memory Foam Bamboo Pillow is our top pick for sustainability. The memory foam helps maintain proper neck and spine alignment, and the bamboo cover adds a soft, breathable touch. Our testers found it comfortable, although they also wished for an extra pillowcase due to the pillow’s smaller size.
Finally, for a budget-friendly choice, the Argos Toddler Pillow is a hit with parents. It’s hypoallergenic, comfortable, and endorsed by Allergy UK, making it a great option for those seeking both value and comfort.
Here's our pick of the best toddler pillows to buy in 2025
1.
Silentnight Safe Nights Cot Bed Pillow
Best toddler pillow overall
Best toddler pillow overall
AmazonThis award-winning pillow is designed with your little one’s comfort and safety in mind. It’s made in Oeko-Tex certified factories, so you can trust that it meets the highest safety standards. Filled with anti-bacterial, anti-allergy fibres, it keeps the pillow fresh, hygienic, and safe for your toddler. Plus, it’s super easy to care for—just pop it in the washing machine and tumble dry. Perfect for toddlers aged 12 months+, it’s the perfect introduction to comfortable and secure sleep!
One parent reviewer said: "I spent hours researching about this product and the best pillow for babies. I must say this is a premium product at a very good price. The pillow is nice, soft and thin which is perfect for babies as their head are not meant to be too high up so this is perfect regardless of different head shape and sizes for babies. I am happy with this product and I will recommend this to anyone who has a baby and is wanting to buy a pillow for their baby. Easy to clean and wash and size and everything is perfect. Well worth it."
Pros
- Soft and comfortable, ideal for toddlers
- Provides gentle support to the head and neck
- A great first pillow for transitioning toddlers
Cons
- Mixed reviews on quality and value for money
Best sustainable toddler pillow
©MOTHER&BABY/Rebecca Lancasterdirect.asda.com
If you find your little one loves your memory foam pillow, then it’s likely they’ll love the Panda Kids Memory Foam Pillow. Designed to cradle your child’s head, ensuring proper alignment of their neck and spine for a restful night's sleep. Thanks to its innovative 3rd generation memory foam technology, this pillow maintains its shape and density over time, providing reliable support night after night.
Mother&Baby writer and mum, Rebecca Lancaster was keen to test this pillow, having experienced neck pain herself from a wonky neck. Her daughter had also started to complain about having a sore neck in the mornings. After sleeping on the pillow for a couple of weeks, Rebecca's daughter has been very happy to go to bed: "She says it’s very comfortable and loves how soft the cover feels. She’s also needed to be woken every morning, and while I wouldn’t guarantee that it’s a result of the pillow, she is certainly sleeping very well at the moment" says Rebecca. Another mum tester found it great for her son’s neck pain too, saying, “I must say it's the best decision I made no more aches and he loves it.”
Wrapped in a silky-soft bamboo cover, this pillow is not only gentle on sensitive skin but also hypoallergenic and naturally resistant to dust mites and mould, making it ideal for children with asthma or allergies - although, our tester Rebecca said, "I was expecting a ‘Bamboo’ memory foam pillow to have more bamboo as part of its materials, but it is actually just 70% of the outer cover." The bamboo cover is machine-washable for easy maintenance, while the memory foam core can be easily wiped clean. And with a 10-year guarantee, you can trust in its durability and longevity. Made from ethically sourced organic bamboo, grown pesticide-free and delivered in recycled packaging, this pillow is also fully sustainable.
The main downside testers found was that parents would have liked a pillowcase to purchase with this pillow. One tester said, “My only bit of feedback is that it would be lovely if you made a pillowcase to go on top of the pillow and pillow cover that was the right size. I purchased a 60x40cm from another store but I'd have much rather have had a bamboo pillowcase from you that was designed specially for it!” Rebecca also says, "It is a smaller size than most pillows so while you could put it in a pillowcase to match the rest of your bedding, it might end up having a lot of excess fabric, and you’d lose the softness and sweat-wicking, hypoallergenic qualities of the bamboo cover." If you want the pillow to match the bedding, Rebecca says this may be something to consider.
Read our full Panda Kids Memory Foam Bamboo Pillow review
Pros
- Memory foam keeps toddler's neck and spine correctly aligned
- Temperature-regulating tech helps keep toddlers cool in summer
- Comes with a soft bamboo cover, which is machine washable
Cons
- Challenging to find the right-sized pillowcase
| Size: | 45 x 25cm |
| Material: | Natural bamboo |
- Made from natural bamboo
- Hypo-allergenic and anti-bacterial
- Machine-washable cover
- Memory foam
Best anti-allergy toddler pillow
Best anti-allergy toddler pillow
John Lewis www.johnlewis.com
If your toddler struggles with allergies, this pillow is a game-changer! The Micro-Fresh technology helps stop bacteria growth by up to 99.99%, keeping the pillow fresh and clean even after repeated washes. Designed with breathability and support in mind, this polyester-filled pillow provides just the right level of comfort for little heads. The materials are gentle on delicate skin and designed to last, making this pillow a practical, allergy-friendly choice for your little one’s big kid bed.
One parent review said: “New pillows for the children which they have really taken to. Soft yet supportive and helping them sleep through the night.” one added, “Very good quality and price very reasonable. Perfect transition from toddler pillow. Kids said it was comfortable. Anti allergy spec a bonus.”
Pros
- Soft yet supportive, promoting a good night’s sleep
- Anti-allergy feature appreciated by parents
- Good quality at a reasonable price
Cons
- One review mentioned it flattens quickly in the middle and can’t be fluffed back
Best breathable toddler pillow
Best breathable toddler pillow
Argos This pillow is designed for restful and healthy sleep. The special breathable mesh sides improve airflow, while the naturally cooling cotton cover ensures your toddler stays comfy all night. Inside, it’s filled with anti-bacterial fibres that protect against bacteria and dust mites—great for preventing allergies. Approved by the British Allergy Foundation, this pillow is perfect for giving your child the clean, fresh, and supportive sleep they need to grow and recover.
One happy parent said: "Bought these pillows as both my children suffer with allergies. The size,thickness and support were just perfect for little heads. The material is so soft and breathable and ease to wash too. I thought these were excellent value for money compare to others on the market and extremely good quality."
Pros
- Suitable for children with allergies due to breathable material
- Soft, supportive, and comfortable for small heads
- Easy to wash and maintain
Cons
- Mixed opinions on size, with some parents finding it less than ideal
Best premium toddler pillow
Best premium toddler pillow
John Lewiswww.johnlewis.com
Let your toddler experience true comfort with this premium pillow! It’s designed to feel just like luxurious down, but without the allergens. The 100% cotton sateen casing with piped edging makes it as stylish as it is comfortable. The down-like fill is soft yet supportive, providing the perfect balance for growing kids. Whether for bedtime or a quick nap, this pillow ensures your toddler sleeps in comfort while adding a touch of luxury to their bedding.
One parent review said: “Perfect size for a cot or travel cot (smaller than an adult pillow). The pillow is well balanced in terms of the filling - it is certainly not bulky/too firm. Our daughter went through a spell of unsettled nights and introducing this pillow really helped - she loves snuggling it in the mornings too. It is on the pricey side but for the natural filling it is quite reasonable compared to others. Bought the JL pillowcase protector and bedfolk pillow case for this size as limited options available.”
Pros
- Perfect size for a cot or travel cot
- Balanced filling, not too firm or bulky
- Helps improve sleep quality; children enjoy snuggling with it
- Natural filling, reasonably priced for the material quality
Cons
- Very expensive compared to other toddler pillow options
Best toddler pillow with pillowcase
Best toddler pillow with pillowcase
AmazonThe KeaBabies Toddler Pillow is ergonomically designed to provide optimal spine support for toddlers without compromising comfort. At 51 cm (L) x 35 cm (W) x 10 cm (H), it is the perfect size for little ones. Made with natural cotton, this pillow is ultra-soft, breathable, and safe for all seasons. Its washable cover and cushion make it easy to keep clean, while the cute and neutral print complements any toddler bed. Designed for both home use and travel, this pillow ensures your child feels secure and comfortable, no matter where they nap.
One parent said: "Great product. I can throw in the pillow case and the pillow into the washing machine and then both into the dryer. The pillow comes out very puffy and has maintained its shape after being washed many times. I have two of these and the older one is slightly less puffy but still very good. My toddler loves it."
Pros
- Supports the toddler's spine while maintaining comfort.
- Both pillow and cover are machine washable and maintain shape after multiple washes
- Safe, breathable, and ultra-soft for all-season use
Cons
- Over time, the pillow may lose some of its puffiness compared to newer ones
| Size: | 46 x 33cm |
| Material: | Microfibre fill |
- Machine washable
- Microfibre fill
- 100 per cent organic cotton cover
- Multiple different cover designs
Best affordable toddler pillow
Best affordable toddler pillow
©MOTHER&BABYdirect.asda.com
Introducing the Slumberdown Little Slumbers Pillow, a cosy and affordable option designed specifically for your little one’s comfort and health. Made from 100% polyester with recycled polyester filling, this super-soft pillow provides the perfect support for tiny heads and necks. Mum tester Keeley said, “Lovely little pillow, my (large) 18 month old immediately settled with this. Soft enough to support neck without being too high.”
Not only did parents find this pillow very comfortable for their little ones, but they also loved that it is anti-allergy and endorsed by Allergy UK, making it an excellent choice for children prone to allergies. It’s filled with allergy-protected fibre, providing asthma, allergy, and dust mite protection for your peace of mind at night.
Measuring 60x40cm and featuring a reduced fill weight, this pillow is made from 100% polyester with recycled polyester filling and is very supportive for your child. Developed for kids aged 12 months and above, it’s also machine washable and tumble dry-friendly, making it easy to maintain. Safety is of course very important which is why this pillow features a safety stitch to reduce any loose threads, ensuring a safe sleep environment for your tot.
One review said: "Very comfortable for kids with a super price."
Pros
- Good value for money
- Easy to keep clean, suitable for washing machine and tumble dryer
- Anti-allergy protection helps with asthma, and eczema and against dust mites
Cons
- Some find it a bit too thick
| Size: | 40 x 60cm |
| Material: | Recycled polyester filling |
- 100 per cent polyester cover
- Machine washable at 40°c
- Tumble dry
- Anti-allergy
Safety advice on using toddler pillows
NHS advice is not to use a pillow under the age of one year, as having a pillow in your baby's cot creates a risk of suffocation and overheating.
The Lullaby Trust also advises: "Pillow use alone has been shown to increase the chance of SIDS occurring by up to 2.5 times."
But once your little one becomes a toddler and moves into a cot bed or toddler bed, you might find they're more comfortable with a pillow and toddler duvet, and they might enjoy sleeping in their own bed.
Choosing the right pillow for your toddler
When buying a toddler pillow, it's important to remember to choose materials that are soft against your little ones' skin. It's also handy to get a smaller pillow than your own that fits them better.
When can toddlers have a pillow?
Parenting expert and founder of The Regular Parent, Fi Star-Stone, says little ones really don't need pillows like we do, "They're perfectly comfortable (and safer) without one until they're ready to move to a big bed with toddler bedding (between 18 months - 3 years).
"Until then, quilts and pillows can cause a threat of suffocation or overheating. So, keep these items out of your little one's sleep routine. The emptier the crib or cot, the safer the sleep."
Do toddlers need a pillow?
As adults, we can't imagine going to bed without tucking up with a comfy pillow. But we know how much a toddler moves during their sleep. How often do you nip into their room to check how they are, only to find them upside down, feet hanging off the edge and head at the opposite end of the bed from where they started?
If you're going to introduce a pillow, manage your expectations. Your toddler might not sleep soundly in one position with a neatly placed pillow all night long. For this reason, it's best to wait as long as possible before giving your toddler a pillow. Wait until they show an interest in one and aren't moving around so much at night. Keeping your child's bed as clear as possible from toys, bedding, and cushions is the best approach for as long as possible.
Remember, when your little one transitions to a bed, you don't need to use a pillow right away. "In fact, to make the transition from cot to bed easier, use their sleeping bag or blankets that they are used to so they feel familiar and settled.
"When they're comfortable with their new bed, choose quilts and pillows that conform to British safety standards," says Fi. "Toddlers don't need a standard-size pillow. Choose a pillow that is small, offers support, and retains its shape so as not to pose a suffocation risk.
"Think about investing in an anti-allergy pillow or pillow protector. Keep an eye on how your toddler gets along with it. If they're throwing the pillow on the floor - don't worry! As long as they're sleeping, then they're comfortable, so don't worry that they don't use it."
Can toddlers use normal pillows?
When you decide your little one is ready for a pillow, you can keep the bedding to a minimum by not using a pillowcase or looking for a pillow with a built-in washable cover instead. And there's no need for an adult-sized pillow – buy a specific toddler pillow that's smaller and firmer.
Why you can trust us
At Mother&Baby, our mission is to provide accurate and reliable reviews, ensuring our readers receive honest and transparent information about the best products available.
Our testers are either pregnant, or real parents with a baby or toddler. This could be members of our editorial team, freelance parenting journalists or external reviewers from the Mother&Baby awards. Our Mother&Baby Awards are renowned in the industry and are among the most highly respected product awards for baby and parenting products. Every year, we arrange for thousands of independent parent reviewers to test the latest products on the market.
We don't accept payment from manufacturers for product reviews, and maintain our editorial independence. While we do work with commercial partners on advertorials, these will always be clearly labelled.
Our writers have full control over their content, ensuring that products are selected based solely on the needs of our readers. While we may earn commissions or other compensation from links on our website, this does not affect our product choices. These links allow us to continue offering valuable consumer advice, without compromising the integrity of our reviews. We are always honest in our reviews, and we won't recommend products that we wouldn't spend our own money on.
Read more about how we test and why you should trust us.
About the expert
As a mum of two, Fi Star-Stone knows that parenting isn’t always easy. Her gentle techniques and approachable manner are popular with families and celebs worldwide. Fi’s qualifications include a Degree in Childhood and Youth studies, an NNEB diploma in Nursery nursing, and a Diploma in Childhood studies. She’s been working with children and families for 25 years.
About the author
Lily Anderson is a Deputy Commercial Content Editor at Bauer Media, where she writes about and reviews products for titles like Mother&Baby, Heat, Closer, What’s the Best and Yours.