As parents, we all want our little ones to sleep safely and comfortably. A common question many parents ask is, "When can a child sleep with a duvet, blanket or pillow?" While these soft bedding items might seem cosy, introducing them too early can pose risks to your child's safety. Experts recommend waiting until the right age to ensure your child transitions smoothly to sleeping with a duvet, blanket, or pillow.
When our children are babies it is clear what the guidelines are when it comes to safe sleeping: the cot area should be clear (NO blanket, NO pillow, NO bumper), the mattress should be firm, and you should always put your baby down on their back.
Even though the cot and your toddler might look odd without the ‘normal’ trimmings, the fact remains that the introduction of blankets and pillows should wait until they move out of the cot and to a proper bed.
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When my daughter moved to a big bed at close to 3 years old, never having slept with anything except the sleeping bag and her taglet, I faced the Big Bed with confusion. Do I put bedding on it? The bed sure looks odd without a pillow. As our babies become toddlers (from 12 months), the fear of SIDS is no longer a risk, so does that mean we can we ease up on the safety measures?”
As I started looking for the answer, I realised it is not so clear. Most safe sleep guidelines only apply until a child is 12 months old but I know that using any bedding before 12 – 18 months is most definitely a no-no. After 18 months, though, it becomes safe to introduce pillows and duvets, BUT it’s not yet necessary.
How to choose the right bedding for your child
The recommended age to start introducing a pillow is the same age you move your toddler to a bed/toddler bed or take the railing down on their cot, which is between 2.5 and 3 years. When choosing bedding, though, keep in mind that your toddler’s bedding will differ from yours initially: rather choose a duvet that’s on the smaller side as anything too big will crowd the bed and could pose a suffocation risk, and a firm pillow that offers proper neck support to your toddler.
You’ll know they’re ready for a pillow when they start using their hands, security blanket or lovey as a makeshift pillow, but if the lack of a pillow isn’t affecting your child’s sleep, there’s no harm in waiting to introduce one until they are older.
Toddlers tend to be busy sleepers so you can expect them to kick their blankets off initially. Dress your toddler warmly so that it doesn’t really matter if the bedding ends up bunched around their feet – this is one of the reasons it’s often recommended that you transition a child to a new bed during summer. If your child has been exclusively using a sleep sack or sleeping bag until this point, they’ll have to learn how to use a duvet independently. Make them practice putting the blanket over themselves – they should get the hang of it quite quickly.
How to introduce your child to a duvet, blanket and pillow
Firstly, you’ll need to be patient. This is a new – and sometimes unsettling – experience for a child. You can expect some ‘teething problems’ as they adjust, and you may find they keep climbing out of bed and making their way to your room. If this happens, just keep guiding them back to their own bed.
If you want to ease the transition to their new bed, you can move your child to a bed while they’re still using a sleep suit – you can introduce blankets or duvets at a later stage. Because it can take a while for a child to get used to using a blanket, start by introducing it during nap times or while reading a book on the couch so they get used to it.
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References
When is it safe to put a pillow in your toddler’s crib or bed? (todaysparent.com)
When Can a Toddler Have a Pillow? Age, Considerations, More (healthline.com)
When Is It Safe for My Baby to Sleep with a Blanket? (healthline.com)
BabyYumYum Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – When Can a Child Sleep with a Duvet or Blanket?
Why is it unsafe for babies under 12 months to sleep with a duvet or blanket?
Babies under 12 months old should not sleep with duvets, blankets, or pillows because they pose a risk of suffocation or overheating. Newborns and young infants do not yet have the ability to move objects away from their face, making loose bedding a potential danger.
When is the safest time to introduce a duvet or blanket?
The safest time to introduce a duvet or blanket is after 18 months, but many experts recommend waiting until your child transitions to a toddler bed or regular bed, which is usually between 2.5 and 3 years old. Before this age, a sleeping bag or sleep sack is a safer alternative.
How do I know my toddler is ready for a pillow?
You might notice your toddler using their hands, cuddly toy, or security blanket as a makeshift pillow. If their sleep quality remains unaffected without a pillow, it is okay to wait longer before introducing one. A firm, flat pillow is the best choice when they are ready.
What type of duvet should I choose for my toddler?
A lightweight, breathable duvet is best for toddlers. Choose a smaller-sized duvet that does not crowd the bed, reducing the risk of overheating or entanglement. Avoid duvets with heavy fillings like down or feathers, as they may be too warm.
My toddler keeps kicking off their blanket – what should I do?
Toddlers are active sleepers and often kick off blankets during the night. To ensure they stay warm, dress them in layers or use a sleeping bag until they learn to keep a blanket on. Some parents introduce a lighter duvet during the summer months when warmth is less of a concern.
Should I introduce a duvet during nap times first?
Yes! A great way to help your toddler adjust to a duvet or blanket is by introducing it during nap times or while reading a book on the couch. This allows them to get used to the feeling before relying on it for a full night’s sleep.
Can I move my child to a toddler bed while they are still using a sleep sack?
Yes, some parents choose to transition their toddler to a bed while still using a sleep sack. This helps them adjust to their new bed without the added challenge of managing a blanket. Once they settle into their new sleeping space, you can gradually introduce a duvet.
How can I help my child learn to use a duvet properly?
Children need to learn how to cover themselves with a duvet. Encourage them to practise pulling the blanket over themselves during bedtime routines. They will quickly get the hang of it with some patience and gentle reminders.
My child keeps waking up and coming to my room – is this normal?
Yes, transitioning to a new sleep setup can be unsettling for toddlers, and they may wake up more often or come to your room for comfort. If this happens, gently guide them back to their bed each time, reassuring them that they are safe. Consistency is key!
What is the best way to prepare for the transition to a duvet?
To make the change smoother:
- Choose the right time (warmer months may be easier).
- Introduce the duvet gradually, starting with naps.
- Ensure your toddler’s room is at a comfortable temperature to prevent overheating.
- Stick to a consistent bedtime routine to provide comfort and security.
- Be patient! This is a learning experience, and adjustment takes time.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional sleep advice. If you have concerns about your child’s sleep safety, consult a paediatrician or sleep specialist.
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