When Can Babies Have Blankets and Pillows

If you are a new parent, you must be very concerned about your child's safety. One common question every parent has is when can their babies have blankets and pillows? We think blankets and pillows are a must to have a good night’s sleep. But blankets and pillows are as safe for a kid as they is for an adult.

In this blog, we'll explore when babies can safely have blankets and pillows, as well as provide helpful tips to keep your little one safe and comfortable during sleep.

Risks of Blankets for Babies Under 1 Year

When your baby is under the age of 1, a blanket significantly increases the risk of suffocation and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). SIDS is the leading cause of death for infants between birth and 12 months.

Babies this young have not developed the motor skills to move objects away from their faces, so blankets can cover their nose and mouth, which can lead to difficulty in breathing.

Risks of Pillows for Babies Under 1 Year

Pillows can be dangerous for babies under one year old because they can increase the risk of suffocation. A baby pillow can cover the face of the baby and restrict their breathing if the baby turns on their stomach. Oxygen deficiency from a pillow can cause permanent neurological damage. Pillows can cause a baby to overheat, which can increase the risk of SUID.

Pillows also increase the risk of sudden unexpected infant death (SUID), including sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

When Can Babies Safely Have Blankets and Pillows?

Blankets

The general recommendation is to wait until your baby is at least 12 months old before introducing a blanket into their crib. By this time, babies have typically gained better mobility and can move blankets away from their faces if they get tangled. Additionally, as babies grow, they can better regulate their body temperature, which reduces the risks associated with overheating.

If you live in a place which is much colder, it is better to invest in footie pajamas to keep your baby warm. Swaddles can also be used when your baby is not rolling over. But never use a weighted blanket on your baby.

Pillows

Pillows are usually not recommended for babies until they are closer to 2 years old. At this stage, babies start to develop the necessary motor skills to adjust their sleeping position and handle objects like pillows safely. Introducing a feeding pillow too soon can pose the same risks as blankets, choking or suffocation hazards, especially if your baby is unable to shift the pillow away from their face.

Also, when it is time to give your baby the pillow, try to go for a small size baby pillow. Not using the right pillow can cause flat head syndrome. The baby pillow should conform to the shape of the baby’s head to prevent the flat shape.

Safe Sleep Guidelines for Babies

While waiting for the right time to introduce blankets and pillows, there are a few alternative ways to keep your baby comfortable and safe while they sleep:

• Swaddle Your Baby (First Few Months): Swaddling can be a great way to keep your baby snug and warm during sleep, as long as it’s done correctly. A swaddle can also provide a sense of security, as it mimics the feeling of being in the womb. However, always make sure to leave enough room for your baby’s hips to move to prevent hip dysplasia, and stop swaddling once your baby shows signs of rolling over.
• Sleep Sacks: A sleep sack is a wearable blanket that allows your baby to stay warm without the risk of suffocation. Sleep sacks come in different materials to keep your baby cozy during both summer and winter, and they are designed to be safe for babies as young as newborns.
• Keep the Room Temperature Comfortable: Rather than using a blanket to regulate your baby's temperature, consider adjusting the room's temperature. A cool, well-ventilated room between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit (20-22 degrees Celsius) is considered ideal for baby sleep. This reduces the chances of overheating, which can be a risk factor for SIDS.
• Use a Firm Mattress: A firm, flat mattress is essential for a safe sleep environment. Soft mattresses or pillows can increase the risk of suffocation or airway obstruction. Make sure your baby’s crib meets the safety standards set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
• Monitor Baby's Sleep Patterns: Always keep an eye on your baby’s sleep behavior. Some babies may kick off their blanket and become too cold, while others may get too hot if they are bundled up too tightly. Adjust your baby’s clothing accordingly to help keep them comfortable without the need for additional bedding.

Conclusion

You can introduce blankets and pillows into your baby's sleep routine once your baby reaches 24 months or older. It's important that your baby has better mobility to avoid any situation that can risk his or her rate of survival. You can start with lightweight blankets and a newborn head pillow. For the first  year of life, try to use a crib with no soft bedding for the safety of your child.

You can read on how to create a safe sleep environment by following the latest guidelines from trusted sources. Let your baby's sleep journey be comfortable, cozy, and, most importantly, safe.