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A toddler pillow with a matching pillowcase is one of those small buys that makes the move from cot to bed feel a bit more grown up. The pillow itself is sized for a little head, so it offers gentle support without propping a young child up too high, and the included case means you are not hunting around for one that actually fits. It suits most children from around two years, when many families decide a pillow is appropriate.
What to look for
- The right size. A proper toddler pillow is small and fairly flat, roughly 13 by 18 inches, so it keeps the head and neck in a natural line rather than tilting them forward.
- Washable everything. Spills, dribble and the odd poorly night are a given, so both the pillow and the case need to go through a normal machine wash and come out fine.
- A case that fits. A pillowcase made for the exact pillow stays put through the night, with no loose fabric for little fingers to pull over their face.
Our pick
Our pick is a soft cotton toddler pillow that comes boxed with its own fitted pillowcase, so it works straight out of the packaging. It is a sensible height for a small child, firm enough to support the head but still soft to lie on, and the cover is cotton and breathable. It is a good fit for ages two to five, for a toddler bed at home, naps at nursery or trips to the grandparents, and both pillow and case wash and dry without fuss.
One honest note: you do not need the priciest set on the shelf. A simple, well made cotton pillow with a case that actually fits will do everything a tired toddler needs, so spend your money on getting the size right rather than on a fancy brand.