Sleeping with Blankets & Pillows

Updated on January 14, 2009
K.Y. asks from Torrance, CA
6 answers

At what age is it okay to introduce a blanket or pillow into a child's crib? My son is 13-months old and I have been freaked out about the possibility of SIDS. His crib has a plush sheet for warmth in the winter and a musical toy that hangs high on the crib. There's nothing else in the crib when he sleeps, not even a lovey. He's very active and has been walking for about 2 months now. What's a good time to introduce a blanket or a pillow? Thanks!

What can I do next?

  • Add yourAnswer own comment
  • Ask your own question Add Question
  • Join the Mamapedia community Mamapedia
  • as inappropriate
  • this with your friends

So What Happened?

Thanks mamas for the great advice. One night, after getting up about 4 times, I thought my son might be cold. Bolstered by your good advice, I covered my son with a small blanket. He slept through until morning without waking again. (Of course I spent the first hour in the rocker in his room watching over him! LOL) We've been giving it to him in the middle of the night when the temperature starts to drop and he seems to be very happy with it. It's the blanket we also use with him in the rocker, so I think he is also comforted by the scent and familiarity. I was afraid to take this next step, thank you for giving me the confidence. YOU ROCK MAMAS!

More Answers

Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

D.M.

answers from Los Angeles on

I have my son a blanket at around a year and a pillow shortly after, although he was always trying to use the blanket as his pillow.

At this age, he should have the head/shoulder control to manage both without fear.

Good Luck!

D.

2 moms found this helpful
Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

H.A.

answers from San Diego on

We started at just under 12-months. Also, it's my understanding that the SIDS risk is greatest between 1-6 months (95% of SIDS cases fall here) and rare after 1-year of age.

1 mom found this helpful
Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

J.B.

answers from Los Angeles on

your son is way past the sids worry. hes got head control and can move freely. my daughter got her first pillow at 8 1/2 months and has always slept with a blanket she also has a piggy she sleeps with. so if you think your baby is ready for a pillow start off with a flatter on and a semi thick blanket. good luck!

1 mom found this helpful
Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

D.C.

answers from Los Angeles on

Hi K.,
I started giving my son a small light weight pillow at about 12 months and just recently a small blanket, as he too tends to kick them off as he sleeps. I'm glad you asked this question as I had the same question myself and often double guessed myself for providing these things for him.

1 mom found this helpful
Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

M.F.

answers from Reno on

i gave my boys blankets and pillows at 1 year

1 mom found this helpful
Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

C.S.

answers from Las Vegas on

Hi K., you have valid worries. I lost my only brother to SIDS. He was 3 weeks old, however yes SIDS is still possible at older ages. My daughter has always worn sleeper pajamas and has very little interest in sleeping with a blanket, as she kicks them off. I would say if he is okay without the blanket and not freezing, leave him alone. Our daughter eventually started using a pillow, but she really has not interest in sleeping with one.

1 mom found this helpful
For Updates and Special Promotions
Follow Us

Related Questions

Related Searches