Can We Use a Pillow for a Newborn Baby?
No, you should not use a pillow for a newborn baby. Experts strongly advise against using pillows for infants under two years old. This is because pillows present a significant risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Several sources, including WebMD and the American Academy of Pediatrics (implicitly referenced through multiple sources emphasizing the age 1+ recommendation), confirm that pillows are unsafe for newborns due to the increased risk of SIDS. A pillow can create a suffocation hazard by covering the baby's face. Newborns lack the strength and coordination to move themselves if their face becomes obstructed.
- Suffocation Risk: Soft bedding, including pillows, poses a significant suffocation risk.
- SIDS Prevention: The safest sleeping position for a newborn is on their back, on a firm, flat surface, without any loose bedding, pillows, or toys. This reduces the risk of SIDS.
- Age Recommendation: Multiple sources consistently recommend waiting until a child is at least two years old before introducing a pillow.
Safe Sleeping Practices for Newborns
To ensure your baby's safety, follow these guidelines:
- Firm, Flat Surface: Place your baby to sleep on a firm, flat mattress.
- Back Sleeping Position: Always lay your baby on their back.
- No Loose Bedding: Avoid using blankets, pillows, bumpers, or other soft items in the crib.
- Fitted Sheet Only: Use a snug-fitting sheet to prevent the baby from becoming entangled in loose fabric.
The use of pillows for head shaping is also discouraged by the FDA, as they can be unsafe and ineffective.
