The Specifics of Baby Pillows
When a new baby is on the way, there is a lot of excitement and sometimes more than a little bit of confusion. This is even more so the case for brand new parents. It may cross your mind that you will have to make some purchases in order to make the new baby comfortable. Aside from the obvious necessities such as a bottle or diapers, there are less known things that can ease your way into parenthood. One such helper is the baby pillow.
There is more than one type of baby pillow, and not all are created equal. The nursing pillow is one type that can be helpful from the first day you bring your baby home. The nursing baby pillow will keep the head of your child supported while nursing, so that mommy can relax. Helping the child relax is also a benefit of the sort of pillows. Many times these pillows assist the baby to fall asleep, since it helps make different positions comfortable. Since these pillows support the head so well, it can make holding an infant easier for any family member, whether or not nursing is involved.
A more conventional pillow is also available. Most of the time, doctors agree that a regular pillow is best suited for children ages two and up. In the case of an upper respiratory infection or cold, however, a child could benefit from using a pillow to prop up the head. Before age two, it is always best to ask your doctor his or her opinion on using a pillow for the child. Other benefits of using a baby pillow can be the offset of acid reflux and ear infections. If your child suffers from any of these ailments, a pillow might ease his or her symptoms.
There are a few characteristics all baby pillows should have. One guideline to follow is that the pillow should be both small and lightweight. This is best so that the child does not get too hot, or suffocate from the bulk of a normal sized pillow. Another guideline is that the pillow should be free of decoration such as fringe or beads. This way, the baby cannot choke on anything attached to the pillow. Some great examples of baby friendly fabrics are silk and cotton. Feather pillows are best to stay away from, as they can cause an allergic reaction in the child. Machine washable or baby pillows with removable covers are the best options. If you follow these simple guidelines, the possibilities for your baby pillow are endless!