10 Top Pillows for 5 Year Olds: Sweet Dreams for Growing Kids

As your little one turns five, their world expands, and so do their sleeping needs! They’re no longer a tiny toddler, and that calls for a proper pillow that supports their growing body, ensures good spinal alignment, and promotes restful sleep. Choosing the best pillow for a 5-year-old isn’t just about comfort; it’s about setting them up for healthy sleep habits and a great start to each day.

But with so many options out there, how do you pick the perfect one? Don’t worry, we’re here to help! We’ve rounded up 10 fantastic pillows that are just right for your 5-year-old, covering everything from materials and washability to firmness and size. Let’s dive in and find the dream pillow for your big kid!

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Our Top Picks for the Best Pillow for a 5 Year Old

Here are our detailed reviews of the top pillows designed to give your five-year-old the comfortable, supportive sleep they deserve.

1. Utopia Bedding Youth Pillow (White, 2 Pack)

If you’re looking for great value without compromising comfort, this 2-pack from Utopia Bedding is a fantastic choice. These youth pillows offer a just-right blend of softness and firmness, perfectly cradling your child’s head and neck. It’s a versatile option, ideal for a 5-year-old who’s transitioning out of toddler pillows but isn’t quite ready for a full-sized adult pillow. Plus, getting two means you always have a spare, or can outfit a bunk bed!

• Key Features:
  • Pack of 2 youth pillows for excellent value.
  • Perfect blend of softness and firmness for comfort.
  • Each pillow measures 16 by 22 inches, ideal for ages 5 and up.
  • Durable 250 Thread Count, Cotton blend Cover.
  • Comes in pair packaging for a complete bed setup.
• Pros:
  • Great value with two pillows included.
  • Good size for growing kids aged 5 and above.
  • Durable cover designed for longevity.
  • Provides balanced support, not too soft or too firm.
• Cons:
  • Spot clean or hand wash recommended, which can be less convenient than machine washing.
• User Impressions: Parents appreciate the affordability and the comfortable support these pillows provide. They’re often praised for being a good “next step” after toddler pillows, offering a consistent sleeping surface.
• See it on Amazon Here

2. Youth Pillow – 16 X 22 – Soft & Hypoallergenic

This youth pillow truly hits the sweet spot for kids aged 4 and up, making it an excellent best pillow for a 5-year-old. Designed with optimal spinal support in mind, it’s crafted to be “not too fluffy, not too flat,” ensuring proper alignment for your growing child. Its hypoallergenic properties and breathable design offer extra peace of mind, especially for families conscious about allergies.

• Key Features:
  • 16″ X 22″ youth pillow, perfect for kids 4+ needing a slightly larger pillow.
  • 100% Hypoallergenic and breathable.
  • Ergonomic design offers proper spinal support.
  • OEKO-TEX 100 Standard Certified and CPSC Compliant materials.
  • Made with premium polyester cluster fiber fill and a soft 100% cotton shell.
  • Machine washable for easy cleaning.
  • Versatile for naptime, bedtime, preschool, or travel.
  • Backed by a “Love the Fluff” guarantee.
• Pros:
  • Rigorously tested and certified for safety and quality.
  • Excellent ergonomic support for healthy posture.
  • Easy to clean with machine washability.
  • Highly durable and holds its shape well over time.
  • Manufacturer offers a satisfaction guarantee.
• Cons:
  • Polyester cluster fiber fill might not be preferred by those seeking natural materials.
• User Impressions: Customers frequently commend this pillow for its ideal firmness and softness, noting that it provides excellent support without being too high. The hypoallergenic aspect and ease of cleaning are also major highlights.
• See it on Amazon Here

3. LOFE Organic Kids Pillow with Pillowcase – 16×22 Youth

For parents prioritizing natural materials and customization, the LOFE Organic Kids Pillow is a standout. This pillow boasts a 100% organic cotton shell that’s unbleached and wonderfully soft against your child’s skin. What truly sets it apart is its adjustable design with a handy zipper, allowing you to add or remove filling to achieve the perfect height and firmness for your child’s head and neck. It’s a thoughtful investment in your child’s sleep health.

• Key Features:
  • Handmade with 100% organic cotton shell (unbleached) and soft poly cluster fiber filling.
  • Unique adjustable design with a zipper to customize height and firmness.
  • Ideal size (16×22 inches) for children aged 5 to 10 years.
  • GOTS, CPSC, and OEKO-TEX Standard 100 Certified for trusted quality.
  • Machine washable and designed to stay fluffy.
  • Includes a breathable organic cotton pillowcase.
• Pros:
  • Premium organic cotton shell is gentle and free from harsh chemicals.
  • Adjustable filling allows for personalized comfort and support.
  • Multiple certifications ensure high safety and environmental standards.
  • Easy to maintain with machine washability.
• Cons:
  • Inner filling is pearl fiber, not organic like the outer shell.
• User Impressions: Parents rave about the peace of mind offered by the organic cotton and the ability to customize the pillow’s loft. The unbleached fabric and lack of chemical smell are frequently highlighted as major positives.
• See it on Amazon Here

4. Toddler Pillow with Pillowcase – 13×18 My Little Dreamy

While labeled a “toddler pillow,” the My Little Dreamy Pillow from KeaBabies can still be a great fit for a younger 5-year-old, especially one who prefers a more compact pillow or needs a reliable travel companion. Its ergonomic design gently supports the head and neck, promoting proper spinal alignment. Crafted with organic cotton and designed for durability, it’s a wonderfully soft and breathable option.

• Key Features:
  • 13″x18″ ergonomically designed pillow, highly rated for comfortable spinal support.
  • Durable and washable (both pillow and included pillowcase).
  • Cover and pillowcases made of OEKO-TEX 100 Standard and GOTS Certified Organic Cotton.
  • Soft, light, and breathable, suitable for all seasons.
  • Perfectly sized for toddler beds, preschool naps, travel, and road trips.
  • Offers a perfect balance of softness and firmness at an ideal height.
• Pros:
  • Organic cotton cover ensures a soft, breathable, and natural sleep surface.
  • Ergonomic design promotes healthy spinal alignment.
  • Machine washable for hassle-free cleaning.
  • Compact size makes it excellent for travel and daycare.
• Cons:
  • Smaller size (13×18 inches) might be outgrown quickly by a taller or larger 5-year-old.
  • The “toddler” designation might mislead some parents looking for a “youth” specific pillow.
• User Impressions: Customers love the softness and the cute designs of the included pillowcase. Its travel-friendly size and the comfort it provides during naps and trips are frequently praised, along with its organic credentials.
• See it on Amazon Here

5. ZPECC Toddler Pillow with Pillowcase – 13×18 Organic Cotton

Another excellent choice for a compact yet supportive pillow, the ZPECC Toddler Pillow bundle offers a fantastic combination of safety, comfort, and convenience. It comes with both a 13×18 inch pillow and a slightly larger pillowcase, ensuring a snug fit. With its certified organic fabric and hypoallergenic properties, it’s designed to give parents peace of mind and provide a cozy, odor-free sleep environment for sensitive little ones.

• Key Features:
  • Includes 1 toddler pillow (13×18) and 1 toddler pillowcase (14×19).
  • CERTIFIED SAFE: ORGANIC CONTENT STANDARD 100 and OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certified organic fabric.
  • Hypoallergenic, skin-friendly, and odor-free.
  • Easy care: Machine washable and tumble dryable; no shrinking, pilling, or clumping.
  • Premium fabric: 100% organic cotton pillowcase and super soft fluffy microfiber filling.
  • Wide use for naptime, nursery, preschool, travel, and more.
• Pros:
  • High safety certifications for organic content and absence of harmful substances.
  • Easy to clean and maintain, retaining shape and fluffiness.
  • Soft, breathable organic cotton pillowcase.
  • Great for kids with sensitivities due to hypoallergenic and odor-free properties.
• Cons:
  • The 13×18 inch size may be too small for some 5-year-olds.
  • Microfiber filling, while soft, isn’t organic like the cover.
• User Impressions: Parents are very happy with the certified organic materials and how soft and gentle it feels. The ease of washing and drying without losing shape is also a significant plus, making it a reliable choice for daily use.
• See it on Amazon Here

6. KeaBabies 2-Pack Toddler Pillow 13×18 – Soft Organic Cotton

KeaBabies makes another appearance on our list with this convenient 2-pack of toddler pillows, perfect for ensuring your child always has a fresh, clean pillow. While sized at 13×18 inches, these pillows offer ergonomic support crucial for healthy spinal alignment. They’re also incredibly versatile, making them a great travel companion for your little explorer, providing a sense of security and comfort even away from home.

• Key Features:
  • 2-pack of 13×18 inch toddler pillows.
  • Ergonomically designed for healthy spinal alignment.
  • Perfect as a kids travel pillow, offering comfort on the go.
  • Durable and machine washable, maintaining fluffiness after each wash.
  • OEKO-TEX 100 Standard Certified cotton kid pillow shell.
  • Ultra soft and breathable year-round.
• Pros:
  • Excellent value with two pillows in one pack.
  • Ideal for travel, sleepovers, and providing comfort in new environments.
  • Certified safe by OEKO-TEX 100 Standards.
  • Easy to clean and maintain, even with frequent washes.
• Cons:
  • Pillowcases are sold separately.
  • May appear flat upon arrival due to vacuum-sealing, requiring fluffing.
  • The smaller 13×18 size might be too small for some older 5-year-olds as their primary pillow.
• User Impressions: Customers love the convenience of the 2-pack and find these pillows incredibly useful for both home and travel. The softness and durability after washing are often praised, making them a practical choice for busy parents.
• See it on Amazon Here

7. RESTIRY Toddler Pillow 2-6 Year Old, PP Cotton Kids Pillow

The RESTIRY Toddler Pillow is specially designed for kids aged 2-6, with a focus on keeping them cool and comfortable. Its unique “scientific heat dissipation” feature, incorporating a PE hose in the neck support area and breathable mesh, helps accelerate airflow and expel heat, preventing stuffiness and sweat. This makes it an ideal best pillow for a 5-year-old who tends to get warm during the night.

• Key Features:
  • Machine washable for easy, all-over cleaning.
  • Scientific Heat Dissipation: PE hose in neck area and breathable mesh to prevent stuffiness.
  • High-quality materials: 65% polyester, 35% Lyocell cover, skin-friendly and breathable.
  • Filler provides good heat dissipation, flexible, and no deformation.
  • Perfect ergonomic size: 19.5″x13.8″x0.8″/1.5″ for children aged 2-6 years.
• Pros:
  • Innovative design helps regulate temperature, ideal for warm sleepers.
  • Fully machine washable for superior hygiene.
  • Ergonomic shape provides good neck support.
  • Durable materials that maintain shape and flexibility.
• Cons:
  • Cover is a blend of polyester and Lyocell, not 100% cotton.
  • The specific PE hose filling might feel different to some children.
• User Impressions: Parents are particularly impressed with the cooling features, reporting that their children sleep more comfortably without overheating. The ability to machine wash the entire pillow is also a highly valued feature for cleanliness.
• See it on Amazon Here

8. Babebay Toddler Pillow, 13X18 Soft Toddler Pillows

Bring some cheer to your child’s sleep space with the Babebay Toddler Pillow! This charming pillow features a cute pattern print with sunshine, rainbows, and clouds, making bedtime more inviting. Beyond its adorable looks, it’s designed for practicality with machine washable materials, ensuring it stays fresh and clean despite inevitable spills and messes. Its compact size also makes it a fantastic travel companion, providing comfort and familiarity wherever your little one goes.

• Key Features:
  • Cute pattern print (rainbow, sunshine, clouds, heart) to delight kids.
  • Machine washable and durable for easy care.
  • Neutral unisex design suitable for any toddler bedding set.
  • Ultra-soft and breathable cotton kid pillow case.
  • Perfectly sized at 13 x 18 inches, ideal for travel.
• Pros:
  • Engaging visual design that children will love.
  • Exceptionally easy to clean and maintain.
  • Soft, breathable cotton cover for year-round comfort.
  • Convenient size for travel and providing a familiar comfort in new environments.
• Cons:
  • Smaller 13×18 inch size might be too small for some larger or older 5-year-olds.
  • Focused on “toddler” designation.
• User Impressions: This pillow is a hit with kids for its cheerful patterns and soft feel. Parents appreciate how easily it washes and how well it holds up to repeated use, especially for travel.
• See it on Amazon Here

9. Little Sleepy Head Youth Pillow with Pillowcase 16×22

The Little Sleepy Head Youth Pillow is designed to be the perfect “in-between” pillow for children aged 4 and up, bridging the gap between small toddler pillows and standard adult sizes. Measuring 16×22 inches, it offers the ideal support for a growing 5-year-old, focusing on ergonomic alignment to prevent neck pain. It’s also fully hypoallergenic and comes with a beautiful 100% cotton pillowcase that gets softer with every wash!

• Key Features:
  • 16″ X 22″ youth pillow, perfect for children 4+ needing a larger size.
  • 100% Hypoallergenic and ergonomic design for proper spinal support.
  • OEKO-TEX 100 Standard Certified and CPSC Compliant materials.
  • Made with premium polyester cluster fiber fill and a soft 100% cotton shell.
  • Machine washable and holds its shape well.
  • Includes a dreamy 100% cotton pillowcase with an envelope enclosure.
  • Versatile for various uses, from bedtime to travel.
• Pros:
  • Ideal size for a 5-year-old, offering more space than a toddler pillow.
  • Strong safety and quality certifications.
  • Hypoallergenic properties are great for sensitive sleepers.
  • Easy to clean and maintains its loft over time.
  • Comes with a high-quality, soft cotton pillowcase.
• Cons:
  • Polyester cluster fiber fill, rather than natural fibers.
• User Impressions: Many parents consider this their child’s “forever pillow,” praising its durability, ideal size, and the comfort it provides for good sleep. The included, soft pillowcase is a definite bonus that customers appreciate.
• See it on Amazon Here

10. Coop Home Goods Original Toddler Adjustable Pillow

For the ultimate in customizable comfort and safety, the Coop Home Goods Original Toddler Adjustable Pillow is a premium choice. This pillow is designed with a unique childproof zipper, ensuring only adults can adjust the fill, preventing accidental access to the plush memory foam and microfiber blend. It’s CertiPUR-US and GREENGUARD Gold certified, guaranteeing it’s free from harmful chemicals. The ability to add or remove fill means you can tailor the pillow’s height and firmness perfectly to your 5-year-old’s preferences and sleep style, ensuring optimal neck and spinal alignment.

• Key Features:
  • Childproof zipper for safety, allowing adult-only fill adjustment.
  • CertiPUR-US and GREENGUARD Gold certified for safety and air quality.
  • Perfect size memory foam pillow for kids (19” x 13”).
  • Filled with Original Oomph fill (cross-cut memory foam & microfiber blend).
  • Breathable Lulltra fabric cover for a soft, cushy feel.
  • Fully adjustable and customizable for maximum support.
  • Machine washable pillow and cover.
  • Versatile for kids aged 2-8 and even adults for travel.
• Pros:
  • Unmatched adjustability for personalized comfort and support.
  • Superior safety certifications provide ultimate peace of mind.
  • High-quality, breathable materials for a luxurious feel.
  • Entire pillow is machine washable for easy cleaning.
  • Durable and designed to promote proper spinal alignment.
• Cons:
  • Higher price point compared to other options.
  • Requires adult involvement to adjust the filling.
  • Memory foam can sometimes have an initial mild odor, though it’s certified safe.
• User Impressions: Parents consistently praise the adjustability, which allows them to find the perfect sleep position for their child. The safety certifications and overall quality make this a highly trusted and loved pillow, despite its higher cost.
• See it on Amazon Here

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Conclusion

Finding the best pillow for a 5-year-old is an important step in supporting their growth and ensuring they get the restorative sleep they need. As kids transition from toddlerhood, their sleep posture evolves, and a pillow that provides proper neck and spinal alignment becomes crucial. Whether you prioritize organic materials, adjustable firmness, easy cleaning, or a great travel companion, there’s a perfect fit out there for your child.

Remember to consider your child’s unique needs – do they sleep on their back, side, or stomach? Do they get hot at night? Are allergies a concern? The right pillow can make a world of difference, contributing to better sleep quality, improved mood, and healthy development. Invest in a good pillow, and you’re investing in countless nights of sweet dreams and brighter mornings for your little one.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why can’t my 5-year-old just use an adult pillow?

A: Adult pillows are often too thick and firm for a 5-year-old’s smaller head and neck. Using a pillow that’s too high can put their neck at an awkward angle, leading to discomfort, poor spinal alignment, and potentially impacting their long-term posture. Kids’ pillows are specifically designed with appropriate loft and softness for their growing bodies.

Q2: What size pillow is best for a 5-year-old?

A: For a 5-year-old, a “youth” or “junior” size pillow is typically ideal, usually measuring around 16×22 inches or 19×13 inches. These sizes offer more space than a toddler pillow but aren’t as large or lofty as a standard adult pillow. The key is to find one that keeps their head, neck, and spine in a neutral, aligned position.

Q3: How firm should a pillow be for a 5-year-old?

A: A pillow for a 5-year-old should be a balance of soft and supportive. It shouldn’t be too firm (which can be uncomfortable) or too soft (which offers no support). The ideal firmness will gently cradle their head while keeping their neck aligned with their spine, without causing their head to sink in too deeply or be propped up too high.

Q4: What materials are best for a kid’s pillow?

A: Look for hypoallergenic materials if your child has allergies or sensitivities. Common and good options include organic cotton shells (breathable and natural), polyester fiberfill (often hypoallergenic and washable), and memory foam (offers good support, sometimes adjustable). Always check for safety certifications like OEKO-TEX 100 or CertiPUR-US.

Q5: How often should I wash my child’s pillow?

A: It’s a good idea to wash pillowcases weekly. For the pillow itself, if it’s machine washable, aim for every 2-4 months, or more frequently if your child has allergies, sweats a lot, or has accidents. Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions to ensure the pillow lasts.

Q6: How do I know if my child’s pillow is too big or too small?

A: If the pillow is too big/high, your child’s head will be pushed forward, or their neck will be craned upwards. If it’s too small/flat, their head might drop below their shoulders, or they might try to fold the pillow in half for more support. Their head, neck, and spine should form a relatively straight line when they’re lying on their side or back.

Q7: Can a bad pillow affect my child’s sleep or health?

A: Yes, absolutely. A pillow that doesn’t provide proper support can lead to neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and restless sleep. Over time, it can contribute to poor posture and even affect breathing if their airway isn’t aligned. A good pillow is vital for restorative sleep and healthy development.

Q8: Should a 5-year-old use a pillow when traveling?

A: Yes, a travel-sized pillow can be very beneficial for a 5-year-old, especially on longer trips. It provides comfort and helps maintain proper neck support in unfamiliar sleeping environments like cars, planes, or even at a grandparent’s house, making it easier for them to rest and feel secure.