Introducing a Comforter: When and How to Do It Safely
A comforter can be a lovely sleep tool for babies and toddlers, especially during developmental stages where separation awareness increases. Used safely and consistently, it can become a familiar sleep cue that supports naps, overnight sleep, and resettling.
The key is timing and safety. Many parents introduce a comforter too early or choose an item that is not appropriate for sleep, which can create safety concerns and unsettled sleep.
This guide explains when to introduce a comforter, how to do it safely, what to choose, and how to help your child actually use it in a way that supports sleep.
What is a comforter?
A comforter is a small, soft, breathable item your child associates with sleep, comfort, and familiarity. It might be a small bunny, a lovey, a soft square cloth, or a small plush designed specifically for sleep.
A comforter works best when it stays consistent. It is not a rotating collection of toys. It is one predictable item that becomes part of your child’s sleep routine and sleep environment.
When can you introduce a comforter?
From 7 months onward, ideally closer to 12 months, Red Nose Australia states it’s generally safe to introduce a breathable comforter for sleep, something soft and familiar that stays in the cot and signals it’s time to wind down.
This timing matters because younger babies do not yet have the motor control, awareness, or ability to reposition safely around soft items. That is why comforters should not be introduced in the early newborn stage.
If you want to double check the foundations first, start with Safe Sleep Guidelines and Creating a Safe Sleep Environment.
Why comforters can help sleep
Comforters can be helpful because they support familiarity and connection, especially when your child is learning to fall asleep in a consistent sleep space.
They are often most useful during:
periods of separation anxiety
nap transitions or disrupted sleep
travel or changes in routine
daycare transitions
toddler emotional development
A comforter can also support resettling overnight if your child wakes and needs something familiar to help them feel safe.
If your child is waking regularly overnight, it can also help to explore Why Is My Baby Waking So Frequently at Night? so you are addressing the full picture, not just adding a comfort item.
How to choose the right comforter
A safe comforter should be:
breathable
small and lightweight
free from loose parts like buttons or beads
easy to wash
appropriate for your child’s age and stage
Avoid large teddies, thick blankets, weighted items, or anything with long ribbons or attachments.
If your baby is still young or you are unsure, choose a small breathable comforter designed specifically for sleep.
How to introduce a comforter
Step one, make it familiar
Before giving it to your child for sleep, sleep with it for a few nights or keep it close to you so it smells like you. This helps it feel safe and familiar straight away.
Step two, introduce it during calm moments
Start by offering it during wind down, cuddles, or story time so it becomes associated with calm connection rather than distress.
Step three, add it consistently to sleep times
Once your baby is developmentally ready, include it in naps and bedtime as part of the routine. Consistency is what builds the association.
This works best when paired with a predictable bedtime routine, see Creating a Night Routine That Supports Sleep.
What if my baby just plays with it?
That is normal. Comforters are not a magic switch and some babies need time to understand what it is for.
If your baby is playing, chewing, or tossing it around, stay calm and consistent. Over time it usually becomes part of the sleep routine rather than a distraction.
If it becomes overstimulating, you can introduce it only at bedtime first, then add naps later.
Comforters and separation anxiety
Comforters are often most effective when separation awareness is peaking. Many families notice a stronger need for connection around:
8 to 10 months
12 months
15 to 18 months
toddlerhood
This is why comforters are frequently helpful alongside separation anxiety, because they provide a stable cue that says sleep is safe even when you are not right there.
Comforters do not replace your support, they simply help your child tolerate separation more easily over time.
Comforters and safe sleep
Even when using a comforter, safe sleep practices remain essential.
Your baby’s sleep space should still be clear and safe, and comforters should only be introduced when developmentally appropriate and safe.
If you are unsure about what should be in the cot, refer back to Safe Sleep Guidelines.
What if we already use a dummy?
Some families use a dummy and also introduce a comforter later. That is fine. They serve different purposes.
If your goal is eventually reducing dummy dependence, a comforter can sometimes become a helpful replacement cue over time. If that is relevant for your child, see Weaning the Pacifier.
Looking ahead
A comforter can be a beautiful addition to your child’s sleep routine when introduced safely and at the right stage. It often becomes most valuable during periods of emotional development, separation awareness, and toddler transitions.
The 5–24 Month Infant Course supports families through these developmental stages with age specific guidance on routines, regressions, settling, and safe sleep foundations.
For toddlers, boundaries, fears, and bedtime struggles, the Infant and Toddler Bundle provides long term guidance through the toddler years with practical strategies that grow with your child.
Eva Beke
Certified Paediatric Sleep Consultant
Founder The Sleepy Little Bubs
I’m Eva Beke, a certified baby and toddler sleep consultant and founder of The Sleepy Little Bubs, supporting families across Australia and the world with evidence based baby and toddler sleep support.
My approach is realistic, supportive, and designed to evolve as your child grows, so you’re not just getting help for today, but confidence moving forward.
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