It's normal for babies to form an attachment to something soft and comforting, for example - a blanket, soft toy or even a piece of your clothing! These all help them settle, feel secure and can lead them to fall asleep too. That's why we've made it our mission to find the best baby comforters.
At what age can a baby have a comforter?
While many comforters are suitable from birth, many parents find that at around nine months old, babies often become very clingy to their mums as they realise they are not part of their mothers and are individuals. A comforter can help with this transition. A baby comforter can also be a good alternative to a dummy if this is something you are wanting to avoid.
How to choose a baby comforter:
While most little ones tend to choose their comforter naturally, there's nothing wrong with buying a toy or blanket with the intention of it being your baby's comforter. The good news is that providing it's soft and cosy, they're likely to love it!
Ideally, you want a baby comforter that can easily be washed as you'll need to do this regularly. Our number one tip would be to buy a couple just in case one gets lost or a backup one while one is in the wash.
When choosing a baby comforter, remember that you should never leave your baby unattended with anything that has a ribbon or cord attached to it, or any toy with parts that may come off.
The best baby comforters:
We've rounded up some of the softest, sweetest baby comforters on the market.
Sweet Dreamers Ewan Baa Baa Blankie
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A comforter can be your baby’s most-loved companion and there’s certainly a good chance of that happening with the Ewan baa baa blankie. Made from snuggly plush with silk edging and featuring Ewan’s friendly face, don’t be surprised if you can’t prise him away…
Pros:
- Snuggly and soft
- Well made
Cons:
- Fades after washing
One review said, "My daughter is in love with her Ewan Lullaby sheep but it’s a bit big to take everywhere so we got her this bla joe and she loves it. Same familiar lovable face but soft and cuddly enough for her to hold and take with her everywhere."
Peter Rabbit Comfort Blanket
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We all know and love the Beatrix Potter books and this gorgeous Peter Rabbit comforter is made from premium soft fabric to ensure he is as gentle against your baby's skin as possible, with cute embroidered facial features. This comforter is machine washable so it can be taken everywhere with your little one.
Pros:
- Adorable design
- Easy to clean
- Good gift
Cons:
- The material underneath isn't as soft
Mum Lorna, said, "Absolutely lovely! It is my son's favourite. Washes nicely in the washing machine. Great quality and value for money."
Cuski baby comforter
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Made from soft cotton terry towelling, this uniquely shaped comforter which is used within the NHS helps young children transition from being away from mum, making them feel safe and secure.
Pros:
- Suitable from birth
- A good alternative to a dummy
Cons:
- We wouldn't recommend leaving your baby unattended with this comforter
One happy reviewer, said, "We now have three of these in rotation/backups. My little one is 11 months and will only sleep with this at night, we never wanted to use dummies and a friend suggested this as a good option. He settles much quicker with this and amazingly it seems to be standing up well to chewing with his new razor-sharp teeth."
Baby Comforters with Taggies
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There's plenty to keep your baby entertained on this baby comforter which is edged with assorted cute design tags. Ultra-soft, your baby will be drawn to the brightly coloured and vibrant design of soft plush animals.
Pros:
- Washes well
- Good to cuddle
- Cheap
Cons:
- Better designed comforters on this list
Dad Tom, said, "Great for honing baby’s pincer grip. Washes well (after being vomited and drooled on) and a favourite from the word go. My baby seeks out a label on any toy and this was no exception, he found the safety/washing instructions on this straight away but then he played with the others. He loves the rattle in the head and it’s so soft. A great product."
Jellycat Roy Baby Fox Soother
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This rusty-red ranger is made to cuddle! Vibrant and plush with a big creamy tummy, Roy's arms are wide open for hugs.
Pros:
- Cute
- Super soft
Cons:
- Expensive for size
One parent wrote: "My son was bought this as a gift at a few days old, it is his favourite comforter and now at a year old he hugs it to sleep every night. I don't let it out of the house for fear of losing it and have come on here to buy a second just in case!"
Elodie Baby and Toddler Comforter Blinkie
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One for scandi lovers out there, this comforter is made from smooth cotton muslin that will keep its softness even after washing.The Blinkie is foldable and will fit easily in a handbag or changing bag, so you can always have it with you when you and your baby are on the go.
Pros:
- Beautiful option
- Available eight colours
Cons:
- Expensive
Parent Hamila, wrote, "Great quality and design, our baby boy loves putting it in his mouth and soothing himself to sleep every night."
Winnie the Pooh Baby Comfort Blanket
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Who doesn't love Winnie the Pooh? Hand washable and suitable from birth, Pooh features beautiful embroidered detailing and multi-textured, tactile fabric to encourage sensory play.
Pros:
- Lovely detailing
- Excellent present
Cons:
- Small
One reviewer said, "Baby loves this! Has just turned one and started looking for this every night and carrying it from the cot in the morning. It is lovely and soft and has washed well. Have now bought a second one to leave at nursery."
Tommee Tippee Gerry Giraffe Soft Comforter Toy
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This sweet comforter from Tommee Tippee has soft graspable corners for little hands and mouths and also includes a teether on one corner to soothe your little one's gums. Made from plush soft velour, there are other cute animal characters to choose from and the comforter can be used as a puppet to amuse and engage your baby.
Pros:
- Cheap
- Good for teething infants
Cons:
- Loses softness after washing
One parent said, "These Tommee Tippee comforters are just fantastic! This is the second one of the line we bought. Lily Lamb for creche and Ernie Elephant for bedtime at home. She wouldn't sleep without them. We have also attached a soother to one of the ends, so she can easily find it while asleep."
Olga the Goose
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Make room in your life for this cutie, made from super soft, huggable terry cotton in lovely bright colours. Ready to accompany your child everywhere, Olga can even be embroidered with your child's name for a more personal touch.
Pros:
- Fun design
- Can be personalised
Cons:
- Pricey