How to Prevent Flat Head Syndrome with the Right Sleep Setup

During the newborn stage, babies spend a lot of time lying down—whether they’re sleeping, riding in a car seat, or relaxing in a rocker. Since their neck muscles aren’t strong yet, they tend to rest their heads in the same position. Over time, that constant pressure can lead to a flat spot.

What is Flat Head Syndrome?

Flat Head Syndrome, or positional plagiocephaly, happens when a baby develops a flat spot on their head, usually from lying in one position for too long. Since a baby's skull is still soft in the first few months, it can easily change shape under pressure. 

This condition is pretty common in babies aged 0 to 6 months. While it’s super important for babies to sleep on their backs to prevent SIDS, being in the same position too often can lead to flat head syndrome. 

This is why having a supportive baby sleeping pillow or crib pillow can be helpful. And while a baby bolster pillow is mainly for side support or comfort, the real game-changer for flat spot prevention is a newborn baby pillow designed to cradle the head properly. Simple changes in daily routines can make a big difference, and combining those with the right baby pillow set can go a long way.

Safe Sleep Guidelines to Follow

Making sure your baby sleeps safely is the first and most important step in avoiding flat head syndrome. So while you're doing the right thing, it’s also good to pay attention to how their head rests.

Keep laying your baby on their back for sleep, but try gently turning their head to a different side for each nap—maybe to the right for one and to the left for the next. Little changes, such as switching the position of the crib or hanging mobiles on different sides, can also help encourage your baby to look around. These small adjustments can go a long way in preventing pressure on just one part of their head.

Choosing the Right Baby Pillow

A special newborn baby pillow is made to prevent flat head syndrome. It supports your baby's head and neck to reduce pressure on one spot and encourage a rounder head shape. Here are the features to look for:

1. Ergonomic Design

Look for a baby pillow with a hole in the middle. This is the common design of an anti-flat head pillow. This special shape helps spread the pressure evenly around your baby's head and gently supports their head, helping it keep its natural, round shape.

2. Breathable Fabric

Because babies have very delicate skin and their breathing systems are still growing, it's important to choose pillow materials that let air flow through and are gentle on your baby's skin. Materials like organic bamboo, thermoregulating cotton mesh, or hypoallergenic fabrics are great choices to keep your baby comfy and cool.

3. Age-appropriate Sizing

Pick an anti-flat head baby pillow that's made for your baby's age. It’s usually pillows for babies under 12 months. It's best to avoid pillows that are too big for newborns because they can be unsafe. This ensures the pillow provides the right support and is safe for your baby. The right size gives the best support and works well with safe sleep habits.

Tummy Time Is Key

Tummy time is one of the easiest ways to help keep your baby's head nice and round. It helps build neck and upper body strength, so they can move their head more easily.

How Often and When to Start

You can start tummy time as early as the first week after your baby is born. Just make sure their belly stump is gone and you've got the doctor’s approval. Start with just 2 to 3 minutes a few times a day, and slowly increase it. By around 3 months, aim for about 20 to 30 minutes a day, broken into shorter sessions. Always supervise and stay with your baby during tummy time and ensure they are safe. 

Read more: Let's Play! Building a Safe Play Area for Your Baby

Supervised Floor Play Ideas

Make tummy time fun! Try putting a mirror in front of your baby, using colorful baby toys, or lying down with them and chatting or singing. Set up a soft mat so they can move their head and body around comfortably and safely. Consider also side-lying play or other positions that could help with head shaping, and arm and hand development of your baby. 

All of these little activities help your baby get stronger and move their head more, which helps stop flat spots from forming.

Read more: How to Foster Your Baby's Development in Your New Home

Flat Head Syndrome is common, but with a few simple daily habits, you can help prevent it. Always follow safe sleep tips, gently change your baby's head position, start tummy time early, and think about using a baby pillow that gives extra support.

Still looking for baby pillows and sleep items for your little one? Shop safe and comfortable baby pillow sets now at the Baby Company store and our online shops!