Why Every Toddler Needs More Than One Comforter
There’s something about this time of year – the sniffles are nonstop, the washing basket is always full, and your toddler’s comforter seems to spend more time in the laundry than in their little hands. Whether it’s covered in porridge, caught in the rain, or forgotten at Grandma’s, it always disappears at the worst possible moment.
Comforters quickly become one of the most treasured items in a toddler’s world. They’re a constant companion during sleep, a source of security at daycare, a familiar friend during travel, and a go-to for every big emotion. But when that one special comforter goes missing – bedtime might suddenly feel a lot harder.
That’s why having a back-up (or two) isn’t just a good idea – it’s peace of mind. Because when it comes to comfort, clean-ups, and cuddles, it always pays to have a spare.
Why your toddler might need a back-up comforter
By the time your little one hits ten months or so, their comforter is part of their sleep routine – and a key signal that it’s time to settle. It offers security, connection, and a familiar scent they associate with rest. So when it’s missing? Sleep may suddenly feel a whole lot harder.
Having more than one comforter on hand means you’re never stuck:
- When one is in the wash (again!)
- When it’s left behind at Grandma’s house
- When your toddler throws it out of the cot during a nap-time protest
- When daycare needs one and home does too
Trust us – future you will be grateful.
Introducing a comforter to your toddler
If your child doesn’t already have a comforter, it’s not too late. You might need to ease into it a little more gently than you would with a younger bub – toddlers are often already using other ways to self-soothe. But a few simple steps will help:
- Talk to your toddler about their new bedtime friend.
- Pop the comforter into bed with them without pressure.
- Give it time – it may take a week or two for them to form a bond.
If your toddler already has a comforter, here’s the trick to introducing a back-up: buy one that’s identical and wash it a few times so it looks and smells familiar. Then start switching them out during night sleeps – ideally while your toddler is already asleep. They might notice at first, but over time they’ll grow to accept both versions.
Tizzies Tip: comforters are most effective when they’re used only during sleep or when extra comfort is truly needed. If your toddler is allowed to carry it around constantly, it loses its power as a sleep cue.
Comforters and routines – a perfect pair
Comforters are part of the Save Our Sleep approach because they help create a consistent sleep signal. They also support toddlers through:
Doctor visits, especially immunisations
Big transitions like starting daycare or kinder
Learning to sleep in new environments (travel cots, car seats, prams)
Times when mum isn’t close by, helping to ease separation anxiety
And sometimes, they do even more than we expect.
A quick note on comforter tossing
Many toddlers go through a phase where they throw their comforter out of the cot (usually around the 10-month mark – and again every six weeks like clockwork). Sometimes it’s an accident, sometimes it’s a game. Either way, staying calm and consistent is the key:
- Return it once without talking or eye contact.
- If it happens again, wait before going back in.
- Don’t return it more than once during settling.
Eventually, the game will stop. And having a spare will mean less stress for you when it does get launched across the room.
One comforter is love. Two is peace of mind.
Don’t wait for the panic of a missing lovie – make sure your family has a spare tucked away. You’ll be glad you did.