Mustard seeds are the tiny round balls used not only as a spice in Indian cooking but hailed for their therapeutic properties in Ayurveda. There is a tradition of using mustard seeds in baby pillows in Indian culture. It is believed to be advantageous for a baby's gullible head, neck, shoulders, spine, and back. The flat spots at the back of a baby's head are formed due to the continuous pressure of flat surfaces. To prevent or correct such flat spots, the use of a mustard seeds pillow is prevalent and highly effective. This article aims to provide you with all the information you need on a mustard seeds pillow, is mustard seed pillow good for infants, and suggests the best mustard pillow for baby. Read on to know more and clear all your doubts.
What are the Benefits of Using a Mustard Seed Pillow?
A pillow with the filling of mustard seeds has been in use for newborn and young babies in India since time immemorial because of the innumerable benefits it provides. Let's check all of them here:
- Helps in the prevention of flat head syndrome and maintaining the natural round head shape
- Provides neck, back, and shoulder support
- Convenient to carry and usable in all types of baby beds, cots, strollers, prams, and cradles
- Improves blood circulation
- Reduces common cough and cold as mustard seeds have natural warming properties
- Allows proper air circulation, thereby improving breathability
- Absorbs sweat and heat to provide a comfortable sleep
- Ergonomic design helps in the alignment and growth of the head and spine
- Corrects slight bumps and dents on the head
- Distributes the pressure of any hard surface below the pillow evenly all around the head instead of on any one side
- Relaxes and soothes the baby and allows them to rest peacefully
Because of the multiple advantages, the mustard seeds pillow is still so popular amongst the new parents and this custom is predicted to hold ground in the future as well!
Is Mustard Seed Pillow Good for Infants?
Yes, a mustard seed pillow is extremely beneficial in shaping the baby’s head and giving it the required support. As a newborn keeps the head on the pillow, the mustard seeds move evenly with the pressure and adjust to provide an extremely comfortable and soft texture that takes the shape of the baby's head. The head gets gently secured and any slight bumps and dents get fixed after using the pillow for some time.
How Did the Use of Mustard Seeds Pillow Started?
During the birthing process, the baby passes through the birth canals which at times misshapes the baby's head as it is extremely gullible and soft at that time. So to correct the shape, the use of mustard seeds in the pillows began which would help in bringing the natural shape back. Over time, it became a tradition and its use was backed by Ayurvedic benefits.
When Should a Mustard Seeds Pillow be Introduced?
The use of a mustard seeds pillow can be started right from the time of baby's birth and till the time the baby completes 12 months of age. It is used as an efficient preventive technique for flat head syndrome but for maximum efficacy, it should be introduced before the baby turns 6 months old.
Can a Mustard Seeds Pillow be Washed?
Mustard seeds can disintegrate after coming in contact with water. It is ideal to buy a baby pillow that has mustard seeds in a detachable pouch so that the cover can be periodically removed and washed. If the mustard seeds cannot be separated, then hand wash the pillow cover gently with a moist cloth to maintain hygiene.
The Best Mustard Pillow for Baby
The attributes of a quality pillow enable a baby to sleep in contentment and for a long duration. Parents desire the best for their munchkins. Here are the 7 best mustard pillow for baby that make an ideal choice.
1. MOM CARE Mustard Seeds Pillow for Newborn Baby
A one-piece baby headrest with ideal thickness, size, and quantity of seeds
MOM CARE Mustard Seeds Pillow for Newborn Baby
Buy From AmazonThis is an efficient baby pillow that upholds the head and neck and aligns them in a proper posture. It prevents flat head syndrome and the mustard seeds aid in giving a beautiful round head shape. The pillow helps in reducing cold, increasing blood circulation, preventing allergies, and ear infections. The 100% cotton pillow cover is removable and washable.
Key Features
- Reasonable price
- New improved bigger size
- Variety of colors and patterns
- Suitable for 0 to 12-month-old babies
- Ideal gift for baby showers
2. Kidzvilla Cotton New Born Baby Mustard Seeds Pillow
Square-shaped baby pillow with 100% cotton fabric
Kidzvilla Cotton New Born Baby Mustard Seeds Pillow
Buy From AmazonThis is a soft and comfortable baby pillow that is filled with thoroughly cleaned mustard seeds. The removable cover with zipper is washable ensuring cleanliness and hygiene. The pouch containing the mustard seeds can be removed before washing so that the seeds would not get wet. This pillow allows air-circulation, so excess heat and sweat are taken care of during daily usage.
Key Features
- Value for money
- Suitable for 0 to 12-month-old babies
- Prevents cold in babies
- Ideal pillow for newborn babies
- Appropriate filling and size
3. OmvedHead Shaping Rai Mustard Seeds Pillow with Lavender
Comprises of 100% natural mustard seeds, dried lavender flowers, and essential oil
OmvedHead Shaping Rai Mustard Seeds Pillow with Lavender
Buy From AmazonThis best mustard pillow for baby helps in the prevention and treatment of the flat-head syndrome. It eases breathing and assists the baby to enjoy a sound sleep. The removable cover is made of ultra-soft premium fabric. The mustard seeds have warming properties and prevent cold, while the lavender flowers relax and calm the nerves.
Key Features
- Improves blood circulation
- Reduces ear-infections
- Supports neck and spine
- Reduces head pressure
- Eco-friendly and biodegradable
- Designed for proper head-shaping
4. MOM & SON Baby Head Shaping Detachable Cotton Mustard Seeds Neck Support Pillow
Rectangular shaped pillow with cute pictorial patterns
MOM & SON Baby Head Shaping Detachable Cotton Mustard Seeds Neck Support Pillow
Buy From AmazonThis is a beautiful baby pillow that helps in maintaining the round head shape while supporting the neck and spine. The mustard seeds are securely packed inside the pillow and the cover can be easily removed for washing maintaining proper hygiene for the baby. This pillow provides an ideal size for newborn babies and young kids. The mustard seeds help in the prevention of colds and allergies.
Key Features
- Value for money
- Detachable cover
- Very soft and comfortable
- Quality materials used
- Attractive colors and patterns
5. Pikipoo New Born Baby Soft Velvet Fabric Mustard Seeds Rai Pillow
Velvet U-shaped soft neck support pillow
Pikipoo New Born Baby Soft Velvet Fabric Mustard Seeds Rai Pillow
Buy From AmazonThis is an appealing baby pillow with bright colors and the mustard seeds are present in the middle portion to provide ample support and a good head shape. It elevates the baby's head while sleeping and absorbs excess sweat and heat. It assists in keeping the head straight and upright and sustains the correct posture while helping in the proper development of the neck and spine.
Key Features
- Reasonable price
- High-quality fabric
- Soft and comfortable
- Durable and travel-friendly
- Colorful options available
- Suitable for 0 to 9-month-old babies
6. Depurika Sharma Clothing Mustard Seeds Rai Pillow
Made from soft velvet with impressive stitching quality
Depurika Sharma Clothing Mustard Seeds Rai Pillow
Buy From AmazonThe best feature of this pillow is that it comes with a detachable mustard seed pouch so the cleaning becomes convenient. There are several colors and patterns available. The rai or mustard seeds allow the distribution of pressure all around the head and neck providing comfort to the baby while sleeping. The cloth used is soft and gentle for the baby's sensitive skin.
Key Features
- Reasonable price
- Slightly elevates the head
- Prevents flat spot formation
- Supports head and neck
- Suitable for babies from 0 to 2 years
7. MOM & SON New Born Baby Soft Neck Support Pillow with Mustard Seeds
Attractive and colorful U-shaped baby pillow
MOM & SON New Born Baby Soft Neck Support Pillow with Mustard Seeds
Buy From AmazonThis is a baby neck and head support pillow that keeps the head fixed for neck stability but the baby can turn both sides easily. It absorbs sweat and heat allowing pleasant sleep for the tiny tot. The pillow is designed in such a fashion that the middle part stores all the mustard seeds. The slight elevation helps the baby is taking a tranquil sleep and assists in maintaining a natural round head shape. The pillow is made from the fabric of good quality.
Key Features
- Reasonable price
- Comfortable and soft
- Durable and easily washable
- Available in vibrant colors
- Suitable for babies from 0 to 9 months
If you are concerned about the flat head of your darling or simply want to prevent the flat spots at the back of the head, buy the best mustard pillow for your baby from the choices we have listed for you. Because we understand how imperative is a good night's sleep for your baby. A deep and peaceful siesta means good growth and development. A Happy and healthy baby!
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NewMumLife Team
NewMumLife is a parenting website for moms, dads and child care. We aim to offer a place to connect parents and parents-to-be for all types of parenting advice and suggestions to the questions they normally face. Our content is for the parents and by the parents where they share their personal experiences to benefit our parenting community.