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Headshot of author Lauren Fountain
By Lauren Fountain
Why Trust Sleep Foundation

A child’s bed is both a playground for imagination and an important place to recharge for the next day. Kids are growing and changing every day, and their sleep plays a pivotal role in that journey. A good night’s sleep is essential for a child’s growth, brain development, and overall well-being.

Finding the best mattress for a child is about ensuring they get the right support for their developing bodies and ever-changing needs. We’ve compiled our top picks and put together a concise guide to simplify the process of selecting a kid’s mattress. For more details about our mattress evaluation process, our guide to the best mattresses 2024 a great resource for sleepers of all ages.

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Best Mattress for Kids of 2024

Helix Kids Mattress

Our top pick, the Helix Kids Mattress, has a thoughtful design tailored to growing kids from ages 3 to 12. We’re particularly impressed by its dual-sided firmness, allowing the mattress to adapt as a child gets older. Plus, its water-repellent finish adds an extra layer of practicality for those inevitable accidents and spills.

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In-Depth Reviews

“The Helix Kids Mattress is a great option if you’re looking for a bed specifically designed for children. Our testers highly recommend this mattress for its dual-sided design, since you can adjust the mattress to your child’s needs as they grow. The water-repellent finish also protects the mattress from any spills or accidents.” – Mark Horiuchi, Lead Product Tester

  • Pros

    1. Flippable design with two firmness options for growing kids

    2. Enhanced edge support thanks to thicker coils—great for active sleepers

    3. Specifically tailored for kids aged 3 to 12

  • Cons

    1. Potential for initial off-gassing smell

    2. 8-inch profile may be too thick for some bunk bed designs

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6)

Price Range

$599 – $799

Trial Period

100 nights (30-night requirement)

The Helix Kids mattress has a flippable design that grows with your child, accommodating ages 3 to 12. Each side has a distinct firmness that supports the different stages of a growing body.

How It Performed

The thoughtful dual-sided design ensures the mattress will provide enough support at different stages of your child’s life. One side is aimed at children ages 3 to 7, with a medium firm (6) feel to support growing bodies. As a child reaches 8 to 12 years old, they can transition to the medium soft (4) side, which has plusher comfort layers. Our test lab found this side offered extra contouring and pressure relief. The mattress earned high marks in our temperature neutrality tests, partly thanks to the enhanced airflow through the coil support core. So it should feel cool and comfortable even if your child tends to sleep hot.

What It’s Made of

Both sides of the mattress feature a Tencel cover with a water-repellent finish. The finish ensures the mattress’ longevity and protects against damage from accidents or messes. Beneath is a flammability protection layer to keep your kid safe. The support core features 5-inch pocketed coils that provide targeted support to your child’s hips and shoulders. A row of coils lines the perimeter of the mattress, which we found quite supportive when we sat on the edge.

On the side designed for 3- to 7-year-olds, the comfort system consists of dense polyfoam. Our testers found this side’s comfort layer much firmer, which helps maintain proper spinal support for younger children. The other side, which is meant for 8 to 12 years old, features a comfort system made from gel-infused memory foam that performed well in our pressure relief tests. The gel in this layer is engineered to absorb and dissipate excess body heat.

Helix ships free to all 50 states and offers families 100 nights to try out the mattress. A lengthy sleep trial is helpful if you’re unsure of your child’s sleep preferences. The Helix Kids mattress also comes with a 10-year warranty.

“Our testers were impressed by the Bear Cub mattress for the even cushioning and great support from its foam hybrid design. We recommend this bed for kids who prefer sleep surfaces that are on the firmer side. The breathable cover and steady internal airflow make it comfortable for children who tend to get hot while sleeping.” – Jackson Lindeke, Director of Product Experience

  • Pros

    1. Breathable lyocell cover keeps young kids cool

    2. Foam comfort layers add cushion without sacrificing support

    3. Durable coils promote a healthy sleep posture

  • Cons

    1. Limited sizing options

    2. Initial off-gassing may be unpleasant for children sensitive to odors

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Firm (7)

Price Range

$452 – $550

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night break-in period)

Younger kids often benefit from a firmer surface to help promote healthy sleep posture. The Bear Cub has a firm (7) feel and a robust coil system that keeps the body on an even plane.

How It Performed

The Cub’s firm feel and foam hybrid construction best suited our side sleepers. The foam layers offered cushioning for sore hips and shoulders, while the coils prevented excessive sinkage. Back- and stomach-sleeping testers who weigh at least 130 pounds also found the mattress comfortable. Temperature control was one of the mattress’ major strengths during our tests. This is largely due to the breathable cover and coil support core, which allows air to circulate through the bed’s interior. The mattress has a responsive feel that was easy for us to move across, and the coils created a sturdy perimeter. Thanks to the supportive edges and 8.5-inch profile, kids should find it easy to get in and out of bed.

What It’s Made of

The comfort system begins with an adaptive memory foam layer that contours to your body to relieve pressure buildup. The foam is infused with cooling gel meant to absorb and dissipate excess heat. A polyfoam transitional layer ensures your weight is evenly distributed across the mattress’ surface and acts as a buffer between your body and the coils.

Pocketed coils make up the support core, offering targeted support to the hips and shoulders to prevent uncomfortable sagging. A breathable Tencel cover encases the mattress. Tencel is derived from eucalyptus, and has cooling and moisture-wicking properties to help kids sleep at a comfortable temperature.

Bear offers free shipping to customers in the contiguous U.S. and a 120-night sleep trial to test the mattress. You can return it anytime after a 30-night break-in period for a full refund. A lifetime warranty backs the Bear Cub if you decide to keep it after the trial period.

“We recommend the Nectar Mattress for kids because of its cozy, plush foam layers, which hug your child’s body gently without making them feel trapped. Plus, it’s affordable, which makes it an attractive option for parents who want a quality mattress for their child without breaking the bank.” – Danny Noyed, Senior Product Editor

  • Pros

    1. Exceptional value for premium materials

    2. Pressure relief to ensure kids sleep soundly

    3. Generous 365-night trial provides peace of mind for parents

  • Cons

    1. Can retain heat, a consideration if your child tends to sleep hot

    2. Lack of waterproof or spill-resistant features

Mattress Type

Foam

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Price Range

$359 – $1,098

Trial Period

365 nights

The Nectar uses three layers of memory foam, giving it a significant hug that your child may find soothing and comfortable. The Nectar is also more affordable than many similarly constructed models, so it is friendlier to a family’s budget.

How It Performed

Rating a 6 on our 10-point firmness scale, the Nectar is an all-foam model with a medium firm feel. This is in the range many children find comfortable, so the Nectar will serve your child well throughout growth spurts and changes in sleep preference. The memory foam layer evenly distributes your child’s weight, which we found helps relieve pressure points. The deep contouring also excelled in our motion isolation tests, so your child won’t feel much movement if you lie in bed with them.

What It’s Made of

The cover is made from a blend of polyester, nylon, and polyethylene that our testers found breathable. Next is a comfort layer of gel-infused memory foam that contours to your child’s body. A transitional polyfoam layer beneath gives extra support while acting as a barrier between the comfort and support layers. The support core uses 6 inches of 2.2 PCF polyfoam to stabilize the rest of the mattress.

A lifetime limited warranty and 365-night sleep trial are included with purchasing a Nectar Mattress. This gives families ample time to try out the mattress, with the ability to return it for a full refund if it’s not a good fit for your child.

“The Leesa Kids Mattress is a great fit for preteens. I find the moderately firm feel provides gentle cushioning, making it comfortable for growing bodies. The low profile and breathable surface also ensure that heat is not trapped. If you’re looking for a mattress that offers strong support and comfort for your preteen, this model is an excellent choice.” – Logan Foley, Managing Editor

  • Pros

    1. All-foam design adapts to growing bodies for consistent support

    2. Breathable top layer designed to prevent overheating

    3. 7-inch profile is bunk bed-friendly

  • Cons

    1. Foam might have an initial odor upon unboxing

    2. Special sheets might be needed due to its low profile

Mattress Type

Foam

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Price Range

$499 – $599

Trial Period

100 nights (30 night requirement)

Children and preteens often need a mattress that cushions and supports their bodies equally. This helps ensure proper growth and development, as well as night-to-night comfort after they have transitioned from their toddler bed. The Leesa Kids Mattress is designed specifically for children and preteens. Our testers found that the medium firm (6) feel limits sinkage, which should keep your child’s body on an even plane.

How It Performed

During our tests, the Leesa Kids Mattress performed very well with temperature control – an area where many all-foam models tend to earn subpar ratings. The open-cell memory foam coupled with a breathable cover let heat dissipate rather than build up along the surface. The balanced medium firm feel should also prevent young kids from sinking too much or feeling trapped by the mattress. A low 7-inch profile allows the mattress to rest safely in most bunk beds at least 5 inches below the side rails, per current safety guidelines.

What It’s Made of

The Kids Mattress features a three-layer design that begins with a top layer of open-cell memory foam. This material features small air capsules engineered to promote circulation and prevent bothersome heat absorption. The transitional and support layers are composed of polyfoam that we found balances support and contouring. The base layer is much denser to provide adequate reinforcement for your child’s growing body. A knit polyester cover encases the entire mattress.

The Leesa Kids Mattress is available in twin and full sizes, which are reasonably priced. Shipping is also free of charge to customers in all 50 states. Your order includes a sleep trial that allows your child to test the mattress for up to 100 nights and decide if it’s right for them. Should you decide to keep it, you’ll also receive a 10-year warranty against structural defects.

“I think the Saatva Youth mattress is a standout pick for children due to its reversible design. Each side has a unique feel and provides excellent support to its intended age range. The bed also has a waterproof barrier, which our test team highly recommends for parents of children who wet the bed.” – Logan Foley, Managing Editor

  • Pros

    1. Breathable coil layer ensures kids stay cool

    2. Flippable design with two firmness options cater to changing preferences

    3. Extended sleep trial lets parents test the bed’s suitability over time

  • Cons

    1. Returns come with a $99 fee

    2. Bounciness might be too much for some kids

Mattress Type

Innerspring

Firmness Options

Medium (5), Firm (7)

Price Range

$749 – $999

Trial Period

365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)

The Saatva Youth is a reversible innerspring mattress designed to accommodate children’s changing mattress needs as they grow older. Since one side is firmer, you can flip the mattress once your child grows too heavy to be supported by the softer side.

How It Performed

The mattress performed well in our temperature neutrality tests since the coil layer allows a substantial amount of airflow throughout the mattress. This ensures your child won’t sleep too hot throughout the night. The thick construction of the coils also gives this bed great edge support, preventing kids from rolling off the bed in the middle of the night. The strong edges and low profile also make it easy for kids to get in and out of bed on their own. The quality of materials ensures a durable mattress that should last into your child’s teenage years.

What It’s Made of

The softer side of the mattress features a zoned polyfoam comfort layer that provided extra support to our testers’ backs and hips while conforming closer to the head, neck, and shoulders. The comfort layer on the firm side is made of higher-density convoluted polyfoam, which felt more supportive overall. In between these two sides is a support core of thick bonnell coils. The cover is composed of breathable organic cotton.

While the Saatva Youth has a slightly above-average price-point, Saatva offers free White Glove delivery, including in-home assembly and old mattress removal, which is rare in the online mattress industry. Saatva also offers a lifetime warranty and 365-night sleep trial for parents who want their child to try the bed before committing.

“I love the Nolah Nurture’s flippable design because it accommodates a growing child’s needs — always a bonus for kids going through growth spurts. The mattress is made with cooling materials, so I would recommend it for children who tend to overheat while sleeping.” – Tom Ryan, Head of Product Testing

  • Pros

    1. Foam comfort layers gently cradle the body to relieve pressure

    2. Organic cotton and wool cover for cooler sleep

    3. Flippable design with a distinct firmness on each side provides adaptability

  • Cons

    1. All returns incur a $99 fee

    2. Weight may make flipping the mattress a two-person job

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Soft (4), Firm (7)

Price Range

$597 – $796

Trial Period

120 nights

The Nolah Nurture is a dual-sided foam hybrid with a different firmness on each surface. If you’re looking for a kid-friendly mattress with two firmnesses in one, you should consider this high-quality hybrid model.

How It Performed

The Nurture has a flippable design — we rate one side as  medium soft (4) and the other as firm (7). Children under 130 pounds may prefer the softer side, while kids weighing at least 130 pounds may find the firmer side more comfortable. Across weight categories, side and back sleepers on our test team benefited from the Nurture’s pressure-relieving foam comfort layers and zoned coil design. More responsiveness on the firmer side also prevented back sleepers’ hips from sagging and misaligning the spine. We noticed that the enhanced airflow through the coil support core kept the surface cool.

What It’s Made of

The comfort system features 1 inch of adaptive on the firmer side, and 1 inch of memory foam on the softer side. Both surfaces earned favorable ratings during our pressure tests.

The support core is made from 6-inch pocketed coils, strategically zoned to support the hips and shoulders. The mattress is encased in a cover made from GOTS-certified organic cotton, a naturally breathable material that kept the surface cool to the touch during our tests. An organic wool fire barrier helps the surface stay cool by wicking moisture away from your body.

Nolah offers free shipping to the contiguous U.S. and a 120-night sleep trial. Sleep trials of any length are an asset to parents, especially if the child is particular about the feel of their bed. Nurture purchases come with a generous lifetime warranty.

“With the Dreamfoam Hybrid, you get a responsive coil mattress that promotes cooling and doesn’t sink too much when you move across the surface. Kids should appreciate the bouncy feel when they get into bed and cushy cradling as they settle down for sleep.” – Tom Ryan, Head of Product Testing

  • Pros

    1. Memory foam creates a plush, cradling sleep surface

    2. Cost-effective for a hybrid design

    3. Available in 12 different sizes

  • Cons

    1. Foam layers may emit off-gassing odor after unboxing

    2. Might not be ideal for stomach sleeping kids due to sinkage

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Medium Firm (6)

Price Range

$524 – $999

Trial Period

120 nights (30-night requirement)

If your child sleeps hot or your family resides in a place prone to extreme weather, a cooling mattress can make a huge impact on sleep quality. The Dreamfoam Hybrid from Brooklyn Bedding is engineered to resist heat buildup, wick moisture away from the body, and promote airflow — all qualities that help ensure a comfortable sleep temperature for your little one.

How It Performed

As a medium firm (6) foam hybrid, the mattress provides a nice balance of contouring, support, and bounce. Our testers noticed deep cushioning when they got into bed and strong pushback from the coil system as their bodies settled. Cooling gel infused into the comfort layer prevented excessive heat buildup and the coils promoted decent airflow. We also enjoyed the responsive feel and awarded the mattress high marks for ease of movement and edge support.

The Dreamfoam Hybrid received its most favorable ratings from side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, but the mattress earned a positive response from our side and back sleepers across all weight groups. Stomach sleepers up to 230 pounds also felt comfortable and adequately supported.

What It’s Made of

The hybrid begins with a layer of fiber fill quilted into the cover, followed by 2.5 inches of adaptive, gel-infused memory foam. This comfort system responds slowly to movement, resulting in a deep cradle and even weight distribution for the entire body. Pocketed coils and base foam make up the support system. A cotton-poly cover encases the mattress. A total of 12 sizes are available. You can choose from standard mattress dimensions as well as several RV sizes including a bunk-friendly option.

The mattress is highly affordable compared to the average hybrid and Brooklyn Bedding offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. All orders come with a 120-night sleep trial, during which your child can test the mattress. If they aren’t satisfied, returns are free of charge, but you’ll receive a 10-year warranty against structural defects if you decide to keep the Dreamfoam Hybrid.

“The use of sustainably sourced materials sets the Avocado Eco Organic Kids Mattress apart from other kid-oriented models on the market. Its thoughtfully crafted latex hybrid design provides a bouncy surface and excellent breathability. If you’re looking for a high-quality, eco-friendly mattress for your child, this is an excellent option.” – Mark Horiuchi, Lead Product Tester

  • Pros

    1. Eco-friendly construction for health-conscious parents

    2. Durable latex hybrid design that can last through growth spurts

    3. Breathable materials ensure cooler sleep

  • Cons

    1. Might be too firm for kids with sensitive pressure points

    2. Not a good fit for kids with latex allergies

Mattress Type

Hybrid

Firmness Options

Firm (7)

Price Range

$649 – $849

Trial Period

100 nights

If you want to buy an environmentally friendly mattress for your child, the Avocado Eco Organic Kids Mattress is a great option. The comfort layer consists of naturally springy Dunlop latex certified organic by the Global Organic Latex Standard, a leading authority for sustainably sourced latex products. The mattress also contains an organic wool fire barrier, pocketed coils made from recycled steel, and an organic cotton cover. Additionally, Avocado holds carbon negative status. This means the company offsets more than 100% of its emissions through green manufacturing and shipping practices.

How It Performed

Like other latex hybrids we’ve tested, the Eco Organic Kids Mattress has an exceptionally springy feel. This should help your child move across the surface without sinking when they get in and out of bed. The latex is ventilated, a wool fire barrier wicks away moisture, and the coils promote steady air circulation. Thanks to these components, we don’t expect bothersome heat retention to be a major issue.

The mattress has a firm (7) feel intended to promote healthy growth and development for children. Zoned coils provide extra reinforcement beneath the midsection without making the rest of the mattress feel too stiff. The coils are also thicker around the perimeter to prevent deep sinkage when your child sleeps close to the edges of their bed.

What It’s Made of

A layer of organic wool rests beneath the cover and serves as the mattress’ fire barrier. This material and the organic cotton cover have both received certification from the Global Organic Textile Standard. The latex is produced using the Dunlop process, resulting in a dense material that lightly cushions the body. Pocketed coils make up the support core.

The Eco Organic Kids Mattress measures 7 inches thick and is available in twin, twin XL, and full sizes, so it should be compatible with most bunk beds and child-friendly bed frames. We recommend measuring any bunk bed to make sure there are at least 5 inches of clearance between the guard rails and the surface of the mattress.

Avocado offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. A complimentary copy of “My Blue Planet,” a kids book produced by Avocado, is included with each purchase. The Eco Organic Kids Mattress comes with a 100-night trial period, and parents who choose to keep it also receive a 10-year warranty.

“With its multi-layer design, the Nest Bedding Puffin is firm enough to support a growing body. We were especially impressed by the phase change material infused in the cover, which you don’t find in many kid mattresses. This helps to minimize heat buildup if your child overheats easily.” – Colin Simpson, Research Manager

  • Pros

    1. Supportive foam helps kids maintain proper spine alignment

    2. Phase change material stays cool, ensuring kids don’t overheat

    3. Low-profile construction helps kids get in and out of bed with ease

  • Cons

    1. Might not have the bounce some kids enjoy

    2. Foam might produce off-gassing odors upon unboxing

Mattress Type

Foam

Firmness Options

Firm (7)

Price Range

$499 – $749

Trial Period

30 nights

Many mattresses made today are suitable for adults and kids alike, but the Nest Bedding Puffin is specifically designed for young children. The Puffin consists of three layers of dense, supportive foam to promote growth and development. A slim 7-inch profile makes the mattress compatible with bunk beds and standard bed frames.

How It Performed

We noticed above-average responsiveness while testing the Puffin. The all-polyfoam construction and firm (7) feel create considerable bounce that makes it easier for kids to move across the surface and get in and out of bed. Phase change material infused into the cover helps offset the heat retention that can occur with foam mattresses, so the Puffin also earned positive ratings during our temperature control tests.

What It’s Made of

The Puffin begins with a half-inch of polyfoam quilted into the cover, followed by an Energex polyfoam comfort layer that combines the cushioning of memory foam with the responsiveness of latex. A high-density polyfoam base completes the design. The polyester cover is infused with phase change material to dissipate heat on contact, maintaining a cool, comfortable surface at all times.

The Puffin has a weight capacity of 110 pounds and measures 7 inches tall. Twin, twin XL, and full sizes are available. We recommend double-checking the dimensions of your child’s bunk bed to ensure at least 5 inches between the mattress’ surface and the top of the guard rails.

The Puffin is competitively priced and shipping is free for all orders within the contiguous U.S. Your order includes a 30-night trial period. The mattress is backed by a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty against structural defects, and you can purchase additional coverage against spills and other types of physical damage for 3, 5, or 10 years.

Watch Video: We Tested the Best Kid Mattresses of 2024 – Here Are Our Favorites

Watch the video below for some tips on what to look for when shopping for kid’s mattresses.

Below you will find our in-depth buyer’s guide that covers key factors to consider when selecting a mattress for your child, such as mattress size and firmness. We also discuss the benefits of certain mattress types over other mattress types when shopping for kids. Our guide focuses exclusively on mattresses for children, so keep in mind that infants have different safety needs.

Expert Tested. Sleeper Approved.

Over the past eight years, our Seattle-based Test Lab has performed hands-on tests on more than 4,000 sleep products — and nearly 2,000 of them are mattresses. 

As product experts, we stay up to date on the latest news in sleep science and product trends. We use this knowledge to fuel our data-backed recommendations. Many of our testers have worked directly with mattress manufacturers and visited actual mattress factories. On occasion, a sleep health expert might stop by to tweak a firmness rating.

When we test a mattress, we collect data across six major performance categories and combine these results with real-world feedback. We use tools and tech to monitor features like heat retention, motion isolation, and pressure mapping. In order to ensure our findings are inclusive of all sleepers, our team consists of people with varying body types and sleep positions.

Mattresses aren’t one-size-fits-all. The perfect bed for you is going to depend on general points like your body weight and sleeping position, as well as unique points like if you have back pain, if you sleep hot at night, or if you just like the feel of latex over memory foam. Our goal at the Test Lab is to help take the guesswork out of your mattress-buying process.

So How Did We Pick the Best Mattress for Kids?

To compile our list of the best mattresses for kids, we focused on support, perimeter stability, and other qualities associated with healthy sleep and development for children. Although we evaluate mattresses for kids and adults using the same performance criteria, we paid special attention to feedback from testers weighing less than 130 pounds — the most common weight range for young children and preteens. Other factors that played a role in our selection process included the use of waterproof materials, size availability, bunk bed compatibility, and cost.

Signs Your Child May Be in Need of a New Mattress

Deciding when it’s time to buy your child a new mattress can be a bit of a puzzle. Fortunately, a few telltale signs can help you feel confident when it’s time for an upgrade.

  • Your child has aged out of their current bed: Just as kids grow out of shoes and clothes, it’s normal for kids to outgrow their mattress over time. As they get older, kids will need a new mattress when they transition from a crib to a toddler bed, from a toddler bed to a “big kid” bed, and from a childhood bed to one suited for a pre-teen or teen.
  • Your child is no longer comfortable: If your child seems uncomfortable or you notice that their feet are beginning to dangle off the foot of the bed, it’s likely that they’ve outgrown their mattress. A mattress designed for a younger child may not offer the support needed for an older child or pre-teen.
  • There is noticeable wear and tear: Your kid’s mattress should be upgraded if you can see any visible damage, hear creaky springs, or notice sagging. Remember that an overly worn mattress can impair the quality of your child’s sleep.

What Do Kids Need From Their Mattress?

Kids need a mattress that caters to their unique needs, preferences, and evolving growth patterns. The right mattress provides foundational support for their posture and physical development, ensuring they wake up refreshed and ready for new adventures each day.

Room to Grow

Perhaps the most important consideration when choosing your kids’ mattress is size. Just like their favorite pair of shoes, your child’s mattress needs room to accommodate their growth. Toddlers may fit snugly in a twin-size, but preteens often benefit from larger full or queen sizes. Anticipate growth spurts and whether they will share the bed with siblings. Also, consider mattress height, especially for bunk beds and uniquely sized bed frames.

SizeDimensions
Twin38″ x 75″
Twin XL38″ x 80″
Full54″ x 75″
Full XL54″ x 80″
Queen60″ x 80″

Support for Changing Bodies

Support in a mattress means it can adequately bear your child’s weight, adapt to the contours of their body, and maintain spinal alignment. As kids grow, and their weight and body changes, they will need different levels of support. Larger children may prefer a firmer bed that supports their body weight, while smaller children may like a softer bed that they can sink into.

Additionally, your child’s preferred sleeping position plays a role in choosing the right mattress. Side sleepers tend to feel more comfortable on softer mattresses that cushion their hips and shoulders, while those who sleep on their backs or stomachs might favor firmer options to ensure their midsections don’t sink too much.

Comfort for Evolving Tastes

Comfort is different for everyone and differs from support. While younger kids often prefer a softer mattress, adolescents tend to lean towards a firmer feel. Since comfort isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept, it can help to talk to your kids about what kind of bed they’d like. Recognizing your child’s thoughts and preferences can help to ensure that they feel comfortable in their new bed.

“When buying mattresses for my kids, my biggest goal is helping them sleep through the night. Beds with cooling properties are great, to avoid overheating. Plush and cozy models were a good fit in their younger years, but I’ve opted for firmer beds as they’ve gotten older — to make sure their growing bodies are fully supported.” – Mina Hochberg, Senior Product Manager

What to Look for When Shopping For a Mattress for Kids

When shopping for your child’s next mattress, it’s essential to consider the qualities in a bed that matter most to a kid.

Mattress Type

Just like mattresses for adults, kids mattresses come in a wide variety of styles. The most common types of kids mattress include foam, hybrid, and latex models. Each mattress type offers unique benefits tailored to children’s needs.

Foam Mattresses: These mattresses are often chosen for their cozy feel, contouring, and pressure relief. They usually have a lower price tag than other types, but may lack durability and can sometimes retain heat.

Hybrid Mattresses: Combining foam with coils, hybrids offer both comfort and support, making them versatile for growing kids. They usually provide better temperature regulation but can be pricier.

Latex Mattresses: Durable and responsive, latex beds offer excellent support and are available in eco-friendly models. They can be more expensive, which might not be ideal for very young children who will quickly outgrow their mattress.

Allergies, Sensitivities, and Off-Gassing

When shopping for a child’s mattress, it’s important to consider any allergies and sensitivities your child has. Some materials, like latex and certain types of synthetic foams, can irritate allergies or sensitive skin. It can be helpful to research and opt for hypoallergenic materials. 

Off-gassing refers to the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from new mattresses, which can cause a temporary odor and sometimes affect those with sensitivities. Prioritizing natural or certified materials can minimize off-gassing and provide a safer sleep environment.

Look for Mattress Certifications

Finding a mattress with certain certifications can help to ensure that a mattress has been tested for safety.

  • CertiPUR-US: This certification ensures the foam used in mattresses is free from harmful chemicals and has low VOC emissions.
  • GREENGUARD: Recognized for products that maintain low chemical emissions, this standard ensures that a mattress protects indoor air quality.
  • Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS): GOTS certification indicates that the textiles used in the mattress are organic and have met specific environmental and social standards.
  • Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS): This certification confirms that the latex in a mattress is organic and produced sustainably, considering both environmental and worker safety.

Price and Durability

Children’s mattresses come in a wide price range, with factors such as materials, size, and brand influencing the cost. When choosing a mattress, it can help to consider its durability and lifespan because a long-lasting mattress offers greater value over time. 

Because kids grow up quickly, consider a mattress that can accommodate several growth spurts. Investing in a durable and slightly larger mattress means not having to replace it as frequently. For instance, while a bed for a 3-year-old might soon be outgrown, a well-chosen mattress for a 10-year-old could potentially see them through to their late teens and into adulthood.

Tips for Protecting Your Child’s Mattress

Don’t forget that you can also increase the lifespan of a mattress through proper care. Regular cleaning, using mattress protectors, and occasionally rotating or flipping the mattress can prolong its lifespan, ensuring you get the most out of a new mattress.

Temperature Control

Whether from active dreams, summer heat, or the occasional fever, children often benefit from sleeping on a mattress that doesn’t retain too much heat. Look for features like gel-infused foams, open-cell designs, or moisture-wicking covers to tell that a mattress is designed to stay cool.

Trials, Returns, and Warranties

Trial periods, also called sleep trials, allow you to use a bed before deciding whether to keep it. Choosing a mattress with a generous trial period gives you and your child the chance to make sure a new bed is the right fit. Flexible return policies and warranties can also provide parents with peace of mind, knowing that a bed can be sent back for things like manufacturing defects and excessive wear.

Dive Deeper – In-Depth Mattress Guides

For more help deciding which mattress is right for your specific needs, check out the guides below.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which mattress type is best for kids?

While there’s no one-size-fits all mattress type for children, we’ve found that hybrids adapt to children’s changing needs over time, striking a comfortable balance between supportive coils and conforming foams. That said, a high-quality foam or latex mattress can be great options for families seeking an inexpensive bed or one that is eco-friendly.

Do kids need a soft or firm mattress?

The ideal firmness level for a child depends on their body weight, sleep position, and personal preference. Young children and those who sleep on their side can opt for a softer mattress, while older children and those who sleep on their stomach or back may like something a little firmer.

How thick should a child’s mattress be?

A kid’s bed should be thick enough to be comfortable and allow them to get in and out of bed easily. While adults often look for thick mattresses with several layers of material, children’s lower body weights mean that many beds designed for kids are on the thinner side.

Most importantly, beds should conform to any thickness requirements of the bed’s frame or foundation. Bunk beds often have thickness and weight requirements to ensure a child’s safety.

What mattress is best for kids with allergies?

The best mattress for children with allergies depends on the type of allergies they have. Common choices include hypoallergenic mattresses and those that have been certified as organic.

How long does a child’s mattress last?

A child’s mattress typically lasts between 6 to 8 years, depending on its durability and quality. However, children’s growth spurts might necessitate a larger bed before the mattress wears out. Because of this, it’s helpful to find a balance between investing in a durable mattress and anticipating the need for size upgrades as your child grows. Also keep durability in mind if you plan to reuse the mattress for your child’s younger siblings.

Still have questions?

Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market.

Send an email to [email protected] with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

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Trouble sleeping?

Answer these 5 easy questions to discover your perfect mattress

Trouble sleeping?

Answer these 5 easy questions to discover your perfect mattress

What position do you sleep in?

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Side

Side icon
Back icon

Back

Back icon
Stomach icon

Stomach

Stomach icon

Do you experience any pain while sleeping?

Back and/or side pain icon

Back and/or side pain

Back and/or side pain icon
Neck and/or shoulder pain icon

Neck and/or shoulder pain

Neck and/or shoulder pain icon
Little to no pain icon

Little to no pain

Little to no pain icon

Do you have any material preferences?

Innerspring icon

Innerspring

Innerspring icon
Foam icon

Foam

Foam icon
No preference/ Other icon

No preference/ Other

Do you sleep hot?

Yes icon

Yes

Yes icon
No icon

No

No icon

Do you sleep with a partner?

Yes icon

Yes

Yes icon
No icon

No

No icon

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