How Firm Should A Child Mattress Be

Helen Skeates
Helen Skeates
37 min read

Everyone, especially parents, understands the significance of a good night’s sleep for their children. On the other hand, this is often easier said than done. Getting your child ready for bed is easy if you have the correct mattress. However, how can you know which one to pick?

In order to ensure that both you and your child get a good night’s rest, we address the subject of how firm a mattress should be for a youngster.

What Firmness of Mattress is Best for a Child?

A child’s weight is the most important factor in determining the firmness of their mattress. The level of ease required also has to be considered.

Your child’s optimum mattress firmness will be dependent on their weight, size, and personal choice. Most kids will find a happy medium between extreme softness and extreme firmness in a mattress that offers both comfort and spinal support.

Is a Firm Mattress Good for a Child?

Babies and young children do better on firmer mattresses. Your child may benefit from a firmer mattress so that he or she can move around more easily during the night if this is a common occurrence.

Your child may need a softer surface to relieve strain on their shoulders, hips, and ankles if they sleep on their side.

How Firm Should A Mattress Be For A Child?

How Can You Tell if a Mattress is too Firm?

Your child may have a too-firm mattress if the memory foam does not mould to his or her body, or if he or she wakes up with soreness around pressure spots.

How Firm Should a Baby Mattress Be?

Infants, especially those who frequently roll onto their bellies throughout the night, benefit from beds that are a bit more firm. If you have any doubts, talk to your doctor.

What Should I Look for in a Kids Mattress?

The firmness rating isn’t the only thing to think about when selecting a mattress for your kid’s bedroom.

  • Is there enough room in the mattress to accommodate both of their bodies?
  • Does it work with how they prefer to sleep?
  • Do dust mites get stopped by it?
  • Are the fabrics and stuffings secure for kids to use?
  • Which memory foam density and mattress thickness is ideal?

Learn more by reading our in-depth guide to the top-rated mattresses for kids.

What Kind of Mattress is Best for a Child?

When it comes to your child’s health and safety, it might be difficult to decide between the several mattress options. To aid with your decision, please consider the following…

Mattresses made of latex

Because latex is a hypoallergenic substance that creates a barrier against dust and dust mites, latex mattresses are highly recommended for allergy patients. However, the cost of latex is typically higher than that of other materials.

Foam Mattresses with Exposed Coils

The coils in a mattress may be less expensive initially, but they can cause discomfort and noise after some time. Classical spring mattresses also tend to sag more quickly than alternative options.

Bedding with Pocket Springs

Children can get a lot of comfort and support from pocket sprung mattresses. Pockets of fabric enclosing individual springs make for flexible, all-over body support.

Mattresses made with memory foam

Your child’s body will be gently contoured and cushioned by the memory foam, making for a restful night’s sleep. Among the advantages are the following:

  • Absorptiveness of motion
  • The use of hypoallergenic materials
  • Bracing for the Spine
  • Release of tension in tight muscles
  • Durability
  • Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is a breeze.

Our memory foam kids’ mattresses are risk-free for kids of any age to sleep on, and they’ll find it comfy no matter what they do while they’re in bed.

For example, there is the CoolKids Memory Foam Mattress, which has a two-layer construction to keep kids cool and provide spinal support. This mattress has a medium-soft feel and is offered in small single, single, small double, and double sizes, all with 4G cooling technology and an easy-care cover.

Can’t Decide Between a Foam or Sprung Mattress?

They may enjoy the benefits of both the memory foam and the pocket springs on our CoolKids Pocket Sprung Memory Foam Mattress.

The Coolmax fibers in the detachable, machine-washable cover of this supportive mattress work to dissipate body heat and moisture. A great option if you’re trying to find a hypoallergenic, breathable mattress for your kid.

A mattress protector or cover is a good idea in case you have accidents while sleeping. This added layer of protection might assist keep the mattress clean and fresh for a longer period of time.

Children’s Mattress Sizes

There are a variety of mattress sizes for kids, and the one that’s best for them depends on their age and height.

  • Convertible crib to toddler bed with a small single
  • Split for young families
  • Size of a double bed, suitable for older kids or teenagers

The Best Mattresses for Kids

Helix Kids

From $649 to $899

Hybrid mattresses are the most recent innovation in sleep technology.

Moderately Soft (4), Moderately Firm (6)

Limited Warranty for Ten Years

Who it’s best for:

  • Inquiring parents in search of a mattress with dual firmness options
  • Smokers in bed
  • Those on the market for a mattress that can prevent bedwetting

Highlights:

  • Modular, flippable design offers choice of stiffness
  • Border reinforcement using coils
  • 10-year guarantee

The Helix Kids mattress may be flipped from three to twelve years of age to better suit your child’s needs. The firmness on either side is tailored to accommodate a developing body at its various stages.

How It’s Constructed

The mattress’s Tencel cover is treated to repel water from both sides. The mattress will last much longer and be less susceptible to wear and tear thanks to the protective coating. Below, a fireproof layer ensures the safety of children. The hips and shoulders get specific attention from the 5-inch pocketed coils in the support core. The mattress’s sides are reinforced by a row of coils.

The comfort system on the side intended for children ages three to seven is made of dense polyfoam. The comfort layer on this side is stiffer to ensure healthy spinal development in children. The comfort system on the side aimed towards children aged 8 to 12 is constructed from pressure-relieving gel-infused memory foam. This layer contains a gel specifically designed to remove heat from the body.

To What Extent?

The firmness level (6) on the side designed for kids is just right for supporting their developing bodies. After a child reaches the age of 8 to 12, they can switch to the medium soft (4) side, which features thicker comfort layers for enhanced contouring and pressure alleviation. This carefully considered layout guarantees adequate support throughout your child’s development. Increased ventilation via the coil support core is also beneficial for hot sleepers.

Helix provides a 100-night risk-free trial and free shipping to all 50 states. There is a 10-year guarantee on the Helix Kids mattress.

What Our Lab Rats Thought:

The members of our crew thought the Helix Kids were fantastic. Children that tend to overheat at night shouldn’t have any problems here.

Nectar Mattress

A range from $499 to $1,138 is offered.

Foam mattresses are a popular option.

Level of Firmness: Medium-Firm (6)

A Limited Lifetime Warranty is Provided.

Who it’s best for:

  • Little ones who toss and turn all night
  • Many families who have a kid intend to use the same mattress for the child throughout his or her whole childhood.
  • Children who like to feel like they’re being hugged while sleeping

Highlights:

  • Cover made of a breathable polyester blend
  • Weight is dispersed and pressure is relieved thanks to the memory foam comfort layer.
  • A child’s developing body is best supported by a medium-firm mattress.

The three layers of memory foam in the Nectar provide a lot of hug, which may be comforting to some kids. The Nectar may also be easier on the wallet because it is less expensive than similarly built products.

How It’s Constructed

The first component is a cover consisting of a polyester, nylon, and polyethylene combination that allows air to circulate. Gel-infused memory foam is used for contouring support and comfort. As a buffer zone between the soft top and the firm bottom, transitional polyfoam provides additional stability. Six inches of 2.2 polyurethane foam cubic feet (PCF) support the rest of the mattress.

To What Extent?

The Nectar is an all-foam mattress that has been given a medium firmness rating of 6. This is a sweet spot for many people, so even if a child’s sleeping habits alter over time, the Nectar should still be a good option. Pressure points are alleviated and the sleeper’s temperature is evenly distributed over the mattress thanks to the memory foam layer.

The purchase of a Nectar Mattress is accompanied with a 365-night risk-free sleep trial and a lifetime limited guarantee.

What Our Lab Rats Thought:

Since the Nectar has been so well received by adults, it should also be fine for youngsters. Its firmer-than-average feel and cooling capabilities set it apart from standard memory foam models, and its low price tag makes it tempting to parents who don’t want to spend a lot on their child’s mattress.

Saatva Youth

Between $749 and $999

Innerspring Mattresses

Medium (5), Firm (9) firmness (7)

A Limited Lifetime Warranty is Provided.

Who it’s best for:

  • Little ones who still have a lot of developing to do
  • Children prone to overheating during their sleep
  • Restless sleepers are kids that move around in bed frequently.

Highlights:

  • With the help of the airflow created by the thick coil layer, the cooling performance is significantly higher than typical.
  • Flippable design with two different firmness levels

How It’s Constructed

On the plusher side, a comfort layer of zoned polyfoam offers closer conformance to the body, making it ideal for relieving pressure points in the back, neck, shoulders, and legs. The firm side’s comfort layer is constructed from convoluted polyfoam with a higher density, making it more supportive. A thick central core of bonnell coils provides stability for the structure between the two sides. The organic cotton cover is soft and breathable.

To What Extent?

Your child won’t overheat during the night because to the coil layer’s ability to distribute airflow evenly across the mattress. As an added bonus, the thick structure of the coils provides excellent edge support, ensuring that no one will roll off the bed. The high-quality construction should see a child’s mattress through to their adolescence without showing any signs of wear.

Although the Saatva Youth is a bit more expensive than the ordinary mattress, Saatva provides free white glove delivery, which includes in-home installation and the removal of your old mattress, as well as a 365-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty.

If you want to know more about the Saatva Youth, then you should watch our video review.

What Our Lab Rats Thought:

The Saatva Youth’s reversible design is a great feature that will make it a useful tool for kids. Each side has its own personality and will appeal to a specific age group while yet providing necessary comfort. Waterproofing the mattress is a pleasant added bonus for families with children who wet the bed.

DreamCloud Mattress

Approximately $699 to $1,299

Hybrid mattresses are the most recent innovation in sleep technology.

Level of Firmness: Medium-Firm (6)

Statement of Limited Lifetime Warranty

Who it’s best for:

  • Children and adolescents experiencing a development spurt
  • Many families want a longer trial period
  • Smokers in bed

Highlights:

  • Conforming thick comfort system eases pressure on sensitive areas.
  • A full year of sleep testing
  • Those who sleep on it will like the cooling effect of the gel-infused memory foam.

With its plush 14-inch profile and innovative cloud cooling technology, the DreamCloud is a premium hybrid mattress. Because of its medium firmness level (6), the DreamCloud may be comfortably used by a wide variety of sleepers, including children. The DreamCloud’s hybrid design may make it a hit with kids who like to be “hugged” in bed but don’t want to sink in too far.

How It’s Constructed

The DreamCloud’s construction consists of a polyfoam core enclosed by a cashmere cover quilted with polyfoam, and a layer of memory foam injected with cooling gel. A polyfoam transition layer keeps people from sinking too far into the mattress, while the foam layers contour closely to the body. A pocketed coil system forms the support core, giving bounce and localized support where it’s needed most.

To What Extent?

The moderate level of firmness is ideal for a wide range of sleepers, so the mattress may continue to be a good fit for your child even as they mature in height and weight. The DreamCloud’s hybrid construction is superior to all-foam mattresses when it comes to maintaining a comfortable temperature for children who tend to overheat during the night. The cashmere cover, which is also breathable, improves air circulation.

The DreamCloud is a great alternative for families looking for a high-quality bed without breaking the bank, as its pricing is significantly lower than that of similarly-rated hybrid versions. DreamCloud provides a 365-night sleep trial and a lifetime, no-proration warranty. Families have 30 days from delivery to return the mattress for a full refund if they are not satisfied. Within the 48 contiguous states, shipping is on the house.

What Our Lab Rats Thought:

The DreamCloud was really plush and comfortable for us. The foam layers conform just enough to relieve pressure without sinking, and the coils are quite supportive, while the cover is both soft and breathable. If you’re a parent in the market for a new mattress and want an extended trial period, this one is worth checking into.

The Complete Guide to Buying a Children's Mattress | MattressNextDay

Nolah Nurture 10

Prices vary between $1499 and $1799

Hybrid mattresses are the most recent innovation in sleep technology.

Soft (3), Firm (9) (7)

A Limited Lifetime Warranty is Provided.

Who it’s best for:

  • Parents that are interested in environmental protection
  • Sleeping on your side or back
  • Smokers in bed

Highlights:

  • Soft layers of Talalay latex conform to the shape of the body, easing tension.
  • Organic cotton and wool provide a cover that is both soft and breathable, allowing for optimal air circulation.
  • Unlimited time guarantee

Nolah Nurture 10 is an all-natural, latex-hybrid mattress with two firm sides. The Nolah is an eco-friendly option for families that desire a mattress that can be adjusted to two different levels of firmness.

How It’s Constructed

The mattress is encased in a cover made of GOTS-approved organic cotton. Cotton’s inherent capacity to breathe allows air to circulate, making the fabric feel refreshingly cold. A layer of wool, which can breathe and is naturally fireproof, comes next. The two inches of Talalay latex in the comfort system provide some contouring to ease pressure points. Because of its inherent reactivity, talalay does not form as closely to the body as other materials do, resulting in reduced heat retention. The 6-inch pocketed coils in the support core are targeted to provide optimal support for the hips and shoulders. Underneath the coils is a layer of stronger Talalay latex for increased support and longevity.

To What Extent?

One side of the Nolah is softer (3) and the other side is firmer (7). The softer side may be more appealing to sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds, while the firmer side may appeal more to those weighing more than 130 pounds. The Nolah’s pressure-relieving latex comfort layers and zoned coil design make it a good choice for side and back sleepers of all sizes. If you sleep on your back, latex will keep your hips from sinking and your spine from being misaligned. Sleepers that run hot will appreciate the coil support core’s improved airflow, the breathable cover, and the reduced surface heat retention.

In addition to a 120-night risk-free trial and free shipping inside the 48 contiguous states, Nolah also provides a 10-year warranty on its materials and craftsmanship. Purchases of Nurture 10 are covered by a comprehensive lifetime guarantee.

What Our Lab Rats Thought:

The Nolah Nurture 10 can be used by children of different ages thanks to its convertible design. People who sleep hot on our team found that this bed kept them reasonably comfortable.

Leesa Kids Mattress

Ranging from $499 to $599

Foam mattresses are a popular option.

Level of Firmness: Medium-Firm (6)

Limited Warranty for Ten Years

Who it’s best for:

  • Young people aged 4 and up
  • Some children prefer to sleep in bunk beds.
  • Smokers in bed

Highlights:

  • Cushioning and uniform contouring are provided by the three-layer, all-foam construction.
  • The open-cell comfort layer allows air to circulate and is made to keep you cool.
  • The mattress’s slim 7-inch profile makes it suitable for use in a wide variety of bunk beds.

Having a mattress that evenly cushions and supports their bodies is especially important for young children. When the time comes for your child to graduate from their toddler bed, this will assist them make the change while maintaining their nightly comfort. Children aged 4 and up can use the Leesa Kids Mattress. The mattress’ medium firmness (6) prevents the infant from sinking too deeply and promotes good posture. The mattress may be placed safely at least 5 inches below the side rails of most bunk beds thanks to the 7-inch profile.

How It’s Constructed

The Kids Mattress is constructed in three layers, including open-cell memory foam at the top. This material is designed with tiny air pockets to increase airflow and block out any excess heat. Both the transitional and the support layers are made of polyfoam. Density is increased at the base to support larger sizes. The mattress itself is encased in a knit polyester cover.

To What Extent?

The Leesa Kids Mattress fared exceptionally well in our temperature control testing, an area where many all-foam products typically perform poorly. Due to the combination of the open-cell memory foam and the permeable cover, body heat is dissipated rather than trapped on the surface. Young children shouldn’t sink too far into the mattress or feel trapped thanks to the mattress’s moderate firmness.

Priced reasonably, the Leesa Kids Mattress comes in twin and full sizes. All 50 states receive free shipping. For up to 100 nights, your youngster can try out the mattress for free to see if it’s the correct fit. Additionally, there is a 10-year warranty covering structural flaws if you decide to keep it.

What Our Lab Rats Thought:

Many features of the Leesa Youngsters Mattress make it a good choice for kids past the toddler years. It has a low profile, soft padding, a relatively firm feel, and a very breathable surface that won’t trap heat.

Brooklyn Bedding Chill

Ranges in price from $274 to $699

Foam mattresses are a popular option.

Levels of firmness: Firm (7), Medium Firm (6), Medium (6), Medium (5), Medium Soft (2). (4)

Limited Warranty for Ten Years

Who it’s best for:

  • Kids who share a bed
  • Youth who are comfortable with a medium level of conformity and support
  • For families on a tight budget,

Highlights:

  • Pick from five different profiles ranging in size from 6 to 14 inches.
  • Foam curves uniformly without excessive gripping.
  • Plenty of sizes available, even some that are suitable for use as bunk beds or in an RV.

One of the most adaptable and kid-friendly mattresses available right now is the Brooklyn Bedding Chill. The memory foam has been infused with gel in order to dissipate heat, making this bed more comfortable to sleep on than some other foam types.

Exactly what Materials It’s Constructed From

Firmness can be adjusted by choosing between four distinct thicknesses, ranging from medium soft (4) to stiff (8). Depending on the desired feel, the mattress’s construction includes anywhere from two to three different types of foam layers. The comfort layer is made from responsive memory foam that contours to your child’s shape and distributes his or her weight evenly. High-density foam is used in the mattress’ foundational layer(s) to support the sleeping surface and cut down on sinkage. The surface is finished with Nano Stain Terminator, which repels liquids and prevents stains.

To What Extent?

Children who sleep on bunk beds or who want a firmer mattress, as well as kids who sleep on their own, will probably find the 6- or 8-inch variants to be the most comfortable. The 12- or 14-inch mattress options may be preferable for those who like a more contoured feel, while the 10-inch mattress provides a good compromise.

Depending on the bed your child uses and their personal preference, you can select a mattress with a profile of 6, 8, 10, 12, or 14 inches. There are a total of 22 different mattress sizes to choose from. Six common sizes are available, as well as others that are more RV-friendly and a few that are more unusual, such as full XL, Olympic queen, and short king.

The mattress is available in a wide range of sizes, and shipping to any address in the 48 contiguous states is free of charge. There is a 10-year warranty and a 120-night trial period with every purchase.

What Our Lab Rats Thought:

All children should be able to discover a Brooklyn Bedding Chill that suits their needs thanks to the company’s wide selection of five different patterns. The ones with a lower profile will work well for smaller children sharing bunk beds.

5 Little Monkeys Mattress

Suggested retail price for a Queen: $999

Foam mattresses are a popular option.

Level of Firmness: Medium-Firm (6)

15 Year Limited Warranty.

Who it’s best for:

  • Parents who want a mattress that’s simple to maintain
  • Children who like to be cuddled while sleeping would appreciate this mattress.
  • Bunk bed sleeping children

Highlights:

  • To prevent pressure points from forming, gel-infused memory foam molds snugly to the body.
  • Cover is stain-resistant and detachable for machine washing.
  • Includes a complimentary mattress and pillow protector

The all-foam, medium-firm (6) 5 Little Monkeys Mattress is made with the needs of developing youngsters in mind. It’s a “sleep system” that includes an organic cotton pillow in a child’s size that can be washed in the machine and a mattress protector that can withstand spills and stains. In the event of an accident throughout the night, the mattress cover is detachable and machine washable, making it ideal.

How It’s Constructed

Memory foam, which molds closely to the body, provides the top comfort layer and helps reduce pressure points. Due to its open-cell structure and cooling gel particles, this foam keeps its temperature down and allows air to circulate freely. The next layer is a transitional open-cell memory foam layer that sits between the comfort layer and the support core. The high-density polyfoam central support system promotes correct spinal alignment as kids sleep. The mattress is encased in a cover made from organic cotton, which allows air to circulate.

To What Extent?

While our research showed that the 5 Little Monkeys Mattress worked best for side sleepers, it should still provide adequate support for kids who prefer to sleep on their backs or bellies. The all-foam construction offers strong pressure relief while evenly distributing weight to encourage healthy sleep posture in growing kids. This mattress is perfect for trundle beds, bunk beds, and day beds because to its modest 8-inch profile.

Though our research showed that the 5 Little Monkeys Mattress worked best for side sleepers, it should still provide adequate support for kids who prefer to sleep on their stomachs or backs. The all-foam design provides ample pressure relief while distributing weight evenly to promote proper positioning while sleeping. This mattress’s slim 8-inch profile makes it a good fit for space-saving beds including trundle beds, bunk beds, and daybeds.

The cover of the 5 Little Monkeys Mattress can be removed and washed in the machine. It is made of organic cotton. This makes it a great choice for families with accident-prone children.

How to Choose a Mattress for a Child

In this section of the article, we’ll discuss what to look for in a kid-friendly mattress. There is no optimal mattress that will work for every child because they are all different. Considerations such as the room’s size, the child’s height and weight, and the child’s favorite sleeping posture can help determine the appropriate mattress.

Some families may find a child-specific mattress model to be an ideal choice for their needs. On the other hand, some parents may opt for a standard mattress that can be adjusted to their child’s changing demands and preferences.

Why is Sleep Important for Kids?

The body can rest and repair itself while sleeping. Although sleep is important for people of all ages, it is especially crucial for children since they are still developing and need plenty of time to rest so that they can keep growing.

There may be positive effects on health, learning, and behavior from getting enough sleep. Learning, focus, memory, behavior, mental health, and physical health are all thought to benefit from sufficient sleep, as reported by Johns Hopkins All Children. However, there may be dire implications for those who consistently skimp on sleep.

A good night’s sleep can be encouraged with a supportive, comfortable mattress.

What Size Mattress is Right for a Child?

Although there is no universally accepted standard for the size of a child’s mattress, taking into account factors like the child’s expected growth, the mattress’ expected lifespan, and how it will be used in the future will help you choose the best mattress for your family. There are advantages and disadvantages to each possible mattress size.

  • A twin-sized bed is suitable for most kids. Twin mattresses, the lowest common mattress size, are typically the least expensive and may work well in a compact or shared bedroom. You should consider upgrading to a bigger bed when your kid gets older.
  • Mattresses labeled as “Twin XL” are the same length as a standard twin mattress but an extra five inches in breadth, making them suitable for slightly older children and teens. Although significantly more pricey than twin mattresses, this size still requires little floor space.
  • Children who change positions frequently during the night may benefit from the additional room provided by a full size mattress. Because of the extra space, parents can cuddle up with their children before bedtime or read them a story.
  • Most children do not require the extra space that a queen-sized bed offers. Many households may not need to spend the extra money on a queen-sized mattress. However, a queen size bed may be more practical if you want to use the mattress in a guest room or for some other function in the future.
  • Sizes with the “king” or “cal king” designation are the largest and most expensive mattresses available. Although king mattresses are spacious enough for a youngster to roam around comfortably, they aren’t typically the first choice for families shopping for a mattress for their child.

What to Look for in a Mattress

The term “universal comfort” or similar language is used by many mattress manufacturers to market their products. Mattresses that are cozy for one person may be too firm for another. To most people, the term “universal comfort” simply refers to a mattress with a moderate level of firmness that will suit the needs of the vast majority of sleepers.

Focusing on particular elements that affect value and sleep experience may help you choose the ideal mattress for your child while shopping for a mattress.

  • One aspect that may influence a family’s decision is the cost of the mattress. The cost of a mattress might vary depending on factors such as its size, structure, materials, and lifespan. Mattresses in the higher price range may prove to be worthwhile in the long run if they can withstand regular use. Still, you can find affordable options that don’t sacrifice quality.
  • Sleeping Position: The child’s preferred sleeping position can play a role in how comfortable a mattress feels. Side sleepers often prefer a slightly softer mattress to allow the wider parts of their bodies, like their hips and shoulders, to sink in more. Back and stomach sleepers tend to favor a firmer feel that supports their midsections to prevent excessive sinkage. If your child moves around a lot during the night, you might look for a model that balances support and contouring to accommodate all your child’s potential sleep positions.
  • It’s important to consider the child’s favorite sleeping position while shopping for a mattress. The broader areas of a side sleeper’s body, such as the hips and shoulders, are more comfortable on a slightly softer mattress. Those who sleep on their backs or stomachs prefer mattresses with a more solid structure that won’t allow their bodies to sag too much. Look for a model that strikes a good balance between support and contouring if your child shifts positions frequently during the night.
  • The degree of contouring and support provided by a mattress is related to how firm it is. When sleeping on a softer mattress, the sleeper can sink in and take use of the mattress’s contouring features. More support is typically provided by firmer mattresses. Aside from personal choice, factors such as body type and sleeping position might affect how soft or firm a mattress should be. Below, we’ll go into depth on what level of firmness is ideal for a kid’s bed.
  • To alleviate pressure, one must often shape the body. The heavier areas of a sleeper’s body tend to put more force on the mattress. For most individuals, this creates pressure buildup around their hips and shoulders. Mattresses that contour to the sleeper tend to spread out the sleeper’s body weight, taking some of the pressure off their hips and shoulders.
  • To alleviate pressure, one must often shape the body. The heavier areas of a sleeper’s body tend to put more force on the mattress. For most individuals, this creates pressure buildup around their hips and shoulders. Mattresses that contour to the sleeper tend to spread out the sleeper’s body weight, taking some of the pressure off their hips and shoulders.
  • Contouring is commonly associated with pressure relief. The heavier parts of a sleeper’s body tend to put more force on the mattress. For most folks, this generates pressure building around their hips and shoulders. Mattresses that conform to the sleeper tend to spread out the sleeper’s body weight, easing some of the pressure off their hips and shoulders.
  • Alleviation from Pressure: Pressure relief is typically linked to contouring. Most of the weight of a sleeper’s body presses down on the mattress at the hips and shoulders. Most people feel the strain in their lower back and shoulders as a result of this. The weight of the sleeper is distributed more evenly across the mattress, which relieves pressure on the hips and shoulders.

Frequently Asked Questions

What mattress types are best for kids?

High-quality foam and innerspring mattresses for kids are readily available at reasonable prices, making them a top pick for families. Hybrid mattresses, which combine the pressure relief and comfort of foam with the support of a coil support core, can be a suitable choice for kids. However, you shouldn’t assume that just because a mattress is a certain type that it would be suitable for your kid. The best mattress for a child is one that provides adequate firmness, support, pressure relief, and can expand as the child does. In order to choose the ideal mattress for your child, you should take into account their weight, sleeping position, and personal preferences before doing any comparison shopping or reading any reviews written by people who have not been affiliated with the manufacturer.

12 Best Mattresses for Kids

How much should you spend on a mattress for your child?

In general, you can anticipate to spend anywhere from $300 to $1,000 for a quality child mattress that will last for years and provide your child with support and comfort. In spite of the fact that your child will outgrow his or her mattress at some point, it is feasible that your child may be able to use it for the duration of the bed’s useful life. If they outgrow their bed but it’s still in good shape, it can be used by a younger sibling or as an extra bed. While it’s not always necessary to go for the most pricey option, cheap mattresses aren’t going to meet a child’s needs for very long.

What is the ideal firmness for a child’s mattress?

Deciding on the right mattress firmness for your child might be challenging, but in the long run, a medium-firm mattress that offers adequate pressure relief is probably your best bet. Kids like softer mattresses because they weigh less than adults, who tend to find firmer mattresses more accommodating. However, when kids get bigger, they’ll need a mattress that can properly support them. Most kids can still sleep well on a medium-firm mattress well into their adolescence. Without compromising on durability, pressure relief from a memory foam or polyfoam comfort layer can make the bed a lot more pleasant when they are younger.

How thick of a mattress does a child need?

Some children favor low-profile beds because they are simpler to get in and out of. However, while choosing a mattress for your child, firmness and construction are more crucial than thickness. In the end, the mattress should be supportive enough for your child’s growing body without being uncomfortable. Because of their lighter frames, children may not require as thick a mattress as adults do.

However, parents of kids who use bunk beds need to keep in mind a few things. Your kid’s bunk bed mattress should be positioned at least 5 inches below the side rails for safety purposes. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has released rules for the manufacture of safe bunk beds.

Most modern mattresses are between 10 and 13 inches thick. However, their thickness can range from as little as 6 inches to as much as 20 inches. Children’s mattresses, including some of the best options we’ve highlighted above, tend to be on the thinner side.

Can kids use adult mattresses?

Most standard mattresses designed for adults are completely appropriate and safe for use by kids. All mattresses, whether made for children or adults, are subject to the same rigorous safety and quality checks before they hit store shelves.

However, youngsters are usually more comfortable on beds designed specifically for them. Many of these types have special features that aren’t present in standard adult mattresses, like watertight barriers to keep the inner components safe from accidents. Some of the best children’s mattresses are convertible, with one side being firmer to encourage healthy growth in younger children and the other side being softer to meet their changing needs for comfort as they become older.

Size is another factor to think about. Sizes designated as “queen,” “king,” and “California king” are designed with couples in mind and provide a lot of space between the sheets. Each of the three bed sizes—twin, twin XL, and full—should be sufficient for a child of any age. The majority of bunk bed types can only accommodate mattresses in the three smallest sizes, thus this is especially important for children who sleep in bunk beds.

Conclusion

Finding the correct mattress is essential for a good night’s sleep, whether your child is sleeping in a cot, bunk bed, or their first “grown-up” bed.

The best children’s mattresses are supportive, breathable and don’t break the bank. After all – they don’t stay the same size for long!

The best children’s mattresses are supportive, breathable and don’t break the bank. After all – they don’t stay the same size for long!

The finest mattresses for kids provide adequate support without being too expensive for their parents. After all, their sizes fluctuate rapidly.

Helen Skeates

Helen Skeates

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