Shopping for the best mattress for kids might seem like a simple process, but there are several important factors to keep in mind.
“I recommend that a child’s mattress provide proper spinal support with firm, non-toxic materials to promote healthy development and avoid potential allergies or respiratory issues,” says Sleepopolis Chief Medical Advisor Dr. Raj Dasgupta. “I also recommend looking for certified mattresses made with CertiPUR-US certified foams. Finally, the bed should be breathable and durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of active use and growth.”
I know, I know — it sounds like a lot. Luckily, Sleepopolis has helped 12,544 people find a mattress in 2024 alone, and I’ve got you covered in this guide. I’ll highlight the key factors that will help you find the most healthy, comfortable, and best overall mattress for your kids.
When deciding which mattresses to include here, I couldn’t just rely on which mattresses might be comfortable for lightweight sleepers; I had to think of beds that would accommodate them through a variety of growth stages. So several of these best mattresses for kids are also some of the best mattresses for adults. I also made sure to include a wide price range. Before discounts, the beds here range from $499 to $999 for a twin size.
Our Top Pick for Kids
Helix is at the top of my list since the brand’s Kids mattress has many important benefits for growing children, including being hypoallergenic and having a flippable design. That means there are different firmness levels fit for different ages.
Best Mattresses for Kids
- Helix Kids – Best Overall Mattress for Kids
- Nectar – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Kids
- Bear Cub – Best Budget Mattress for Kids
- Brooklyn Bedding Essential – Best Mattress for Stomach-Sleeping Kids
- Nolah Nurture – Best Hypoallergenic Mattress for Kids
- Saatva Youth – Best Non-Toxic Mattress for Kids
- Leesa Kids – Best First Big-Kid Bed
- Birch Kids Natural – Best Organic Mattress for Kids
- 5 Little Monkeys – Best Mattress for Side-Sleeping Kids
Best Mattress for Kids 2024 Video Review
What I Look For In The Best Mattresses For Kids
Price
When looking for a mattress for your kids, it is important to consider the price of the mattress, as they may outgrow it quickly or need a new one as you move or they move. Because of this, I made sure to consider the price of each of these mattresses without compromising on comfort, support, or quality of materials.
Materials
The materials of your kids’ mattresses are important to you, and I know that. Because of this, I looked for mattresses with clean, natural, and quality materials. I look for and test liquid-resistant covers and an eco-friendly finish called RUCO-DRI BIO NPE, which helps keep mattresses resistant to liquids and easy to clean.
Size
The size of your kids’ mattress is important as they are growing and developing. I made sure to consider size in all of these mattresses and laid out the various options for size for these mattresses so you can pick the best ones for your kids.
Compare Best Mattresses For Kids
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| Helix Kids Mattress | Nectar Mattress | Bear Cub | Brooklyn Bedding Essential | Nolah Nurture Mattress | Saatva Youth Mattress | Leesa Kids | Birch Kids Natural | 5 Little Monkeys Mattress | |
| Rating | |||||||||
| Firmness | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Soft: 5/10 | |||||
| Material | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Innerspring | Foam | Latex | Foam |
| Cooling | — | — | — | — | — | ||||
| Best For |
Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Kids, Hot Sleepers
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Back Sleepers, Back Pain, Stomach Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Couples
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Kids,
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Back Sleepers,
Side Sleepers, Hot Sleepers |
Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Kids, Hot Sleepers
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Kids, Hot Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers,
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Kids,
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Kids,
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Kids,
Side Sleepers |
Helix Kids – Best Overall Mattress for Kids
When choosing the best mattress for your little one, you want to pay special attention to quality materials, adequate pressure relief for growing pains, and overall durability for long-lasting support. The Helix Kids checks all these boxes and is entirely tailored towards children between 3 and 12. It’s also made with completely non-toxic materials, earning a GREENGUARD Gold certification. Learn more about the Helix Kids in our video roundup of the best mattresses for kids.
What our tester says:
“What a great option for parents trying to find a mattress that will work for their growing child. I really liked the Helix Kids’ flippable, hybrid design. I found it offered high-quality materials and great support for younger people.”– Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor
Expert Opinion
When selecting the best mattresses for kids, I wanted to pay special attention to quality materials, adequate pressure relief for growing pains, and overall durability for long-lasting support. I think the Helix Kids checks all of these boxes and is entirely tailored towards kids, with a unique flippable design fit for children between the ages of 3 and 12. Between the ages 3 and 7, the firmer side is recommended, and for children between eight and 12, the softer side is recommended.
The Helix Kids mattress is also made with completely non-toxic materials, earning a GREENGUARD Gold certification (read more about what such certifications mean here). So you can rest assured your little ones are sleeping safely and soundly at night.
Helix Kids Mattress Specs
| Material | Hybrid |
| Price (Twin) | $745.33 (before discounts) |
| Shipping | Free shipping |
| Sleep Trial | 100 nights |
| Warranty | 10-year warranty |
| Height | 11.5″ |
What our tester says: “What a great option for parents trying to find a mattress that will work for their growing child. I really liked the Helix Kids’ flippable, hybrid design. I found it offered high-quality materials and great support for younger people.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor
Nectar – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Kids
The Nectar delivers a balance of comfort and support: it’s definitely contouring, but still provides a firm enough foundation for most light to average weight sleepers, especially if they sleep on their back or stomach. Plus, a lengthy trial period, lifetime warranty, and affordable price make the Nectar a reassuring choice for many. Watch our video review to learn more.
What our tester says:
“I think back sleepers would be especially happy on this bed. They’ll get plenty of support from the firm memory foam in the Nectar Classic, which should translate to great pressure relief and a good night’s sleep. Hot sleepers who have to have a memory foam mattress should also have no trouble at all falling asleep on this bed.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Expert Opinion
We’ve determined that the best memory foam mattress for kids provides comfort, as it contours joints that are sensitive to growing pains. However, it should also provide plenty of support to keep kids’ spines in proper alignment as they grow and change. During testing, I found the Nectar achieved both of these feats.
Nectar is also one of the mattresses I tested for adults. Part of our testing involves spreading a specialized mat over the bed, lying down on it, then using color-coded thermal imaging on a computer to see where the mattress is putting the most pressure. In the Nectar’s case, I saw minimal pressure while back sleeping and side sleeping. This tells me that it’s an excellent choice for pain relief while sleeping in those positions.
Note that the Nectar’s foams are CertiPUR-US certified and meet the standards for content, emissions, and durability.
Nectar Mattress Specs
| Material | Memory foam |
| Price (Twin) | $1,063 (before discounts) |
| Shipping | Free shipping |
| Sleep Trial | 365 nights |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty |
| Height | 12″ |
What our tester says: “The Nectar is a nice pick for kids because it’s a budget-friendly option that offers ample pressure relief and coziness. I appreciate how the foams are responsive, so you don’t feel like you’re getting stuck in the mattress. This should feel like a true medium-firm bed to kids.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
Bear Cub – Best Budget Mattress for Kids
Stay tuned for our full review!
Expert Opinion
If you’re buying your child their first “big kid” bed, you already know how quickly kids grow. Since your child will continue to grow and may eventually need an even bigger bed, it makes sense that you don’t want to break the bank on their first mattress. Luckily, Bear created a durable mattress made with high-quality materials that’s perfect for shoppers on a budget. This mattress is offered in two sizes — twin and full. Before discounts or offers, the twin size currently costs $695 and the full size costs $845. Bear is known for running sales, especially during the holidays, so you’re likely to get this bed for even cheaper. Head over to our Sleepopolis coupon page for more.
This mattress has a hybrid construction of responsive foams and individually wrapped coils that encourage proper spinal alignment. Bear also offers a cover made of Tencel, which is soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic. If your child struggles with allergies during outdoor activities, the mattress isn’t going to worsen them at night.
This fiberglass-free mattress is also CertiPUR-US certified and GREENGUARD Gold certified, so you can be sure they meet the highest environmental and safety standards.
Bear Cub Mattress Specs
| Material | Hybrid |
| Price (Twin) | $695 (before discounts) |
| Shipping | Free shipping |
| Sleep Trial | 120 nights |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty |
| Height | 8.5″ |
Brooklyn Bedding Essential – Best Mattress for Stomach-Sleeping Kids
The Brooklyn Bedding Essential mattress is a hybrid mattress, meaning it is made of one layer of foam and one layer of coils. The coils keep the mattress breathable and cool while still being supportive, while the foam keeps the bed comfortable and pressure relieving. It has great motion isolation, thanks to the foam top layer, and is firm enough for back and stomach sleepers.
What our tester says:
“Back sleepers of all weights should find the Brooklyn Bedding Essential provides a pleasant mix of comfort and support.” – Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
Expert Opinion
While testing the Brooklyn Bedding Essential, I found it to be a nice medium-firm bed-in-a-box that’s an excellent match for kids who sleep on their stomachs. Although the mattress is softer than I usually recommend for stomach sleepers, kids tend to weigh less than adults, so they should get plenty of support. Honestly, the bed still felt supportive even when one of our average-weight testers laid on it in the stomach-sleeping position. This is likely due to the eight-inch tall section of individually wrapped coils toward the bottom of the mattress.
The springs also give the Essential some nice mobility, so kids shouldn’t feel as if they’re sinking too far into the mattress. These features should promote a healthy spinal alignment — something that can be tricky to find for stomach sleepers.
Brooklyn Bedding Essential Mattress Specs
| Material | Hybrid |
| Price (Twin) | $532 (before discounts) |
| Shipping | Free shipping |
| Sleep Trial | 120 nights |
| Warranty | 10-year warranty |
| Height | 11″ |
What our tester says: “Primarily made of coils, with top layers of foam, the Brooklyn Bedding Essential is 10 inches tall and provides a medium-firm feel that can work for some back and stomach sleepers. Its simple build and affordable price could make it a good choice for kids, college students, or a guest bedroom.” – Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
Nolah Nurture – Best Hypoallergenic Mattress for Kids
Stay tuned for our full review!
Expert Opinion
A hypoallergenic mattress uses certain materials to prevent the collection and buildup of allergens. This makes it easier for many with environmental allergies, including children, to sleep soundly. I think the Nolah Nurture is one of the best hypoallergenic mattresses for kids not just for its GOTS-certified organic cotton cover, but for its flippable construction. With both a soft and a firm side, kids can flip over the mattress so it fits their sleep needs as they develop. The softer side has a thicker comfort layer of foam, and the brand says it should clock in around a 5 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale. Conversely, the firmer side has a thinner comfort layer and should come in at a 6 or 7 out of 10.
No matter which side kids choose, they’ll be supported by the mattress’s core of individually wrapped steel coils. These springs should help them maintain a proper spinal alignment and easily switch positions during the night. You can rest easy knowing this bed is also GREENGUARD Gold certified and constructed with CertiPUR-US certified foam, so they’ve met strict health and environmental criteria. All Nolah mattresses are fiberglass-free and meet the federal flammability standards.
Nolah Nurture Mattress Specs
| Material | Hybrid |
| Price (Twin) | $919 (before discounts) |
| Shipping | Free shipping |
| Sleep Trial | 120 nights |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty |
| Height | 8″ |
Saatva Youth – Best Non-Toxic Mattress for Kids
The Saatva Youth caters to little kids and younger teenagers alike with a unique dual construction. One side of the mattress is meant for children ages 3–7, while the other is meant for ages 8–12. Just flip it over as your child grows, and they’ll get a mixture of pressure relief and enough support for a neutral spinal alignment. Learn more in our video roundup of the best kids mattresses.
What our tester says:
“I found that this bed has a supportive feel that easily works for people of all weights, but still feels plush and comfortable.” – Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
Expert Opinion
Dreamed up by renowned luxury brand Saatva, the Saatva Youth is designed specifically for kids. It’s flippable too, so kids ages 3–7 can use one side, while kids ages 8–12 can use the other side. While testing this mattress, I found that it has a nice medium-firm feel that back-sleeping kids should especially love. They should receive the necessary amount of cushioning on their lumbar region, as well as the ideal amount of support throughout.
The Saatva Youth is 100 percent non-toxic, in addition to being hypoallergenic. This ensures that your little ones are getting a clean and healthy sleeping experience. In addition to the use of CertiPUR-US certified foams, this bed has the Congress of Chiropractic State Association Seal of Approval.
Saatva Youth Mattress Specs
| Material | Hybrid |
| Price (Twin) | $795 (before discounts) |
| Shipping | Free white glove delivery |
| Sleep Trial | 365 nights |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty |
| Height | 12″ |
What our tester says: “I always appreciate how Saatva mattresses are designed to be high quality and brought to you with total care. The flippable design of the Saatva Youth makes it a great investment.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor
Leesa Kids – Best First Big-Kid Bed
Stay tuned for our full review!
Expert Opinion
If you’re looking to switch your child from your bed or their crib to a bed of their own, you might want to take a look at the Leesa Kids mattress. This reasonably priced mattress is available as a twin or a full, and is built right at the company’s own factory in Arizona. It has a simple design of three foam layers (memory foam, aerated foam, and support form) that start out soft and get firmer toward the bottom of the bed. The brand says it’s designed to have a medium-firm feel.
The Leesa Kids mattress is GREENGUARD Gold certified and made with CertiPUR-US certified foams. This means the product is low in chemical emissions, which can help with indoor air quality, and the foams are made without harmful chemicals.
Leesa Kids Mattress Specs
| Material | Memory foam |
| Price (Twin) | $499 (before discounts) |
| Shipping | Free shipping |
| Sleep Trial | 100 nights |
| Warranty | 10-year warranty |
| Height | 7.5″ |
What Customers Say
On their website, Leesa actually sifted through more than 20,000 reviews, and found that 72 percent of their customers said that the Leesa Kids mattress had a medium-firm feel.
What Parents Say
Parents are highly satisfied with the Leesa Kids mattress, giving it an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars. Many reviews noting its comfort and safety for toddlers and young children. Many also mention that their kids sleep soundly through the night, with some parents even remarking that the mattress is comfortable enough for them to lie on it while putting their child to bed. The GREENGUARD Gold certification and non-toxic materials are frequently highlighted, giving parents peace of mind about the mattress’s safety.
“My toddler absolutely loves his mattress and I love that it’s Greenguard Gold Certified and able to hold my weight also while putting him to bed.”
“Goood quality, good price”
Pros of the Leesa Kids Mattress
- You can often find a twin Leesa Kids for under $500 before discounts, making it less expensive than many other children’s mattresses out there.
- This bed is made with CertiPUR-US certified foams, making it a safe option for children. Read more about the various mattress and bedding certifications here.
- The Leesa Kids mattress comes with a 120-night trial, allowing your child to try out the bed and see if it’s the right fit.
Cons of the Leesa Kids Mattress
- Because it’s not available in larger mattress sizes, you may have to switch out this bed as your child enters their teenage years. It all depends on how much space they need.
Leesa Company Information
Customer Service Information
All forms of contact are available Monday to Sunday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. EST.
- Phone: 844-335-3372
- Email: support@leesa.com
- Live chat: Available on their site during business hours and through text at 877-548-5145
- Visit showrooms: Store locator
Payment Options
Leesa accepts payments from major credit card companies like Visa, Master Card, American Express, and Discover. They also accept express payment methods like Shop Pay, PayPal, Amazon Pay, and Venmo. If you’re interested in paying in installments, they also offer a financing option through Affirm’s financing program.
Leesa offers a $50 discount on mattresses for military members, educators, students, healthcare professionals, and first responders.
Think the Leesa Kids is the mattress for your child? Click here for our best deal, and look for our full Leesa Kids mattress review in the future. Once your kid gets a little older, come back and browse the best mattress for teenagers.
Birch Kids Natural – Best Organic Mattress for Kids
The Birch Kids Natural is made of organic materials like cotton, wool, and latex, which is made from tree sap, making it eco-friednly, allergen resistant, and healthy. What’s also special about the Birch Kids Natural is its flippable nature. One side is soft and pressure-relieving (meant for kids ages 8–12), while the other side is firmer (intended for kids ages 3–7).
What our tester says:
“Birch is a great brand for those trying to avoid synthetic materials. The Birch Kids mattress is a nice pick for the little ones since you can flip it as your child grows and get ample use out of it.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor
Expert Opinion
We believe the Birch Kids Natural to be one of the best mattresses for kids, but also one of the healthiest because of its organic materials, from the cover of organic cotton to a natural wool fire barrier on both sides and comfort layers of natural Talalay latex. What’s also special about the Birch Kids Natural is its flippable nature. One side is soft and pressure-relieving (meant for kids ages 8–12), while the other side is firmer (intended for kids ages 3–7). At the core of the bed is a layer of individually encased coils, so your child has support no matter which side they’re on.
This mattress is GOTS and GREENGUARD Gold certified, so you can rest easy knowing it’s organic, ethically produced, and safe for children. It also contains Fair Trade certified organic cotton and eco-INSTITUT certified latex. These materials meet strict regulations for quality and safety.
Birch Kids Natural Mattress Specs
| Material | Latex hybrid |
| Price (Twin) | $998.66 (before discounts) |
| Shipping | Free shipping |
| Sleep Trial | 100 nights |
| Warranty | 25-year warranty |
| Height | 8″ |
What our tester says: “Birch is a great brand for those trying to avoid synthetic materials. The Birch Kids mattress is a nice pick for the little ones since you can flip it as your child grows and get ample use out of it.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor
5 Little Monkeys – Best Mattress for Side-Sleeping Kids
With a dynamic foam design, the 5 Little Monkeys mattress should support a variety of ages. Your child can start sleeping in it as early as 5 years old, with the bed lasting until they’re at least 13. And despite a dense, all-foam construction, we actually found that this mattress sleeps quite cool. Learn more in our video review.
What our tester says:
“Finding the perfect first “big kid” bed for your child can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. As you begin your search, stay on the lookout for ultra-soft foams as they’ll be able to better support your child’s light frame. You’ll also want to ensure that the bed is durable enough to hold up through marathon jumping sessions and pillow fights. And finally, you’ll want it to sleep cool, so find a bed designed with temperature regulation in mind. In my opinion, the 5 Little Monkeys mattress checks all these boxes with its gentle comfort and transition layers, solid foundation and cooling gel-infused memory foam.” – Logan Block, former content director
Expert Opinion
The 5 Little Monkeys mattress is a great option for kids transitioning to a “big kid” bed. It’s made with ultra-soft foams designed to support kids ages 5 to 13. This mattress comes with a stain-resistant cover that’s easy to remove and wash, so accidents are no big deal. With gel-memory foam, this bed sleeps cool and helps combat overheating at night. The layer of response foam below helps transition the sleeper onto the sturdy high-density poly foam base. This mattress is durable and should last you child through their childhood years. The best part of this mattress? Every purchase comes with a mattress protector, pillow, storage tote, and adorable stuffed monkey.
The mattress cover is made from OEKOTEX Certified fabric, and the mattress itself is fiberglass-free and made with CertiPUR-US certified foams.
5 Little Monkeys Mattress Specs
| Material | Memory foam |
| Price (Queen) | $499 (before discounts) |
| Shipping | Free shipping |
| Sleep Trial | 100 nights |
| Warranty | 15-year warranty |
| Height | 8″ |
What our tester says: “The combination of materials is intended to create a gentle, balanced feel well-suited for a child’s small frame, while also being supportive enough to accommodate growing pain” – Logan Block, former content director
Growing Bodies and Mattress Size
The smaller the mattress, the quicker it’s outgrown.
What Size Bed Does Your Kid Need?
Twin, twin XL, or full-size beds are typically the best choices for children. The twin and twin XL are going to be the most affordable.
While a full mattress is more expensive, it may allow for growth all the way to adulthood. Also, when your children are young, a full mattress allows you to comfortably lie with them, yet it also lets them grow into the bed and retain the constant comfort of the same childhood mattress. Take a look at the best full mattresses for some great options.
Regardless of which size you choose, you’ll want to opt for high-quality materials, as hand-me-down beds and cheap mattresses might lead to poor sleep habits at a young age. Although a better-fitting mattress may cost more, it’s typically worth the cost in the long run, and can positively impact school performance, mood level, and a litany of other factors. Take a look at our best mattress for the money page to find a mattress that fits your children’s needs that are worth the money. You can also see our mattress buying guide for tips to keep in mind while mattress shopping.
Signs It’s Time for Your Kids to Get a New Mattress
- They’re having a hard time sleeping.
- Their bed is starting to sag or become uncomfortable in general.
- They’re waking up with soreness or stiffness.
- They begin experiencing allergies, or their already-existing allergies are getting worse at night.
- They seem too big for their current mattress (sleeping near the edge, arms and legs hanging over the end, etc.)
Mattress Type
Latex
Latex is a naturally hypoallergenic and breathable material characterized by its bouncy and responsive feel. This material is similar to memory foam, but bounces back quicker and has less sinkage. It’s for people looking for eco-friendly materials. Natural latex comes from tree sap, so it’s typically more environmentally friendly and allergen-repellant than man-made materials.
For more latex mattresses, check out our best latex mattress page.
Hybrid
Hybrid mattresses are constructed with layers of foam and coils. These mattresses are typically comfortable and pressure relieving because of the foam layers, yet are still supportive and durable due to the coils. The inclusion of coils promotes air flow throughout the mattress, so they’re usually breathable and sleep cool. These beds are sold in a variety of firmness options, so you can choose the feel that’s best for you.
For our favorite hybrid picks, head over to our best hybrid mattresses roundup.
Memory Foam
Memory foam is known for deep sinkage and body contouring. As its name suggests, the foam moves slowly and molds against your body as it adjusts to your weight. Memory foam is typically pressure relieving, yet it’s known for trapping heat. Some memory foams have cooling properties, such as gel infusions, that combat this trait.
For more memory foam mattresses, check out our best memory foam mattresses roundup.
Innerspring
Innerspring mattresses have a classic, bouncy feel. They’re constructed with a thin layer of foam and two layers of coils, so these beds are super-supportive and breathable. They lift the sleeper up and out of the structure, so you won’t find much sinkage. The edge support on these beds is usually stellar, which makes them a good pick for couples and heavier sleepers.
Check out our best innerspring mattress roundup for our favorite picks.
What to Prioritize When Buying a Kids Mattress
Support
Although comfort and support are often interpreted as the same dynamic, they are two completely different topics.
Support vs Comfort
- Support: A supportive mattress will help maintain good spinal alignment during the night.
- Comfort: Comfort deals more with preference regarding feel and firmness.
If a child is not supported properly throughout their night’s rest, it can inhibit normal growth and have other negative impacts on their health. As a child grows, it’s extremely important that their mattress supports their growth.
As your child gets older, consider engaging them in the purchasing process. Once they reach a certain age, they can typically describe their sleeping patterns, whether it’s on their back, stomach, or side. Some mattresses are better or worse-suited for different sleeping positions.
For example, a very soft mattress might not be ideal for stomach sleepers, and a super-firm mattress can create pressure points and poor support for side sleepers. As your children get older and begin to develop a more consistent sleeping style, these positional preferences become more important when selecting the best mattress.
Not sure how much sleep your kid needs? Check out our kids sleep calculator to create an optimal schedule!
Safety and Health
Safety and health are essential when selecting a mattress for your child, which is why you should keep a lookout for certain certifications. Here are a few of them:
- CertiPUR-US: Indicates that the product is free of certain dangerous chemicals and materials such as ozone depleters, PBDEs, TDCPP or TCEP flame retardants, mercury, lead, and other heavy metals, formaldehyde, and phthalates. It must also have low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions for indoor air quality.
- OEKO-TEX: This means that a product has been tested for harmful chemicals and is determined to be non-toxic for humans throughout all stages of its processing.
- GREENGUARD Gold: The certification means that the product has met some of the world’s most rigorous third-party chemical emissions standards, which can help reduce indoor air pollution and the risk of chemical exposure.
- GOLS (Global Organic Latex): This refers specifically to latex mattresses. It’s a globally recognized standard that pushes sustainability, and means that the latex in a bed has met strict health and environmental guidelines from beginning to end. There’s a similar certification called GOTS that’s specific to mattresses with natural fibers.
Read more about these certifications and others in our guide to mattress and bedding certifications.
Hear from the Experts:
Signs Your Child is Allergic to their Mattress
“If your child is allergic to their mattress, you may notice some skin irritation like rashes or itching, respiratory symptoms such as coughing or congestion, or eye irritation like redness and watering. Additionally, disrupted sleep or restlessness could signal an allergic reaction caused by allergens like dust mites or chemical residues in the mattress. If symptoms worsen, I recommend going to see a medical professional. “
Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. Quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine
Allergies, Sensitive Skin, and Off-Gassing
Your child may have allergies or sensitive skin, which you should definitely consider when buying them a new mattress. Pay attention to the above certifications to ensure that their bed is hypoallergenic. Also, most bed-in-a-box mattresses have what’s called an “off-gassing” period once they’ve decompressed, which involves a faint odor and could further activate allergies. While off-gassing is ultimately harmless, it’s always a good idea to air out your new mattress in a well-ventilated room for 24 to 48 hours before sleeping on it. Read more about off-gassing and best practices here.
Price
Generally, I find that a high-quality mattress for kids usually costs around $1,000 for a twin. Keep in mind that this is before discounts. With promotions or coupons applied, you can often find such a bed for much less. Once again, there are much cheaper options out there, but I recommend a supportive mattress with quality construction to ensure that your child develops healthy sleep habits.
Cooling
When looking for a new mattress, an important factor to consider is its cooling capabilities. As your kid grows — and especially as they enter puberty — a common side effect is extra sweat and heat naturally emitting from the body. So you may want to look at mattresses with additional cooling technology such as phase change material, gels, cooling covers, and coils that promote airflow.
When testing mattresses, I use a thermal control gun to measure the temperature difference after I’ve laid on the bed for 5 minutes. How fast the mattress dissipates heat tells me how well it’s performed in cooling. I consider anything under an 10-degree difference good cooling and anything under 5 great cooling.
Firmness
Firmness is a huge factor when choosing a mattress for kids, especially considering that their bodies are always growing and they may not have figured out their sleeping position yet. When testing mattresses, we place mattresses on a firmness scale that ranges from 1–10, with1 being the softest and 10 being the firmest. A true medium-firm mattress is considered a 6.5. If your kid is a side sleeper, you need to look for a slightly softer mattress that hugs their shoulders and hips. If your kid is a stomach sleeper, you should look for a firmer bed that keeps their hips lifted and aligned with their shoulders. Younger back and combination sleepers should aim for a 6.5 medium-firm mattress.
Hear from the Experts:
How Many Hours Sleep Should a Child Get?
“The amount of sleep a child needs varies by age, but generally, I recommend toddlers (1-2 years) get 11-14 hours of sleep, preschoolers (3-5 years) need 10-13 hours, and school-age children (6-12 years) should get 9-12 hours. Teenagers (13-18 years) need about 8-10 hours of sleep each night for optimal health and development.”
Mattress Thickness for Kids
Mattress thickness is crucial in providing adequate support for growth. I recommend a mattress thickness of 6–10 inches, depending on their age and size. Younger children typically need a thinner mattress (6–8 inches), while older kids and teens benefit from a thicker mattress (8–10 inches) for stronger support and spinal alignment. Ensuring that the mattress is flush inside the bed frame is also crucial for safety and overall sleep quality.
Covers
If your kid is prone to having accidents or spills in their bed, waterproof covers are a great solution to keep their mattress clean, stain-free. A cover can also contribute to better hygiene and longevity of the mattress. Additionally, waterproof covers extend the lifespan of the mattress by preventing damage from moisture and stains, which can lead to unpleasant odors and potential mold growth. One thing to consider if you get a cheap mattress cover is the potential of fiberglass in the cover. Fiberglass in mattress covers can only be dangerous if the covers are exposed, so just keep that in mind.
Easy Steps to Clean a Mattress
Cleaning a mattress can be straightforward if you follow these four easy steps:
- Vacuum: Start by using a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to remove dust, dirt, and allergens from the mattress surface. Be sure to vacuum all sides and crevices.
- Spot Clean Stains: For any stains, mix a mild detergent with water and gently blot the affected area with a clean cloth. Avoid soaking the mattress; instead, use minimal moisture and blot the area dry.
- Deodorize: Sprinkle baking soda evenly over the mattress to help neutralize odors. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes, then vacuum it up thoroughly.
- Air Out: Allow the mattress to air out by placing it in a well-ventilated area or outside in the sun if possible. This helps to remove any remaining moisture and freshen up the mattress.
Edge Support
Edge support refers to the strength of the perimeter of your mattress. Edge support is important for kids because it helps maintain the mattress’s shape and stability, preventing them from accidentally rolling off or feeling like they might fall when sitting or playing near the edges. Strong edge support also enhances the overall durability of the mattress, ensuring it withstands activities and provides consistent support over time as they grow. I test for edge support by using a tape measure or yard stick to measure the amount of sinkage when sitting on the edge of the bed.
Company Policies
Warranties
Before you purchase a mattress, it’s important to read the fine print. A mattress warranty covers any manufacturing errors, as well as premature sagging. Some companies have very strict requirements for what qualifies for repairs, returns, or refunds, so be sure to read the entire policy. I recommend looking for a mattress with at least a 10-year warranty. Some companies offer lifetime warranties, so you can replace your mattress with no time limit.
Sleep Trials
A sleep trial is a great way to try out a mattress without fully committing to it. Most reputable mattress companies will offer a sleep trial between 100 to 365 nights. If you’re within the trial period and decide you don’t love the mattress, you’ll be able to return or exchange the bed at no additional cost. Some brands do require a shipping fee, so be sure to read all the terms and conditions, especially if you live outside the contiguous United States.
Shipping
If you’re purchasing a new mattress, be sure to check the company’s shipping policy. Luckily, many mattress brands offer free shipping and returns. However, some companies require additional fees, which can make the purchase more expensive. If you’re shopping internationally, shipping and handling may be more expensive.
FAQs
What type of mattress is best for a kid?
Finding the best mattress for a kid is like finding the best mattress for adults; you’ll want to make sure the mattress suits your kid’s sleeping position, body type, and personal preferences. There’s one thing that kids have to worry about that adults don’t, though, and that’s physical growth. That’s why purchasing a flippable mattress with multiple firmnesses is ideal. This way, you can flip the mattress if your child changes sleeping positions or goes through a growth spurt.
Is a memory foam or hybrid mattress better for kids?
The construction may not matter as much as the quality of mattress materials. It’s best to ensure the foam used in either an all-foam or hybrid mattress is certified. A CertiPUR-US certification is a popular one amongst larger mattress companies. Also, consider the level of support needed. Make sure that the foam in the mattress isn’t sagging and that the support layers are keeping your kid’s spine in proper alignment.
Should kids’ mattresses be firm or soft?
While it depends on your kid’s body type and sleeping preferences, I generally recommend a medium-firm mattress. This is because medium-firm mattresses offer both comfort and support. If you aren’t quite sure what firmness to stick with, you could also opt for a flippable mattress featuring multiple firmnesses.
Is a firm mattress good for kids?
A firm mattress can be good for kids, as it provides proper support for their growing bodies and helps maintain healthy spinal alignment. It also reduces the risk of developing pressure points, ensuring a more comfortable and restful sleep.
Is it worth it to get your kids a flippable mattress?
While flippable mattresses may be more expensive, they’re often a good match for growing kids since they can use one side, then flip it over as they grew (different ages require different levels of firmnesses). Some companies, such as Birch and Saatva, even make flippable mattresses just for children, with the corresponding age groups listed on each side of the bed.
A Look Into the Sleepopolis Testing Lab
In order to ensure that we’re recommending the best mattresses to sleepers everywhere, we test each one individually in our mattress lab in Raleigh, North Carolina. Here, our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches has reviewed more than 300 beds, putting each one through a rigorous testing process that includes measuring a mattress’s motion transfer with a seismometer, tracking its cooling capabilities with a thermal gun, and visualizing its ability to relieve pain with a pressure map.
From there, we give every bed an overall score based on its materials, comfort, support, cooling, edge support, and more. We also factor in brand performance with categories such as value and warranty.
We know that sleep is an integral part of your health, which is why we’ve developed such a detailed methodology when testing mattresses and writing our reviews. We also know that every sleeper is different when it comes to body type, sleeping position, and mattress preference. With so many factors at play, we want to give you an informed opinion so you can make an informed purchase.
How We Chose These Mattresses
Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches has reviewed over 300 products in Sleepopolis’ mattress lab, running each one through tests such as pressure-mapping and measuring motion transfer with a seismometer. From there, we give every bed an overall score based on materials, comfort, support, cooling, and edge support. We also factor in brand performance with categories such as value and warranty.
Kids are going to need different things from a mattress depending on their age, body type, and other individual factors. So we took various categories into account when selecting a bed for each superlative. For instance, a child’s first big-kid bed needs to provide a combination of comfort and support. Jump back to our mattress picks.
Summary: The Best Mattresses for Kids
| Mattress | Best For | Price (Twin) | Coupon | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Helix Kids | Overall | $749 | Helix Coupon | Read Helix Reviews |
| Nectar | Memory Foam | $599 | Nectar Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Bear Cub | Active Kids | $695 | Bear Coupon | Review Coming Soon |
| Brooklyn Bedding Essential | Stomach-Sleeping Kids | $532 | Brooklyn Bedding Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Nolah Nurture | Hypoallergenic | $919 | Nolah Coupon | Review Coming Soon |
| Saatva Youth | Non-Toxic | $795 | Saatva Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Leesa Kids | First Big-Kid Bed | $499 | Leesa Coupon | Review Coming Soon |
| Birch Kids Natural by Helix | Organic | $999 | Helix Coupon | Review Coming Soon |
| 5 Little Monkeys | Side Sleeping | $499 | Check Coupons | Read Our Review |
Bridget Chapman
Former Senior Product Editor
About Author
Bridget is a Certified Sleep Science Coach and senior editor here at Sleepopolis. From testing mattresses to writing about various sleep health topics, her goal is to help you get a good night’s sleep. You can also find her in videos on our YouTube channel. Bridget graduated magna cum laude from San Diego State University with a degree in journalism and a minor in English. Before joining the Sleepopolis team, she was a TV news reporter and worked in cities across the country. She loves spending time outdoors, checking out new restaurants, snuggling with her pets, and of course — getting some quality Zzz’s.
Combination Sleeper