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The right mattress for your tiny human should support healthy sleep as they grow, recharge, and take on busy days. With so many options to choose from, it can be challenging to know which ones deliver on quality, durability, and kid-friendliness.
Fortunately, our team of certified sleep science coaches has done the legwork for you.
We personally tested every mattress on this list, and evaluated everything from support and pressure relief to ease of setup and overall value. We’ve narrowed it down to the standouts that truly impressed us. Read on to see which mattresses made the cut, and which one might be the perfect fit for your kid.
Sleepopolis’ Best In Rest – Mattresses for Kids
The Helix Kids mattress is our top pick because it strikes the perfect balance of support and pressure relief for growing children. This flippable mattress grows with your child, starting with a firmer feel for little ones (ages 3 to 7), then switching to a slightly softer side as they get older (8 to 12). Throw in high-quality materials, impressively strong edge support, and above-average cooling, and you have a mattress built to keep up with active kids for many years.
The Best Mattresses for Kids of 2026
- Helix Kids Mattress – Best Overall Mattress for Kids
- Nectar Kids Mattress – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Kids
- Saatva Youth Mattress – Best Hybrid Mattress for Kids
- Bear Cub – Best Cooling Mattress for Kids
- Leesa Kids – Best Soft Mattress for Kids
- BB Kids – Best Budget Mattress for Kids
- Birch Kids Natural – Best Hypoallergenic Mattress for Kids
- 5 Little Monkeys Mattress – Best First Big-Kid Mattress
Top Deals
- Helix Kids Mattress – 27% Off Sitewide with Code SLEEPOPOLIS27
- Nectar Kids Mattress – Save Up to 50% on Mattresses & 66% on Bundles
- Saatva Youth Mattress – $300 Off Orders of $1,000+
- Bear Cub – 40% Off Sitewide with Code SLEEPOPOLIS40
- Leesa Kids – 25% Off Mattresses, Bedding, and Furniture with Code TAX25
Disclaimer: Please note that the content in this article is meant for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice or serve as a substitute for seeing a medical professional regarding any sleep problems you may have. Please see your doctor regarding any urgent medical issues.
How We Picked the Best Mattresses for Kids
A reinforced perimeter prevents premature sagging and helps the mattress maintain its shape and stability over time. Strong edge support also increases the usable sleep surface, so kids can comfortably sit or stretch out without feeling like they might slide off. The majority of mattresses on this list earned at least a 4 out of 5 in this category.
Pressure relief refers to how well a mattress eases tension in areas that are prone to aches and pains (for example, the hips, shoulders, and lower back). If your child typically sleeps on their side, they might experience more pressure buildup around their shoulders and hips than other sleepers. Most of the mattresses on this list earned at least a 4 out of 5 in this category.
Cooling features, like gel-memory foam and breathable mattress covers, help regulate temperature, preventing your kids from overheating while they sleep. These features are essential for keeping them comfortable through the night, especially in warmer climates or during hotter times of the year. For this list, we prioritized mattress models that scored a 4 out of 5 or higher in this category.
We’ve developed a rigorous 13-point testing methodology that tells us how each mattress performs and who it might be a good fit for. All of the beds on this list have been evaluated for pressure relief, cooling abilities, responsiveness, edge support, and much more.
Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches has tested more than 500 mattresses over the last decade, allowing us to guide more than 145,000 people to the best mattress for them. Not only do we use and evaluate these products ourselves, but we also consult with Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, who’s quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine, to ensure we keep up to date with the latest in sleep science and medicine.
Additionally, Dr. Joe Tedesco, DPT, OCS, ATC, CSCS, comes into our studio to personally test mattresses and give a medical perspective on many products, and sleep and nutrition experts such as Lauren Panoff, MPH, RD, regularly verify our articles.
Compare the Best Kids Mattresses
 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | |
| Helix Kids Mattress | Nectar Kids Mattress | Saatva Youth Mattress | Bear Cub | Leesa Kids | BB Kids | Birch Kids Natural | 5 Little Monkeys Mattress | |
| Rating | ||||||||
| Firmness | Multiple Firmness Options | Firm: 8/10 | Medium-Firm: 6.5/10 | Firm: 7.5/10 | Multiple Firmness Options | Medium-Firm: 6.5/10 | ||
| Material | Hybrid | Foam | Innerspring | Hybrid | Foam | Foam | Latex | Foam |
| Cooling | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Best For | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Kids | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Kids | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Kids | Kids | Kids | Kids | Kids | Kids |
Best Kids Mattresses Video Review
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
When shopping for the best mattress for your little one, it is essential to look for high-quality materials, adequate pressure relief for growing pains, and long-lasting, corner-to-corner support. During testing, our mattress testers found that the Helix Kids mattress checks these boxes for children between 3 and 12. Our in-house team scored the Helix a 4 out of 5 or higher across numerous categories, including edge support, pressure relief, and cooling.
Cooling (ages 2-7): 4/5
On both sides, the surface temperature increased by 7.5 degrees after lying on it for 5 minutes.
Edge Support (ages 2-7): 5/5
The firmer side of the Helix Kids has an extremely supportive perimeter for all sleeping positions.
Pressure Relief (ages 2-7): 3/5
The firmer side of the Helix Kids is better for spinal alignment in the back sleeping position. Side sleepers may notice pressure buildup.
Cooling (ages 8+): 4/5
On both sides, the surface temperature increased by 7.5 degrees after lying on it for 5 minutes.
Edge Support (ages 8+): 4.5/5
Our testers felt secure and supported while sitting and lying near the edge of the Helix Kids mattress.
Pressure Relief (ages 8+): 3.5/5
The medium-firm construction of the Helix Kids makes it better for relieving pressure in the back.
The first thing you’ll notice about this mattress is that it boasts a flippable design, which caters to children aged 3 to 12. The firmer side is ideal for young children (ages 3 to 7), providing the necessary support for their developing bodies. As your child grows, you can easily flip it to the softer side (recommended for ages 8 to 12) to ensure they get the right amount of comfort and support. A firmer mattress is ideal for most children because it helps support their spinal alignment during periods of growth.
Why the Helix Kids Mattress Works for Kids
Support is one area where the Helix Kids mattress shines, earning a solid 4.5 out of 5 in our edge support category. It offers a good level of firmness, particularly for younger children, and effectively alleviates any pressure points, which is especially important for kids who are still growing. Thanks to its sturdy pocketed coils, our lightweight mattress tester, Riley Otis, found it to be very supportive, especially for a children’s bed.
“Surprisingly, I feel perfectly lifted and supported while sitting and lying on the edge of this bed,” Riley said. “The innerspring layer does a great job lifting my body and preventing me from sliding off. I think a child could sit here for extended periods without feeling unsteady. I even think a parent would feel comfortable sitting here to read a story or tuck their child in.”
Riley and her fellow mattress testers also found that the materials in the Helix Kids mattress felt crisp and breathable, making it a solid pick for kids who tend to sleep hot at night. She gave the Helix Kids a 4 out of 5 in our cooling category.
“While this mattress isn’t cool-to-the-touch, I never felt uncomfortably warm on it,” Riley said. “When I felt the spot where I lay, it was warmer than the rest of the bed. However, I didn’t feel the mattress noticeably heating up beneath me. I felt comfortable the entire time.”
Where the Helix Kids Mattress Falls Short
The only area that presented a potential weak point for the Helix Kids was side-sleeping pressure relief. When our junior sleep correspondent, 10-year-old Conrad, tested this mattress, he found that his hips and shoulders weren’t super comfortable.
“I like the mattress more on my back than on my side,” he said. “It’s not super comfortable on my side.”
Think the Helix Kids is the mattress for your child? Click here for our best deal. If your child sleeps on their side, I recommend a mattress with better side-sleeping pressure relief, like the Bear Cub.
Nectar Kids – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Kids
The Nectar Kids mattress should have your tot sleeping comfortably. Its flippable, all-foam design works with your child as they grow from toddler to tween. One side is a bit firmer, meant for children aged 3 to 7 who may need strong support for growing pains. The 8-and-up side is a touch softer, but still providing a supportive sleep surface. Just note that this lifted profile is better for kids who sleep on their back or stomach.
What our tester says:
“Even as an adult, I’m getting awesome support. My spine feels very straight, so I think this is a great option for older kids who want some softness but still need firm support.” – Riley Otis, staff writer and certified sleep science coach
Like its Classic Memory Foam model, the Nectar Kids is a durable all-foam mattress that excels in multiple categories, including cooling, edge support, and pressure relief. The Nectar Kids is my pick for best memory foam mattress for kids because it scored 4 out of 5 or higher in each category.
Cooling (ages 3-7): 5/5
The temperature of the Nectar Kids (3-7) by 3.6 degrees after 5 minutes of rest, which is exceptional.
Edge Support (ages 3-7): 4/5
Despite being completely foam, the Nectar Kids (3-7) has an extremely supportive perimeter.
Pressure Relief (ages 3-7): 3.5/5
The extremely firm and supportive Nectar Kids (3-7) relieves lower back pressure but causes side pressure buildup.
Cooling (ages 8-10): 4/5
The surface of the Nectar Kids (8-10) did not feel cool to the touch, but it wasn’t stifling either.
Edge Support (ages 8-10): 4/5
The Nectar Kids (8-10) is softer on this side, so there is a small amount of sinkage when applying weight to the perimeter.
Pressure Relief (ages 8-10): 4.8/5
The softer side of the Nectar Kids (8-10) offers more pressure relief for back and side-sleeping.
Why the Nectar Kids Mattress Works for Kids
The star of the show was the impressive cooling of the Nectar Kids. Our lightweight (under 130 pounds) mattress tester, Riley Otis, was impressed with how lightweight and breathable the mattress felt. She gave both sides of the mattress a near-perfect 4.5 out of 5, which is an important consideration for kids who may overheat during sleep.
“As I lay there, I didn’t detect a noticeable difference in my body temperature, so it makes sense that it only increased by 5 degrees when using the thermal gun to measure its temperature,” Riley said.
Edge support was another area that impressed Riley and her fellow mattress testers. She gave both sides of the Nectar Kids a 4 out of 5 in this category, noting that she was able to lie and sit along the bed’s edges and corners without feeling unsteady.
“Both sides have solid edge support,” Riley said. “I could picture a parent sitting here soothing their child without slipping off the bed. However, since it is an all-foam bed, I’m not really getting any lift. It’s mostly just secure because I can’t sink through the support layer.”
When it comes to pressure relief, the softer side of the Nectar Kids for older children excels, earning an average score of 4.8 out of 5 during testing. During testing, Riley noted that its cushioned construction provided noticeable pressure relief in the back and side-sleeping positions.
Where the Nectar Kids Falls Short
While both sides of the mattress did an excellent job of regulating temperature during her testing, Riley found that the softer side retained more heat, which is something to keep in mind if your child is a hot sleeper.
She also found that the firmer side of the Nectar was only suitable for stomach and back-sleeping, as it offered a ton of support but little in the way of contouring.
Learn more about this model in our full Nectar Kids mattress review. If you are looking for a mattress that offers better pressure relief, consider the Brentwood Home Juniper mattress instead.
Saatva Youth – Best Hybrid 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
Saatva, known for its high-quality mattresses, has designed the Youth specifically to meet the unique needs of growing bodies. This mattress has a flippable design, with one side tailored for younger kids (ages 3 to 7) and the other side ideal for older kids (ages 8 to 12). Like many other Saatva mattresses, this bed earned a 4 out of 5 or higher in edge support and cooling, which is why it is my top pick for the best hybrid mattress for kids.
Cooling (ages 3-7): 4/5
The firmer side of the Saatva Youth only increased by 5.6 degrees on our thermal gun test, indicating great cooling.
Edge Support (ages 3-7): 5/5
On the firmer side, the edges felt very supportive and showed minimal sinkage when sitting and lying down.
Pressure Relief (ages 3-7): 4/5
The firmer side of the Saatva Youth provided solid support and pressure relief for back sleepers, but was too firm for side sleeping.
Cooling (ages 8-12): 4/5
The thermal gun test yielded the same results on both sides of the Saatva Youth.
Edge Support (ages 8-10): 4.5/5
The softer side of the Saatva Youth showed more sinkage around its perimeter, but it was still stable enough to lie on.
Pressure Relief (ages 8-12): 4/5
Both sides of the Saatva Youth offered provided good sinkage and a balanced feel for back and side sleepers.
Why the Saatva Youth Works for Kids
The Saatva Youth impressed all our mattress testers, earning a 5 out of 5 in the edge support category. We were impressed by its medium-firm feel, which provides excellent spinal support, especially for back sleepers. No matter where our team lay on the Saatva, this mattress delivered just the right amount of lumbar support to maintain proper spinal alignment during testing.
“The edges feel very supportive, and there is minimal sinkage when sitting,” said mattress tester Riley Otis. “Parents should have no problem sitting there with their kids to read them a story or tuck them in at night.”
For cooling, the Saatva Youth earned a 4 out of 5, making it a solid option for kids who tend to sleep warm. The mattress felt comfortable and crisp to the touch, according to our testers, with the organic cotton cover contributing to good airflow. The internal coils also facilitate excellent air circulation and prevent heat buildup during the night.
“I could feel it warming up beneath me very slightly,” Riley said. “It wasn’t ever uncomfortable.”
Where the Saatva Youth Falls Short
The only real downside to the Saatva Youth is that it is only available in twin, twin XL, and full sizes. Though, to be fair, it’s a downside shared by nearly all our picks. If you’re concerned about your child or teen quickly outgrowing this mattress, I recommend going with one of the brand’s other offerings to accommodate their changing needs.
Check out our full Saatva Youth mattress review for more information before you buy. If you would prefer a hybrid mattress your child can grow into, I recommend checking out the 5 Little Monkeys Bed, which is also available in a queen-size model.
Bear Cub – Best Cooling Mattress for Kids
Stay tuned for our full review!
The Bear Cub is my top pick for the best cooling mattress for kids because it offers strong enough temperature regulation to cool active kids and help them get better rest. During testing, our team gave the Bear Cub a 4 out of 5 or higher in key categories, including cooling, edge support, and pressure relief.
Cooling: 4.5/5
The Bear Cub excelled on our cooling test, only increasing by 5.9 degrees after lying on it for 5 minutes.
Edge Support: 4.5/5
The perimeter of the Bear Cub barely buckled with us sitting and lying on it.
Pressure Relief: 4.5/5
The Bear Cub’s supportive coils and contouring foam relieves pressure for back and side sleepers.
Why the Bear Cub Works for Kids
Our testers were most impressed with the Bear Cub’s temperature-regulating capabilities, awarding it a near-perfect 4.5 out of 5 in this category. Cooling is another strong point of the Bear Cub, earning it 4 out of 5. Our testers found that the Tencel cover is soft, airy, and hypoallergenic, which is perfect for kids with allergies or sensitive skin. The breathable design helps keep the mattress cool, especially for active sleepers who might run warm.
“Thanks to its breathable Tencel cover and innerspring coils, this bed sleeps cooler than other all-foam models for kids,” said mattress tester Riley Otis. “As I lay there, I didn’t feel like the mattress was heating up beneath me. Although the cover is soft and knit rather than crisp and cool to the touch, I didn’t feel like the foam layers were trapping heat.”
The edge support of the Bear Cub was also impressive, scoring a near-perfect 4.8 out of 5. Our testers were able to lie comfortably on the edge without feeling like they might slide off, which is a key consideration for anyone who likes to spread out or tends to sit on the edge of the bed.
“The perimeter of the Bear Cub feels super strong and the same as the center,” Riley said. “Kids should be able to lie on it without falling off the side. Falling off the bed was a big fear of mine as a kid, so I think this could ease some anxiety if your kid is scared of falling out of their big kid bed, especially if they’re used to a crib with bars.”
Where the Bear Cub Falls Short
Although the mattress scored a 4.8 out of 5 in the pressure relief category, our mattress testing team found that it offered less cushioning for side-sleeping kids. Riley, a lightweight mattress tester, noticed the coils while lying on her side.
“While a child won’t sink as far as I did, I could see side sleepers feeling more pressure as they get older,” Riley said. “However, there’s some good plushness from the cover, which helps cushion the joints and prevent the coils from being felt too much.”
This mattress also has a bit of an off-gassing smell when you first unpack it, but that smell should clear up within 24 to 48 hours.
Think the Bear is the perfect match for your cub? Check out our coupons to find the best deal. If you want to avoid the off-gassing smell altogether, I recommend going with a mattress that offers free white-glove delivery, like the Saatva Youth.
Leesa Kids – Best Soft Mattress for Kids
Stay tuned for our full review!
Is your little one ready to upgrade to something softer and more pressure-relieving? The Leesa Kids mattress is my pick for the best soft mattress for kids because it provides the perfect balance of pressure relief and support for growing children. Our mattress testers awarded the Leesa Kids a 4 out of 5 or higher in the pressure relief and cooling categories.
Cooling: 4/5
The Leesa’s breathable cover layer kept our testers cool and comfortable during testing.
Edge Support: 3.5/5
There was some sinkage along the edges during testing; however, children should be able to lie on it without falling off.
Pressure Relief: 4.5/5
The Leesa Kids offered slightly better pressure relief for back sleepers, though it should still perform well for side sleeping.
Why the Leesa Kids Mattress Works for Kids
When it comes to pressure relief, mattress tester Riley Otis gave the Leesa Kids mattress a strong 4.8 out of 5. Our testers noticed significant pressure relief around the hips and shoulders when lying on their side, which is a great sign for active kids who need relief from pressure points while they sleep.
“The combination of memory foam and aerated foam layers in the Leesa really helps cushion the body without feeling too soft,” said mattress tester Riley Otis. “I felt especially comfortable on my back. If I can feel a combination of plushness and support in this position, I think a kid will too. In fact, they will likely feel great spinal alignment in either position on this mattress.”
In terms of cooling, the Leesa Kids mattress earned a 4 out of 5 as well. Riley performed our cooling test on the Leesa Kids by using a thermal gun to measure its surface temperature before and after lying on it for 5 minutes. During this test, it detected a 7.4-degree increase, which indicates good cooling.
“The cover feels breathable, but the top layers of foam trap a little heat,” Riley said. “Most kids should be fine on the Leesa, but if your child is particularly hot, I would recommend something with a Tencel cover.”
Where the Leesa Kids Falls Short
One downside to consider is that the Leesa Kids mattress is only available in twin and full sizes, so as your child grows and possibly requires a larger bed, you may need to replace it. How quickly you need to replace it will depend on their growth and how much space they need as they enter their teenage years. Still, for younger children, this is a fantastic option for a first big-kid bed that provides a great balance of comfort, support, and safety.
Ready to get the Leesa Kids mattress? Check out our coupons to find the best deal. If you are looking for a similar mattress in a bigger size, check out the Leesa Original instead.
Brooklyn Bedding BB Kids Mattress – Best Budget Mattress for Kids
The Brooklyn Bedding BB Kids Mattress is made with firmer memory foam that should offer an ideal amount support for younger back sleepers and side sleepers. It also has some added touches such as gel memory foam for cooling and a stain-resistant cover.
As with all Brooklyn Bedding products, the BB Kids mattress offers great value, combining features usually seen in higher-end models at a more affordable price point. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be used in bunk beds, dorms, and even RVs. Thanks to its versatility, high-quality materials, and affordable price tag, we crowned it the best budget mattress for kids. We also awarded this mattress a 4.5 out of 5 in the edge support category.
Cooling: 3.5/5
The top layer of the BB Kids got warmer as our testers lay on it, but it didn’t cause them to overheat.
Edge Support: 4.5/5
Despite being a thinner mattress, the BB Kids has a strong and supportive perimeter.
Pressure Relief: 2/5
The BB Kids is supportive enough for stomach and back-sleeping children, but lacks the contouring needed for side sleepers.
Why the BB Kids Mattress Works for Kids
For parents seeking a durable mattress at an affordable price, it does not get much better than the BB Kids. When not on sale, you can get a twin mattress for only $292. Better yet, it often goes on sale for less than $225.
Aside from value, the BB Kids mattress also earned a perfect 4.5 out of 5 in edge support from our testers. The firm feel ensures that, no matter where they lie on the mattress, kids maintain proper spinal alignment throughout the night, especially for stomach and back sleepers who need extra support. We found that the firm high-density memory foam helps keep the spine in healthy alignment, reducing the risk of waking up with aches and pains.
“I don’t feel like I am going to roll off at all,” said one in-house tester. “The edge is really not collapsing while lying down on it. This would be good for kids with bunk beds or for ones that are transitioning out of a crib.”
Where the BB Kids Mattress Falls Short
However, its cooling left a little bit to be desired, earning it a 3.5 out of 5. Since the BB Kids is an all-foam mattress, our testers found that it retained more heat than some of the hybrid designs on this list. For children who sweat a lot during the night, this might be a bit of an issue, as they may feel stuffy in the foam.
“I didn’t feel like it had cooling properties,” said one tester. “The cover has a thick, wool-like feel. I wasn’t unreasonably hot, but this mattress might be an issue for kids who are night sweaters.”
Interested in the BB Kids? See our BB Kids mattress review for more information. If you’re interested in a mattress with better cooling, consider the Nolah Nurture instead.
Birch Kids Mattress – Best Hypoallergenic 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
If you are looking to help your child ward off allergies, buying them a Birch Kids Natural mattress might be a good place to start. The Birch Kids Natural mattress is my pick for the best hypoallergenic mattress for kids because of its organic materials and high-quality construction. This mattress is also good for growing kids, earning a 4 out of 5 or higher in edge support and back-sleeping pressure relief.
Cooling (ages 2-7): 3/5
Both sides of the Birch Kids mattress increased by nearly 11 degrees after lying on them for 5 minutes, which is slightly above average.
Edge Support (ages 2-7): 5/5
Both sides of the Birch Kids offer robust edge support. That said, some sleepers may feel the coils on the firmer side.
Pressure Relief (ages 2-7): 4.5/5
The firmer side of the Birch Kids is ideal for younger kids who need a more supportive surface for spinal alignment.
Cooling (ages 8+): 3/5
The softer side of the Birch Kids retained roughly the same amount of heat as its firmer side.
Edge Support (ages 8+): 5/5
Our testers found that the softer side was just as supportive as the firmer side.
Pressure Relief (ages 8+): 5/5
The softer side of the Birch Kids has a more balanced feel that should offer pressure relief to older kids and some adults.
Why the Birch Kids Mattress Works for Kids
After evaluating the hypoallergenic materials of the Birch Kids Natural, Riley was impressed by how well-made its construction felt, and by the number of certifications it boasts.
“The Birch Kids Natural mattress is GREENGUARD Gold certified,” explains mattress tester Riley Otis. “The natural wool fire barrier, Fair Trade certified organic cotton, and eco-INSTITUT certified latex all contribute to its non-toxic properties and sustainability. Plus, its natural Talalay latex provides a bouncy, responsive feel that allows kids to move freely on the mattress without feeling trapped.”
The Birch’s Talalay latex also helped earn the mattress a 5 out of 5 for edge support. The combination of latex and innerspring coils provides responsive support. The firmer side provides a solid base that promotes proper posture, while the softer side offers enough cushioning for older children.
“Both sides of this mattress are super supportive,” said Riley. “No fear of falling off the mattress here. I think kids can roll around without being afraid of ending up on the floor.”
Both sides of the Birch Kids also impressed our testers in the back-sleeping pressure relief category. Each side scored a 5 out of 5 for the impressive tension-relieving properties in that position. It also delivered for side-sleeping, earning at least a 4 out of 5 on both sides of the mattress.
“I felt comfortable on my back on both sides of the bed,” Riley said. “There is a decent amount of cushioning at my hips and shoulders, and I don’t feel a ton of pressure building anywhere. The foam does a good job filling in my lumbar region and supporting this area, and my spine feels completely straight.”
Where the Birch Kids Mattress Falls Short
While the Birch Kids Natural is a fantastic mattress for parents seeking an organic, fiberglass- free sleep surface, it is a premium option, and its price reflects that. If you are on a budget, you might want to consider one of the more affordable mattresses on this list. However, this is a worthy investment that is healthy, durable, and comfortable for your growing child.
Is the Birch Kids Natural the right choice for your little one? Check out our Helix coupons for the best deal. Are you interested in the Birch Kids Natural but would prefer a larger mattress that your child could grow into? Check out the standard Birch Natural.
5 Little Monkeys Mattress – Best First Big-Kid Mattress
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
The 5 Little Monkeys mattress is my top pick for kids transitioning to their own bed. Our testers immediately noticed how well the memory foam conformed to their bodies and provided them with a soft yet supportive feel. Our in-house team gave it strong scores across the board, including a 4 out of 5 or higher in cooling and edge support.
Cooling: 4/5
Our testers felt the soft cover of the 5 Little Monkeys mattress warm up beneath them, but it wasn’t stuffy or uncomfortable.
Edge Support: 5/5
The perimeter of the 5 Little Monkeys mattress is supportive enough for children and lightweight adults.
Pressure Relief: 4/5
The 5 Little Monkeys offers equal parts cushioning and support, making it a great pressure-relieving option for back and side-sleeping children.
Why the 5 Little Monkeys Mattress Works for Kids
When it comes to cooling, the mattress also earns a 4 out of 5. The gel memory foam helps regulate temperature and prevents overheating, which is especially important for children who might get too warm at night.
“I could feel the mattress getting warmer under my body, but it wasn’t unpleasant,” said mattress tester Sosha Lewis. “The cover still felt cool to my body, so I don’t think it will overheat little kids.”
Mattress tester Riley Otis joined Sosha to test the edge support of the 5 Little Monkeys mattress while lying down and seated along the perimeter. They were impressed by the stable, all-foam construction and awarded it a perfect 5-star score in this category.
“I think the edge support on this bed is super solid, especially for a 10-inch mattress,” Riley said. “When I sat on the side of the bed, I felt completely supported with minimal sinkage.”
The bonus features that come with every purchase, including a mattress protector, pillow, storage tote, and an adorable stuffed monkey, also stood out to our testers. Overall, this soft mattress is a great fit for kids ages 5 to 13 and offers everything you need for a comfortable and safe sleep experience.
Where the 5 Little Monkeys Mattress Falls Short
One thing to note about the 5 Little Monkeys mattress is that our testers noticed a very strong off-gassing smell upon arrival. This smell is common with new foam mattresses as they release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during the unboxing.
While the smell was not overpowering enough to be a dealbreaker, I recommend letting the mattress air out for 24 to 48 hours in a well-ventilated room before adding sheets. Airing it out will help dissipate the odor and ensure a fresh, comfortable sleeping environment for your child.
Want to learn more about the 5 Little Monkeys mattress before you buy? Check out our full 5 Little Monkeys mattress review. If you would prefer a similar mattress that your little ones can grow into, I recommend the Nolah Signature.
Latest Updates: In April 2026, we updated this roundup to reflect our latest hands-on testing notes for each model. We also moved the Nolah Nurture to our runners-up list to keep our top picks as focused and streamlined as possible. Additionally, we refreshed the buyer’s guide to highlight the most important factors to consider when shopping for the best kids’ mattress.
Other Mattresses for Kids I Considered
There were many other mattresses that I considered for this list, and a couple just barely missed the mark. Although they didn’t make it onto the final list, these beds are still great options for your children, depending on their needs.
Nolah Nurture
If your little one suffers from allergies, the Nolah Nurture mattress might be able to help shoo away those sniffles. During testing, the Nolah was one of our favorite hypoallergenic options for kids, thanks to its solid performance in the edge support and pressure relief categories. We ultimately decided to leave the Nolah off our final list because of its higher-than-average price tag (almost $1,000 before discounts).
Brentwood Home Juniper
The Juniper by Brentwood Home is a supportive mattress that uses healthy materials to provide kids with a clean and comfortable sleep environment. The Juniper impressed our certified sleep science coaches in the edge support and pressure relief categories, but fell short during our cooling tests.
How We Picked and Tested the Best Mattresses for Kids
Our team of certified sleep science coaches and in-house mattress testers has spent many hours testing hundreds of mattresses to find the best ones for every type of sleeper, including your kiddos! We use our hands-on experience alongside expert feedback to evaluate all types of mattresses across performance categories such as responsiveness, pressure relief, and cooling to determine which beds can best address your sleep needs.
Learn more about how we decided on the best mattresses for kids below.
Support and Edge Support
A supportive mattress helps you maintain proper spinal alignment and ensures the best sleep possible. The right mattress for your child should keep their body in a neutral position to reduce the risk of aches and pains, particularly if they sleep on their back or stomach.
As Dr. Dasgupta explains, “The wrong mattress can worsen the discomfort in high-pressure areas if it is not supportive enough. If you are shopping for a supportive mattress that can help prevent pressure buildup, look for a model that is medium-firm or medium-soft. These beds are the best at keeping your spine aligned at night.”
This support should also extend to the far reaches of the mattress, which is why we also conduct tests focused on edge support. A sturdy mattress perimeter allows sleepers to lie along the sides of the bed without feeling like they are going to fall off. Edge support is also a good indicator of durability, as a mattress with reinforced edges is less likely to sag over time.
We test support by lying on each mattress and carefully monitoring how well our bodies maintain a neutral alignment. We assess whether the mattress provides a stable structure for the spine, hips, and shoulders, ensuring no body parts sink too deeply.
When testing edge support, we also sit and lie along the sides of the mattress to see how much we sink into it. My fellow mattress testers and I also place three stacked weights (99, 154, and 198 pounds) near the edge to simulate compression for different body types and use a tape measure to record the amount of sinkage under each load.
Pressure Relief
When evaluating how well a mattress relieves pain and tension, we use a specialized mat called a pressure map to render digital thermal images of the areas where pressure builds up on our bodies. Our testers place this mat on the mattress and lie on it in various positions. Next, we evaluate the color-coded thermal image it creates to determine how much pressure side, back, and stomach sleepers should expect to feel on the mattress.
Effective pressure relief is especially important if your child typically sleeps on their side. Side sleepers typically experience more pressure buildup around their shoulders and hips than other sleepers.
Cooling
Many mattress brands boast that their beds have excellent cooling capabilities, so we go out of our way to verify those claims with our thermal gun. A thermal gun is a tool that measures the surface temperature and how quickly and by how much it retains or dissipates body heat. This test allows us to assess each model’s temperature-regulating abilities and determine if it is a fit for hot sleepers.
We take an initial thermal reading of a mattress, and then measure it again after five minutes of lying on it. An increase of 5 to 10 degrees indicates good cooling, 10 to 15 degrees indicates decent cooling, and more than 15 degrees indicates poor cooling.
What to Consider When Buying a Mattress for Kids
Choosing the right mattress for your child comes with considerations that go beyond the price tag. Firmness, durability, and several other factors can impact the quality of their sleep. Here are some additional considerations to keep in mind when buying a mattress for your little one.
Firmness
Firmness is one of the most important factors when selecting a mattress for your child, and it changes as they get older. As they develop, the right firmness can help prevent discomfort and promote healthy posture throughout the night. According to Dr. Raj Dasgupta, the ideal firmness level depends on the child’s age, as their sleep needs change throughout the year.
He says, “These sleep needs include safety, spinal alignment, comfort, and individual preference. From 0 to 3, a firm mattress is ideal for safe sleep in infants and toddlers. Children ages 3 to 7 should have a firm-to-medium-firm bed that promotes proper posture. Kids 8 to 12 may prefer some more softness and cushioning. Once kids reach 12, they may develop their own firmness and feel preferences.”
In general, many sleepers wind up preferring a medium-firm mattress (6.5 out of 10 on the firmness scale) because it offers balanced support and pressure relief.
However, strict side sleepers and people who experience hip and shoulder pain may find medium-firm mattresses uncomfortable. Sleepers in this category often need softer beds (6 or lower on the firmness scale) to provide adequate cushioning and contouring around their pressure points. Meanwhile, stomach sleepers usually need something firmer than 6.5 to keep their spines in a healthy position at night.
Type of Mattress
When buying a mattress for your child, the type of model is an often-overlooked but essential factor to consider. Growing children require a durable, firm sleep surface to support healthy growth and survive everyday use.
A well-built mattress for kids should comfortably support your child through various developmental stages, which is why many parents prefer flippable designs. Mattresses with dual firmness levels (for example, one side designed for 3 to 7 and the other for 8 to 12) can be a smart choice for parents prioritizing longevity. These models adapt to changing needs over time, extending their lifespan and long-term value.
In most cases, kids’ mattresses are either memory foam or hybrid. Both materials can contribute to a firm and supportive feel. That said, hybrid models may have an edge for very active kids or those who tend to sleep hot, as their innerspring coils promote airflow and provide a more responsive, resilient feel.
Allergies, Sensitive Skin, and Third-Party Certifications
Your child may have allergies or sensitive skin, which you should definitely consider when buying them a new mattress. Look for third-party certifications (such as GREENGUARD and GOTS) to ensure the mattress is hypoallergenic and free of harmful chemicals.
“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,” Dr. Dasgupta explains. “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.”
Also, most bed-in-a-box mattresses have 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.
Price and Company Policies
Price is always an important consideration, but when investing in the best mattress for your child, you want to find something that balances affordability with quality. A cheaper mattress may seem appealing in the short term, but investing in a higher-quality mattress can ensure long-lasting durability and better support.
Look for options that offer a good balance of price and features such as quality and sustainability certifications, materials, and comfort, as these elements will contribute to your child’s overall sleep health. Also consider factors like warranties and extended sleep trial periods to ensure that you’re getting good value for your money.
Kid Mattress FAQs
What size mattress is best for kids?
The right size mattress is essential for comfort and support as your child grows. You will want to choose a mattress that suits your child’s current size and age, but also offers room to be future-proof. Standard sizes like twin, full, and twin XL are great options, depending on their needs and bedroom size.
Do kids’ mattresses need a bed frame?
Kids’ mattresses don’t always require a traditional bed frame, but they do need a supportive base like a platform, slatted frame, or even a bunk bed setup to ensure proper support and airflow. Low-profile, kid-friendly frames are often a great choice since they keep the bed closer to the ground for safety while still providing the structure the mattress needs.
Is a memory foam, hybrid, or latex mattress better for kids?
The mattress type may not matter as much as the quality of the materials, whether it’s memory foam, hybrid, or latex. Latex and hybrid beds can be great options for kids thanks to their durability, but no matter the type, you’ll want to make sure the mattress provides consistent support, resists sagging, and helps keep your child’s spine properly aligned.
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 which firmness to stick with, you could also opt for a flippable mattress with multiple firmness levels.
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 better night’s 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 grow (different ages require different levels of firmness). 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.