Best Mattress for Kids

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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

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

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
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
Coming Soon
4.5
Coming Soon
4.4
Coming Soon
4.4
Coming Soon
Coming Soon
3.8
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
Back Sleepers, Back Pain, Stomach Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Couples
Kids,
Back Sleepers,
Side Sleepers,
Hot Sleepers
Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Kids, Hot Sleepers
Kids, Hot Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers,
Kids,
Kids,
Kids,
Side Sleepers

Helix KidsBest Overall Mattress for Kids

Helix
Helix Kids Mattress
Kids Mattress
Stain Resistant
Hypoallergenic
Hybrid mattress
100-night trial on all mattresses
Free shipping on all orders
Cyber Monday Sale – Extended
Save 20% sitewide + 2 FREE pillows with any mattress ($150+ value) See Details
image 1
Material
This is a hybrid mattress, meaning it combines soft foams and sturdy coils for a balance of comfort and support.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
This mattress is available in different firmness options.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$748–$998 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, full
SO Sleeper Type Icons Kids
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
This bed is ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
SO sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleepers
This bed is ideal for lightweight side sleepers.
SO sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleepers
This bed is ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.
Pros
The flippable nature works for numerous sleeping types, meaning it’s great for growing kids.
The mattress uses antimicrobial and hypoallergenic materials.
The Helix Kids has a stain-resistant eco-friendly finish called RUCO-DRI BIO NPE. This makes it a sensible choice for any kids who are potty training.
Cons
While this bed is built for youth, bigger kids such as teenagers or those approaching teenage years may not receive enough support.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
100 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
10-year warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Free refunds after 30 days, as long as it’s still within the 100-night trial period.

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

MaterialHybrid
Price (Twin)$745.33 (before discounts)
ShippingFree shipping
Sleep Trial100 nights
Warranty10-year warranty
Height11.5″

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

What Customers Say

Even though the Helix Kids mattress is designed for ages 3 and up, parents of children as young as 2 have praised the bed on Helix’s website, with many reviews calling out how quickly it allows their little one to fall asleep.

What Parents Say

Parents are overwhelmingly positive about this mattress, giving it an average of 4.6 stars, with many noting how much more comfortable and restful their children sleep on it. They appreciate its softness, high quality, and the ease of transitioning their kids to a new bed, especially for toddlers.

“My child loves this bed and says it’s super comfy. She immediately fell asleep the very first night, and said the next morning it’s like sleeping on a pile of super fluffy stuffed animals”

Kenari Y, Verified Buyer

“Perfect mattress to transition toddler out of crib! VERY comfortable and my son loves it, as do it! It’s hard to get up when I’m laying on it!”

Alexandra R, Verified Buyer

Pros of the Helix Kids Mattress

  • The flippable nature works for a wide range of sleeping types, which is important for kids who are always growing and changing.
  • The mattress is made of antimicrobial and hypoallergenic materials — a definite plus if your child struggles with allergies.
  • The Helix Kids is resistant to stains and water, thanks to a special eco-friendly finish called RUCO-DRI BIO NPE. This makes it a sensible choice for any kids who are potty training.

Cons of the Helix Kids Mattress

  • While this bed is built for youth, bigger kids such as teenagers or those approaching teenage years may not receive enough support.

Helix Company Information

Customer Information
Payment Options

Helix offers several forms of payment on their website through Visa, Master Card, Discover, American Express as well as Google Pay, PayPal, Shop Pay, and Amazon Pay. You can also finance their mattresses through the Affirm financing program.

Helix also offers a 30 percent off site-wide + two free pillows discount to military members, first responders, students and teachers.

Think the Helix Kids is the mattress for your child? Click here for our best deal. Still exploring? Take a look at some of the other best mattresses of 2024

Nectar – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Kids

Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.5
Nectar
Nectar Mattress
Medium-Firm
Cooling Cover and Foam
CertiPUR-US Certified
Memory Foam
365-night trial and lifetime warranty
Free shipping
Winter Flash Sale
Save up to 50% on mattresses & up to 66% on bundles See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
Memory Foam
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
We rated the Nectar as a 6.5 out of 10, meaning it’s the industry standard for medium firm
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$931–$2,121 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
If you sleep on your back, the Nectar will provide a nice mix of cushioning and support.
SO Sleeper Type Icons BudgetShoppers
Budget Shoppers
This affordable mattress is a great pick for those looking to save.
SO sleeper type stomach sleepers
The Nectar is that rare foam mattress that’s supportive enough for stomach sleepers, and should keep their hips aligned with their shoulders.
Pros of the Nectar
The Nectar offers a balanced feel, with contouring and support in equal measure.
Back sleepers should feel supported, but pleasantly cushioned on the Nectar.
Couples shouldn’t be too disturbed by movement, as the Nectar isolates motion well.
Cons of the Nectar
The Nectar isn’t supportive enough to be one of the best mattresses for heavy sleepers, which accommodate folks weighing 250 pounds or more. While heavy side sleepers might be comfortable, heavy back sleepers with chronic pain will need something softer and heavy stomach sleepers will probably need something firmer.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
365 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Full refund and free returns within the 365-night trial period

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

MaterialMemory foam
Price (Twin)$1,063 (before discounts)
ShippingFree shipping
Sleep Trial365 nights
WarrantyLifetime warranty
Height12″

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

What Customers Say

On Nectar’s website, there are over 55,000 reviews, with an average user rating of 4.7 out of 5. Across the board, customers talk about how much they love the bed’s pressure-relieving abilities.

What Parents Say

Parents love this Nectar mattress because of its affordability and high-quality support it offers. It also has a flippable construction designed to increase longevity in your child’s bed. The bed also has a removable, machine-washable cover that will give you peace of mind if your younger kids going through toilet training or might have spills on the mattress.

“A MUST HAVE MATTRESS! A high quality bed for an affordable price. I didn’t want to invest in an expensive mattress considering how fast my kids grow so this was the perfect match. My kids sleep way better now, it’s so soft and the quality of it is incredible.”

Lola H, Verified Buyer

Pros of the Nectar Mattress

  • The Nectar should provide the necessary balanced feel for kiddos who sleep on their backs.
  • Sleepers who get too hot at night should find relief on this mattress, as it has better-than-average cooling abilities than most memory foam beds.
  • The memory foam layers should contour nicely to pressure points at the shoulders and hips, although kids might experience the mattress as a little firmer than adults. For extra pressure relief, parents should consider purchasing one of the best mattress toppers.

Cons of the Nectar Mattress

  • The Nectar mattress might not provide enough support for heavier stomach sleepers. They should look elsewhere.

Nectar Company Information

Customer Service Information

Hours of Operation:

  • 9 a.m.–9 p.m. EST, Monday to Sunday

Contact Information:

Phone: 888-728-2885
Email: support@saatva.com
Live Chat: Available on their website

Showrooms:

  • Visit their website for showroom locations.
Payment Options

Nectar accepts a variety of payment methods, including PayPal, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover, and offers financing options through Klarna.

Additionally, Nectar provides a 5 percent discount for military members.

Think the Nectar is the mattress for you? Click here for our best deal or check out our full Nectar mattress review. Still not sold? Take a look at some of the other best memory foam mattresses.

Bear Cub – Best Budget Mattress for Kids 

Bear
Bear Cub
Responsive Foam, Coils
Hypoallergenic
CertiPUR-US Certified
Hybrid mattress
120 nights
Free shipping
December Deals
Use code DEAL30 for 30% off = two free pillows See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
This is a hybrid mattress, meaning it combines soft foams and sturdy coils for a balance of comfort and support.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$695–$845 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, full
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
A good match for people who sleep hot, thanks to a Tencel cover and breathable coils.
SO Sleeper Type Icons Kids
This mattress was designed to accommodate children as they grow.
Pros of the Bear Cub
It’s made from hypoallergenic materials that aren’t likely to aggravate your kid’s allergies.
You can usually find a twin for under $700 before discounts, making it an excellent value option.
It’s available in two different colors: salmon and arctic blue.
Cons of the Bear Cub
It’s only available in twin and full sizes.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free Shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
120 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
If you return within the 120-night trial period, you can get a full refund.

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

MaterialHybrid
Price (Twin)$695 (before discounts)
ShippingFree shipping
Sleep Trial120 nights
WarrantyLifetime warranty
Height8.5″

What Customers Say

As a brand, many reviewers on Bear’s website have said how much they love these mattresses for their family. One parent even stated that, true to the bed’s name, it has their kids “sleeping like bear cubs”.

What Parents Say

Parents generally love the Bear Cub, giving it an average of 4.7 stars with many highlighting its comfort, softness, and quality. Several mention that their children, sleep soundly and enjoy the mattress, even describing it as more comfortable than adult mattresses. One parent noted that while the mattress is a bit too soft for their preference, the overall quality is still impressive.

“I got the Cub mattress for my grandniece, who was moving up from her toddler bed. According to her mother, the mattress is awesome and made with great quality. My grandniece has been sleeping really well on her new mattress. Thank you!”

Maria M, Verified Buyer

“A little too soft, but overall great quality and gives a hugging feel. “

Cassandra W, Verified Buyer

Pros of the Bear Cub Mattress

  • It’s available in two colors for kids to choose from: arctic blue and salmon.
  • You can get the mattress as either a twin or full, depending on your child’s size.
  • This bed is cooling and breathable, so kids shouldn’t overheat at night.

Cons of the Bear Cub Mattress

  • There might be a slight off-gassing smell when you first unpack this bed-in-a-box mattress, but it should dissipate within 24–48 hours. Read more about off-gassing here.

Bear Company Information

Customer Service Information

All forms of contact are available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST.

Payment Options

Bear offers payment through most major credit card companies like Visa, Master Card, American Express, and Discover. They also offer payments through PayPal, Google Pay, Venmo, and Shop Pay. If you’re interested in paying in installments, they also offer financing options through Affirm and Shop Pay financing programs.

If you’re a military member, first responder, healthcare professional or teacher, you can get 40 percent off  on all Bear products.

Think the Bear is the mattress for your child? Click here for our best deal, and stay tuned for our full Bear Cub mattress review. Still not sold? Take a look at some of the other best cheap mattresses for buyers on a budget.

Brooklyn Bedding Essential – Best Mattress for Stomach-Sleeping Kids

Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.4
Brooklyn Bedding
Brooklyn Bedding Essential
Medium-Firm Comfort
Affordable
Supportive
Hybrid
120 nights
Free shipping
Winter Clearance
Use code WINTER25 and save 25% off sitewide See Details
image 1
Material
This is a hybrid, meaning it is made of one layer of foam and one layer of springs.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
We rated this mattress a 6.5 out of 10, making a medium firm mattress.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$532-$1,132 (before any discounts)
size
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
Back sleepers should find that the Brooklyn Bedding Essential provides a pleasant mix of comfort and support.
SO sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleepers
Light to average weight stomach sleepers should find the Essential supportive enough to keep their hips propped up to maintain spinal alignment.
SO sleeper type couples
Couples
A responsive feel, sturdy edge support, and good motion isolation work well for couples on this bed.
Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Essential
Hybrid mattresses tend to be supportive and comfortable.
The coil construction keeps the bed cool.
This is a budget-friendly mattress.
Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Essential
This is a very basic mattress, so shoppers looking for a luxurious option may prefer one of the best luxury mattresses.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
120 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
10-year warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
You can return your bed after the 30-day “break-in” period and before the trial period ends for a full refund.

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

MaterialHybrid
Price (Twin)$532 (before discounts)
ShippingFree shipping
Sleep Trial120 nights
Warranty10-year warranty
Height11″

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

What Customers Say

Customers generally appreciate the Brooklyn Bedding Essential mattress for its great value, comfort, and supportive feel, especially for those looking for an affordable yet high quality option. Many customers highlight its firm support and ability to improve sleep quality, though a few mention that it might be a bit too firm for some preferences.

What Parents Say

Parents are very satisfied with the Brooklyn Bedding Essential mattress for their kids, giving it an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars. They mention loving its comfort, quality, and value. Many mention that it provides strong support for fast-growing children, with some noting that it’s soft enough for younger kids, but still offers solid support for older, more active sleepers, making it an excellent choice for kids’ rooms.

“Got these for my kids. Surprised how comfy they are. I fall asleep putting them to bed. Great mattress for the price.”

Stacy S, Verified Buyer

“With the old mattresses my kids would move to the floor but now I’ll tell the kiddos to go clean there room and I’ll find them sleeping actually in there beds since I’ve purchased! Definitely a win for mom”

Erin B, Verified Buyer

Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Essential Mattress

  • Overall, the combination of comfort and support could also be a solid match for kids who sleep on their backs, since the coils and pressure-relieving foam work to create that balance.
  • With coils that promote airflow and breathability, kids who sleep hot shouldn’t overheat.
  • The Essential is available in sizes that go all the way up to a California king, so you can opt for a larger size that will accommodate your child into adulthood.

Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Essential Mattress

  • This bed is likely too firm and will create too much pressure for lightweight side sleepers.

Brooklyn Bedding Company Information

Customer Service Information
Payment Options

Brooklyn Bedding accepts payments from Visa, Master Card, American Express, Discover, Shop Pay, Google Pay, and PayPal. They also offer financing options through the Affirm and Shop Pay financing programs.

Brooklyn Bedding also offers 30 percent off and free shipping on all orders for military members, first responders, medical providers, educators, and students.

Think the Brooklyn Bedding Essential is the mattress for your children? Click here for our best deal or check out our full Brooklyn Bedding Essential mattress review. Still not sold? Take a look at some of the other best mattresses for stomach sleepers

Nolah Nurture – Best Hypoallergenic Mattress for Kids

Nolah
Nolah Nurture Mattress
Winter Sale
35% off all mattresses + 2 free pillows See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
This is a hybrid, meaning it is made of one layer of foam and one layer of springs.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$919–$1,224
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full
SO Sleeper Type Icons Kids
Kids
The mattress was designed especially with kids in mind, with a firm side for when they’re younger and a softer side for when they age.
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
The layer of springs in the middle of the bed give the Nolah Nurture an airy feel that should assist with temperature regulation.
Pros of the Nolah Nurture
It’s available in three different kid-friendly sizes: twin, twin XL, and full.
The mattress is GREENGUARD Gold certified.
It’s constructed with CertiPUR-US certified foam.
Cons of the Nolah Nurture
Before discounts, the Nolah Nurture is pricier than several of the other mattresses on this list.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
120 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Free returns within the trial period

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

MaterialHybrid
Price (Twin)$919 (before discounts)
ShippingFree shipping
Sleep Trial120 nights
WarrantyLifetime warranty
Height8″

What Customers Say

Although the Nurture doesn’t currently have any reviews posted on the Nolah website, commenters have said that the brand’s other beds feel similar to high-end hotel mattresses.

What Parents Say

Parents love the Nolah Nurture mattress for their kids, giving it an average of 4.7 out of 5. Several of them state that it has the perfect balance of comfort and support. Many reviews also highlight its soft, plush feel that helps their children sleep soundly, while praising it’s hypoallergenic and free from harmful chemicals, which is a big plus for parents concerned about safety. Additionally, some parents praise its durability, mentioning that it holds up well with active children.

“I bought the Nolah Nurture mattress for my daughter, and I couldn’t be happier with the purchase. The mattress is so soft yet supportive, and she sleeps through the night without any issues. It’s also been holding up really well after 6 months, even with her jumping on it! Highly recommend it for any parent looking for a high-quality, safe mattress for their child.”

Laura P, Verified Buyer

Pros of the Nolah Nurture Mattress

  • The Nolah Nurture is made with all-natural GOTS-certified wool and an organic cotton cover, making it both safe and biodegradable.
  • Wool naturally helps regulate temperature, plus the bed’s coils help promote airflow. Both of these traits should help the Nolah Nurture sleep cool.
  • It’s available as a twin, twin XL, and full, so you can choose whichever size best suits your child.

Cons of the Nolah Nurture Mattress

  • Since the latest model of the Nolah Nurture is still fairly new, there aren’t any customer testimonials for the bed on the brand’s website, as of this writing.

Nolah Company Information

Customer Information
  • Phone: 866-403-6615, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. CST, Monday–Friday
  • Email: support@nolahmattress.com, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. CST, Monday–Friday
  • Live chat: Available 8 a.m.–5 p.m. CST, Monday–Friday
  • View showrooms: Store locator
Payment Options

Nolah accepts payments from Visa, Master Card, American Express, Discover, Google Pay, Amazon Pay, PayPal, and Shop Pay. They also offer financing through Affirm’s financing program.

Nolah does not offer any additional discounts for groups of people.

Think the Nolah Nurture is the mattress for your kid? Click here for our best deal, and keep a lookout our full Nolah Natural mattress review. You can find additional options in our roundup of the best hypoallergenic mattresses.

Saatva Youth – Best Non-Toxic Mattress for Kids

Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.4
Saatva
Saatva Youth Mattress
Medium-Firm Feel
Designed for Kids 3–12
Flippable Design
Hybrid
365 nights
Free white glove delivery
2-Day Holiday Weekend Sale
Save up to $600 See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
This is a hybrid mattress, meaning it combines soft foams and sturdy coils for a balance of comfort and support.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
The Saatva Youth is unique in that it has two sides, each with a different level of firmness and meant for a different age group. Each group is likely to experience their respective side as a medium-firm 6.5 out of 10.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$795–$1,055 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full
SO Sleeper Type Icons Kids
Kids
This mattress was designed for younger sleepers, and they can flip the bed as they grow.
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you ever overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SO sleeper type stomach sleepers
Stomach Sleepers
The Saatva Youth is supportive enough to prevent lightweight stomach sleepers’ hips from bowing into the mattress.
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
Lightweight back sleepers should get enough support for a neutral spinal alignment.
Pros of the Saatva Youth
It’s supportive while providing enough pressure relief for younger sleepers
The flippable design caters to a wide range of ages
There are several cooling features, including airflow-promoting coils and a soft and breathable cover
Cons of the Saatva Youth
Due to its kid-friendly design, the Saatva Youth isn’t going to be supportive enough for most adults. For options that can support grownups, see our roundup of the best mattresses.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping and white glove delivery
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
365 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Free returns after at least 45 days and within the 365-night trial period

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

MaterialHybrid
Price (Twin)$795 (before discounts)
ShippingFree white glove delivery
Sleep Trial365 nights
WarrantyLifetime warranty
Height12″

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

What Customers Say

The Saatva Youth is fairly new and currently only has 40 reviews on the Saatva website. But they nearly all have a perfect five-star score, with parents praising its sturdiness and how much their kids love it. A couple of them said that while it’s expensive, the higher price is worth it.

What Parents Say

Parents tend to love Saatva Youth mattress, giving it an average of 4.8 out of 5. Several reviews mention that it helps kids sleep through the night for the first time, and many repeat customers appreciate the mattress’s comfort and durability, noting it works well as their children grow. The ease of ordering and excellent customer service are also frequently praised, making it a highly recommended choice for parents looking for a reliable mattress for their kids.

“My daughter loves her new mattress. The service and delivery were on time, professional and excellent.”

ALN, Verified Buyer

“I purchased this for my daughter’s birthday (2nd) and it’s the first time she’s slept the whole night through! She was previously in her crib, but would wake up during the night, but after purchasing the Youth Mattress she’s been sleeping soundly the whole night though!!”

Jonathan, Verified Buyer

Pros of the Saatva Youth Mattress

  • As with all Saatva mattresses, the Saatva Youth comes with free white glove delivery. That means the company sends someone to deliver your mattress and set it up right in your child’s bedroom.
  • The Saatva Youth comes with a number of impressive features and quality materials, yet still costs less than most adult mattresses.
  • This mattress has a breathable cotton cover and coils for airflow, so it should appeal to kids who sleep hot.

Cons of the Saatva Youth Mattress

  • Unfortunately, the Saatva Youth is not available in king or queen sizes. So, if you’re looking for a large model, I’d suggest searching elsewhere.

Saatva Company Information

Customer Service Information

Hours of Operation:

  • 9 a.m.–9 p.m. EST, Monday to Sunday

Contact Information:

Phone: 888-728-2885
Email: support@saatva.com
Live Chat: Available on their website

Showrooms:

  • Visit their website for showroom locations.
Payment Options

Saatva accepts a variety of payment methods, including PayPal, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover, and offers financing options through Klarna.

Additionally, Saatva provides a 10 percent discount for military members.

Think the Saatva Youth is the mattress for you? Click here for our best deal or check out our full Saatva Youth mattress review. More non-toxic options can be found in our roundup of the best latex mattresses.

Leesa KidsBest First Big-Kid Bed

Leesa
Leesa Kids
December Deals
20% off mattresses + 2 free pillows See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Memory Foam
This is an all-foam bed, meaning there are no springs in the construction.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$424–$599
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, full
SO Sleeper Type Icons Kids
Kids
The mattress was designed especially with kids in mind, with a medium-firm feel that should accommodate your child as they grow.
Pros of the Leesa Kids
It’s one of the more affordable kids’ options.
The mattress is GREENGUARD Gold certified.
It’s constructed with CertiPUR-US certified foam.
Cons of the Leesa Kids
It only comes in two sizes, so it might not accommodate children as they become teenagers.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
100 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
10-year warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Free returns after day 30 of the trial period

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

MaterialMemory foam
Price (Twin)$499 (before discounts)
ShippingFree shipping
Sleep Trial100 nights
Warranty10-year warranty
Height7.5″

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.”

ALN, Verified Buyer

“Goood quality, good price”

Karen C, Verified Buyer

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.

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

Birch
Birch Kids Natural
Organic Materials
Flippable
Hypoallergenic
Latex
100 nights
Free Shipping
Cyber Monday Sale
Use code SLEEPOPOLIS27 for 27% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase See Details
image 1
Material
Made of Latex, which is bouncy, breathable, natural, and hypoallergenic.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$750 – $936
size
Size
Twin and Full
SO Sleeper Type Icons Kids
Kids
This mattress is made specially for kids.
Pros
The bed is flippable, which is perfect for growing and changing bodies.
The bed has various firmness options because it is flippable.
Hypoallergenic.
Cons
Expensive compared to other kids mattresses.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
100 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
25-year warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
You can return your bed after the 30-day “break-in” period and anytime before the 100-night sleep trial ends for a full refund.

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

MaterialLatex hybrid
Price (Twin)$998.66 (before discounts)
ShippingFree shipping
Sleep Trial100 nights
Warranty 25-year warranty
Height8″

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

What Customers Say

On Birch’s website, customers have praised the Birch Kids Natural for being supportive and sturdy. Several folks have also mentioned that the bed made for easy cleanup after their child had an accident.

What Parents Say

Parents are very satisfied with the Birch Kids mattress, giving it an average of 4.4 out of 5, often praising its quality and the peace of mind that comes with knowing their children are sleeping on a mattress made from natural, non-toxic materials. Many parents mentioned in their reviews how comfortable the mattress is, with one even noting they loved it so much they bought a plush version for themselves. The investment in safe, high-quality ingredients is frequently highlighted, and several reviewers express their intention to buy more Birch mattresses in the future.

“This mattress is so freaking comfortable. We bought the kids mattress for our daughter and it’s so nice we ordered the plush one for ourselves. Worth the investment for the safe materials and quality.”

Erin C, Verified Buyer

“Very good mattress and customer service I love it. We have 3 now in the house and we will buy more.”

Kamila D, Verified Buyer

Pros of the Birch Kids Natural Mattress

  • Flippable beds are great for growing children because as kids develop and their bodies change, you can flip to the side of the mattress that suits them best.
  • The same flippable aspect that makes this bed great for growing kids also makes it great for every sleeping position, since kids can choose which firmness is more comfortable to them.
  • This mattress is hypoallergenic, so it should be fantastic option for kids with allergies.

Cons of the Birch Kids Natural Mattress

  • This is another somewhat pricey option. If you’re a budget shopper, you might want to opt for one of the other picks on this list.

Helix Company Information

Customer Service Information
Payment Options

Helix offers several forms of payment on their website through Visa, Master Card, Discover, American Express as well as Google Pay, PayPal, Shop Pay, and Amazon Pay. You can also finance their mattresses through the Affirm financing program.

Helix also offers a 30 percent off site-wide + two free pillows discount to military members, first responders, students and teachers.

Think the Birch Kids Natural is the mattress for your kids? Click here for our best deal. Still not sold? Take a look at some of the other best organic mattresses

5 Little Monkeys – Best Mattress for Side-Sleeping Kids

Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
3.8
5 Little Monkeys
5 Little Monkeys Mattress
Holiday Sale
Save $438 on mattresses + bundles + 15% off everything else See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
This is an all-foam mattress, although the brand does make a hybrid model, too.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$1,106–$1,675
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, full, queen
SO Sleeper Type Icons Kids
Kids
The mattress was designed especially with kids in mind, with a soft yet supportive feel.
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
While all-foam beds tend to retain heat, we found the construction here to be breathable and temperature-regulating.
Pros of the 5 Little Monkeys
The foams start off soft, then transition to firmer support foam below.
The mattress is designed to support kids aged 5–13.
It’s constructed with CertiPUR-US certified foam.
Cons of the 5 Little Monkeys
This is a very expensive kids’ mattress, with the larger sizes comparable to adult beds in price.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
100 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
15-year warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Free returns

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

MaterialMemory foam
Price (Queen)$499 (before discounts)
ShippingFree shipping
Sleep Trial100 nights
Warranty15-year warranty
Height8″

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

What Customers Say

Out of 770 customer reviews, 733 grant this bed 5 stars. Many parent review admit to now preferring their child’s bed over their own because it’s just that comfortable.

What Parents Say

Parents mostly have positive reviews of the 5 Little Monkeys mattress, particularly appreciating its comfort and suitability for young children. Many say in their reviews that their kids sleep soundly and comfortably, with some mentioning that the mattress is soft yet supportive, making it ideal for growing children. Parents also appreciate the mattress’s non-toxic, hypoallergenic materials, which provide peace of mind regarding safety. Additionally, the mattress is often praised for its durability, with several reviewers commenting that it holds up well despite active kids jumping on it.

“Let’s just say since getting her big girl bed and comfy comforter she sleeps through the night and doesn’t hurry to get out of her bed in the morning. Love that it’s also organic and less toxic.”

Angel R, Verified Buyer

“Just got this bed for my 3 year old son and it’s the perfect firmness. Not too soft but not too firm. I end up falling asleep in it all the time not trying to!”

Kate H, Verified Buyer

Pros of the 5 Little Monkeys Mattress

  • The soft layers of foam make this bed great for children who sleep on their side.
  • This mattress is available in twin and full sizes, so kids have plenty of room to grow.
  • With a 15-year warranty, this mattress should last your child through their youth.

Cons of the 5 Little Monkeys Mattress

  • Some customers have noticed a very strong off-gassing smell when the mattress arrives. I recommend letting the mattress air out for 24–48 hours in a well-ventilated room before adding sheets.

5 Little Monkeys Company Information

Customer Service Information
  • Phone: Available 8 a.m.–5 p.m. PST, Monday to Friday at 844-325-5555
  • Email: info@5littlemonkeysbed.com or fill out their contact form
Payment Options

5 Little Monkeys offers several forms of payment on their website through Visa, Master Card, Discover, and American Express, as well as Google Pay, PayPal, Shop Pay, and Amazon Pay. You can also finance their mattresses through Shop Pay and the Affirm financing program.

Interested in the 5 Little Monkeys mattress? Click here for the best deal or read our full review.

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.

SO GeneralMattressGraphics Kids

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.

Sleepopolis testing of mattress materials
Taking a closer look at the different mattress materials.

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 resized headshot
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

An example of our cooling test
Thermal gun results.

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.

When testing mattresses, we test firmness on a firmness scale from 1-10.
Sleepopolis mattress firmness scale.

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.”

Dr Raj resized headshot
Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. Quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine

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.

Nichole feeling the cover of the Emma Hybrid Cooling Elite
Nichole feeling the cover of the Emma Hybrid Cooling Elite.

Easy Steps to Clean a Mattress

Cleaning a mattress can be straightforward if you follow these four easy steps:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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

Nichole doing the yardstick test on the Novaform ComfortGrande Advanced Gel Memory Foam Mattress
Nichole measuring the edge support of the Novaform ComfortGrande Advanced Gel Memory Foam mattress.

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

sweetnight prime side sleeper

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.

You can click here to learn more about our methodology.

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

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

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