Written by Bridget Chapman, Senior Product Editor
Shopping for the best mattress for kids might seem like a simple process, but there’s actually quite a lot you should keep in mind. Sleep habits may vary between children of all ages. You might also need to make sure the bed is big and supportive enough to foster healthy growth. Luckily, we’ve got you covered in this guide, where we’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, we had to take a variety of testing factors into consideration since kids’ bodies are always growing. We couldn’t just rely on which mattresses might be comfortable for lightweight sleepers; we 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.
Our Top Pick for Kids
Helix is at the top of our list since the brand’s Kids mattress has many important benefits for growing children, including being hypoallergenic and having a flippable design. That means there are different firmness levels fit for different ages.
Best Mattresses for Kids
- Helix Kids – Best Overall Mattress for Kids
- Saatva Youth – Best Non-Toxic Mattress for Kids
- Nectar – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Kids
- Plank Firm – Best Firm Mattress for Kids
- Nolah Natural – Best Hypoallergenic Mattress for Kids
- Bear – Best Mattress for Active Kids
- Leesa – Best Mattress for Combination-Sleeping Kids
- Brooklyn Bedding Bowery – Best Mattress for Stomach-Sleeping Kids
- Birch Kids Natural – Best Organic Mattress for Kids
- Layla Hybrid – Best Hybrid Mattress for Kids
- Nest Puffin – Best First Big-Kid Bed
- Puffy Cloud – Best Mattress for Back-Sleeping Kids
Best Mattress for Kids Video
Compare Best Mattresses For Kids
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| Helix Kids Mattress | Saatva Youth Mattress | Nectar Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress | Nolah Natural Mattress | Bear Mattress | Leesa Original Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding Bowery Mattress | Birch Kids Natural | Layla Hybrid Mattress | Puffin Mattress | Puffy Cloud Mattress | |
| Rating | ||||||||||||
| Firmness | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Soft: 6/10 | Multiple firmness options | Soft: 6/10 | Medium-firm: 7/10 | Soft: 5.5/10 | Soft: 5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Soft: 6/10 | Soft: 6/10 |
| Material | Hybrid | Innerspring | Foam | Foam | Latex | Foam | Foam | Foam | Latex | Hybrid | Foam | Foam |
| Cooling | ✓ | ✓ | -- | -- | ✓ | ✓ | -- | -- | -- | ✓ | -- | -- |
| Sleep Position | Combination | Back & Stomach | Back & Side | Back & Stomach | Combination | Back & Side | Combination | Back & Stomach | -- | Combination | Combination | Back & Side |
Helix Kids – Best Overall Mattress for Kids
Helix Kids Mattress
The Helix Kids is a non-toxic, flippable mattress, fit for kids between the ages of three and 12.
Read Helix Kids Mattress Review
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 Nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Kids Mattress
The Helix Kids is a non-toxic, flippable mattress, fit for kids between the ages of three and 12.
Read Helix Kids Mattress Review
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 Nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Helix Kids Mattress
The Helix Kids is a non-toxic, flippable mattress, fit for kids between the ages of three and 12.
Read Helix Kids Mattress Review
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
100 Nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Expert Opinion
When selecting the best mattresses for kids, we wanted to pay special attention to quality materials, adequate pressure relief for growing pains, and overall durability for long-lasting support. We 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. It’s 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.
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, 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.
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.
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 2023.
Saatva Youth – Best Non-Toxic Mattress for Kids
Saatva Youth Mattress
The Saatva Youth is specifically designed for kids and young teens, and has a medium-firm feel that back sleepers will love.
Material
Innerspring
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Youth Mattress
The Saatva Youth is specifically designed for kids and young teens, and has a medium-firm feel that back sleepers will love.
Material
Innerspring
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Youth Mattress
The Saatva Youth is specifically designed for kids and young teens, and has a medium-firm feel that back sleepers will love.
Material
Innerspring
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
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, we 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. And best of all? 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.
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, senior product editor
What Customers Say
The Saatva Youth is fairly new and currently only has 14 reviews on the Saatva website. But they 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.
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, we’d suggest searching elsewhere.
Think the Saatva Youth is the mattress for you? Click here for our best deal or check out our full Saatva Youth mattress review.
Nectar – Best Memory Foam Mattress for Kids
The Nectar is a nice option for kids because it has a firmer-than-average feel that should offer most growing bodies adequate support. It also sleeps pretty cool, thanks to a gel infusion in its foam layer. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. I dreaded paying for a new mattress but my old one was 15 years old…buying a Nectar was the best choice I could have made! It is so comfortable and didn’t cost an arm and a leg. I would absolutely recommend this mattress to anyone!
The Nectar is a nice option for kids because it has a firmer-than-average feel that should offer most growing bodies adequate support. It also sleeps pretty cool, thanks to a gel infusion in its foam layer. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. I dreaded paying for a new mattress but my old one was 15 years old…buying a Nectar was the best choice I could have made! It is so comfortable and didn’t cost an arm and a leg. I would absolutely recommend this mattress to anyone!
The Nectar is a nice option for kids because it has a firmer-than-average feel that should offer most growing bodies adequate support. It also sleeps pretty cool, thanks to a gel infusion in its foam layer. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. I dreaded paying for a new mattress but my old one was 15 years old…buying a Nectar was the best choice I could have made! It is so comfortable and didn’t cost an arm and a leg. I would absolutely recommend this mattress to anyone!
Nectar Mattress
Material
Foam
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Nectar Mattress
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
Nectar Mattress
Material
Foam
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
Financing Options
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, we found the Nectar achieved both of these feats. And it does all of this while combatting the trapping of body heat with cooling gel-infused foams.
Nectar is also one of the mattresses we tested for adults. Part of our testing involves spreading something called a pressure map 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, we saw little to no pressure while back sleeping and side sleeping. This tells us that it’s an excellent choice for pain relief while sleeping in those positions.
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.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
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.
Pros of the Nectar Mattress
- The Nectar should provide the necessary balanced feel for kiddos who sleep on their backs.
- 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.
- For a twin, the Nectar runs under $600 even before sales and discounts. This makes it a true budget mattress — high in quality, but not in cost.
Cons of the Nectar Mattress
- We don’t think the Nectar is supportive enough for stomach sleepers. They should look elsewhere.
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.
Plank Firm – Best Firm Mattress for Kids
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
The Plank mattress is an all-foam, flippable mattress with a firm side and an extra-firm side, which makes it great for both back sleepers and stomach sleepers. Both sides of the mattress should provide stomach sleepers with the right amount of support needed, while back sleepers will be happiest on the firm side.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
This is my 4th foam mattress. Lasting firmness is one of the challenges I have come across with the mattresses. This is the most firm I have purchased and after a few weeks, I am still happy.
Ray, Brooklyn Bedding customerBrooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
The Plank mattress is an all-foam, flippable mattress with a firm side and an extra-firm side, which makes it great for both back sleepers and stomach sleepers. Both sides of the mattress should provide stomach sleepers with the right amount of support needed, while back sleepers will be happiest on the firm side.
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
This is my 4th foam mattress. Lasting firmness is one of the challenges I have come across with the mattresses. This is the most firm I have purchased and after a few weeks, I am still happy.
Ray, Brooklyn Bedding customer
Brooklyn Bedding Plank Firm Mattress
The Plank mattress is an all-foam, flippable mattress with a firm side and an extra-firm side, which makes it great for both back sleepers and stomach sleepers. Both sides of the mattress should provide stomach sleepers with the right amount of support needed, while back sleepers will be happiest on the firm side.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
This is my 4th foam mattress. Lasting firmness is one of the challenges I have come across with the mattresses. This is the most firm I have purchased and after a few weeks, I am still happy.
Ray, Brooklyn Bedding customerExpert Opinion
The Plank Firm’s construction isn’t just firm and durable — it’s a great perk for growing kids and teens, helping to keep their spines aligned and supported. And as an additional touch, the mattress is flippable, allowing kids to flip over the mattress so it fits their sleep needs as they develop. There’s a firm side and an extra-firm side, which is suited to most back and stomach sleepers.
This is another bed that’s also a good fit for adults. When we tested it out, we felt adequately supported on both sides of the mattress. However, make no mistake — this is an incredibly firm mattress, so any grown-ups looking for that classic memory foam feel (i.e. side sleepers) may not be completely comfortable on the Plank Firm.
What our tester says: “The Plank Firm truly caters to those after a firm feel. Whether it’s the firm side or the ultra-firm side, this mattress keeps you lifted up and cushioned while promoting spinal alignment.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
What Customers Say
On the Plank Firm’s website, the mattress has an average user rating of 4.8 out of 5. Customers praise both sides of the mattress, depending on their sleeping preference, and quite a few of them have said they enjoy the optional cooling panel. But keep in mind that it comes at an extra charge.
Pros of the Plank Firm Mattress
- The Plank Firm does a nice job keeping hot sleepers cool due to its gel memory foam and pocketed coils.
- Even through body changes, the Plank Firm can support sleepers of every body type. So it should last your kid all the way until they’re a teenager and — if you opt for a queen size — through adulthood.
- As it’s extremely responsive, the Plank Firm is bouncy enough to help combination-sleeping kids change sleeping positions throughout the night.
Cons of the Plank Firm Mattress
- Side-sleeping kids may not receive sufficient pressure relief, as the Plank Firm is an incredibly firm mattress.
Think the Plank Firm is the best option for your child? Click here for our best deal or check out our full Plank Firm mattress review. Still not sold? Take a look at some of the other best firm mattresses.
Nolah Natural – Best Hypoallergenic Mattress for Kids
Nolah Natural Mattress
The Nolah Natural is made with hypoallergenic and eco-friendly materials, which makes it a great pick for families wanting high-quality, safe materials for their kids. It also brings young sleepers coolness and pressure relief.
Material
Latex
Trial Period
120 Nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nolah Natural Mattress
The Nolah Natural is made with hypoallergenic and eco-friendly materials, which makes it a great pick for families wanting high-quality, safe materials for their kids. It also brings young sleepers coolness and pressure relief.
Material
Latex
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 Nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Nolah Natural Mattress
The Nolah Natural is made with hypoallergenic and eco-friendly materials, which makes it a great pick for families wanting high-quality, safe materials for their kids. It also brings young sleepers coolness and pressure relief.
Material
Latex
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
120 Nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
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 kids, to sleep soundly. Testing the Nolah Natural in our mattress lab, we found this to be not only a hypoallergenic mattress, but also a great mattress for kids. Aside from being made with high-quality materials, the it’s a comfortable fit for back, side, and combination sleepers, due to its support and pressure-relieving abilities. On the firmness scale, we rated it a 6 out of 10, which we would classify as medium soft. There’s some firmness and support from a layer of targeted coils, but its two layers of Talalay latex provide a good amount of contouring.
Of course, we always make sure to test each sleeping position with our pressure map. The map showed little to no pressure in the lumbar region, shoulders, and hips, which tells us that the Nolah Natural should be comfortable for back sleepers and side sleepers. As for combo sleepers, we were able to easily change positions on the bed, thanks to its high responsiveness.
What our tester says: “I really like the Nolah Natural as an option for kids’ rooms because it’s eco-friendly and hypoallergenic materials can offer some great peace of mind. This bed is also really buoyant and supportive, yet it still maintains a cozy feel.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
What Customers Say
On Nolah’s website, the Nolah Natural has an average review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Several commenters pointed out how its feel is luxurious and similar to a high-end hotel mattress.
Pros of the Nolah Natural Mattress
- The Nolah Natural is made with all-natural GOTS-certified wool and an organic cotton cover, making it both safe and biodegradable.
- With a more responsive feel, kids who change sleeping positions at night should find it easy to do so on the Nolah Natural.
- With naturally cooling latex, breathable cotton, and coils for airflow, the Nolah Natural is an excellent option for cooling.
Cons of the Nolah Natural Mattress
- The Nolah Natural is too soft to support stomach sleepers, even lightweight sleepers.
- While high-quality, the Nolah Natural is one of the most expensive options on this list. If you’re on a strict budget, you should opt for something else.
Think the Nolah Natural is the mattress for your kid? Click here for our best deal or check out our full Nolah Natural mattress review.
Bear Original – Best Mattress for Active Kids
Bear Mattress
We appreciate the firm and responsive feel of the Bear mattress. Its combination of support and pressure relief makes it an awesome option for anyone struggling with back pain. The Celliant cover also does a great job of keeping the mattress cool.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Mattress
We appreciate the firm and responsive feel of the Bear mattress. Its combination of support and pressure relief makes it an awesome option for anyone struggling with back pain. The Celliant cover also does a great job of keeping the mattress cool.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Bear Mattress
We appreciate the firm and responsive feel of the Bear mattress. Its combination of support and pressure relief makes it an awesome option for anyone struggling with back pain. The Celliant cover also does a great job of keeping the mattress cool.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Expert Opinion
The Bear Original mattress is a bed designed with athletes in mind, but it’s also a fantastic option for kids. After testing, we determined that its construction of firm foams could help ease growing pains and encourage proper spinal alignment. Bear also offers a cover made of a material called Celliant, which is soft, breathable, and could help active kids cool down after a day of playing sports or being outside.
Another bonus of Celliant is that it’s designed to assist with recovery and blood flow. We here at Sleepopolis haven’t verified this claim in our mattress lab, but there are 10 clinical trials that have. You can read more about Celliant and the veracity of its recovery technology here. However, this Celliant cover is not included in the price of the Bear Original. Instead, it must be added at check out by clicking the “Add Celliant Infused Cover” tab, and it does tack on $130 to your order total.
What our tester says: “The Bear is a great match for kids who seem to always be on the go. I think the firmer foams will help them achieve proper spinal alignment while snoozing after a day of activities. I found this mattress to be really responsive, despite offering a little bit of contouring.” –Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
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 their bed has their kids “sleeping like bear cubs”.
Pros of the Bear Mattress
- Despite its firmness, the Bear could be a good fit for side-sleeping kids, as long as they’re under 150 pounds. It should also be comfortable for kids who are back sleepers.
- The foams used in this bed are CertiPUR-US certified, so it meets certain standards for emissions and durability.
- Even though it’s an all-foam mattress, the Bear is pretty responsive, allowing kids to toss and turn freely.
Cons of the Bear Mattress
- The Bear might feel too soft for back-sleeping kids, so shoppers should consider a firmer, more supportive mattress.
Think the Bear is the mattress for your child? Click here for our best deal or check out our full Bear mattress review. Still not sold? Take a look at some of the other best mattresses for athletes.
Leesa – Best Mattress for Combination-Sleeping Kids
Leesa Original Mattress
This all-foam bed is more breathable and supportive than traditional memory foam mattresses.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 5.5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Leesa Original Mattress
This all-foam bed is more breathable and supportive than traditional memory foam mattresses.
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Soft: 5.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Leesa Original Mattress
This all-foam bed is more breathable and supportive than traditional memory foam mattresses.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Soft: 5.5/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Expert Opinion
While foam mattresses aren’t always the best choice for combination sleepers, the Leesa has a top layer of responsive foam. That means it has more bounce than traditional memory foam, and makes it easy for younger sleepers to switch positions. So if your little one is a combination sleeper who likes to move around at night, the Leesa could be the right bed for them.
We also tested this mattress out for adults and found it to be equally supportive. When we rolled back and forth on the Leesa’s surface, it was very easy to change positions from our side to our back to our stomach. So younger and older combination sleepers alike should be comfortable on the Leesa.
What our tester says: “I think the Leesa works well for combination sleepers, as it’s bouncy enough to easily move around on.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
What Customers Say
Leesa has nearly 5,000 reviews on its website, with an average score of 4.5 out of 5. Several reviewers have said that the mattress is easy to transport and also makes a great guest bed.
Pros of the Leesa Mattress
- Along with the responsive foam, there’s a layer of traditional memory foam in the Leesa that provides pressure relief to the lumbar region. This mixture of comfort and support is a winning match for back sleepers.
- Even before discounts, a twin and twin XL are both under $1,000, making the bed a sensible choice for budget shoppers.
- We use a device called a pressure map that, through thermal imaging, displays how much pressure gets put on specific areas of the body while lying down. The Leesa showed little to no pressure at the back, which tells us it’s a good option for anyone struggling with back pain.
Cons of the Leesa Mattress
- Stomach sleepers likely won’t get enough support from the Leesa and might sink through the layers.
Think the Leesa is the mattress for your kids? Click here for our best deal or check out our full Leesa mattress review. Still not sold? Take a look at some of the other best mattresses for combination sleepers.
Brooklyn Bedding Bowery – Best Mattress for Stomach-Sleeping Kids
Brooklyn Bedding Bowery Mattress
The Brooklyn Bedding Bowery is a crowd-pleasing hybrid bed that combines support and pressure relief. It should be a great choice for lightweight sleepers who sleep on their stomachs.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 5/10
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Bowery Mattress
The Brooklyn Bedding Bowery is a crowd-pleasing hybrid bed that combines support and pressure relief. It should be a great choice for lightweight sleepers who sleep on their stomachs.
Material
Foam
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Soft: 5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Brooklyn Bedding Bowery Mattress
The Brooklyn Bedding Bowery is a crowd-pleasing hybrid bed that combines support and pressure relief. It should be a great choice for lightweight sleepers who sleep on their stomachs.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Soft: 5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Note: Brooklyn Bedding recently discontinued the Bowery and replaced it with a similar model called the Brooklyn Bedding Essential. All of the Bowery links in this article will take you to the Essential, and we’ll be reviewing this new product shortly. We’ll be adding our customer review section then as well.
Expert Opinion
While testing the Brooklyn Bedding Bowery, we 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’ firmness level is on the softer side, lightweight stomach sleepers should still feel plenty of support. And with the Bowery’s nice mobility, kids shouldn’t feel as if they’re sinking too far into the mattress. These features should promote great spinal alignment, something that can be tricky to find for stomach sleepers.
What our tester says: “Because a lighter sleeper may feel the mattress more firm and the top foam layers are thin, I think that this could be a good choice for these sleepers. It’s also super bouncy, which could be a big plus for folks in search of a little optimized mobility.” – Logan Block, former Sleepopolis director of content and mattress tester
Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Bowery Mattress
- Overall, the combination of comfort and support may be a solid match for kids who sleep on their backs, since the coils and pressure-relieving foam work to create that balance.
- Kids who toss and turn in their sleep should appreciate that the Brooklyn Bedding Bowery provides lots of mobility.
- With cooling gel in the Bowery’s quilted layer, along with coils for breathability, kids who sleep shouldn’t overheat.
Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Bowery Mattress
- This bed is likely too firm and will create too much pressure for lightweight side sleepers.
Think the Brooklyn Bedding Bowery is the mattress for your children? Click here for our best deal or check out our full Brooklyn Bedding Bowery mattress review. Still not sold? Take a look at some of the other best mattresses for stomach sleepers.
Birch Kids Natural – Best Organic Mattress for Kids
Birch Kids Natural
The Birch Kids Natural mattress is an outstanding organic option that's complete with a flippable design.
Read Birch Kids Natural Review
Material
Latex
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
25-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Birch Kids Natural
The Birch Kids Natural mattress is an outstanding organic option that's complete with a flippable design.
Read Birch Kids Natural Review
Material
Latex
Warranty
25-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Birch Kids Natural
The Birch Kids Natural mattress is an outstanding organic option that's complete with a flippable design.
Read Birch Kids Natural Review
Material
Latex
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
25-year warranty
Shipping Method
Price Range
$$$$$
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.
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, 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.
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.
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.
Layla Hybrid – Best Hybrid Mattress for Kids
Layla Hybrid Mattress
The Layla Hybrid has a coiled center that creates enough responsiveness for younger sleepers to switch positions. It's also flippable, allowing them to choose a different side as they grow.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Layla Hybrid Mattress
The Layla Hybrid has a coiled center that creates enough responsiveness for younger sleepers to switch positions. It's also flippable, allowing them to choose a different side as they grow.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Layla Hybrid Mattress
The Layla Hybrid has a coiled center that creates enough responsiveness for younger sleepers to switch positions. It's also flippable, allowing them to choose a different side as they grow.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Expert Opinion
Kids’ bodies are constantly evolving, and the Layla Hybrid is a mattress that evolves with them. That’s because it has both a soft and a firm side, so children can flip it as they grow and sleep on whichever side is most comfortable (usually, a firmer mattress is better for ages 3–7 and a softer mattress is better for ages 8–12). The construction of the Layla Hybrid is also unique in that it has a layer of coils in the center. So no matter which side younger sleepers choose, they should get enough support for their body.
Naturally, we also tested the Layla Hybrid for adults, and found it to be an excellent fit for all three sleeping positions (more on that below). It’s also easy to move around on the mattress’ surface, especially the firm side, which makes the bed a good fit for combination sleepers who need to switch their body orientation.
What our tester says: “Given the flippable nature of the mattress, I think it could work for a wide range of different sleep styles.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
What Customers Say
As of this writing, there are over 1,000 reviews of the Layla Hybrid on the brand’s website, with users saying how much they love the versatility of the flippable design. Several of them also said that the bed puffs up right away when you unbox it.
Pros of the Layla Hybrid Mattress
- Regardless of your age, we think the soft side is the best match for side sleepers, with the firm side being the better fit for back sleepers and stomach sleepers.
- The coils allow for plenty of airflow, plus the memory foam has been infused with copper for added cooling. So the Layla Hybrid should be a nice choice for hot sleepers.
- After discounts, you can usually get a queen size Layla Hybrid for under $1,200, which is an excellent price for such a high-quality hybrid. And if you’re looking for a twin XL for your child, you can usually find it for around $1,000 after discounts.
Cons of the Layla Hybrid Mattress
- Heavy sleepers over 250 pounds are probably going to need a more supportive mattress, although this shouldn’t be a problem for younger sleepers.
Think the Layla Hybrid is the mattress for your kids? Click here for our best deal or check out our full Layla Hybrid mattress review. Still not sold? Take a look at some of the other best hybrid mattresses.
Nest Puffin – Best First Big-Kid Bed
Puffin Mattress
The Nest Puffin is made for smaller children and is easily washable, making it a good choice for a first big kid bed.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
30 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Puffin Mattress
The Nest Puffin is made for smaller children and is easily washable, making it a good choice for a first big kid bed.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
30 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Puffin Mattress
The Nest Puffin is made for smaller children and is easily washable, making it a good choice for a first big kid bed.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
30 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
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 Nest Bedding’s Puffin mattress. This reasonably priced mattress comes in twin, twin XL, and full size, and is designed for children under 120 pounds. The Puffin has a simple design of two foam layers (one of softer Energex foam and a thicker one of base foam), and a medium-soft feel that many young sleepers might enjoy.
To see how this mattress would truly feel for kids, our reviewer had a friend’s son test out the Puffin. At the time, he was six years old and weighed 50 pounds. He found it to be quite supportive and comfortable, sinking into the bed between one and two inches while lying on his back and side.
What our tester says: “It offers a balanced medium feel and excellent support. It’s not a natural or organic mattress, but it does make a point to utilize healthier materials (Certi-PUR US certified foams, no chemical fire barrier), achieving a balance of price with material quality.” – Logan Block, former Sleepopolis director of content and mattress tester
What Customers Say
The reviews for the Puffin on Nest’s website are five stars across the board, with several adults remarking how comfortable the bed is for them, too. However, adults should consider their body type and weight before using it. We don’t recommend it for anyone over 150 pounds.
Pros of the Nest Puffin Mattress
- Lightweight side, back, and stomach sleepers can feel comfortable on this bed.
- This bed is made with CertiPUR-US certified foams and has no chemical fire barrier, making it a safe option for children and the environment.
- The Nest Puffin has quality materials and a lifetime warranty to back it.
Cons of the Nest Puffin Mattress
- This mattress was intended to support kids 120 pounds or under. Older kids might be better off with a more supportive mattress.
Think the Nest Puffin is the mattress for your child? Click here for our best deal or check out our full Nest Puffin mattress review.
As your child gets older, his or her body will grow. But that shouldn’t mean you need to buy a new mattress every year to keep up. Here are a couple of factors that will help you pick a bed that has longevity.
Puffy Cloud – Best Mattress for Back-Sleeping Kids
Puffy Cloud Mattress
The Puffy Cloud is an all-foam bed-in-a-box with a medium firmness that is great for a wide range of sleepers. It also does a good job of reducing aches and pains, thanks to its balance of support and pressure relief.
Material
Foam
Trial Period
101 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
I love this mattress. I wake up rested and with energy. Before I was sleeping on a traditional mattress and I would wake up 3 to 4 times at night trying to find the right spot. I don't weak up in middle of the night. It was worth every penny!!!
Claudia Guzman, Puffy customerPuffy Cloud Mattress
The Puffy Cloud is an all-foam bed-in-a-box with a medium firmness that is great for a wide range of sleepers. It also does a good job of reducing aches and pains, thanks to its balance of support and pressure relief.
Material
Foam
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
101 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
I love this mattress. I wake up rested and with energy. Before I was sleeping on a traditional mattress and I would wake up 3 to 4 times at night trying to find the right spot. I don't weak up in middle of the night. It was worth every penny!!!
Claudia Guzman, Puffy customer
Puffy Cloud Mattress
The Puffy Cloud is an all-foam bed-in-a-box with a medium firmness that is great for a wide range of sleepers. It also does a good job of reducing aches and pains, thanks to its balance of support and pressure relief.
Material
Foam
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
101 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
I love this mattress. I wake up rested and with energy. Before I was sleeping on a traditional mattress and I would wake up 3 to 4 times at night trying to find the right spot. I don't weak up in middle of the night. It was worth every penny!!!
Claudia Guzman, Puffy customerExpert Opinion
As kids grow, they need the proper amount of spinal support, especially if they’re back sleepers. They should find it on the Puffy Cloud, an all-foam mattress whose softer top layers provide deep contouring and sinkage, while a denser layer of support foam toward the bottom helps keep the spine in proper alignment. With this balance of materials, we believe the Puffy Cloud should be a fantastic match for back-sleeping kids.
After spreading our pressure map across the Puffy Cloud and lying down on our back, we saw almost no pressure in our lumbar region. Since kids generally put less pressure on a mattress than adults, we can confidently say that this is a fantastic fit for back sleepers up to 250 pounds.
What our tester says: “I really enjoyed the combination of pressure relief and support the Puffy Cloud offers. I think it will do a good job of reducing aches and pains that some people experience when sleeping on a mattress that isn’t the right firmness level for their sleep style.” – Bridget Chapman, senior product editor
What Customers Say
With nearly 12,300 reviews on Puffy’s website, a running trend is that customers are drawn to its comfort. Many of them say how the mattress feels cushioning, but not overly soft.
Pros of the Puffy Cloud Mattress
- The pressure-relieving nature of this mattress should also be quite comfortable for kids who rest on their sides.
- If your kids are sharing a larger bed, they should sleep well with the Puffy Cloud’s impressive motion isolation.
- The Puffy Cloud has a stain-resistant cover, which is great for kids in the event of accidents or spills.
Cons of the Puffy Cloud Mattress
- If your child tends to toss and turn at night, they may not like the Puffy. It’s not one of the best mattresses for combination sleepers because its softness makes it harder to move.
Think the Puffy Cloud is the mattress for your kids? Click here for our best deal or check out our full Puffy Cloud mattress review. Still not sold? Take a look at some of the other best mattresses for back sleepers.
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 serve as an excellent size to 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.
A high-quality mattress may last eight to 12 years – it may cost more initially, but the benefit to your kiddo’s long-term health and sleep is well worth it.
Many kids experience soreness, poor sleeping habits, and a multitude of other uncomfortable sleep-related issues. These issues might correlate to a low-quality mattress that provides minimal comfort for the child.
For example, hand-me-downs and cheap mattresses might cause poor sleep. Although a better-fitting mattress may cost more, it’s typically worth the cost in the long run. If a young child sleeps on an uncomfortable mattress, they may develop poor sleep habits at a young age. Sleeping on a high-quality mattress may increase a child’s comfort levels and create a better night’s rest.
High-quality sleep is extremely important for a child’s health. It can impacts school performance, mood level, and a litany of other correlated factors.
Many kids experience soreness, poor sleeping habits, and a multitude of other uncomfortable sleep-related issues. These issues tend to be directly correlated to a low-quality mattress that provides minimal comfort for the child.
For example, hand-me-downs and cheap mattresses tend to be an underlying cause of poor sleep. Although a better-fitting mattress can be a little pricier, it’s worth the cost in the long run. If a young boy or girl is forced to sleep on an uncomfortable mattress, they can develop poor sleep habits at a young age. If a high-quality mattress is purchased, the comfort levels tend to skyrocket for the kids, creating an easier night’s rest. 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.
High-quality sleep is extremely important for a child’s health. It impacts school performance, mood level, and a litany of other correlated factors. In other words, good sleep creates good kids.
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 the child gets older, consider engaging them in the purchasing process. Once your child reaches 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.
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, we would 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.
How We Chose These Mattresses
Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches has reviewed over 220 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 |
| Saatva Youth | Non-Toxic | $795 | Saatva Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Nectar | Memory Foam | $599 | Nectar Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Plank Firm by Brooklyn Bedding | Firm Mattress | $849 | Brooklyn Bedding Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Nolah Natural | Hypoallergenic | $1,499 | Nolah Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Bear | Active Kids | $748 | Bear Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Leesa | Combination Sleepers | $849 | Leesa Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Brooklyn Bedding Bowery | Stomach-Sleeping Kids | $549 | Brooklyn Bedding Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Birch Kids Natural by Helix | Organic | $999 | Helix Coupon | Review Coming Soon |
| Layla Hybrid | Hybrid | $1,299 | Layla Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Nest Puffin | First Big-Kid Bed | $499 | Nest Coupon | Read Our Review |
| Puffy Cloud | Back Sleepers | $1,949 | Puffy Coupon | Read Our Review |
Bridget Chapman
Former Senior Product Editor
About Author
Bridget is a Certified Sleep Science Coach and senior editor here at Sleepopolis. From testing mattresses to writing about various sleep health topics, her goal is to help you get a good night’s sleep. You can also find her in videos on our YouTube channel. Bridget graduated magna cum laude from San Diego State University with a degree in journalism and a minor in English. Before joining the Sleepopolis team, she was a TV news reporter and worked in cities across the country. She loves spending time outdoors, checking out new restaurants, snuggling with her pets, and of course — getting some quality Zzz’s.
Combination Sleeper
