Choosing the right mattress for your little one is crucial for their growth and development. A good night’s sleep sets the foundation for a child’s physical and mental well-being, helping them tackle each day with energy and enthusiasm.
As a parent, you want to ensure your child has the best possible sleep environment, and that starts with selecting the perfect mattress.
I’ve spent years working in the mattress industry at Dreams, and I’ve seen firsthand how the right mattress can make a world of difference in a child’s sleep quality.
When shopping for a kids’ mattress, it’s important to consider factors like support, comfort, durability, and safety.
You’ll want a mattress that can grow with your child, providing the right level of support as they develop.
One of the most critical aspects to consider is the firmness level. Children need a mattress that offers proper spinal alignment and support for their growing bodies. Too soft, and they might sink in too much; too firm, and it could cause discomfort.
I’ve tested dozens of mattresses designed specifically for kids, and I’m excited to share my top picks with you.
Best Mattresses for Kids
I’ve spent years testing mattresses for little ones, and I’m excited to share my top picks. From cosy memory foam to supportive pocket springs, I’ve found options to suit every child’s needs and budget.
Let’s dive into my list of the best mattresses to help your kids get a great night’s sleep.
TeQsli Hybrid Single Mattress
I reckon this TeQsli hybrid mattress is a top choice for kids, offering a comfy sleep experience with some clever features.
Pros
- Cool gel memory foam keeps little ones from overheating
- Pocketed springs reduce movement transfer
- Edge support prevents roll-offs
Cons
- Might be too firm for some children
- Takes up to 72 hours to fully expand
- Initial off-gassing odour
I’ve got to say, I was pretty chuffed when I tried out this TeQsli mattress. The 10-inch thickness feels just right for growing kids. It’s not too squishy, but it’s not like sleeping on a plank either.
The gel memory foam layer is a real game-changer. My nephew, who’s always been a bit of a hot sleeper, didn’t wake up in a sweat for once.
And those individually wrapped springs? Brilliant for when you’ve got siblings sharing a room. No more complaints about feeling every toss and turn!
I was a bit worried about the edge support at first, especially for my little ones who tend to wriggle about. But I needn’t have fretted – the strengthened edges kept them firmly on the mattress all night.
It’s a relief not having to constantly check if they’ve rolled onto the floor.
One thing to keep in mind, though – it does take a while to fully expand after unboxing. I’d suggest setting it up in the morning so it’s ready for bedtime.
Also, there’s a bit of a whiff when you first unwrap it, but it goes away after a day or two.
Molblly Memory Foam Single
This mattress is a brilliant choice for kids, offering a cozy sleep at a wallet-friendly price.
Pros
- Comfy gel memory foam top layer
- Breathable design keeps sleepers cool
- Easy-to-clean removable cover
Cons
- Might be too firm for some kids
- Takes up to 72 hours to fully expand
- Can feel warm for hot sleepers
I recently gave this Molblly single mattress a go, and I must say, I’m chuffed with how it performs for its price.
The gel memory foam layer on top is a real treat – it moulds to your body like a gentle hug, giving just the right amount of support for growing bones.
What really stood out to me was how cool it stayed throughout the night. The breathable design does a top job of keeping air flowing, which is brilliant for kids who tend to get a bit sweaty while they sleep.
Plus, the removable cover is a godsend for parents – just pop it in the wash when those inevitable spills happen.
Now, it’s worth noting that this mattress is on the firmer side. While I found it comfy, some kids might need a softer feel.
Also, don’t forget to give it a good 72 hours to puff up to its full size when it arrives.
Good Nite Pocket Spring Single
I reckon this mattress is a solid choice for kids, offering a nice balance of comfort and support at a wallet-friendly price.
Pros
- Individually wrapped springs for reduced motion transfer
- 9-zone orthopaedic design for proper body alignment
- Breathable and hypoallergenic materials
Cons
- May take up to 72 hours to fully expand
- Initial off-gassing smell
- Might be too firm for some sleepers
I’ve recently had the chance to test out this Good Nite single mattress, and I must say, I’m quite impressed with what it offers, especially for the little ones.
The pocket springs are a game-changer – they work independently, which means when your child tosses and turns, the rest of the mattress stays put. It’s brilliant for those restless sleepers!
The 9-zone orthopaedic system really caught my eye. It’s designed to flex and stretch according to body weight and shape, which is fab for growing kids.
I found it did a cracking job of keeping my spine aligned while I was testing it out. It’s firm enough to provide good support but still has a bit of give for comfort.
One thing to note – when it first arrives, it needs some time to breathe. It comes all rolled up in a box, which is handy for getting it upstairs, but it does mean you’ll need to wait a bit before using it.
I noticed a bit of a smell at first, but it faded after a few days.
BedStory Single Spring Mattress
I reckon this BedStory mattress is a solid choice for kids, offering a good mix of comfort and support at a fair price.
Pros
- Firm innersprings for lasting support
- Breathable, skin-friendly cover
- Easy to move and set up
Cons
- Might be too firm for some children
- Takes a few days to fully expand
- Limited size options
I recently had the chance to try out this BedStory mattress, and I must say, it’s quite impressive for its price point.
The first thing that caught my eye was how compact it arrived. It came rolled up in a box, which made it a breeze to carry upstairs to my kid’s room.
Once I unpacked it, the mattress started to expand right away. It’s worth noting that it took about three days to reach its full size and shape.
The plaid and diamond pattern on the cover gives it a smart look, and the white and silver colour scheme fits nicely with most bedroom decors.
Lying on it, I noticed the firmness straight away. The Bonnell springs provide solid support, which is great for growing kids.
The polyester fabric feels soft and breathable, so I reckon it’ll keep little ones cool through the night.
I was pleased to see it has a fire-resistant barrier too – always a plus for peace of mind.
Mattelux Comfy Single
This hybrid mattress offers great value for kids and adults alike, making it a solid choice for a good night’s kip.
Pros
- Supportive and pressure-relieving
- Great motion isolation
- Easy to set up
Cons
- Might be too firm for some
- Initial off-gassing odour
- Limited size options
I recently got my hands on the Mattelux Single Mattress, and I must say, I’m rather chuffed with it.
As soon as I laid down, I felt the individually wrapped springs working their magic. They did a cracking job of supporting my body while the memory foam layer hugged my curves just right.
One thing that really stood out was how little I felt my partner’s tossing and turning.
Those wrapped coils aren’t just for show – they really do keep motion transfer to a minimum. If you’ve got a restless sleeper next to you, this mattress might just be your ticket to dreamland.
Setting it up was a doddle, too. It came vacuum-packed in a box that was easy to lug up the stairs.
Once I’d unboxed it, the mattress puffed up to its full size in no time. There was a bit of a whiff at first, but it cleared up after a day or two.
All in all, for the price, this Mattelux mattress is a right bargain. It’s not the fanciest thing out there, but it’ll give you a decent night’s sleep without breaking the bank.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right mattress for your little one can be a bit tricky. I’ve been in the mattress game for years, and I’m here to share some tips to make your search easier.
First up, firmness is key. Kids need a firm mattress to support their growing bones. A mattress that’s too soft might seem comfy, but it won’t do their backs any favours.
Next, think about size. A twin or full-size mattress usually works well for most kids. If you’ve got the space, a full-size can be a good long-term investment.
Material matters too. Here’s a quick rundown:
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Innerspring | Affordable, good support | Can be noisy |
| Memory foam | Pressure relief, quiet | Can sleep hot |
| Latex | Durable, eco-friendly | Pricier |
Don’t forget about allergies! If your child is sensitive, look for hypoallergenic options.
Durability is crucial. Kids can be tough on mattresses, so pick one that can handle spills and jumps.
Lastly, consider your budget. A good mattress is an investment, but you don’t need to break the bank. There are quality options at various price points.
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing the right mattress for your little ones can be tricky. Let’s dive into some common questions parents often ask when shopping for their children’s beds.
Which mattress firmness is recommended for tots to teens?
I’ve found that medium-firm mattresses work best for most kids. They offer a good balance of support and comfort. For younger children, a slightly firmer mattress can help with proper spine alignment. Teens might prefer a softer feel, but it’s best to avoid extremes.
Are memory foam mattresses a safe choice for children?
Memory foam can be safe for older children, but I’d be cautious with tots. These mattresses can be too soft for little ones and make it hard for them to move. For school-aged kids and teens, memory foam can be comfy and supportive.
Should one opt for a spring or foam mattress for a toddler’s bed?
In my experience, both can work well. Spring mattresses offer good bounce and airflow. Foam mattresses can provide better pressure relief. For toddlers, I lean towards innerspring or hybrid options. They’re often more durable and cooler to sleep on.
What should I consider when choosing a mattress for a 3-year-old bairn?
Safety is key for this age. Look for a firm surface to prevent sinking. Waterproof covers are a lifesaver for accidents. Breathability is important too. I’d suggest a mattress with good edge support to prevent falls.
Could you suggest the top considerations when purchasing a mattress for a 4-year-old?
For 4-year-olds, comfort starts to play a bigger role. I’d focus on durability, as kids this age can be rough on beds. Look for mattresses with reinforced edges. Hypoallergenic materials are a plus. Don’t forget to consider the mattress height in relation to your bed frame.
What are the essentials when selecting a toddler’s first full-size bed?
When picking a full-size bed for a toddler, think long-term.
I’d go for a mattress that can grow with them. Look for options with reinforced edges to prevent sagging.
Consider a dual-sided mattress – firmer on one side for now, softer for later.
Don’t forget to check the warranty!