Choosing a mattress for your child can seem like a monumental decision as a parent. When they are newborns, we know that they need a very firm mattress to combat issues such as SIDS. But, once they grow older do the same rules apply? There are thousands of options when it comes to the best mattress for kids. No matter what mattress you choose, you will want to ensure it leads to great sleep. Sleep is a crucial piece of raising a successful and healthy child. Here are some aspects to consider as well as some great mattress options.
How Important Is Sleep For Kids?
Once your child has begun to sleep through the night, you may feel like all of the sleep problems are over. But, milestones such as potty training can cause a whole new world of issues when it comes to quality sleep. Sleep is essential for your child to grow both mentally and physically. From daycare to a wild day on the playground, your child and your child’s brain needs rest to process their day. In fact, toddlers should get 11-14 hours of sleep per day while preschools should get 10-13 hours. Even school-aged children need 9-11 hours of sleep at night. Adequate and quality sleep is crucial for your child.
Physically, children grow while they sleep. Your child’s body produces HCG the Human Growth Hormone which is used to help their body develop. It also helps to repair muscles, tissues, and bones. Good sleeping patterns also help children to avoid obesity. One study of elementary-age education discovered that 71% of children with a late bedtime suffered from obesity. A solid nightly routine will help your child to have more energy throughout the day and avoid the lasting effects of childhood obesity.
Sleep is also essential for your child mentally and emotionally. Alice Holland, a board-certified neuropsychologist states, “If you don’t get enough sleep, you can see the negative effects on attention and emotional regulation”. Poor sleep for your child can mean they are less equipped to handle the classroom or other learning environments as they will be more likely to be distracted. It also affects their decision-making skills. We all want our children to grow into successful and valued members of society. Quality sleep is crucial to their learning development and physical development. Sleep is key to a happy and well-balanced child with endless opportunities. Set your child up for success by providing a peaceful and secure sleep environment with a solid and effective mattress.
When Should I Get My Kid a Mattress?
Most children will transition from the crib mattress to a toddler bed or full-size bed between 18 months and 3 years old. Making the transition can be difficult, especially if your child is not yet ready to leave the safety and security of their crib. But, if your child is climbing out of their crib and understands boundaries it may be time to consider making the transition.
You will also want to consider the size of your child. Most cribs are between 51 and 53 inches. As your child continues to grow, a crib mattress or toddler mattress may lose its comfort. You will want your child to have plenty of room to stretch and grow in their sleep space. Sleep is a vital part of growing and learning for children. Making a decision to get a new mattress is an investment in their future. There are some important features of mattresses you should consider to find the best mattress for your kid.
What Type of Mattress Does My Child Need?
A kids mattress is very similar to an adult mattress. Finding the best mattress type for your kid will depend on individual preferences. You may also want to consider what type of sleeper your child is. The right mattress will need to provide plenty of support whether they are stomach sleepers, side sleepers, or combination sleepers. Kid mattresses can be memory foam, latex, innerspring, or hybrid mattresses.
Memory Foam Mattress
The best memory foam mattress options will have several layers of foam. Each layer will help support your child’s body. Memory foam is known for contouring to the shape of each individual body. Memory foam is also a hypoallergenic choice, perfect for a kid that suffers from allergies. Memory foam mattresses are a great option for back sleepers or side sleepers.
Innerspring Mattress
Innerspring mattresses are the old school choice of mattress. They offer a base layer of springs with a comfort layer of fiber or foam. Innerspring mattresses are generally very affordable and provide a firmer sleeping surface. This choice is a great pick for stomach sleepers.
Hybrid Mattress
A hybrid mattress option is a blend of different types of mattresses. A hybrid usually has pocket springs also called coils with a layer of memory foam for comfort. Hybrid mattresses are a durable and breathable choice for your child. This is a great choice for hot sleepers, large sleepers, and those who switch positions at night.
Latex Mattress
The mattress type will provide a safe and clean space for sleep. All-natural latex, unlike synthetic latexes, have no added chemicals. Latex mattresses are also less likely to collect dust, allergens, and dust mites. It does not retain heat so it makes a great sleep surface to keep your kid cool. Latex can provide comfortable sleep for side sleepers and stomach sleepers.
What Size Bed Does My Kid Need?
It may be effective for you to let your child shop with you. Moving off of a crib mattress or toddler bed can be a fun and exciting experience. However, you may not recognize the needs of your child until you are in a physical store. A twin mattress or a twin XL may be a good starter option. However, some parents will opt to buy a full-sized mattress as it will last their child a bit longer. You may also want to consider a bunk bed. Bunk beds can be a great choice for families with multiple children. Bunk beds are also great for sleepovers or entertaining large families. Luckily, bunk beds often come in full-size mattress options and may even have a trundle for a third bed. The mattress size you choose is completely up to you and the needs of your child. But, you will likely want your child’s mattress to last a few years. A mattress advisor can help you to identify what mattress size is best for your situation.
Best Mattress for Kids
There are a wide variety of mattresses available for kids. Looking to a mattress advisor or at a mattress review can be very beneficial. Finding the best mattress is like looking for a needle in a haystack. But, the options in this mattress review stand above the rest when it comes to providing the best sleep space for your child.
Zinus 6-Inch Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress
The Zinus Store offers a 6-inch Memory Foam Mattress. While there are many memory foam mattresses, this twin-size option is infused with green tea. It also has a soft Jacquard cover for added comfort. Green tea and charcoal are natural products used to help avoid moisture build-up and scent issues. Kids can be gross and these natural infusions can help. This mattress is 1-inch memory foam and 5-inches of high-density support foam. It is CertiPUR-US certified to ensure your child’s safety as well as the durability of the product. The mattress is delivered in a box for convenience. The twin mattress size is rated a 4.4 out of 5 stars and is a budget-friendly $129.
Linenspa 8 Inch Hybrid Mattress
The Linenspa 8 Inch Mattress is made of both memory foam and innerspring coils. This twin hybrid mattress provides the soft comfort of memory foam but has the durability and support of an innerspring mattress. The foam layer is 1.5-inches and the base is 6.5-inches of tempered steel springs. It has a knit mattress cover for additional comfort and durability. The mattress is also $129 and rated a 4.5 out of 5 stars by over 120,000 reviewers.
Zinus 8-Inch Cooling Gel Memory Foam
Zinus also offers an 8-Inch Memory Foam Mattress. This selection has the same green tea-infused memory foam as the other selection. But, where it differs is the extra temperature regulation with the cooling foam. This is an excellent choice for your hot sleeper. The Zinus 8-Inch Cooling Gel mattress also offers a 10-year warranty. It is rated 4.5 out of 5-stars and is $226 for the twin size.
Signature Design by Ashley
Ashley Furniture has the Signature Chime 8-Inch Mattress that may be a perfect fit for your child. It is made of several layers of memory foam to provide the sleeping support your kid needs. It has a 6-inch core to ensure spinal alignment for both the neck and back. It is a great option at only $199 for the twin size. It is rated a 4.6 out of 5-stars. This choice is very popular and for good reason. It makes a great mattress for your child.
Zinus 6-Inch Ultima
A third option from the Zinus store is the 6-inch Ultima Memory Foam Mattress. This selection utilizes natural ingredients and special foam to provide an excellent mattress option. Zinus uses the highest quality foam to ensure your child is getting safe and solid sleep. The 6-inch selection is a great choice for your stomach sleeper. One reviewer states, “In short, simply blown away! This is by far the best ‘thing’ I’ve ever slept on”. It is rated 4.4 out of 5-stars and is $128 for the twin size selection.
Olee Sleep Aquarius
Olee Sleep offers a 10-Inch memory foam option. It has a medium-firm feel and will fit any frame. Whether you choose a platform bed or a box spring, this mattress will provide a comfortable and durable sleep space. The top gel layer was created to help keep your body cool while the high-density base layer provides plenty of support. This selection is very budget-friendly at $166 and is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars.
Best Price Mattress 6-Inch Memory Foam Mattress
The Best Price Mattress Store has a great memory foam mattress option. The twin selection is 6-inches and has body-conforming memory foam as well as extra ventilated pressure relief. Your child’s weight will be evenly distributed on the mattress and provide great sleep. This option is rated 4.5 out of 5-stars and is $139.
All of the options listed in this mattress review are great choices for your kids mattress. The best kids mattress for you will fit your child’s sleeping position and temperature needs. The best cooling mattress option will have cooling gel or excellent breathability with steel springs. But, if you are searching for the best organic mattress, you may need to look at options using only clean and organic materials.
Additional Products To Consider
Switching your child to a new mattress can be an exciting time. As you create the best sleeping environment for them, there are a few additional products to consider. You will want your new sleep investment to last for several years. These products can help ensure your child gets clean and quality sleep.
Mattress Protector
A mattress protector is a great choice to help protect your mattress. Many options such as the Allerease Mattress Protector are water-proof and have a zipper cover for easy removal. Mattress protectors also help to block allergens and potential dust mites. It is also a great option to help prevent spills and stains from reaching your mattress. You will want to make sure your mattress protector is machine washable for easy cleaning. Another great choice is the COOL Mattress Protector by Nest Bedding. A mattress protector is a great additional purchase for your kids’ new mattress.
Bedding
Choosing the best bedding for your child is also important. If they are hot sleepers, a cooling kids mattress may not be enough. Consider using options such as the Bamboo Twill Sheets by Brooklyn Bedding. This option is a great choice as they are soft, durable, and breathable. The temperature regulation will ensure your kid gets a cool and comfortable night of sleep. Your child may also benefit from a weighted blanket. If they toss and turn frequently, they may need the extra pressure and comfort of a weighted blanket. The Dream Weighted Sleep Blanket is a great choice. An investment in the best kids mattress is great, it can be made even greater when paired with premium bedding.
Tips To Help Your Sleeper
Limit Screen Time
Screen time for kids has soared in popularity over the last several years. Shockingly, three-fourths of American kids report having at least one screen in their bedroom. 60% of those reported regular use within an hour of bedtime. While screen time can be an easy way to wind down, the blue lights will affect your child’s sleep. Opt for reading a book together as a family instead. Although screens are considered more fun and easy form of entertainment for your child, they are not the best choice for bedtime.
Bedtime Routine
Bedtime routines are very effective for kids and adults. A planned bath followed by a story is an excellent example of a solid bedtime routine. You can allow your child to have special bath time toys and play before you begin to slow the evening down. Finishing a bath with lavender soap is a great way to change the mood from active playtime to relaxing time. Even as your kid gets older, you can still implement a story and calming scents. Consider getting a lavender-scented lotion or humidifier to help signal to your child it is time to prepare for sleep.
Sleep Environment
Your child’s sleep environment is essential to their sleep success. If you allow a television, phones, or tablets in bed it can entice them to stay awake. A messy or toy-filled room can also be a distraction. Your child’s room should be dark, cool, and quiet for their best sleep. You can also utilize a sound machine to help eliminate outside noise and create a great sleeping environment. Many sound machines also have a night light if your sleeper likes a little light in their room.
It is clear that sleep is crucial to your kid and their mental and physical well-being. Solid sleep helps your child to grow, learn, and make good decisions. Finding the best kids’ mattress will allow you to create a foundation for great sleep. It is important to consider what will work best for your child. A sleep trial may be a great way to see if your kid’s mattress should be memory foam or a hybrid mattress. No matter the mattress you select, feel confident knowing a new mattress is a great investment in your child.
