Finding the right bed for your child is not an easy feat.
As parents, nothing is as important as your child’s emotional and physical well-being. Sleep just so happens to be one of the most important factors contributing to overall health and much of it rests on the mattress — especially for little ones.
I’ll be the first to admit that I’ve never been much of a mattress connoisseur. I only recently learned the true differences between innerspring, memory foam, and hybrid designs. But, as a semi-crunchy toddler mom, there are a couple of household items I believe are worth investing in and a safe, certified, and healthy mattress for my daughter is certainly one of them.
Like many first-time parents learning the ropes of toddlerhood, I had no clue where to start when it was time to upgrade my baby to a bigger bed. In my initial search, I found more questions than answers. There are dozens of kids’ mattress sizes, materials, and configurations available, and it felt almost impossible to know what sleep products would work best for my fast-growing daughter, whose preferences seem to change daily.
Shortly after beginning my quest into the children’s bedding sphere, I spoke with Adam Tishman, the co-president and co-founder of Helix Sleep. As an expert in the field of direct-to-consumer bedding, Tishman was happy to answer some of my questions and alleviate some of my fears when it came to the mattress market.
“Plain and simple, growing kids require a different level of support than adults,” explained Tishman. “Spinal alignment during sleep is incredibly important for young children, so instead of the plush, cradling feel often associated with mattresses, kids benefit from a firm surface that allows them to sleep more ‘on top’ of the mattress.”
Appropriate support and firmness are the most important considerations, according to Tishman. Other features, including the size and materials, will depend on one’s personal preferences and budget. When it comes to shopping for kids’ mattresses, Tishman and his team strongly suggest buying from reputable brands with tested products.
For a firsthand experience with an award-winning option, the Helix Sleep team set my toddler up with the best-selling Helix Kids Twin Mattress. Below, find more top mattresses to consider, and read on for more shopping suggestions and safety guidance from Tishman and other notable children’s sleep experts in the FAQ section.
How to shop for the best kid’s mattresses
Since Tishman co-founded Helix in 2014, the brand has grown immensely and received recognition for its revolutionary products in the bedding category. As an expert in the market, Tishman has provided us with some key insights and kids’ mattress shopping tips.
What is the best type of mattress for kids?
“As long as a mattress provides proper support, the best material for toddlers and kids ultimately
comes down to personal preference and specific sleep needs,” Tishman explained.
What are some different types of kids’ mattress materials?
According to Tishman, different mattress materials offer unique properties:
- Memory foam is a great choice for its excellent pressure relief and body-contouring properties, helping kids to sleep comfortably. While traditional memory foam has been known to trap heat, some modern memory foams are engineered to draw heat away for a cooler sleep experience.
- All-foam mattresses often come at a more budget-friendly price point, making them an attractive option for parents. If you go this route with a memory foam kids’ mattress, you’ll just want to ensure the mattress is firm enough for the child’s needs.
- Hybrid mattresses offer long-lasting support with improved airflow, which helps to create a breathable sleep surface that keeps kids cool throughout the night.
- For families looking for natural materials, latex is a fantastic option. Latex is highly durable, responsive, and eco-friendly, making it a great choice for kids’ mattresses.
How can you tell if the mattress is durable and well-made?
Tishman shared that it’s not always easy to judge a mattress’s durability just by looking at it, which is why research is key before making a purchase.
“We recommend choosing a mattress with a long warranty, as this often reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in its longevity,” he recommended. “Additionally, prioritizing high-quality materials like pocketed coils, natural latex, or high-density foams can ensure better support and durability over time.”
Are flippable mattresses the best for kids?
To get the most use out of a kid’s mattress, Tishman suggests looking for flippable designs, like the Helix Kids Twin Mattress, which offers a firmer side for younger kids and a softer side for older kids.
“With dual-sided support, you can adapt the mattress to a child’s changing needs, making it a smart, long-lasting choice,” he explained.
Kids’ Sleep Safety FAQs
For sleep safety guidance, The Post spoke with Maria Clara Lopez, the founder of Not A Peep, an award-winning sleep consulting business based in Philadelphia. Lopez is certified in pediatric sleep, with over 10 years of experience working in the field. She’s also a mother of three.
Why should you consider a mattress specifically designed for toddlers or kids?
“Mattresses designed specifically for toddlers or kids promote proper spinal alignment and prioritize safety,” explained Lopez. “They’re often firmer than adult mattresses, which is important to reduce the risk of suffocation in younger toddlers. They’re also typically made with durable, easy-to-clean, and non-toxic materials — because let’s face it, kids are messy, and their health is still developing.”
Do some mattresses have harmful chemicals?
The short answer is yes, according to Lopez. However, it’s important to note that not all mattresses are built the same.
“Unfortunately, some conventional mattresses still contain chemical flame retardants, VOCs (volatile organic compounds), formaldehyde, or phthalates — all of which can off-gas and affect a child’s respiratory health, skin, and overall development,” she shared.
Lopez added that kids with asthma, eczema, or allergies are especially sensitive to these types of materials.
Why is it important to look for an organic kids’ mattress?
Lopez highly recommends investing in a non-toxic mattress for kids, specifically something that is made with hypoallergenic materials.
“Children’s bodies are more vulnerable to toxins and allergens, especially during sleep when their immune systems are resting and recharging,” she shared. “Choosing non-toxic, hypoallergenic materials reduces the risk of respiratory issues, skin irritation, and long-term exposure to harmful chemicals.”
Lopez suggested checking for certifications like Greenguard GOLD or CertiPUR-US to ensure lower chemical emissions. Parents should also look for clear labeling and CPSC compliance statements.
How firm should a toddler or kids’ mattress be?
“For toddlers, firmer is safer and better for spinal alignment. A mattress that’s too soft can increase the risk of suffocation and doesn’t provide enough support for a growing spine,” said Lopez.
As kids get older and heavier, Lopez explained that you can switch to a medium-firm option. However, it’s still important to avoid anything overly plush. “The mattress should support them without sinking deeply,” she noted.
How to Properly Care for Your Child’s Mattress
The Post consulted the co-founders of Teaching Sweet Sleep for care instructions and further guidance on appropriate mattress use. Both Emily Vogel and Randi Robinson are certified by the Center for Pediatric Sleep Management and bring their own firsthand experience as parents to their consulting practice.
How do you wash a kid’s mattress?
“Always use a washable cover to minimize the need for deep cleaning,” Vogel and Robinson advised. “Regular vacuuming can drastically reduce dust, and spot cleaning with a mild detergent and water can address small spills. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines before steam cleaning.”
Should all kids’ mattresses have a removable, washable cover?
Vogel and Robinson both have recommended using a removable mattress cover and explain that organic cotton mattress covers can help promote airflow and temperature regulation.
“Having worked with hundreds of children, a removable, washable cover is non-negotiable,” they noted. “Without it, one stomach bug can ruin a perfectly good mattress.”
How long should a kid’s mattress last before being replaced?
“A good quality children’s mattress should last seven to ten years, but it’s wise to check every year for tears, sagging, or lumps,” Vogel and Robinson agreed.
Shop some of the Top Kids’ Mattresses
Best Editor-tested: Helix Kids Twin Mattress Review
Pros:
- The flippable design lasts for years and is ideal for toddlers and bigger kids
- A standard size (8 inches) and low-profile (6 inches) available
- Firm and responsive top layer, as suggested by experts
- Hypoallergenic, anti-microbial materials are typically gentler on sensitive skin
Cons:
- Only two size options (Twin and Full)
Still not sure where to start with your kid’s mattress selection? The two-sided Helix Kids Twin Mattress is a great first option for little ones ready to level up. A responsive top layer sits above supportive steel coils and plush memory foam to create a perfect foundation for deep rest. It’s available in a standard size as well as a 6-inch low-profile option to meet kids exactly where they’re at. Hypoallergenic, anti-microbial materials make it a wonderful option for kiddos with sensitive skin. My toddler was able to give it a spin and had no complaints, which doesn’t happen all that often.
Best Cooling: Bear Cub Kids Mattress
Pros:
- Offered in two different colors (Arctic Blue and Salmon)
- Cool gel memory foam helps draw away heat
- Hypoallergenic and no fiberglass
Cons:
- Only one thickness level is offered (8.5 inches)
- Only two size options (Twin and Full)
Get your cub ready to hibernate in style! The newest addition to the Bear family, offered in two dreamy colors, is built just for young sleepers. Cooling gel memory foam keeps them feeling clean and refreshed. The hypoallergenic, quilted cover is optimal for airflow, making it a safe and practical option for growing kids. Plus, customers say it’s exceptionally durable — easily withstanding kids bouncing all over it.
Best Budget Friendly: BB Kids Mattress
Pros:
- Budget-friendly option
- Environmentally friendly Nano Stain Terminator finish guards spills and stains
- Offered in three sizes (Twin, Twin Xl, and Full)
Cons:
- The mattress is on the thinner side at 6 inches
For an affordable option, consider Brooklyn Bedding’s BB Mattress. The BB Mattress may be thinner than some other options at 6 inches, but it’s made with dense foams designed to last a decade, making it a smart value buy. Not only that, but it’s easy to keep clean. An environmentally friendly Nano Stain Terminator finish guards against spills and stains, which means the BB Matress should stay good-looking for ages.
Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post
This article was written by?Miska Salemann, New York Post Commerce Journalist. As a Gen Z first-time mother of one, Miska tests baby, maternity and postpartum products ranging from?stylish new kids clothes?to long-trusted?diaper brands?with her daughter. She evaluates?baby- and mom-approved products?for practicality and quality, and consults medical and parenting experts to weigh in on safe ingredients, usage and more. Before arriving at the Post, she covered the lifestyle and consumer verticals for the U.S. Sun.
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Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post
This article was written by?Miska Salemann, New York Post Commerce Journalist. As a Gen Z first-time mother of one, Miska tests baby, maternity and postpartum products ranging from?stylish new kids clothes?to long-trusted?diaper brands?with her daughter. She evaluates?baby- and mom-approved products?for practicality and quality, and consults medical and parenting experts to weigh in on safe ingredients, usage and more. Before arriving at the Post, she covered the lifestyle and consumer verticals for the U.S. Sun.