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In This Article
The best mattresses for kids are designed to support them as they grow—and some of them even have water-resistant layers for accidents and spills. Check out my top picks for a child’s bed below.
Young kids seem to grow almost overnight. They’ll need a mattress that can withstand all the challenges of childhood, whether they’re learning to sleep in their own bed for the first time or getting taller with age.
The best mattresses for kids are supportive enough to encourage spinal alignment in a growing body, and firm or soft enough to match your child’s preferences. You’ll also want a children’s bed that will last for multiple formative years, or a flippable mattress with sides that accommodate different stages of development.
Below, I’ve gathered our favorite kids’ mattresses into a list that accounts for multiple sleeping preferences and nap-time quirks.
What’s the Best Mattress for Kids?
The Bear Cub won the title of Best Mattress for Kids due to its strong safety credentials and hybrid design, which creates the optimal balance of support and comfort for growing children. It’s also a highly customizable option: you can choose between two sizes and two colors for its border fabric.
Back Sleepers, Back Pain, Stomach Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Couples
Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Kids, Hot Sleepers
Kids, Hot Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers
Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Kids, Hot Sleepers
Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Hot Sleepers
Kids
Kids
How Did We Choose the Best Mattresses for Kids?
Although I’m no longer a kid myself, I have a lot of mattress testing experience and an eye for a well-constructed bed.
For this roundup, I collected mattresses that met key requirements for a child’s restful sleep, including a medium-firm feel, durable materials, and reassuring certifications that attest to a bed’s safety and overall quality.
The beds I’ve highlighted are intended for kids between the ages of 3 and 12. They often function as a child’s first “big-kid bed,” and their designs foster rest and support throughout these years of growth.
Our lead product tester, Julia Forbes, hands on mattress testing.
What We Want to See in a Kids’ Mattress
Enough Firmness and Support
A mattress for children should have a medium-firm (or firm) feel coupled with a strong support system. These aspects encourage a neutral spinal alignment—an important concern for skeletal systems that are still developing.
As such, every mattress on this list received either a 4 out of 5 or a perfect 5 out of 5 in the “Support” category during our testing.
The Ability to Withstand Messes
Kids can be rough on their mattresses, whether they’re jumping on the bed or undergoing potty training. A good children’s mattress will stand up to this treatment with strong components and an easy-to-clean or moisture-resistant surface.
Adaptability as Kids Age
As children grow, their sleep needs shift. A good kids’ mattress accommodates their development with a design that’s adaptable enough to suit different age ranges. Some children’s beds on this list have two usable sides designated for different life stages; others can accommodate both children and adults.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.4
Bear
Bear Cub
For Kids
Well-Balanced Hybrid
Hybrid
120 nights
Free shipping minus AK and HI
Black Friday Sale
Use code BLACK35 for 35% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase See Details
According to Bear, they believe this mattress feels medium-firm, at a 6.8 out of 10 on their scale. However, a lot of customers have noted it feels softer than expected.
Size
Twin, full
Kids
This bed is made for kids young and old weighing
under 150 pounds.
Hybrid Fans
If you’re looking for bounce and support, the Bear Cub delivers both, thanks to its coils.
Combination Sleepers
The balanced medium-firm feel means just about any sleeping position should work on this bed, and its responsive surface should make it easy to switch between them.
Pros of the Bear Cub
The Bear Cub’s edges are super solid, so sitting or laying near the perimeter shouldn’t cause too much sagging
Though we don’t recommend it, multiple parents reported the bed was comfy enough that they accidentally fell asleep in it
The cover is made of a quilted hypoallergenic Tencel® fabric that should feel cool, comfortable, and clean
Cons of the Bear Cub
Some might appreciate the option of a twin XL for taller kids, but the Bear Cub only comes in twin or full sizes
The Bear Cub can only accommodate up to 150 pounds, which can be a detriment to larger kids (or adults looking to take a quick nap)
Shipping
Free shipping (additional fees may apply to Alaska or Hawaii)
Trial
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
Free returns within trial period
The Advisor Says: The Bear Cub is an adorably and aptly named hybrid mattress for kids. This big-kid bed comes in two colors and sizes, and we think it should last well into teendom; Bear backs it up with a lifetime warranty. It has great bounce, solid edge support, and a super-comfortable surface that’ll have adults wanting to lay on it, too.
Why the Bear Cub Earned Best Mattress for Kids Overall
The cutely named Bear Cub is an exemplary hybrid mattress for children. With both twin and full sizes available, and two charming colors for its border fabric, it actually looks quite adult—an appealing factor for many kids that helped it earn the top spot on this list.
Its construction combines two types of pressure-relieving foam with a strong spring unit for the support that young people need. It also boasts impressive safety credentials: A GREENGUARD Gold certification attests that the Bear Cub meets strict standards for low emissions, and its foams are CertiPUR-US® certified (meaning they don’t contain several potentially harmful ingredients).
What’s the Bear Cub Made Of?
The Bear Cub is 8.5 inches tall and has four total layers.
Inside the Bear Cub
Layer 1 – Tencel™ Cover. A hypoallergenic, breathable cover.
Layer 2 – Gel Memory Foam. Cradling memory foam that’s been infused with gel for better cooling.
Layer 3 – Responsive Foam. A firmer foam that helps with spinal alignment and bounces back into shape quickly.
Layer 4 – Coils. Individually wrapped springs that have been reinforced along the edges of the bed.
Our Take: Bear makes mattresses geared toward active adults, so their children’s mattress should be a good fit for kids and all their hyperactivity. It’s springy, supportive, and fiberglass-free for peace of mind.
Customer Reviews of the Bear Cub
On Bear’s website, the Bear Cub has an average score of about 4.2 out of 5 stars. Although its hybrid construction may make it feel a bit too firm for lightweight kids, many parents comment that it’s comfortable and supportive—enough for them to nap on it, too.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.3
Nectar
Nectar Mattress
Memory Foam
Affordable Mattress
Foam
365 nights
Free shipping minus AK and HI
Black Friday Sale
Up to 50% off mattresses + spend $1,000 and save $100 See Details
This mattress is made of memory foam and other poly foam layers.
Price
$934 – $2,121 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Firm. We rated the Nectar a 7.5 out of 10.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Back Sleepers
The Nectar provides a blend of comfortable pressure relief and firm support that should suit most back sleepers.
Couples
Thanks to the Nectar’s ability to absorb motion, you should be able to sleep through your partner’s movements.
Firm Mattress Fans
At 7.5 out of 10, this bed is on the firmer side, even though it has memory foam on top.
Pros of the Nectar Mattress
This bed offers pressure relief alongside its support
We were impressed by how well the perimeter of the Nectar held up, making it good for spreading out or sitting on the edges
Memory foam tends to trap heat, but the bed’s cooling cover counteracts this
Cons of the Nectar Mattress
The foams on the Nectar aren’t very bouncy, so consider looking at the best hybrid mattresses if responsiveness is important to you
It’s on the firmer side, so if you need a softer bed, you might want to consider Nectar’s most luxurious model, the Nectar Luxe
Shipping
Free shipping, except for Alaska and Hawaii ($99)
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
Full refund within trial period
The Advisor Says: We believe that Nectar offers a quality bed backed up by generous policies, and for under $1,000 for a queen (after discounts). If you’re looking for a firmer foam mattress on a budget, the Nectar Classic has you covered.
Why the Nectar Earned Best Memory Foam Mattress for Kids
Adults already know the Nectar as a popular memory foam mattress you can order online. After testing it extensively, I recommend it for kids, too—it has a versatile, medium-firm feel with lots of support from its strong base foam. At the same time, its upper two layers give you a nice amount of pressure relief.
As an all-foam mattress, it may be better suited for older children who want a bit more softness and less bounce to their bed.
What’s the Nectar Mattress Made Of?
The Nectar is 12 inches high and has five total layers if you count its top and bottom covers.
Inside the Nectar
Layer 1 – Top Cover. A heat-resistant cover made with polyethylene fibers.
Layer 2 – Gel Memory Foam (2 inches). Gel-infused foam that molds to the contours of your body, cradling your joints.
Layer 3 – Dynamic Response Foam (3 inches). A firmer foam that responds more quickly than the layer above.
Layer 4 – ActiveSupoort Foam (7 inches). The robust foam base of the bed.
Layer 5 – Lower Cover. A polyester cover that holds all the layers of the mattress together.
My Take: I like how the Nectar capitalizes on the cradling feel of memory foam without letting side and back sleepers sink too low. I don’t recommend it for plus-size adults or stomach sleepers, but these drawbacks likely don’t apply to kids, who are smaller.
Customer Reviews of the Nectar Mattress
With thousands of reviews on Nectar’s website, the Nectar mattress has an average 4.8 out of 5 stars. One common customer complaint about the Nectar mattress is its longer-than-average break-in period, while many customers praise its excellent value and comfort once fully settled.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.0
Helix
Helix Kids Mattress
Flippable
For Kids
Hybrid
100 nights
Free shipping minus AK and HI
Black Friday Sale
Use code BF25 and save 25% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase See Details
Flippable firmness. This bed has a soft side (6.5 out of 10) and a firm side (8.5 out of 10).
Size
Twin, full
Kids
This bed is designed with two sides that should work for children ages 3 to 7 and 8 to 12.
Investment Hunters
The Helix Kids is a great value option if you’re looking for a bed that’ll last from kindergarten to tweendom.
Hybrid Fans
This bed has plenty of bounce for restless kids who move around at night or want to jump on the bed.
Pros of the Helix Kids
The flippable construction accommodates both younger and older children as they grow
The coils extend all the way to the bed’s edges and provide extra reinforcement along the perimeter
This bed comes with a 100-night trial so your child has plenty of time to decide whether or not they like this bed
Cons of the Helix Kids
At nearly $750 for a twin, we wouldn’t say this bed is a budget option
If you’re looking for an all-natural kid’s bed, this one isn’t it; it’s made with safe but synthetic materials
Shipping
Free shipping to contiguous United States ($250 for Alaska, Hawaii, and Canada)
Trial
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
Free returns within trial period
The Advisor Says: The Helix Kids mattress is a flippable hybrid designed to last 8 years and “grow” alongside your child. There’s a firmer side meant for younger kids (ages 3 to 7) who need more support. Once they turn 8, flip over to the softer side for more pressure relief, which should last until age 12. Overall, we think it’s a worthwhile investment.
Why the Helix Kids Earned Best Hybrid Mattress for Kids
With two usable sides—each one meant for a different age range—the Helix Kids mattress banishes the stress of buying a new bed for your kid every few years. Its hybrid design enables its firmness to change alongside a child’s growth.
The firmer side, which is recommended for children ages 3-7, has a more robust feel that prioritizes support. The softer side, which is for ages 8-12, should satisfy older kids who’ve developed a preference for a more pillowy surface.
What’s the Helix Kids Made Of
The Helix Kids mattress is 8 inches tall and has seven total layers in its flippable design.
Helix Kids Construction
Layer 1 – Tencel™ Cover. Both sides of the mattress have a hypoallergenic Tencel™ cover that’s been treated to prevent damage from spills and infiltration from germs.
Layer 2 – Fire Safety Layer. A fiberglass-free fabric blend for fire resistance.
Layer 3 – Helix Responsive Foam. A dense foam that promotes healthy body alignment in younger children.
Layer 4 – Coils. Individually wrapped coils with reinforced springs on the long sides.
Layer 5 – Gel Memory Foam. This foam gives the softer side of the bed a cradling, cozy feel.
Layer 6 – Fire Safety Layer. A second fire-resistant layer.
Layer 7 – Tencel™ Cover. The same Tencel™ cover, just on the softer side.
Our Take: Helix is known for making mattresses that cater to specific types of sleepers, and their children’s bed follows this pattern of precision. The care that went into its design is reflected in its longevity—if you opt for this model, you may not have to get another bed for your child until they’re a teen.
Customer Reviews of The Helix Kids Mattress
On the Helix website, this mattress is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars. The Helix Kids mattress provides customizable comfort for young children, but some customers may find the initial setup process slightly complex.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
Dual-sided, with a slightly more supportive side for older children and a softer side for younger ones. Both sides feel medium-firm, around a 6.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full
Kids (Ages 3-12)
The bed’s design caters to growing children, pairing supportive coils with a waterproof barrier.
Green Shoppers
Recycled steel coils, organic cotton in the cover, and a botanical antimicrobial treatment give this bed some eco-friendly credentials.
Two Age Groups
Its dual-sided design means you can flip it over once your child is about 8 years old, then keep using it for another 4 years.
Saatva Youth Pros
Toddlers and young kids need lots of support as their skeletons mature; this bed’s springs and zoned foam should be both comfy and bracing in the right places
A water-resistant treatment protects the organic cotton cover, and a waterproof barrier on the side for younger kids also guards the bed’s interior against accidents and spills
The Saatva Youth boasts a wire inside its spring unit that enhances support for the low back—the same feature found inside its adult beds
Saatva Youth Cons
This mattress goes for around $900 in a twin XL size (before sales), so it’s not the cheapest children’s mattress
Adults shouldn’t use this bed as their primary mattress—it’s meant for kids, so you may not have it in your home for more than nine years
Shipping
Free shipping and white glove delivery within the contiguous United States
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
Saatva charges a $99 processing fee for returns
The Advisor Says: Saatva brings the same eye for luxury and consistent support to their children’s mattresses as they do to their adult ones. The dual-sided Saatva Youth has a firmer side for older kids (ages 8-12) and a softer side for younger ones (ages 3-7), complete with a waterproof barrier layer in case of messes. It’s pricier than many kids’ mattresses on the market, but you can trace the cost back to its choice materials.
Why the Saatva Youth Earned Best Flippable Mattress for Kids
Saatva’s standout innerspring beds have long since proven their mettle in the adult world, especially when it comes to addressing back pain. It’s no surprise, then, that the Saatva Youth preserves some of these spine-focused features: firmer quilting in the cover, zoned foam, and even a Lumbar Zone® Active Spinal Wire all shore up support beneath the lower back in this children’s bed.
What’s more, the Saatva Youth is flippable. One side addresses the needs of children ages 3-7, while the other focuses on ages 8-12. Regardless of your child’s age, they’ll be benefiting from eco-friendly components such as an organic cotton cover and a thistle-based natural flame barrier.
What’s the Saatva Youth Made Of?
The Saatva Youth mattress is 10 inches tall and has five distinct layers, plus foam rails around the perimeter for enhanced edge support.
Inside the Saatva Youth
Layer 1 – Organic Cotton Cover. Breathable organic cotton helps the cover to stay cool, while a water-resistant finish and antimicrobial treatment guard against spills and bacteria. The cover is even quilted to feel firmer in the middle third, right underneath the sensitive lumbar spine.
Layer 2 – Zoned Foam Support Layer. A sheet of foam with additional lumbar support in the center.
Layer 3 – Coils. Interconnected coils made of recycled steel form the primary support layer of the mattress. On the side meant for older children, a Lumbar Zone® Active Spinal Wire also bolsters the area beneath the lower back.
Layer 4 – High-Density Comfort Foam. A textured foam that allows for both cooling and a bit of comfortable sinkage.
Layer 5 – Organic Cotton Cover. A mirror image of the cover on the other side.
Our Take: This is one of the fanciest children’s mattresses we’ve encountered, with a laundry list of special features and a thicker profile than many other beds on this list. Saatva knows its springs, so you can be confident that this mattress will hold up as your child grows (and jumps on it occasionally).
Customer Reviews of The Saatva Youth Mattress
On the Saatva website, this mattress is rated 5 out of 5 stars. The Saatva Youth mattress offers excellent durability and support for young customers; however, some customers may find it relatively expensive compared to other youth mattresses on the market.
This mattress contains organic cotton, organic wool, foams, and coils.
Price
$919 – $1,224 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Dual-sided. One side feels soft (around a 5 out of 10 on our firmness scale), whereas the other side feels medium-firm (6.5 out of 10).
Size
Twin, twin XL, full
Kids
Kids between the ages of 3 and 15 should get the support they need from this flippable bed.
Green Shoppers
Instead of a synthetic fire barrier, the Nolah Nurture has layers of organic wool.
Bounce Enthusiasts
This is a springy, bouncy bed with lots of responsiveness.
Nolah Nurture Pros
If your child wants a softer bed as they grow older, simply flip the Nolah Nurture to the side that features gel memory foam
A 99-cent fee will net you a 10-year protection plan for this bed that covers accidents, spills, and stains
Many children’s beds are advertised for kids up to 12 years old, but Nolah claims that kids up to age 15 can enjoy this mattress
Nolah Nurture Cons
Although its accident protection plan is great, there aren’t any parts of the bed itself that will resist liquids; we recommend getting a good mattress protector if your child is in their potty training years
A twin XL version of this bed will run you about $1,000 before discounts, so it’s not the most affordable mattress for kids
Shipping
Free shipping within the contiguous United States
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty and accident coverage (priced at $0.99) for 10 years
Returns
$99 fee for mattress retrieval
The Advisor Says: This is an extremely versatile kids’ mattress that can last them up until their teenage years. The organic cotton and wool layers should appeal to environmentally conscious shoppers, and the 99-cent accident coverage is hard to beat—but note that this bed may suit older children best, because it has no waterproof or water-resistant layer.
Why the Nolah Nurture Earned Best Mattress for Kids with Accident Coverage
The Nolah Nurture is a well-built kids’ mattress with a spring core and a flippable design, as well as organic cotton and wool on both sides. These textiles can protect the bed somewhat from spills and accidents, but some messes may be tougher to clean than others—especially during potty training.
Thankfully, you can add an accident coverage plan to your purchase of this mattress for only 99 cents. The plan allows you to file claims online, and covers everything from rips and tears to stains from accidents, cosmetics, and food.
What’s the Nolah Nurture Made Of?
The Nolah Nurture is 8 inches thick with a two-sided design.
Inside the Nolah Nurture
Layer 1 – Organic Cotton Cover (Medium-Firm Side). GOTS-certified organic cotton has an airy, soft feel as it protects the mattress.
Layer 2 – Organic Wool. GOTS-certified organic wool acts as a natural fire barrier.
Layer 3 – Firmer Comfort Layer. A layer of firm foam gives this side some bounce and enhances support.
Layer 4 – Coil System. These individually wrapped springs should keep your child’s spine aligned and strengthen the edges.
Layer 5 – Softer Comfort Layer. A softer gel memory foam keeps cool as it cushions and contours to the sleeper’s body.
Layer 6 – Organic Wool. Another natural fire barrier.
Layer 7 – Organic Cotton Cover (Soft Side). The same as the other side’s cover.
Our Take: The accident coverage on this kids’ mattress is worth much more than its 99-cent price tag, and should provide many parents with peace of mind. It’s a very enticing bonus feature on top of an already impressive children’s bed.
Customer Reviews of the Nolah Nurture
A star review is not yet listed for the Nolah Nurture on the brand’s website. While some customers have expressed concerns about its edge support, many customers appreciate the Nolah Nurture mattress for its excellent motion isolation and breathable design.
Want to know more? Our Nolah Nurture review is coming soon!
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
3.5
Brooklyn Bedding
Brooklyn Bedding Essential
Affordable
Well-Balanced Hybrid
Hybrid
120 nights
Free shipping minus AK and HI
Black Friday Sale
Use code BFRIDAY30 for 30% off sitewide See Details
Medium-firm. We rated this bed as a 6.5 out of 10 on our firmness scale.
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Back Sleepers
The balanced feel of the Brooklyn Bedding Essential is best suited to back sleepers.
Combination Sleepers
It also has a lot of bounce, though, to make it easier if you’re a restless sleeper who moves around and changes position.
Budget Shoppers
Even without sales or coupons, this bed retails at under $1,000 for a queen.
Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Essential
This bed is a hybrid, meaning you’ll get added support and longevity from the steel coils
By sticking to the fundamental features for comfort, Brooklyn Bedding keeps the price of this mattress low
It has decent motion isolation alongside good scores in bounce and edge support, so it may satisfy some couples
Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Essential
Because it consists of a coil unit topped by two comfort layers, this mattress probably won’t feel incredibly soft
This is a pretty simple bed, so it won’t have any especially fancy or enticing features for luxury shoppers
Shipping
Free shipping in contiguous United States ($125 for Alaska and Hawaii, $250 for Canada)
Trial
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
Flat return fee ($99)
The Advisor Says: Brooklyn Bedding packs everything you might want in a bed into the Essential, making it an apt moniker. We recommend this mattress to budget shoppers looking for a bouncy hybrid that’ll get the job done without breaking the bank.
Why the Brooklyn Bedding Brooklyn Essential Earned Best Affordable Mattress for Kids
The Brooklyn Bedding Brooklyn Essential is technically a mattress for all ages, and is therefore available in all the standard sizes, from twin to king. It’s also extremely affordable: a twin will commonly cost you less than $500, and a full only costs a bit more than $500 (while a sale is active).
This mattress isn’t bursting with fancy features, but it’s true to its name: everything you’d need from a bed is included. An 8-inch coil layer and comfort foams on top give it a supportive hybrid construction that should provide the lift and support a growing child needs.
What’s the Brooklyn Bedding Brooklyn Essential Made Of?
The Brooklyn Bedding Brooklyn Essential is 10 inches tall and has four layers.
Inside the Brooklyn Bedding Essential
Layer 1 – Quilted Comfort Layer (1.5 inches). A soft initial layer for pressure relief.
Layer 2 – High-Density Transition Foam (0.75 inches). A cozy foam layer that protects you from feeling too much of the coils beneath.
Layer 3 – Coils (8 inches). Individually wrapped AscensionX® coils with reinforced springs along the perimeter.
Layer 4 – Flex Base (0.25 inches). A high-density foam base.
Our Take: This is a no-frills bed that Brooklyn Bedding offers at an attractive price. Because there are only two comfort layers above the sturdy coil unit, it will likely feel firmer than average, but this can be good news for growing children who need reliable support.
Pros
For adults too – This bed can support up to 950 pounds total and comes in the full range of common mattress sizes. You may not have to give it up when your child becomes a young adult!
Materials made in-house – Brooklyn Bedding makes many of its own materials in its Arizona facility, giving the brand a direct eye on the quality of its mattress components.
Cons
Simple design – This mattress may feel a little bare-bones next to others on this list. Because of its budget-friendly price, it doesn’t include a lot of bonus features.
No child-specific features – This bed should work well for children, but it wasn’t made specifically for children. Therefore, it doesn’t have any waterproofing or other kid-friendly upgrades.
Customer Reviews of the Brooklyn Bedding Brooklyn Essential
According to Brooklyn Bedding’s website, this mattress scores about 4.5 out of 5 stars. Users have noted that it offers a budget-friendly option for customers, however some have mentioned that it may not be as durable as higher-priced alternatives.
This mattress contains latex foam, additional comfort layers, and a coil unit.
Price
$998 – $1,246 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Flippable firmness. This bed has two sides: a firmer side for younger kids and a softer side for older kids.
Size
Twin, full
Kids
This bed was designed for kids aged 3 to 12.
Organic Shoppers
Birch produces high-quality mattresses made with eco-friendly and natural materials.
Allergies
The use of organic cotton and wool, alongside natural latex, all contribute to the bed’s hypoallergenic certification.
Pros of the Birch Kids Natural
Coils and latex in the Birch Kids make for a super responsive surface, so moving around on the bed shouldn’t feel difficult
Customers reported that the edges held up under weight, so you can sit at the edge of your kid’s mattress for a bedtime story
Parents especially worried about possible toxic chemicals or materials should feel at ease knowing Birch uses only natural, sustainable materials and boasts many safety certifications
Cons of the Birch Kids Natural
Customers notice that Birch products tend to have an earthy smell, which may be distracting to sleepers with sensitive noses
All-natural products tend to have a higher price due to their quality of materials, and that’s the case for the Birch Kids
Shipping
Free shipping in the contiguous United States ($250 for Alaska, Hawaii, and Canada)
Trial
100 nights
Warranty
25-year warranty
Returns
Flat return fee ($99)
The Advisor Says: Birch is well-known for their luxury, eco-friendly mattress of the same name, but did you know they have an option for growing eco-warriors? The Birch Natural Kids is a flippable mattress made with the same cozy, nontoxic materials of its adult predecessor. If you have a child between the ages of 3 to 12 and are looking to splurge, we recommend you give it a try!
Why the Birch Kids Natural Earned Best Organic Mattress for Kids
Many parents have valid concerns about the materials going into their child’s mattress. Rather than purchasing a more traditional bed made with largely synthetic foams and fabrics, they may want to invest in an organic mattress.
The Birch Kids Natural is a fantastic eco-friendly find for children. It’s constructed with latex, organic cotton, organic wool, and steel coils. Aside from its earth-minded credentials, it also has a good firmness level for a growing child: medium firm, with lots of responsiveness from the latex and springs.
What’s the Birch Natural Made Of?
The Birch Kids Natural is 8 inches tall and has eight layers.
Inside the Birch Natural
Layer 1 – Organic Cotton Cover. Made of GOTS-certified organic cotton, this cover feels soft and encourages cooling airflow.
Layer 2 – Organic Wool. This layer of wool functions as a natural fire barrier.
Layer 3 – Firmer Natural Latex. A hypoallergenic, naturally breathable material, latex combines the pressure relief of traditional foams with a more springy feel.
Layer 5 – Coils. Individually wrapped springs provide reliable support.
Layer 6 – Softer Natural Latex. A softer layer of latex for older children who want more cushion.
Layer 7 – Organic Wool. Another fire-resistant wool layer.
Layer 8 – Organic Cotton Cover. The same organic cotton cover that protects the other side.
Our Take: If you’d like your kid to have a mattress free of synthetic foams, this one fits the bill. Its two latex layers complement its springs to make it very bouncy, which children tend to enjoy.
Customer Reviews of the Birch Natural
On the Birch website by Helix, reviews are aggregated for all their products but relatively get about 4.6 out of 5 stars. One potential negative aspect of the Birch Kids Natural mattress, as noted by some customers, is its relatively high price point, while a pro highlighted by customers is its durable construction and eco-friendly materials.
This mattress is made of memory foam and other poly foam layers.
Price
$499 – $599 (before any discounts)
Firmness
Leesa describes this mattress as having a medium-firm feel.
Size
Twin, full
Kids
As the name implies, the Leesa Kids mattress was made for the little ones in your life.
Foam Fans
Multiple specialized foam layers give this bed that iconic cushy feel.
Bunk Beds
Since this mattress is only 7.5 inches tall, it’s a great pick for a bunk bed or lofted foundation.
Pros of the Leesa Kids
A four-layer, all-foam design means that this bed has a lower price than the competing hybrids
Larger pores in the middle foam layer should help to keep air flowing through the mattress
This bed is both CertiPUR-US and GREENGUARD Gold certified, meaning the foams within are formulated without harmful chemicals and have low emissions
Cons of the Leesa Kids
A couple customer reviews mention that this mattress has a noticeable odor when first unpackaged, though this should dissipate after a few days
We probably wouldn’t recommend this bed for very young children who need the support offered by springs in a hybrid mattress
Shipping
Free shipping to the United States (some fees may apply)
Trial
100 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
Free returns within trial period ($100 charge for AK and HI)
The Advisor Says: The Leesa Kids mattress is a great all-foam children’s mattress that’s thin enough to fit in a bunk or lofted bed, but still thick enough to provide comfort. Its medium-firm feel should appeal to most sleeper types, though some younger kids might need even firmer support.
Why the Leesa Kids Earned Best Mattress for Kids with Bunk Beds
With a 7.5-inch profile and all-foam design, the Leesa Kids mattress is a perfect fit for most bunk beds and lofted beds. Those types of frames tend to have guard rails, and you don’t want your kid’s mattress to be so tall that the rail doesn’t protect them from falling. It’s an affordably priced option to boot.
What’s the Leesa Kids Mattress Made Of?
The Leesa Kids Mattress is 7.5 inches tall and consists of four layers.
Leesa Kids Construction
Layer 1 – Knit Cover. A textured cover that admits cooling airflow.
Layer 2 – Memory Foam (1 inch). A sheet of plush, cradling foam.
Layer 3 – Serene Foam (1 inch). This foam has tiny air pockets inside it for enhanced pressure relief.
Layer 4 – Foam Base (5 inches). A supportive foam foundation.
Our Take: This is a no-frills foam mattress for kids that’s great for bunk beds and easy to transport. We recommend it if you’re looking for a low-profile mattress.
Customer Reviews of the Leesa Kids Mattress
This mattress is relatively new and, as of May 2024, has less than 100 customer reviews on Leesa’s website. It’s rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars. Some customers have complained about off-gassing odors when the bed is first opened, but most agree that it’s a great bed for kids, bunk beds, and lofted beds.
While these mattresses didn’t make our list, each of these beds are great fits for kids to support them as they grow and sleep through the night. Check out our featured recommendations below.
Choosing the Best Mattress for a Kid: Key Considerations
When selecting a bed for your child, you’ll want to look at mattresses that provide the right amount of support for a growing kid—and they may look quite different from beds meant for adults.
If your child is old enough to weigh in, ask them what their dream bed looks and feels like. We also recommend ordering a bed with a long sleep trial so they can test it out over time (and you can return it if it’s causing problems). Otherwise, keep the following factors in mind as you shop.
Age and Mattress Size
Your child’s age should help determine the size of the mattress you buy for them. Consult the chart below to compare different mattress sizes, their intended age groups, and their most noteworthy features.
Size
Dimensions
Age Group
Key Features
Guide
Crib
Approx. 28” x 52”
Infants and Toddlers (0-3 years)
* Very firm for essential support * Often dual-sided * Waterproof or water-resistant
The type of mattress you choose for a child will determine their experience of the bed’s feel and support.
In our opinion, a hybrid mattress is the ideal choice for a kids’ mattress. These beds mix strong support with just enough softness for comfortable nights. They’re also extremely durable, and that’s a plus given that young children tend to put their mattresses through more wear and tear than other age groups.
The biggest drawback of this kind of bed is its cost. A quality hybrid bed for children will probably be priced higher than an all-foam alternative.
We’ve included a mix of hybrids and foam beds in the roundup above, but hybridswin the day—there are six of them, compared to two foam options. It’s worth noting that five out of six of the beds specifically designed for children are hybrids, too.
Firmness
When browsing mattresses for kids, aim for a medium-firm feel—around a 6.5 or so on our mattress firmness scale. This firmness is a golden middle ground of sorts, and will be optimal for the vast majority of children throughout most of their junior years. Every bed on the above list has at least one medium-firm or firm side.
If a bed is too soft, it might feel inviting at first, but it may not have the proper amount of support or pressure distribution for a growing child.
Support
A mattress’s support is correlated with its ability to encourage neutral spinal alignment. Importantly, support and firmness are not the same thing—a mattress’s firmness doesn’t necessarily indicate anything about the strength or effectiveness of its support system.
For children, maintaining healthy spinal alignment is especially important as their bones grow and develop. You’ll want a kids’ mattress with a durable, well-designed support system, whether it’s a strong innerspring unit or a dense foam base. All of the kids’ mattresses that we’ve tested meet this requirement, with a score of at least 4 out of 5 in this category from our review team.
Cooling and Breathability
If your child gets too warm while sleeping, they may wake up multiple times throughout the night—a scenario that affects them and their parents. You’ll want a mattress that doesn’t retain too much heat.
Beds with springs foster more airflow than all-foam models, so again, we recommend hybrid beds for children to up the cooling factor. Some beds also have cooling components inside their foam layers (like gel, copper, or graphite infusions), and breathable covers made of textiles such as cotton or Tencel™.
We use a heat gun to measure how quickly beds heat up when you lay on them.
As part of our testing process, we see how well mattresses regulate their temperature after several minutes of someone lying on the bed’s surface. The Saatva Youth and Helix Kids are the best of the bunch—we awarded them both a 4 out of 5 in this category.
Waterproof or Water-Resistant Components
Spills and accidents are all but guaranteed as your child goes through potty training (or sneaks snacks into bed). Some children’s mattresses—including the Saatva Youth and Helix Kids—are built with water-resistant or waterproof covers or barriers to help make cleanup easier.
As you shop for a kids’ mattress, pay attention to any waterproof or water-resistant components that will add to the bed’s convenience factor. If your heart is set on a kids’ mattress without these features, you can also investigate mattress protectors that you’d purchase separately.
Whether or not your child’s mattress has any waterproof elements, it should be easy to clean when accidents occur.
Some of the mattresses above stay clean via spill-resistant covers and antimicrobial treatments. Others, such as the Nolah Natural, can be ordered with comprehensive accident and stain protection coverage.
The Nectar, Leesa Kids, Bear Cub, Brooklyn Essential, and Birch Kids Natural don’t have any built-in components that help with cleaning, but can be spot cleaned as well as shielded by a removable mattress protector.
Materials, Certifications, & Safety
As you think about which kids’ mattress to buy, you’ll want to look out for beds with safe, premium materials and certifications from reputable third-party organizations. If a manufacturer uses vague language around its mattresses’ constructions, or only includes scant details about the materials that go into its beds, you should be wary.
If shopping organically is important to you, keep an eye out for certifications from GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) and GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard).
Other mattress certifications that signal a lack of potentially harmful chemicals and low emissions include those from CertiPUR-US®, UL GREENGUARD, MADE SAFE®, and more. Some companies will also put kids’ mattresses through testing for substances such as phthalates and lead. Always try to trace these testing claims to a trustworthy and findable source.
On this list, every mattress has CertiPUR-US® certification at the very least. The Saatva Youth, Helix Kids, Bear Cub, and Birch Kids Natural lead the way in additional certifications and safety credentials.
If you’re concerned about your child’s susceptibility to allergens, look for beds with materials that resist the accumulation of common ones. Latex, for example, can resist the buildup of dust mites and other irritants. Other mattresses may be protected from allergens and germs by antimicrobial treatments, or innately antimicrobial substances such as copper or wool.
Note: the term “hypoallergenic” doesn’t have any official certifications associated with it, so it’s often bandied about by mattress companies. Be sure to research whether or not an allegedly hypoallergenic mattress has components that will actually guard against your child’s allergens.
Brand Reputation
A reputable mattress brand sells durable, high-quality beds and honors the promises it makes to its customers. Finding a brand you can trust is of the utmost importance as you plan out your child’s bedroom.
We’ve vetted the brands on this list and tested multiple mattresses from each of them to ensure that their products match their advertising. We also take warranties, sleep trials, and other policies into account when deciding which beds to highlight. When possible, we also get in touch with the brand’s customer service to gauge how quickly and efficiently they can address questions and feedback.
Why Is a High-Quality Kids’ Mattress So Important?
As children grow and develop, they need regular, deep, and restful sleep. A mattress that suits their body’s needs and their comfort preferences is therefore essential.
In fact, not getting enough sleep as a child is correlated with worrisome health and behavioral outcomes.
What Happens If Children Don’t Get Enough Sleep?
A substantial body of research proves that a lack of sleep at a young age can lead to a variety of physical and mental issues, including:
Diabetes
Hypertension
Obesity
Stress
Depression
Anxiety
Impaired memory and learning1
A 2022 study even found that insufficient sleep led to visible changes in brain structure for 9- and 10-year-olds. Specifically, regions that govern attention, memory, and impulsivity had “less grey matter or smaller volume” than those in children who were getting nine or more hours of sleep per night.2
Longitudinal studies also suggest that disrupted or low-quality sleep in childhood can have long-term effects, including a higher likelihood of depression, anxiety, or behavior issues later in life.3
How Much Sleep Do Kids Need?
How much sleep a child needs depends on their exact age. In 2016, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine published their guidelines for each age group1:
Child’s Age
Recommended Amount of Sleep per Night
4 to 12 Months
12 to 16 Hours
1 to 2 Years
11 to 14 Hours
3 to 5 Years
10 to 13 Hours
6 to 12 Years
9 to 12 Hours
13 to 18 Years
8 to 10 Hours
Distressingly, in 2021 CDC reported that more than a third of children in the United States were not getting the recommended amount of sleep.4
Dr. Raj’s Tips for Helping Kids Get Better Sleep
Best Beds for Kids FAQs
Are memory foam mattresses good for kids?
A memory foam mattress may be a good fit for your child’s needs if it’s not too soft. If you want an all-foam kids’ bed, pick one that’s medium-firm rather than plush.
However, a mattress with springs will generally outlast an all-foam bed and have a stronger support unit. That’s why we recommend hybrid beds (which have both springs and foam comfort layers) for children.
How firm should a child’s mattress be?
A kid’s mattress should be medium-firm or firm, rather than soft. This firmness level accommodates the widest range of sleeping positions and helps to promote a neutral spinal alignment as your child grows.
How tall should a kid’s mattress be?
A child’s mattress should be at least 6 inches tall, though around 8 inches is preferable. Kids don’t need the same amount of height from their beds as adults do, so the mattresses on our list above are all between 8 and 12 inches thick.
How do you clean pee out of a mattress?
Cleaning urine from a mattress after your child has an accident is a multi-step process, but it’s very doable and only requires a few household items.
Put any soiled bedding into the washing machine as soon as you discover the accident.
Use paper towels or rags to blot the affected area. Don’t try to scrub the urine out, just apply and release pressure to absorb excess moisture.
Spray the area with a solution made of white vinegar and water. Most sources recommend a half-and-half mixture. You can also add a couple tablespoons of detergent to either the spray bottle or the mattress itself (before you spray).
After thoroughly spraying the spot, layer baking soda on top of it. Use a generous amount, so the area is fully covered. Let the baking soda sit for 8 hours or more.
Vacuum up the baking soda. If odors or stains are lingering, you can repeat steps 3 through 5 as needed.
Julia is a product tester at Sleep Advisor, specializing in testing out mattresses and sleep accessories – she’s in the right line of work, because she loves to sleep.
Stomach Sleeper
References:
Paruthi, Shalini., et al. “Consensus Statement of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine on the Recommended Amount of Sleep for Healthy Children: Methodology and Discussion”. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine. November 2016.
Contie, Vicki. “Children’s sleep linked to brain development”. National Institutes of Health. Last modified August 30, 2022.
Alrousan, Ghalya., et al. “Early Life Sleep Deprivation and Brain Development: Insights From Human and Animal Studies”. Frontiers in Neuroscience. May 2022.
Wheaton, Anne G., & Claussen, Angelika H. “Short Sleep Duration Among Infants, Children, and Adolescents Aged 4 Months–17 Years — United States, 2016–2018”. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. September 2021.
