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Best Overall Mattress for Kids
satwa youth
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The best memory foam mattress for kids
Nest Bedding Puffin Memory Foam Children’s Bed
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The best mattress for your first “big kid” bed
Naturepedic 2-in-1 Organic Kids Mattress
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The best mattresses for older kids
Naturepedic Verse Organic Children’s Mattress
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The best mattress for active kids
Zoma mattress
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As parents, we want only the best for our children, and this feeling extends to every aspect of their lives. The amount of sleep our children need changes as they grow, but ensuring they get the best quality sleep when they tuck themselves in at night depends, in part, on the mattress in their bedroom. The best mattresses for children are soft but supportive, pressure-relieving mattresses. If your child is worried about accidents, you may want to consider a waterproof cover.
There are many options to choose from, from memory foam mattresses to hybrid mattresses. You can also get specialized double-sided beds that can be adjusted as your child grows. CNET’s team of mattress experts have seen it all, and with years of experience testing mattresses, we know what makes a good mattress. Here are our picks for the best mattresses for kids.
But before we dive in, here’s something else to know: While you can find specialized mattresses for kids, some regular mattresses will work just as well for your child. Secondly, a single bed is the perfect size for a child’s bedroom, usually bunk bed size if you are buying for multiple children.
What is the best mattress for kids?
Designed to grow with your child, the Saatva Youth bed has a double-sided construction and is the best mattress for kids. Saatva is known for its high-quality mattresses, and the Youth model is no exception.
The first side of the mattress is suitable for children between three and seven years old. It has a five-zone support foam layer that is firmer in the center third of the bed to ensure their spine remains aligned throughout the night. Flip the mattress over and you get access to the big kid side, which features a patented movable spine line in the lumbar area.
Then there are waterproof finishes to protect the bed as your child ages. You can’t beat this 2-in-1 mattress.
The Best Kids Mattresses of 2024
Our team of experts has been testing mattresses for years. We’ve established testing methods that we use on every bed, including evaluating edge support, firmness, and motion isolation.
In this review, we also considered special features that are important to children, such as waterproof materials or reversible designs. and third-party certifications showing the mattress has been tested for safety, including GREENGUARD and CertiPUR-US.
CNET editors select the products and services we write about based on editorial merit. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about how we test mattresses.
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There are many children’s beds out there, some specially designed for children or popular models of double beds. Keep these things in mind when buying a new mattress for your child.
age
Your child’s age will help you determine the mattress size they need. Infants require a crib mattress, while older children can use a Twin or Twin XL mattress.
Also, keep in mind that some mattresses designed for children, such as the Nest Bedding Puffin, also have weight limits. Your child’s age and weight will help you determine whether the mattress you choose has enough room for them to grow.
Sleeping position
Your child’s sleeping position will determine how firm or soft their mattress needs to be. Side sleepers need adequate pressure relief to combat pressure points on their shoulders, hips, and knees. People who are stomach or back sleepers need a firmer mattress to keep their spine aligned during the night.
Special features for children
Common unique features in children’s mattresses include waterproof materials for potty training, zoned support, and reversible construction that grows with your child.
You should also keep your child’s specific needs in mind when shopping. For example, if they have allergies, you would look for materials like latex foam that are naturally antibacterial.
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Foam mattresses are best for children because they are well-made but usually won’t cost you a ton of money. Hybrid mattresses are not necessary as they offer more support than your child may need and are more expensive. Memory foam provides ample pressure relief, while latex foam is breathable and can be made organic or natural. Finally, foam is a breathable and comfortable material that is also very affordable. You’ll also want to consider your child’s preferred sleeping position, weight, and how long they spend in bed.
You want your child to have a comfortable mattress, but they will eventually outgrow it. Therefore, you may not want to invest in buying yourself an expensive mattress. Most children’s mattresses cost between $200 and $800. Some are beyond that price, but you’ll find luxury kids’ mattresses with extra bells and whistles.
We recommend a medium mattress – the smaller your size, the firmer the mattress will be. This means that a medium-firm mattress may feel firmer for your child. A medium mattress should provide both adequate support and pressure relief. If your child likes to sleep on their side, you should sleep on a softer side.
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