To get a good night's sleep you will need a good mattress and solid foundation. This buying guide will help you determine the right size mattress and the ideal foundation type. In the above chart you can see the standard sizes of mattresses. Below, you'll find more information about each size, including how that size is most often used, the sleeping space offered in each size, and more.Twin Mattress Most commonly found in children's bedrooms, twin beds provide the minimal width (39 inches) a person needs to comfortably sleep at night. Twin mattresses are also used on trundle units, daybeds, and hideaways.Twin XL MattressMost often found in college dorms, twin XL beds have an additional 5 inches of length to accommodate taller people.Full MattressFull mattresses are ideal for guest rooms and teens' bedrooms, as they're larger than a twin mattress, but not as wide or long as a queen.Queen MattressThe most common mattress size in America, queens are popular in guest rooms and small master bedrooms.
Each person only has 30 inches of sleeping space, which is below the recommended 39 inches.King MattressAlso known as an eastern king, this mattress gives each person about 38 inches of sleeping room. You can create a king-sized bed by pushing two twin beds together. A king mattress is meant to be used with two half-width box springs for easy delivery and moving.California KingThe ideal choice for tall people, a California king is 4 inches longer than a traditional king, although it is also 4 inches less wide. Also known as a western king, it also is meant to be used with two half-width box springs. Mattress foundations are equally important to a good night's sleep as the mattress itself. A solid foundation will also help extend the life of your mattress. It is also important to get a foundation that is specifically designed for your mattress. They're often made to work as a set, and not purchasing the matching set could affect the manufacturer's warranty. There are two standard types: box spring and frame.
Learn more about each type below. Box SpringA box spring is a sturdy wood frame covered with cloth and usually containing springs, providing support and a flat surface for the mattress to rest on. The box spring sits directly on the bed frame. FrameUsually made of steel, a frame holds both the mattress and box spring higher off the ground. An individual frame is not necessary if you have a bed that includes a frame. Low Profile4 1/2 - 5 1/2 inches highDesirable if a standard height makes the bed too high to comfortably get into and out of.Works well with low profile headboards Standard7 1/4 inches highMust have a center support for king and queen sizes Low Profile4 1/4 inchesMust have a center support for king and queen sizesIdeal for low profile headboardsMakes it easier to get in and out of bed Platform beds do not require a box spring or frame because they generally have a solid base or use a series of wooden slats for the mattress to rest on.Most children move from a crib to a toddler bed sometime between a child’s first and third year.
It's important not to make the switch too soon. When your little one is too big or active for a crib, consider these options.Toddler beds are a nice transition. They’re about the size of a crib, so your child will feel snug and cozy. They use a crib mattress, so you won't have to invest in a new twin-sized or larger mattress just yet.Toddler beds have high sides or built-in rails to keep your child from falling or rolling out. And – adding to the kid appeal – they come in cool designs including spaceships, princess castles, or speed-demon cars.If your crib converts to a toddler bed, you can just use the conversion kit from the crib manufacturer (sometimes sold separately), which usually includes hardware and a bed rail. Swap one side of the crib for the rail, and you're done. Your child will enjoy the familiarity of the old crib and sleep safely enclosed, but will be able to get in and out without your help.See a photo gallery of our favorite toddler beds.A standard bed frame and mattress can also work.
You'll need to install bed rails or inflatable or pillow-style bolsters on both sides to keep your child safely in bed.A mattress placed on the floor is another option, although you may still want to use bolsters to keep your child from wiggling off. Once your little one has mastered the art of crib-free sleeping, you can move the mattress onto a frame.Browse dozens of toddler bedding and beds.Sturdy construction: Give the bed a good jostle – it needs to stand up to a few years of bouncing and other toddler wear and tear. The more solidly built the frame, the less likely you'll have to replace it after one too many dance parties. Solid wood costs more, but will endure better than cheaper materials.A snug fit: You want a frame that holds the mattress tightly. If the crib mattress you have doesn't fit snugly into the bed frame, buy one that does. Gaps between the mattress and the frame pose an entrapment hazard.Smooth edges: To avoid injuries, look for a design with an even, smooth finish and rounded edges, as well as hardware that doesn't jut out.
Safety standards: Look for the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) certification seal on the packaging of the toddler bed and safety rails you buy.Side rails: Many kids toss and turn while sleeping, and a rail on each side helps prevent tumbles. Some beds come with high sides or rails attached, while others have slots that let you attach ones purchased separately. Make sure any rails installed fit snugly against the edge of the mattress to avoid entrapment. Note that rails keep a child from falling but not climbing out of bed.Enticing designs: It may not be your personal taste, but a bed crowned with a princess tiara or emblazoned with a favorite cartoon character may be just the lure your toddler needs to transition out of the crib.Weight limit: Check the manufacturer's information, as many toddler beds max out at about 50 pounds. That means you won't be able to sit on it with your child, much less try to snuggle together. (Another reason to go for the sturdiest design you can find.)