Finding the best mattress for your child can be hard work. won’t make specific recommendations. There are, however, recommendations on ways to narrow your search to find the best mattress for your child. One of the easiest ways to begin is to decide what size mattress you should get for your child. Since children start out small, many parents opt for a twin mattress. However, that may not be the best choice. suggests that if space allows, consider a full-size mattress to make storytime and cuddling in bed with your child a bit more comfortable. If your child’s room doubles as a guest room, that’s another reason to think about getting a larger mattress. You also have some choices to make about box springs since they come in different heights. suggests you consider a low profile or bunkie board to keep the overall height of the bed a bit lower. Also keep in mind that your new mattress may last 10 years. Think about what will be best for your child in the future. reports that traditional innerspring mattresses are by far the most popular, and it calls them the “best mattress for most.”
notes that mattress owners generally rate memory foam, air, water and latex mattresses higher than innersprings in comfort, durability and longevity. reports about 20 percent of owners of memory foam mattresses complain about the hardness of their beds and some report an unpleasant odor when the mattress is new. It notes that latex mattresses tend to be springier and durable, but they can be expensive. notes that children of all ages need a mattress that provides comfort and adequate support system. If your children are older, it recommends getting them involved in the buying process. The Better Sleep Council suggests using the acronym SLEEP when trying out a mattress: "Select a mattress; Lie down in your sleep position; Evaluate the level of comfort and support; Educate yourself about each selection; Partners should try each mattress together." notes that hand-me-downs clothes may be cool, but hand-me-down mattresses aren’t such a good idea. If a mattress isn’t good enough for you anymore, it’s not going to provide enough support for your growing child either.
If you’re buying an infant mattress, make sure it’s firm. Infants should sleep on firm mattresses to reduce the risk of SIDS. How to Clean a Crib Mattress Exercise Ball Work for Lower Back Pain How Old Should a Baby Be Before Using a Pillow? Is Flame-Resistant Clothing Safe for Children? Exercise for Upper Back Pain Is it Safe to Reuse a Crib Mattress?Choose the Correct Size Most children transition from a crib mattress to a big bed between the ages of 2 and 3. You may opt to use your crib mattress and go straight to a toddler bed, but if you're considering longevity, it's best to focus on a twin-sized children's mattress, a twin XL or a full-sized bed. A regular twin mattress is one step up from a crib mattress. These mattresses are ideal when you're looking to save space, and they work well if you have two or more children sharing a room. A twin XL mattress is slightly longer and is more likely to accommodate a teenager's growth spurts. A full-sized mattress is ideal for larger rooms and can sleep more than one child.
This type of mattress is the same length as a standard twin-sized mattress, but it can usually accommodate a child well into adulthood. Children with allergies are often sensitive to synthetic mattresses. Synthetic mattresses can sometimes cause skin irritation, respiratory problems and other health issues. To prevent a possible reaction, choose an organic mattress or one made of natural materials, including cotton, organic wool, silk, natural latex and even bamboo. If you are unsure of the composition, read the manufacturer's label and look for any chemicals. Select the Right Support Type The most popular types of mattress support systems include innerspring coils and memory foam. Innerspring open-coil mattresses are the most common. These mattresses feature a network of connected coils that allow pressure points to sink in but provide support to keep the spine from bowing. Innerspring pocket coils feature springs that work independently from one another. They are typically more expensive than standard innerspring coils, but they are fantastic at eliminating motion transfer.
Innerspring mattresses are a good choice for children, because the weight of a child isn't enough to cause continuous stress to the coils, which can damage them and shorten the life of the mattress.Memory foam mattresses contour to the shape of the body, are hypoallergenic and last much longer than coil spring mattresses. The more expensive designs feature gel infusions that keep you cooler throughout the night. Latex mattresses are perhaps the highest quality and can last up to 30 years. Latex mattresses provide excellent support, but the cost is usually not practical for a growing child. Pick the Level of Comfort All mattresses come in extra firm, firm, plush and ultra-plush. Ultra-plush mattresses are often referred to as pillow-top or box-top mattresses. Back and side sleepers generally appreciate a firm mattress, while a medium-firm mattress is perfect for stomach sleepers. Decide on a Durable Design Kids are notorious for accidents, and they love jumping on beds.
Make sure to choose a kid's mattress that can withstand a little abuse. A mattress protector is always a good idea, regardless of the type of mattress you purchase, as it guards against stains and can be removed for cleaning. A simple platform bed works well in a child's room. This type of foundation lets you avoid using a box spring, which saves you money. If you're considering a traditional bed frame, you also need to purchase a solid box spring. Most high-quality mattresses have matching box springs, so you can purchase the two together as a set. When choosing a box spring, select one that's the same size as your regular mattress and fits snugly inside your bed frame.Children are growing all the time and while their bones are growing, it’s vitally important that they sleep on a mattress that provides the correct degree of support for their spines. As adults, we all know that sleeping on a cheap or well-used mattress is uncomfortable – and leads to a disturbed night’s sleep that leaves us feeling groggy and achy in the morning.
It’s the same for kids, with the added risk of stiffness and discomfort as their bodies are constantly changing. You really do need to make sure that you choose a good mattress that supports their growing bones during childhood. When it comes to choosing a good mattress for your child, then one with a box spring support system really is recommended. Whether it’s an open coil or a pocket sprung mattress, this is the type that will provide maximum support for your child at night, leading to a good, comfortable night’s slumber. While latex and memory foam can be ideal for adults, providing a comfortable base on which to sleep, they’re really not suitable for toddlers and children. There are so many styles of kids’ beds available nowadays, that it can be difficult to find a suitable good quality mattress to fit. Think about this when choosing a bed, whatever age your child may be. The mattress (and support it provides) is actually much more important than the style of bed you choose, so perhaps it would be a good idea to choose a mattress and then find a bed that it will fit.
If you’re opting for bunk beds, a loft bed, cabin bed, short, starter bed or a good, old-fashioned style bed, the mattress really is the most important consideration. Look for a mattress made in the UK as it will comply with all UK health and safety regulations, giving you added peace of mind when it comes to the surface your little one is sleeping on. Many online kids’ furniture outlets will have a range of mattresses available with a one year guarantee. When you buy a mattress for your child, it’s worth spending a little extra and buying a mattress protector. These can be fitted or free form and will make sure that the mattress lasts longer with its waterproof qualities. Gone are the days when mattress protectors were wrinkly, crinkly sheets of plastic. Modern mattress protectors, while 100% waterproof are made from luxurious brushed cotton – breathable, noiseless, comfortable and practical. A good quality mattress protector offers the added advantage of acting as an anti-allergy barrier, protecting your little one from dust mites, a major cause of asthma and hay fever.