Best Mattresses For Children 2022

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A good night’s rest is extremely important for children as they grow and develop, and the best mattress for kids can help them get a restorative sleep. Taking a look through all the options can be a headache, especially when you don’t know how much you should spend on a kid’s mattress or even what size bed your child will need. If you’re looking for the best mattress for children, we’ve got you covered in the below roundup. Note these recommendations are for children at least 4 or 5 years of age.

The Best Mattresses For Kids

How We Chose Our Products

Our team of sleep specialists have reviewed more than 150 mattresses, using proprietary analysis and hands-on testing to establish easy-to-understand scores. In addition to an overall score, we measure subscores for support, edge support, cooling, motion transfer, durability, trial period, and warranty.

Naturally, we included several beds that are specifically designed for children. For the remaining mattresses, we focused on beds that were either flexible in their firmness (as to accommodate growing bodies) or had a streamlined design. Kids tend not to need as many extra features as adults — it’s more important that they have a bed with a simple design that’s easy to get in and out of.

Video Review: Best Mattresses For Kids 2022

Best Overall

Brooklyn Bedding Bowery Mattress

The Brooklyn Bedding Bowery is an affordable mattress that a lot of people will like because of its value and the pressure relief it provides.

Clarity Score 4.3/5
Read Brooklyn Bedding Bowery Mattress Review

Material

Foam

Trial Period

120 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Soft: 6/10

Warranty

10-year warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Best Overall

Brooklyn Bedding Bowery Mattress

The Brooklyn Bedding Bowery is an affordable mattress that a lot of people will like because of its value and the pressure relief it provides.

Clarity Score 4.3/5
Read Brooklyn Bedding Bowery Mattress Review

Material

Foam

Warranty

10-year warranty

Firmness

Soft: 6/10

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

120 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Best Overall

Brooklyn Bedding Bowery Mattress

The Brooklyn Bedding Bowery is an affordable mattress that a lot of people will like because of its value and the pressure relief it provides.

Clarity Score 4.3/5
Read Brooklyn Bedding Bowery Mattress Review

Material

Foam

Firmness

Soft: 6/10

Trial Period

120 nights

Warranty

10-year warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5

The Bowery mattress comes from Brooklyn Bedding, a company that’s all about value and excellent savings. They own their own factory, so they can cut out the middleman and pass savings along to customers. The Bowery Hybrid is their most affordable mattress model and it’s also a fantastic match for parents who want to save money on their kid’s mattress. Kids who sleep in all three sleeping positions should find the Brooklyn Bedding Bowery to be an excellent match. It features an exceptional balance of comfort and support, all while being both soft enough for side-sleeping and firm enough for back and stomach sleeping.

What Makes The Brooklyn Bedding Bowery Hybrid Stand Out?

  • The Bowery only features three foam layers. It’s a simple design for kids who shouldn’t be sleeping on a thick, over-designed mattress.
  • It’s only 10″ thick, which is a proper thickness for a kid’s bed.
  • The comfort layer contains a responsive foam called Energex, making it easier for kids to switch between their back, side, and stomach during the night.

Read our full Brooklyn Bedding Bowery Hybrid mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses 2022 for more great options.

Best Hypoallergenic Mattress For Kids

Helix Kids Mattress

The Helix Kids mattress has a flippable design, so it works well for kids between the ages of three and 12.

Clarity Score 4.0/5
Read Helix Kids Mattress Review

Material

Hybrid

Trial Period

100 Nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Warranty

10-year warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
5.0/5
Best Hypoallergenic Mattress For Kids

Helix Kids Mattress

The Helix Kids mattress has a flippable design, so it works well for kids between the ages of three and 12.

Clarity Score 4.0/5
Read Helix Kids Mattress Review

Material

Hybrid

Warranty

10-year warranty

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

100 Nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
5.0/5
Best Hypoallergenic Mattress For Kids

Helix Kids Mattress

The Helix Kids mattress has a flippable design, so it works well for kids between the ages of three and 12.

Clarity Score 4.0/5
Read Helix Kids Mattress Review

Material

Hybrid

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Trial Period

100 Nights

Warranty

10-year warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
5.0/5

One of the most interesting things about the Helix Kids mattress is that it has a has a Tencel cover. As a material, Tencel is both hypoallergenic and able to fight odor-causing bacteria. This makes the Helix Kids an excellent choice for any children struggling with allergies. Construction-wise, this mattress has two sides, so you can flip the bed for children as they grow. The firm side works best for kids between the ages of 3 and 7. When they get older and need more cushioning, turn the mattress over to the soft side for added pressure relief.

What Makes The Helix Kids Mattress Stand Out?

  • The mattress is completely water-repellant, thanks to an eco-friendly, plant-based finish. If your child has an accident in the middle of the night, you can rest assured the mattress will stay in great shape.
  • It has a durable hybrid construction. Strong coils sit in the middle layer, giving the bed a bouncy and responsive feel.
  • It’s a very cool-sleeping bed, which is great for any kids who tend to sleep hot.

Read our full Helix Kids mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses for Allergies for more great options.

Best Flippable Mattress For Kids

Saatva Youth Mattress

The Saatva Youth is a flippable mattress made just with children in mind.

Clarity Score 4.1/5
Read Saatva Youth Mattress Review

Material

Innerspring

Trial Period

365 nights

Shipping Method

Free white glove delivery

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.0/5
Best Flippable Mattress For Kids

Saatva Youth Mattress

The Saatva Youth is a flippable mattress made just with children in mind.

Clarity Score 4.1/5
Read Saatva Youth Mattress Review

Material

Innerspring

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

Shipping Method

Free white glove delivery

Trial Period

365 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.0/5
Best Flippable Mattress For Kids

Saatva Youth Mattress

The Saatva Youth is a flippable mattress made just with children in mind.

Clarity Score 4.1/5
Read Saatva Youth Mattress Review

Material

Innerspring

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

Trial Period

365 nights

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Shipping Method

Free white glove delivery

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.0/5

As a parent, it can be tough to make the right call for your child’s growing body. But what if there was a mattress out there designed with growing bodies in mind? A bouncy innerspring mattress called the Saatva Youth could be the solution. As a flippable bed, it has a side for ages 3 to 7 and a side for ages 8 to 12. For support, there’s a layer of 13.75-gauge recycled steel coils at the center of the structure.

What Makes The Saatva Youth Stand Out?

  • The 3-to-7 side features a 5-zone support layer that will feel firmer in the center and softer near the head and foot.
  • On the 8-to-12 side, the main comfort layer is high-density foam to provide good pressure relief and ample support.
  • This mattress should help your child sleep cool. The cover is nice and breathable, as are the main comfort layers on both sides. The coils also promote airflow.

Read our full Saatva Youth mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Flippable Mattresses for more great options.

Best Memory Foam Mattress For Kids

Nectar Mattress

Nectar is a very comfortable memory foam mattress that happens to also be an amazing value.

Clarity Score 4.3/5
Read Nectar Mattress Review

Material

Foam

Trial Period

365 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Best Memory Foam Mattress For Kids

Nectar Mattress

Nectar is a very comfortable memory foam mattress that happens to also be an amazing value.

Clarity Score 4.3/5
Read Nectar Mattress Review

Material

Foam

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

365 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review
Best Memory Foam Mattress For Kids

Nectar Mattress

Nectar is a very comfortable memory foam mattress that happens to also be an amazing value.

Clarity Score 4.3/5
Read Nectar Mattress Review

Material

Foam

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

Trial Period

365 nights

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Joint Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from joint pain.
Hip Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from hip pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Watch Our Video Review

Memory foam can be a great material for kids mattresses as it cradles the body, and isn’t bouncy (so you don’t have to worry about jumping on the bed). The Nectar is made entirely of memory foam, and it has the classic feel of a memory foam mattress. It’s slow-moving, contouring, and great at absorbing motion. The Nectar feels just a bit firmer than medium-firm, which should help keep kids’ spines in a straight, healthy alignment.

What Makes the Nectar Stand Out?

  • It comes at a very affordable price.
  • It has a slow-moving, classic memory foam feel.
  • It offers excellent pressure relief.

Learn more in our full Nectar mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Memory Foam Mattresses for more great options.

Best Organic Mattress For Kids

Nolah Nurture Mattress

The Nolah Nurture mattress is specifically designed with growing children in mind. This two-sided hybrid mattress has two firmness levels, and it's made from eco-friendly materials.

Clarity Score 4.1/5
Read Nolah Nurture Mattress Review

Material

Hybrid

Trial Period

120 Nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

Warranty

Lifetime Warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Best Organic Mattress For Kids

Nolah Nurture Mattress

The Nolah Nurture mattress is specifically designed with growing children in mind. This two-sided hybrid mattress has two firmness levels, and it's made from eco-friendly materials.

Clarity Score 4.1/5
Read Nolah Nurture Mattress Review

Material

Hybrid

Warranty

Lifetime Warranty

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

120 Nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
Best Organic Mattress For Kids

Nolah Nurture Mattress

The Nolah Nurture mattress is specifically designed with growing children in mind. This two-sided hybrid mattress has two firmness levels, and it's made from eco-friendly materials.

Clarity Score 4.1/5
Read Nolah Nurture Mattress Review

Material

Hybrid

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

Trial Period

120 Nights

Warranty

Lifetime Warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Kids
This bed is perfect for young sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5

If you’re after an organic mattress for your child, look no further than the Nolah Nurture. Its construction is made from a number of eco-friendly materials, including Talalay latex, organic cotton, and organic wool. It even has a moisture-wicking and hypoallergenic cotton cover, which won’t trigger kids’ sensitive allergies. This is a high-quality hybrid bed, and it also boosts its longevity by being flippable.

What Makes the Nolah Nurture Stand Out?

  • The cotton in the cover is GOTS-certified.
  • The soft side of the mattress is best for younger children (those under 10), while the firmer side is meant to support older kids (those over 10). Just flip it over as they age.
  • It sleeps nice and cool, thanks to its hybrid design and breathable materials.

Read our full Nolah Nurture mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Organic Mattresses for more great options.

Best Hybrid Mattress For Kids

DreamCloud Original Mattress

The DreamCloud is a high-quality hybrid mattress that is sold for a value price.

Clarity Score 3.8/5
Read DreamCloud Original Mattress Review

Material

Hybrid

Trial Period

365 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Firm: 7.5/10

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.6/5
Best Hybrid Mattress For Kids

DreamCloud Original Mattress

The DreamCloud is a high-quality hybrid mattress that is sold for a value price.

Clarity Score 3.8/5
Read DreamCloud Original Mattress Review

Material

Hybrid

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Firmness

Firm: 7.5/10

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

365 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.6/5
Best Hybrid Mattress For Kids

DreamCloud Original Mattress

The DreamCloud is a high-quality hybrid mattress that is sold for a value price.

Clarity Score 3.8/5
Read DreamCloud Original Mattress Review

Material

Hybrid

Firmness

Firm: 7.5/10

Trial Period

365 nights

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Seniors
This bed is perfect for senior sleepers.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.6/5

High-quality hybrid mattresses can be great investments, as these beds tend to last between 7 and 10 years. The DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid is a high-quality hybrid mattress that should last on the longer side of that interval. It comes with a lifetime warranty, so you can be sure the brand stands behind its product. This sturdy mattress is a nice option for kids, as it should withstand some jumping or roughhousing on the bed. This bed has a firmer feel, meaning it will suit kids who sleep or their back or stomach best.

What Makes the DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid Stand Out?

  • It’s a luxury bed that comes at an affordable price.
  • Its hybrid construction means it should last a long time.
  • It comes with a 365-night trial and lifetime warranty.

Read our full DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Hybrid Mattresses for more great options.

Best Full Size Mattress for Kids

Bear Mattress

The Bear Original mattress sleeps cool and is quite comfortable. It's a particularly good option for athletes.

Clarity Score 3.8/5
Read Bear Mattress Review

Material

Foam

Trial Period

120 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review
Best Full Size Mattress for Kids

Bear Mattress

The Bear Original mattress sleeps cool and is quite comfortable. It's a particularly good option for athletes.

Clarity Score 3.8/5
Read Bear Mattress Review

Material

Foam

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

120 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review
Best Full Size Mattress for Kids

Bear Mattress

The Bear Original mattress sleeps cool and is quite comfortable. It's a particularly good option for athletes.

Clarity Score 3.8/5
Read Bear Mattress Review

Material

Foam

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

Trial Period

120 nights

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review

Full size mattresses are a nice choice for kids as they give them space to move around, but they won’t take up too much space in a smaller bedroom. In addition, they are typically priced a few hundred dollars below a queen size. The Bear Original mattress is a great full size option for kids for a few reasons. It has a balanced, medium-firm feel that should appeal to the majority of sleepers. It also sleeps nice and cool, thanks to cooling gel in its top foam layer and a breathable cover.

What Makes the Bear Original Stand Out?

  • It’s one of the more affordable beds on this list.
  • Its medium-firm feel means it should work for most sleepers.
  • It is designed to be cooling and promote athletic recovery.

Learn more in our full Bear Original mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Full Size Mattresses for more great options.

Best Affordable Mattress For Kids

Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress

The Dreamfoam Essential is a cooling, affordable memory foam mattress that comes in multiple thicknesses.

Clarity Score 3.6/5
Read Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress Review

Material

Foam

Trial Period

120 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Medium-firm: 7/10

Warranty

10-year warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review
Best Affordable Mattress For Kids

Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress

The Dreamfoam Essential is a cooling, affordable memory foam mattress that comes in multiple thicknesses.

Clarity Score 3.6/5
Read Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress Review

Material

Foam

Warranty

10-year warranty

Firmness

Medium-firm: 7/10

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

120 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review
Best Affordable Mattress For Kids

Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress

The Dreamfoam Essential is a cooling, affordable memory foam mattress that comes in multiple thicknesses.

Clarity Score 3.6/5
Read Dreamfoam Essential Memory Foam Mattress Review

Material

Foam

Firmness

Medium-firm: 7/10

Trial Period

120 nights

Warranty

10-year warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.7/5
Watch Our Video Review

Since it is possible your child may outgrow their mattress, it makes sense to opt for one that won’t break the bank. The Dreamfoam Essential is the most affordable mattress on this list, coming in well below $500 for a full size. Its low price doesn’t mean it’s low-quality, though. This mattress boasts high-quality features, like cooling foams and a breathable cover. Its cover is also made with stain-resistant finish, which means kids’ spills or accidents are easier to clean up.

What Makes The Dreamfoam Essential Stand Out?

  • It comes in at a very affordable price.
  • It’s made with several cooling features, making it a great choice for hot sleepers.
  • It’s a great option for back sleepers, as it offers a good balance of comfort and support in this position.

Read our full Dreamfoam Essential mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Cheap Mattresses for more great options.

Most Supportive Mattress

Leesa Original Mattress

Made with responsive foam, the Leesa Original mattress works well for side sleepers and hot sleepers.

Clarity Score 3.9/5
Read Leesa Original Mattress Review

Material

Foam

Trial Period

100 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

Warranty

10-year warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
Watch Our Video Review
Most Supportive Mattress

Leesa Original Mattress

Made with responsive foam, the Leesa Original mattress works well for side sleepers and hot sleepers.

Clarity Score 3.9/5
Read Leesa Original Mattress Review

Material

Foam

Warranty

10-year warranty

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

100 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
Watch Our Video Review
Most Supportive Mattress

Leesa Original Mattress

Made with responsive foam, the Leesa Original mattress works well for side sleepers and hot sleepers.

Clarity Score 3.9/5
Read Leesa Original Mattress Review

Material

Foam

Firmness

Medium-firm: 6.5/10

Trial Period

100 nights

Warranty

10-year warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
Watch Our Video Review

Comfort is important, but parents shouldn’t overlook support when mattress-shopping for children, especially if they sleep on their back or stomach. The Leesa an all-foam mattress featuring comfort and support layers, followed by a base layer on the bottom. While the memory foam layer is quite soft, the proprietary LSA200 foam on top is responsive and firm, allowing for proper support. It’s a great choice for any sleepers looking for a firmer feel.

What Makes The Leesa Stand Out?

  • Because of its support, the Leesa could be a good fit for older kids.
  • It contains breathable foam that promotes better airflow than memory foam, and it should keep the top of the mattress cool at night.
  • This is a simpler, streamlined mattress. At 10″ thick and paired with a lower frame, it shouldn’t be too difficult for kids to safely get in and out of bed.

Read our full Leesa mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Mattresses for Teens for more great options.

Best Soft Mattress For Kids

Layla Mattress

An innovative and flippable mattress, the Layla works for a variety of different types of sleepers.

Clarity Score 4.3/5
Read Layla Mattress Review

Material

Foam

Trial Period

120 nights

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
Watch Our Video Review
Best Soft Mattress For Kids

Layla Mattress

An innovative and flippable mattress, the Layla works for a variety of different types of sleepers.

Clarity Score 4.3/5
Read Layla Mattress Review

Material

Foam

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Trial Period

120 nights

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
Watch Our Video Review
Best Soft Mattress For Kids

Layla Mattress

An innovative and flippable mattress, the Layla works for a variety of different types of sleepers.

Clarity Score 4.3/5
Read Layla Mattress Review

Material

Foam

Firmness

Multiple firmness options

Trial Period

120 nights

Warranty

Lifetime warranty

Shipping Method

Free shipping

Price Range

$$$$$

We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:

Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.

Financing Options

Financing options are available for this mattress.

Average Customer Rating
4.5/5
Watch Our Video Review

The Layla features some of the plushest memory foam out there — so much that your kids may feel like they’re sleeping on a giant marshmallow. But if your child needs something a bit firmer, the Layla can do that, too! The mattress is flippable, so you have two firmness options in one bed. If your child is growing and their support needs change, the Layla could be a good choice.

What Makes The Layla Stand Out?

  • The Layla offers a soft memory foam feel.
  • Since it features Thermogel in its cover and a copper infusion in its memory foam, the Layla should help keep your child cool during the night.
  • Because of its two sides, the Layla mattress should work for all three sleeping positions.

Read our full Layla mattress review for more information. Or check out our list of Best Soft Mattresses for more great options.

What Size Mattress Do Kids Need?

mattress size comparison graphic

While the perfect size for a child’s mattress varies depending on their age and height, the most ideal mattress sizes for kids tend to be:

  • Twin (38” x 75”)
  • Twin XL (38” x 80”)
  • Full (54” x 75”)

A twin-size mattress — a little larger than a small single bed — is a great choice for most children. Once kids become older and age into the teenage years, a twin XL mattress is an appropriate choice since it adds extra length to the bed. Twin XL mattresses are also commonly used for college students.

RELATED: Best Mattress For Teenagers

Full-size mattresses give kids a little extra room to stretch out and move around. They’re also a good choice for parents who either read to their kid(s) before bed or sometimes sleep with their child. There’s enough surface room for a parent to lay down beside their little one.

Anything larger than a full-size mattress isn’t necessarily the best size for a kid. Queen, king, California king, and split king mattresses are better for adults and couples since younger and smaller children don’t need as much sleeping space.

What To Look For In A Mattress For Children

Now we’ll go over all the most important factors to consider when buying a mattress for a child and explain why it matters.

Mattress Type

Traditional innerspring mattresses and memory foam or foam-blend mattresses are great options for a child’s bed. These mattress types are more affordable and have an average lifespan of about 7–10 years, so your child can grow on the mattress and sleep comfortably for a long time.

Latex mattresses and hybrid mattresses are typically more expensive and luxurious, though there are some affordable options that make good choices for kids as well.

Pressure Relief

A mattress with great pressure relief will help keep your kid comfortable while they sleep. This factor is especially important for growing kids or active kids, as sleep is an important time for restoration, healing, and growing.

Memory foam mattresses offer good pressure relief since these beds evenly distribute your body weight across the surface.

Mattress Thickness

When shopping for a kid’s mattress, you’ll want to look for a thinner mattress. If a mattress is too thick, it can be dangerous for kids and make it much more difficult for them to get in and out of bed.

Some kid beds feature safety runners along the side, and the mattress shouldn’t be higher than those.

Sleeping Position

One of the best ways to start the mattress-shopping process is narrowing down your options to best suit your sleeping position. That same rule applies to children.

If your child is a side sleeper, they may be more comfortable on a softer mattress, while stomach and back sleepers will be more comfortable on a slightly firmer mattress that offers more support.

three children in side by side beds

Price

Because children grow so quickly and will eventually outgrow their bed, you may want to think about how much you’re willing to spend on a mattress. Splurging on something with all the bells and whistles might not make sense if it doesn’t last for long.

However, if you’re purchasing a mattress that the child can grow into, you may be willing to spend more money for a long-lasting mattress.

Temperature Regulation

Nobody wants to sweat through their sheets at night, and kids shouldn’t have to, either. You’ll want to find a mattress that offers nice temperature regulation for your child. Memory foam mattresses are typically the least-cooling due to their foam construction, although some models do have advanced cooling features. Generally, hybrid mattresses and latex mattresses will be more cooling.

You may not think this matters much for your kid, but children tend to pile on a lot of bedding and stuffed animals, so it may be extra-important to have a mattress that won’t trap heat.

Kid’s Mattresses – Buying Tips

Whether our readers decide to choose one of the 10 mattresses in this roundup or want to keep shopping, here are some things to consider when choosing the right mattress for kids.

  • Don’t choose a mattress that’s too much for kids. Looking for a kid’s mattress, it isn’t so much what they need but what they don’t need. For instance, kids don’t need a mattress with a thick comfort layer or supportive coils, and they don’t need a ton of bells and whistles. Parents should ensure they aren’t spending money on features their kids won’t even notice or care about.
  • Choose a mattress that kids can grow into. Let’s face it, kids grow up fast. It’s important to find a mattress that they can use for many years. If they are only 6 or 7, it might be a good idea to get a mattress that seems large for them. As they grow, they won’t be too large for the mattress, and parents won’t need to buy something new to fit them. Take a look at the mattress warranty to ensure that you’re covered if anything goes wrong with the mattress.
  • Choose an organic mattress if your child has allergies or sensitive skin. Look for an all-natural organic mattress made with hypoallergenic materials, CertiPUR-US certified foam, and OEKO-Tex certified fabrics to keep your kids protected.

Mother and child reading story in bed

Final Thoughts

Here’s a summary of the best mattresses for kids:

Mattress Best For
Brooklyn Bedding Bowery Hybrid Best Overall
Helix Kids Best Hypoallergenic Mattress For Kids
Saatva Youth Best Flippable Mattress For Kids
Nectar Best Memory Foam Mattress For Kids
Nolah Nurture Best Organic Mattress For Kids
DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid Best Hybrid Mattress For Kids
Bear Best Full Size Mattress For Kids
Dreamfoam Essential Best Affordable Mattress For Kids
Leesa Most Supportive Mattress
Layla Best Soft Mattress For Kids

FAQs About Kid Mattresses

What is the best type of mattress for kids?

Pretty much any type of mattress can work for a child as long as they are older than four or five (if the child is toddler age, memory foam mattresses can be dangerous). That being said, it also depends on the child and their sleeping position: if the child sleeps on their side, a softer memory foam mattress might work but, if they sleep on their back or stomach, a firmer innerspring mattress might be in order.

Is a memory foam mattress good for a child?

Memory foam can be good for a child as long as they are not too small. If they are an infant or a toddler, memory foam can be a dangerous choice, but if they are older, over four or five, memory foam can be a very comfortable option for kids.

How thick should a child's mattress be?

Parents should be looking for a thinner mattress for their kids because, if the mattress is too thick, it can be very dangerous. If the child's bed has safety rails, a mattress that is only 5" thick should be a good idea and, even if the bed doesn't have rails, a child's mattress really shouldn't be thicker than 10" or 11".

What is the best mattress firmness for kids?

If the child is over four or five years old, a firm or soft mattress could work for them, and it really depends on their sleeping preferences. If they sleep on their side, a soft mattress is a better choice and, if they sleep on their back or stomach, a firm mattress will be better.

Do I need to get a mattress protector for my kid's mattress?

You don't have to put a mattress protector on your kid's mattress, but it could be a good idea if your child is still having accidents and wetting the bed. Waterproof mattress protectors can protect your kid's mattress from stains along with dust mites.

What is the best mattress for kids with allergies?

If your child suffers from allergies, it's best to choose an organic or all-natural mattress that's made with hypoallergenic materials. The Helix Kids could be a good option, as it has a cover of hypoallergenic Tencel, as well as a microbe shield.

Featured image: fizkes/Shutterstock

Gravatar for Marten Carlson

Marten Carlson

Marten is the Lead Reviewer at Mattress Clarity. He is a Certified Sleep Science Coach and covers the mattress industry as well as sleep science news. He is specifically interested in the connection between sleep and overall health. Marten has written for media publications like Consequence of Sound and received a master’s degree in Film Studies from Emory University. He comes from Franklin, Indiana, and spends all the time he can writing, directing, and acting in films.