7 Things to consider when buying a Kids’ Mattress

When it comes to buying your child a new mattress, there’s a lot to think about.

From posture support to allergy prevention, you want to find a mattress that’s right for your little one. And it goes without saying, you want to get your money’s worth and make sure it goes the distance.

To make the hunt for your child’s new mattress a little easier, make sure you ask yourself these seven questions…

1. Is the Mattress Supportive?

First thing’s first, you need to check that your child’s new mattress provides the right level of support.

Your little one’s mattress should be firm enough to support their growth. A good mattress will keep your youngster’s limbs aligned and their spine in a neutral position. And when the mattress mouds around the shape of your child, it’ll take the pressure off their back and shoulders.

A pocket sprung mattress provides heaps of support while your youngster snoozes. The individual springs will work around the shape of their body each night, and keep their posture in check.

Our recommendation:

The 1000 Pocket Sprung Orthopaedic Mattress is ideal for supporting your youngster while they sleep. The separate pocket springs allow for movement, meaning there’s more support for the body.

Or if you’d like a more affordable way to provide bedtime support, the Bamboo Memory Foam Mattress Topper from Panda London will conform around your little one’s shape as they snooze.

1000 Pocket Sprung Orthopaedic Mattress 90 x 190cm

Panda London Bamboo Memory Foam Mattress Topper

2. Is the Mattress Age-Appropriate?

You need to check whether the mattress ticks every box for your child’s age group. Because while one mattress might be perfect for your toddler, it might no longer meet your child’s needs as they develop.

Here’s what you should bear in mind:

Babies: a cot mattress should be firm, waterproof, washable and fit perfectly inside their cot. The Natural Twist Baby Cot Mattress by The Little Green Sheep ticks every box for your bundle of joy.

Toddlers: once your little one has outgrown their cot, they need a mattress that’s comfy and firm in equal measure. The Kids Natural Junior Mattress is a great example of both firmness and comfort and is ideal for toddlers aged two and above.

Young children: when your youngster is ready for a single bed, you can afford to branch out a little and choose whichever mattress suits their needs. Whether you pick memory foam or pocket sprung, there’s plenty of single mattresses to choose from.

Natural Twist Baby Cot Mattress 60 x 120 cm

Kids Natural Junior Mattress 90 x 200cm

3. Is the Mattress Accident-Proof?

Whether it’s a missed trip to the toilet or even a split cup of milk, accidents happen. To save yourself from long-lasting stains – and the cost of replacing your child’s mattress – make sure their mattress can survive any messy mishaps.

With a stain-resistant mattress and a mattress protector, you free yourself from the worry of lasting damage. Simply whip off the sheets and protector, and your child can enjoy a dry night’s sleep.

Our recommendation:

The Kids Natural Junior Mattress has a water-resistant, non-removable cotton cover to keep it fresh and protected. Combine it with a mattress protector like the Organic Single Mattress Protector from The Little Green Sheep to keep the mattress clean and dry for longer.

Organic Single Mattress Protector 90 x 190 cm

4. Is the Mattress Hypoallergenic?

Does your little one suffer with sniffles or sensitive skin? Then you’ll need to check that their mattress is crafted with hypoallergenic materials. Otherwise, they’ll be up all night long sneezing and scratching…

To give your youngster a restful night’s sleep, opt for a mattress that’s made with allergy-resistant materials – like 100% cotton – and a cover that locks away any dust or mites.

Our recommendation:

The Luxury Pocket Sprung Mattress by Kids Avenue is perfect for kids who suffer from allergies or sensitive skin. Its layers of foam and fibre fillings are hypoallergenic, while its soft cotton mix fabric cover shuts out pesky dust mites, pollen, and any other allergens.

Luxury Pocket Sprung Mattress 90 x 200cm

5. Is the Mattress Affordable?

Of course, you want to find a long-lasting mattress that doesn’t set you back. And the good news is, there are plenty of cost-efficient mattresses on the market.

Foam or sprung mattresses are generally much kinder on your budget compared to memory foam or latex mattresses – and they last for years. So while kids enjoy an oh-so-comfy night’s sleep, you also enjoy getting more bang for your buck.

Our recommendation:

The Pocket Sprung Foam Mattress is a steal at only £129 (at time of publishing) – and since it’s built with long-lasting foam, you won’t need to worry about replacing it in a hurry. With individual springs and a top layer of soft foam, kids enjoy a luxuriously comfortable night’s sleep for less.

Pocket Sprung Foam Mattress 90 x 200cm

6. Is the Mattress Durable?

When it comes to going the distance, you can’t go wrong with memory foam. You can typically enjoy a memory foam mattress for 8 to 10 years, so you’ll seriously get your money’s worth.

While pocket sprung mattresses provide heaps of support and comfort, they typically have a shorter lifespan of around 5 years. So if you’re after a model that lasts, stick to foam instead.

Our recommendation:

A memory foam mattress topper can extend the life of any mattress. Pair this Bamboo Memory Foam Mattress Topper with a foam mattress like Foam Trundle Mattress, and your kids will have a longer-lasting sleeping setup.

Foam Trundle Mattress 90 x 190cm

7. Is the Mattress Comfortable?

Last but certainly not least, your child’s mattress needs to be comfortable. If it’s not, all of the above points won’t matter at all!

And while one mattress might be comfy for some kids, it might not be for others. It all depends on your child’s preference and typical sleep position. Some kids prefer soft mattresses, while others prefer something more firm – so you’ll need to work with your youngster to find the perfect match.

Our recommendation:

For kids who sleep on their side, a softer mattress is ideal. That’s because they allow hips and shoulders to sink into the mattress, and alleviate any pressure. With soft and supportive foam layers, the Superior Sprung Mattress means side sleepers can sink into the mattress and enjoy a comfy kip.

Or for kids who sleep on their back or front, a firmer mattress is better. That’s because it will keep the spine supported in its natural position. Pick a mattress that’s medium-firm, like this open coil sprung mattress by Julian Bowen.

Alternatively, the Kids Natural Junior Mattress mattress combines the best of both worlds. With a firm and a soft side, you can simply flip over this mattress to suit your child’s preference – so even if their taste or sleeping position changes, they can still sleep soundly.

Superior Sprung Mattress 90 x 200 x 15

Julian Bowen Platinum Bunk Bed Open Coil Sprung Mattress

Find the right Child’s Mattress at Cuckooland

Is it time to find the right mattress for your little one? From pocket sprung to memory foam, we’ve got you covered. Head over to our entire collection of kids’ mattresses and get started today.

If you need a helping hand, you can speak to me or my team on +44 (0) 1305 231231 or send us an email today.

Nathalie

With more than 10 years’ experience in providing advice and support to parents looking for their perfect kids bed, mother of 2, Nathalie Davis is passionate about helping children develop. In her role as Director of Product Procurement at Cuckooland, Nathalie has helped thousands of parents improve their children’s sleep and sleeping habits through the beds and mattresses she sources and the articles she writes. In her spare time she teaches her Golden Retriever to be a responsible vegetarian and is often spotted sifting through clothes at her local Charity Shops.

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