Which mattress for a bunk bed, cabin bed or high sleeper?
A raised bed needs the right mattress to be comfortable and safe. The two things to get right are the size, so it fits the frame snugly, and the depth, so the guard rail does its job.
1. Match the mattress size to the bed
Most children's raised beds take a UK single mattress (90 x 190cm), but not all. Some take EU sizes (often 90 x 200cm), shorty sizes or small doubles. The product page always states the size. A mattress that's too small leaves gaps at the edges where arms, legs or toys can slip; one that's too big won't sit flat. See our UK bed sizes guide for exact dimensions.
2. Never go deeper than the maximum depth
Bunk beds, high sleepers and mid sleepers state a maximum mattress depth. The guard rail is designed to stand a certain height above the top of the mattress. If the mattress is deeper than the maximum, the rail is effectively lower and less able to stop a sleeping child rolling out. This is one of the most important checks in our bunk bed safety checklist.
The same applies to toppers: adding a topper increases the depth, so include it when you check against the maximum.
3. Choose the type
- Foam: light, which makes changing sheets on a top bunk easier, and quiet when children move.
- Sprung and pocket sprung: springs give a supportive, breathable feel. Pocket springs move independently.
- Hybrid: springs with foam comfort layers.
For children, comfort and a good fit matter more than the type. Our existing guide to mattress firmness for children covers how firm to go.
Our kids' mattresses include foam and sprung options from Maxitex, Noomi, Tutti Bambini and Panda London, with sizes from cot and cot bed up to single. Check each product page for its depth.
4. Think about everyday practicalities
- Weight: a lighter mattress is easier to lift when tucking sheets in on a top bunk.
- Removable or washable covers and a waterproof mattress protector are useful for younger children.
- Ventilation: slatted bases let a mattress breathe; air the room regularly.
- Bedding: fitted sheets should match the mattress size and depth.
Bed type by bed type
| Bed | What to check |
|---|---|
| Bunk beds | Both mattresses must fit; the top one must stay within the maximum depth |
| High and mid sleepers | Maximum depth for the raised bed; a lighter mattress helps with sheet changes |
| Cabin beds | Size and any maximum depth given; depth affects how high the bed feels |
| Trundle drawers | Trundles often take a thinner mattress so the drawer closes; check the maximum depth |
When to replace a child's mattress
Replace a mattress when it sags, has lumps or springs you can feel, or no longer fits the frame snugly. When you move a child into a new raised bed, check whether their existing mattress meets the new bed's size and depth before you reuse it.
Shop Kids' & Toddler Mattresses
Frequently asked questions
What depth mattress do I need for a bunk bed?
Use a mattress no deeper than the maximum depth stated for your bunk bed. It's on the product page and in the instructions, and it keeps the guard rail high enough above the sleeper.
Can I use a topper on a top bunk?
Only if the mattress and topper together stay within the bed's maximum mattress depth. A topper adds depth and lowers the effective height of the guard rail.
Do high sleepers take a standard single mattress?
Many do, but some use EU or other sizes. Always check the mattress size given for the bed.