5 Easy Tips – Choosing a Mattress for Your Child

Choosing a mattress for your child can be a daunting task. With so many models, brands, types to choose from, it can be difficult to know which children’s mattress will work best for your bed.

We recently moved Andrea out of her crib and into a big girl bed. This was an exciting time for her and we wanted to purchase a children’s mattress that would be comfortable and made to last.

Here are a few questions to consider when choosing a mattress for your child:

1. Size of Bed

Once you have determined which bed your child will be sleeping in, the bed will need to be measured so you can figure out what size mattress will work best for your bed frame.

2. Type of Bed

Depending on the type of bed that you have purchased, you may need to look at specific mattresses. Cabin and bunk bed mattresses will often require a bunkie board, but a standard bed frame may be better suited with a children’s mattress and box spring. Some mattresses have different requirements for the base, so it’s best to predetermine this before shopping around.

3. Bedding Materials

What is the mattress made of? Some mattresses are made of materials, such as polyvinyl chloride, that can let off toxin materials. Mattresses made of organic and natural materials are becoming increasingly popular and easier to find.

4. Comfort Level

It’s hard to ask a child how comfortable a mattress is when all they are interested in is the jump factor. If you can get your child to lay on a bed long enough, ask him/her questions such as “Is this bed hard or soft?” If your child can distinguish that one mattress is firmer than another, you might consider opting for the firmer mattress. A firm mattress can help support your child’s growing bones much longer than a softer mattress.

Optional: You might consider purchasing a mattress cover. A mattress cover can protect your investment from spills, potty accidents and even sickness.

It can be a headache to purchase a child’s mattress during their transition from crib to bed. By asking yourself these questions during the purchase process, you can ensure that you are making the best choice.