Choosing the right mattress for a child is an interesting purchase. They will be growing, so you may not want to purchase a regular twin or other size mattress for them, and yet you want to make sure they get a good night sleep so they can perform well in school and other activities. Due to this, you need to know how to choose a kids mattress before you make a final purchase. Here is what you need to know regarding the best type of mattress for kids.
Importance of Sleep For Kids
Sleep is extremely important in the life of a child. Better sleep will boost their moods and behaviors, they will have longer attention spans and have a stronger memory. So basically not only do your children see benefits from better sleep but you and their teachers will benefit from the improved behavior as well.
You don’t want your child tossing and turning all night, so you need to have the right attention span. Now, most children can sleep through just about anything, as they are active enough during the day that they knock out as soon as their head hits the pillow. However, even if they are especially active you want to find the right mattress to help ensure they have a comfortable night sleep. You just need to know how to choose a kids mattress properly.
How to Choose a Kids Mattress
There are a number of features to consider when it comes to the best type of mattress for kids. You will want to consider not only the size of a mattress but the type of mattress and your child’s overall comfort level. Due to this, it is important to take your child with you when picking out a mattress. This way, at the very least, you can have them test out the mattress and give their opinion as to what they like better and what is more comfortable.
Picking The Right Size
A child will remain inside of their crib until around the age of two or three. At this point they have a bit more control over their movements so falling out of the bed isn’t as much of a problem.
There are three general bed sizes you might want to consider for a child. It will typically depend on the size of their room and how they grow.
The first size is a twin. This is usually a fine size for a child even up through high school (although you won’t want to maintain the same twin-size mattress from the age of three until 18. The mattress will need to be replaced at some point in time).
A standard twin mattress is 39 inches by 75 inches and is a fine mattress for most rooms.
The next size up is a twin XL. This is fine if your child is on the taller side (or if you’re expecting a growth spurt). It gives a bit more space as it is five inches longer than a traditional twin. The only downside to the twin XL is it can be more of a challenge to find sheets that properly fit the extra five inches.
The last size you really need to consider for a child is full (it’s also known as a “double”). This mattress is also 75 inches long, but has a width of 54 inches. This is good if you have a growing child or a child that tosses and turns. If your child has a larger bedroom this might work out well, otherwise the twin may be perfectly fine.
Picking the Right Type
There are a number of mattress types you’ll need to consider when it comes to the best type of mattress for kids. There is the traditional coil form, which is inexpensive. This is fine if you plan on changing out the mattress after a few years. Just make sure your child doesn’t jump on it, as jumping on springs will quickly cut the life expectancy down.
Foam, such as memory foam, is great. It is quiet, doesn’t transfer movement and is comfortable when your child likes a softer bed. However, if they sweat at night the memory foam isn’t the best option as it doesn’t distribute heat well.
Latex is less expensive than memory foam is nice as it gives a durable and soft sleeping experience. It doesn’t have the same sinking feeling as memory foam and there are some latex options that do improve air circulation around the body, which is good if your child sweats while they sleep.
Picking the Right Comfort Level
This is where you’ll need to have your child with you when picking out a mattress. If your child likes a harder mattress go with an “extra firm” option. This feels similar to sleeping on the floor (but there is a bit more give to it). Next there is “firm,” which does have some more support, but there isn’t much in the way of a sinking feeling. This is usually a spring or latex mattress option.
Plus is an option when your child can’t choose between super soft or extra firm. It is a happy medium and may be the best way to go when transitioning from crib to mattress.
Lastly, there is ultra-plush. This has a pillow top and gives a sinking feeling.
Picking Out the Right Mattress
It is important to know how to choose a kids mattress correctly. They will spend more time in bed than with any other piece of furniture, so it is an essential investment. It also plays a part in how they perform in school. So, when you purchase a mattress for your child it isn’t just about buying something they can sleep on. It’s about doing what you can to improve their performance in school, sporting events, and other activities. By taking into account the best type of mattress for kids you’ll settle on the right option for both your child and your pocketbook.
