8 Best Mattresses for Kids of All Ages, Tested by Children and Parents
These are the top-tested children's mattresses for every age, bed size and budget.
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When it's time for your child to upgrade to their first big-kid bed, don't opt for just any old Twin-sized mattress. Instead, consider a kid-specific mattress that's uniquely designed to support your child's growing body. Not only should your child's mattress be comfortable to sleep on and cost-effective so you don't spend a fortune on something they'll soon outgrow, but it should also be equipped to accommodate them as they age and made without potentially harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
In the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, we evaluate mattresses for all ages ranging from crib mattresses to the best mattresses for adults because we all need quality sleep — no matter how old we are. To find the best mattresses for kids, we tested more than 20 different models from our top-tested mattress brands and kid-specific companies, evaluating the materials used, special features and prices. We also had consumer testers try out the mattresses with their own children so they could weigh in with firsthand feedback. Out of all of the mattresses we evaluated, we recommend these eight beds to help your child achieve the sweetest dreams.
Pros
- Flippable design to grow with kids
- Built-in waterproof protection against accidents
- Price includes in-home set up
Cons
- Too tall for some trundle and bunk beds
Mattress height: 10 in. | Available sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full | Delivery type: Full-service setup | Return period: 365-day trial ($99 return fee)
Key takeaways: Saatva's Classic Mattress is our top-tested bed for adults, but the brand offers this kid-friendly model with unique features at a lower price-point. It's an innerspring mattress with a two-sided design that's made to grow with your child. The firmer side offers more support for younger kids ages 3 to 7, and the cushioned side features added comfort foam for a softer surface that's best for ages 8 to 12. Both sides offer zoned support for proper spinal alignment.
The organic cotton cover has a water-resistant finish for easy clean-up from inevitable accidents; plus, there's a waterproof barrier on the inside for extra protection for bigger messes. Though it's not entirely organic, the brand says it uses thistle as a flame retardant (rather than a chemical one), and its foams are CertiPUR-US certified to ensure they're made without specific chemicals that are deemed hazardous and have low VOCs. Although this one isn't suitable for trundle and bunk beds, Saatva also offers a more affordable, lower-profile kids' mattress that's ideal.
What testers say: "I like the softness of this mattress. It is soft without feeling like you are completely sinking in. It still provides good support, and it keeps us cool while sleeping," said our tester speaking of her experience lying on the mattress while putting her kid to bed. "This mattress has straps/handles on the sides which helps with moving and positioning the mattress. This mattress is nicer than other ones we have had... softer, more supportive and just all around better."
RELATED: Saatva Classic Mattress Review
Pros
- Stain- and spill-resistant upper
- Cooling gel-infused foam layer
- Lower profile works with bunks
Cons
- Can't be flipped for use on both sides
Mattress height: 6 in. | Available sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full | Delivery type: Boxed for DIY setup | Return period: 120-day trial
Key takeaways: Since your kid won't be sleeping on their children's mattress for long, you might want to consider a slightly more affordable option like this one from Brooklyn Bedding that costs less than half the price of some other models that are featured. The mattress is made entirely of foam and has a shorter profile of 6 inches, which keeps it cost effective and is more compatible with bunk beds or trundles, but it doesn't flip like other kids mattresses.
A finish on the mattress encasement protects it from spills, sweat and stains, but it's CertiPUR-US and GREENGUARD Gold certified, so it's made without specific hazardous chemicals and has lower levels of VOCs. The bottom layer of the mattress is made of dense foam for support, but it's followed by 2 inches of cooling gel-infused memory foam to help with temperature regulation — ideal if your kid is sweaty sleeper.
What testers say: Our testers gave the bed-in-a-box high scores for easy setup and a smooth delivery process. Once opened, testers said their kids slept well on the mattress. One shared, "It's firm, like most children's mattresses, but not so firm/hard that it isn't comfortable." Two testers who said their children run warm were impressed by the bed's breathability, including one who noted, "My daughter who is a hot sleeper remained cool and pleasant while sleeping."
Pros
- Two-sided mattress can be flipped as your kid ages
- Hybrid model combines foam and coils
- Waterproof lining to protect against accidents and spills
Cons
- Some testers wished there were handles for easier setup
Mattress height: 8 in. | Available sizes: Twin, Full | Delivery type: Boxed for DIY setup (in-home setup available starting at $129) | Return period: 100-day trial
Key takeaways: This hybrid model combines coils in the center of the bed with foam on both the top and bottom, so it can be flipped depending on your child's age. Its firmer foam side is for 3- to 7-year-olds, while the softer side is for 8- to 12-year-olds. Just note that some testers didn't notice a huge difference in feel between the two sides and said they were both fairly plush. On a scale of 1 to 10, the brand says the soft side is a 4 to 5, while the firm side is a 6 to 7.
Another standout feature is a TENCEL cover that's both soft and breathable, and the inner coils allow for better airflow throughout the mattress compared to all-foam models. The mattress also has a water-repellent finish to prevent liquids from seeping inside. And like other memory foam options included here, it's CertiPUR-US certified.
What testers say: While our testers wished the bed were equipped with handles for easier setup, they were happy with it overall and gave it high scores for comfort. One detailed, "Coming from a crib mattress, it has so much more attention to detail. I don't sink into it on the edge or the middle when I read to my kids. It is a mattress that I feel will last the time of the bed."
Another shared, "This mattress felt great from the start. The material is soft and almost plush, and even covered with a sheet it feels pillowy. Laying on it was immediately pleasurable — my son gave a huge sigh and said 'I can sleep on this forever.'"
My Green Mattress Kiwi Organic Mattress
Pros
- Certified organic and uses natural materials
- Firm yet comfortable surface
- Available in all standard bed sizes
Cons
- Not specifically designed for kids
Mattress height: 8 in. | Available sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Full XL, Queen, King, California King | Delivery type: Boxed for DIY setup | Return period: 120-day trial
Key takeaways: For parents who prefer to buy mattresses made completely of natural materials, My Green Mattress beds are certified organic so they follow strict standards throughout the entire manufacturing process. This style in particular is ideal for children because of its firm yet contouring feel, created by combining sturdy metal coils in addition to GOLS-certified organic latex that conforms to your body and GOTS-certified organic wool and cotton for breathability.
Our testers who used it for their kids said it was so comfortable that they enjoyed sleeping on it themselves. And because it's not designed just for children, it's a great option for older kids, teens and young adults. While many kid-specific mattresses are only available for smaller beds, this one comes in seven sizes including Queen and King.
What testers say: A tester shared, "I would absolutely consider getting additional mattresses and recommending that my folks get them for the kids' room in their house. It is not too soft or too firm; it is just right for both the kids and me."
Another parent tester who has tried kids' mattresses from multiple brands noted that she much prefers her Kiwi mattress over the others. The tester said she likes the level of firmness of the Kiwi mattress and appreciated the overall support it offers, especially at the edges of the bed.
Pros
- Good price for a certified organic mattress
- Hybrid model combines coil and latex
- Low profile is suitable for bunk beds but still works well in standard frames
Cons
- Not reversible
Mattress height: 7 in. | Available sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full | Delivery type: Boxed for DIY setup | Return period: 100-day trial
Key takeaways: An Avocado mattress tops our list of the best organic mattresses, but it's a luxury model that's not a practical purchase for most kids. Fortunately, this lower-profile hybrid model is designed just for kids and uses certified organic materials. And it's priced reasonably — on par with non-organic kids' mattresses. It's made with GOLS-certified organic latex, GOTS-certified organic cotton, wool and pocketed coils for a good mix of comfort and support. Plus, there are no added chemical flame retardants or polyurethane foams used.
A 7-inch height offers a good balance: It's low enough to fit into bunk beds and some trundle beds, but it can also be used in a regular bed frame. The coils are individually encased, allowing for improved airflow, and the latex material has an open-cell structure to prevent it from trapping body heat for more comfortable sleep. It can't be flipped, but the medium firmness level is ideal for slightly older kids and is designed to support bodies up to 115 pounds.
What our testers say: Our testers gave this mattress perfect scores across the board. They said it feels supportive with less of a "sinking in" feel than other models, noting it's firm but "feels great to lie on." One tester shared, "[The] sheets stay on great... My daughter loves her bed and doesn't want to come out!"
Naturepedic 2-in-1 Organic Kids Mattress
Pros
- Made without foam or latex, so there's no need for added flame retardants
- Two-sided with one quilted surface and one waterproof
- Breathable coiled construction
Cons
- Innersprings offer less pressure relief for older kids
Mattress height: 6 in. for Trundle and Trundle Short, 7 in. for Twin and Full | Available sizes: Trundle, Trundle Short, Twin, Full | Delivery type: Boxed for DIY setup | Return period: 90 days with Amazon's return policy or 100-day trial through Naturepedic
Key takeaways: Not only is this firm innerspring mattress GOTS-certified organic and GREENGUARD-certified, but it's also made without polyurethane foams or latex and requires no added flame retardants or glues. Instead, the mattress is manufactured using cotton fibers, synthetic materials derived from sugarcane and steel coils.
The firmness makes it ideal for a child's first bed because it supports their developing body, but it may not provide the pressure relief needed for older kids. Plus, the fact that it's filled with coils means it inherently has good airflow, and the cotton fibers lend additional breathability.
It's also a flippable mattress, but instead of having two firmness levels like other featured beds, it offers a waterproof side for easy cleanup, which is especially helpful during potty training, and a quilted side for a more comfortable sleeping surface. This pick is sold in trundle sizing for a lower profile mattress that's ideal for both trundles and bunk beds.
What testers say: Naturepedic's adult mattresses and crib mattresses continually stand out in our tests, earning top marks for comfort, support and overall satisfaction. While we haven't tested this particular kids' model, online reviewers describe it as "long-lasting" and "comfortable."
One Amazon reviewer commented, I've fallen asleep next to [my child] on the new mattress, and I've never slept deeper. Although it's firm, it's much better for my neck and back issues — I've since purchased a second mattress from Naturepedic."
Our testers and online reviewers also loved that the brand's beds have none of the strong chemical odors or "off-gassing" smells that are commonly associated with mattresses, thanks to the organic materials and production.
Birch Kids Natural Mattress
Pros
- Two-time winner of Good Housekeeping's Parenting Awards
- Reversible design to grow with your child
- GREENGUARD certified
Cons
- Some parents found it too firm for themselves
Mattress height: 8 in. | Available sizes: Twin, Full | Delivery type: Boxed for DIY setup (in-home set-up available starting at $129) | Return period: 100 days
Key takeaways: Flippable kids' mattresses have two sides with different firmness levels, so the mattress can grow with your kid. This mattress from Birch has two sides with a firmer side designed for ages 3 to 7 and a plusher feel recommended for ages 8 to 12. Each side of the mattress is labeled with its firmness level for easy setup. Some parents found it too firm for their liking, but their kids had no complaints.
This product features top-notch materials like organic cotton, latex and organic wool with individually wrapped steel coils in the center for added support and stability. We appreciate that this pick is GREENGUARD certified, meaning this product has been tested for VOCs, pollutants, phthalates and formaldehyde. It was also a Good Housekeeping Best Parenting Award winner for two years in a row because of its use of quality materials with a comfortable feel.
What our testers say: Through years of testing this mattress, it has consistently earned top scores from all of our parent testers. One tester described it as “superior, without a doubt” compared to her child's old mattress.
"The mattress was firm, but not hard. [My daughter] said that right away. She also loved that it came with two pillows. That was a bonus. One for her and one for a couple of stuffies who, I have been told, also really like the new bed," shared another tester.
Pros
- Contouring and cushioning feel
- Side handles for easy setup and flipping
- More layers than other models
Cons
- Some testers noted a chemical smell upon opening
Mattress height: 8 in. | Available sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full | Delivery type: Boxed for DIY setup (in-home set-up available starting at $125) | Return period: 120-day trial
Key takeaways: While most kids' mattresses are fairly firm, this one has more of a soft, cushioning feel that cradles pressure points that older kids will love. It uses natural materials like cotton, wool and latex, although it's not certified organic. With a profile of 8 inches, it's taller than some other kids' mattresses, and it uses more layers of fill than other models we've featured — more akin to an adult mattress that's designed for spinal alignment.
Like some others, it's a reversible hybrid with one soft and one firm side to grow with children over the years and through changes in sleep preferences. The brand says it's suitable for children ages 3 to 15 for long-term use.
What testers say: One tester said that besides this mattress being great for her child, she also loved the comfort herself when lying in bed to read bedtime books. Another tester who felt similarly shared, "It contours well to my body with a nice, comfortable and bouncy feel. It honestly feels better than my pricey adult mattress — it has good back support."
When asked about ease of setup, one tester said, "The handles on the side are helpful when moving the mattress onto the top bunk. As for packaging, I appreciated the cutouts on the box. It allowed for moving the box more seamlessly." The caveat: Some testers said the mattress had a strong chemical smell upon opening that lasted for several days.
How we test mattresses for kids
In the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, we regularly test mattresses for every type of sleeper by reviewing the models firsthand, having testers try them to provide user feedback and surveying our proprietary tester panel for more long-term notes on the mattresses they own. In recent years, we've tested more than 20 different mattresses for kids to find our top recommendations.
Regarding kids' mattresses in particular, we pay close attention to the materials and construction to ensure they're a proper fit for a child's body rather than an adult's. We're also more cautious of materials used in children's products to ensure they're made without harmful additives; GH fiber scientists review each mattress' materials and certifications.
Parent testers weigh in on everything from ease of delivery and setup to comfort and support to how well their kids sleep on the mattress. They also compare the mattress to previous mattresses their kids have used.
Along with reviewing and testing the mattresses, some of our Textiles Lab analysts have visited the mattress factories where many of our top picks are produced. They regularly meet with brand representatives to dive deeper into the mattress manufacturing process and learn more about the brands and beds.
What type of mattress is best for a kid?
While an adult may benefit from a bed with more pressure relief, the best mattress for a kid tends to be firmer and more supportive. As kids get older, they may prefer a softer, plusher bed, so many kids' mattresses are flippable with one firm and one soft side. It's important to remember that what feels comfortable to a child may not feel as comfortable to an adult. That being said, your child can certainly let you know what feels best.
Since kids are still developing, we tend to recommend more models made of latex and other plant-based materials given indoor air quality concerns around potential off-gassing chemicals associated with memory foam. Plus, kids don't necessarily need memory foam's pressure relief the way heavier adults might.
Mattresses for kids may also have a lower profile than adult mattresses and are usually available in Twin, Twin XL and Full sizes. If you're specifically looking for a mattress for a toddler bed, you can use a crib mattress, which is often two-sided with both an infant side and a toddler side.
What to look for when shopping for the best mattress for kids
A children's mattress is one of the most important (and expensive!) purchases you'll make for them, so choosing which style to buy is no easy decision. While there's no one-size-fits-all solution, there are several factors to consider when you shop. Here's what to keep in mind:
✔️ Size: Most kid-specific mattresses are available in at least Twin and Full sizes, but some may also be available in larger bed sizes. This is ultimately a matter of personal preference based on the amount of space you have and how much you're willing to spend.
✔️ Height: Children's mattresses aren't as tall as ones for adults and typically don't surpass 10 inches. In fact, most mattresses for kids are only 6 to 8 inches high. In general, a taller mattress means more layers for comfort and support. While 6-inch styles may be good for toddlers, an older child may prefer something more substantial. If you're using the mattress on a bunk bed, make sure to follow the height restrictions listed on the bed's specifications: Typically it shouldn't be taller than 8 inches.
✔️ Firmness: Just like adults, different kids will have different preferences on how firm they'd like their mattress to feel. A rule of thumb for younger kids who aren't able to help shop is that the mattress should be firm to support their body's development.
✔️ Materials: Most mattresses are made up of foam, coils or a combination of both. Memory foam provides pressure-relieving comfort, while metal coils give support, breathability and that familiar bouncy feeling to the bed. If you prefer more natural bedding for your child, you can opt for an organic mattress made of materials like latex, wool and cotton. Organic mattresses tend to cost more, but they're typically high quality and well-made. They're also a great alternative if you're worried about the potential VOC off-gassing associated with memory foam.
✔️ Certifications: The following certifications are helpful to look for to ensure the products use high-quality materials that you'll want in your home.
- Global Organic Textiles Standard (GOTS) and Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) are the top organic certifications.
- GREENGUARD certification shows the mattress meets strict indoor air quality standards.
- CertiPUR-US certified memory foam mattresses verify they're made without certain harmful chemicals and have low VOC emissions.
- OEKO-TEX certifications ensure there are no unsafe levels of harmful chemicals in textile components, like the outer cover.
✔️ Water-resistance: Some mattresses designed for kids have water-resistant or waterproof properties to prevent damage from bedwetting accidents and other liquid spills and stains, including protective films, finishes and fabrics. You can also use a waterproof mattress protector, which can help extend the life of the mattress.
✔️ Delivery and setup: Consider whether you want a white-glove delivery service to set up the mattress in your home. It might sound easier to have a company do it for you (especially since it's sometimes free), but our testers often enjoy being able to do it themselves without having to schedule a delivery.
✔️ Cost: The mattresses in this roundup that cost over $500 are worth the splurge because they grow with your child and can be expected to last for years. That being said, you certainly don't need to spend a fortune to get a quality mattress, and there are plenty of lower-cost options that deliver both comfort and support.
✔️ Return policy: With more people turning to the internet to buy bedding, brands have become more lenient with letting you try the mattress at home. Some companies offer free-trial periods in which you can get a full refund for any reason. Just make sure you check that there are no hidden return fees or restrictions.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Lexie Sachs is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she oversees bedding testing, including mattresses. For nearly a decade, Sachs has been actively analyzing and reporting on mattresses of all kinds, from crib and kids' mattresses to mattresses for hot sleepers, back pain sufferers and more. To find the best mattress for kids, Sachs used her background in fiber science to review the materials and utilized parent tester feedback from their kids' experiences.
Amanda Constantine is a Home & Apparel Reviews Analyst who joined the Textiles Lab in 2022. She has slept on, tested and reviewed many mattresses and has visited factories to see kids' and crib mattresses being constructed firsthand. Constantine reviewed mattress testing data and responses from survey panelists and used her categorical expertise to research mattresses and select beds for the article update.
Lexie Sachs (she/her) is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute and a lead reviewer of products in the bedding, travel, lifestyle, home furnishings and apparel spaces. She has over 15 years of experience in the consumer products industry and a degree in fiber science from Cornell University. Lexie serves as an expert source both within Good Housekeeping and other media outlets, regularly appearing on national broadcast TV segments. Prior to joining GH in 2013, Lexie worked in merchandising and product development in the fashion and home industries.
Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.
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