The mattress matters…
If you’re like most families, you put a lot of energy into bedtime. You’ve worked out a routine for getting the kids into bed (and keeping them there!) You’ve gone through sleep struggles. You’ve treasured tuck-ins and bedtime stories. You’ve probably spent lots of time snuggling, checking under the bed for monsters, and giving your kids one last good-night kiss or lullaby.
In all that time, you may not have given a lot of thought to your child’s mattress. But kids’ sleep is of real importance, and it’s worth giving your child’s sleep surface some dedicated thought.
The research…
The National Sleep Foundation has conducted research showing that sleep has a direct impact on kids’ mental and physical well-being, from attention and mood to memory and immunity. Depending on your child’s age, whether they are 2, 11, or 16 years old, they will need at least 8 hours of sleep daily, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. With so much time spent in bed, you’ll want to provide the best online mattress for kids you can afford.
Quick Peek at out Top 3 Kids’ Mattresses
We’ve done the research for you…
Whether it’s the best memory foam mattress for a child, or innerspring, eco-friendly or economical kid’s mattress you are looking for, each of the twin mattresses featured in our list is safe, comfortable, and represents an excellent value that will have your child, and you, sleeping securely.
We’ve combed the product listings and reviews to find the very best-rated mattresses for kids, all ranked based on the factors that matter most to parents. We’ve looked at the quality of construction, durability, cost, availability, and comfort, so you can know exactly what each has to offer.
Check out our “Things to Consider” Section!
- What kind of mattress is best for a child?
- How do I select the right mattress for my child?
- Is a memory foam mattress a good choice for kids?
- Should a child sleep on a soft or firm mattress?
- What is the best rated mattress for a child?
- What is the best mattress for a baby bed crib?
- Is a gel or memory foam mattress better for kids?
- What are the sizes that mattresses typically come in?
1. Olee Sleep Gel Infused 10-Inch Layer Top Memory Foam Mattress
The Olee Sleep Gel Infused 10-Inch Layer Top Memory Foam Mattress has won the coveted “Amazon Choice” status. This designation is reserved for products that are available to ship immediately and boast the highest number of credible positive reviews in their category.
This mattress has earned a serious fan base, and is our top pick for Best Mattresses for Kids, with a winning combination of high quality, low cost, comfort, durability, and easy shipping.
The mattress is a foam-based model, rather than a traditional coiled spring mattress. Those with latex allergies will be glad to know that it’s latex-free, made from 93% polyester and 7% spandex. The 10-inch mattress features several layers for both comfort and support.
The base layer is high-density, and boasts a 10 year manufacturer warranty, while a softer upper layer of 25 ILD HD foam adds cushioning, with a woven jacquard cover over the top. Overall, this is a medium-firm mattress, and users say the gel-infused memory foam makes this bed supportive for all sleep positions.
In terms of sleep experience, what sets the Olee Layer Top Memory Foam Mattress apart is the cooling effect of the ventilated, gel-infused foam. Sleep experts recommend a temperature of 60-67 degrees for optimal rest. If you’re not about to max out your AC getting down to that ideal cool zone, or if your kid is a “hot sleeper” who sweats at night, a cooling mattress is a great option.
Reviewers praise the Olee Memory Foam Mattress for keeping them cool throughout the night. As a parent, you may be concerned about chemical exposure, especially with a synthetic mattress like this one. And, in fact, many reviewers note a strong chemical smell when they initially unbox their mattress, which dissipates over time as it ventilates. In fact, Olee has earned the designation of CeriPUR-US, indicating that it’s certified for low chemical emissions, and Oeko-tex, indicating that it has been tested for harmful substances.
This is a bed-in-a-box mattress, meaning that it arrives flattened and rolled up in a box, and expands to its full size upon opening. The package weighs a hefty 66.4 pounds, so parents may need an extra pair of hands to get it situated in their child’s room. The Olee Memory Foam Mattress is an exceptional value and a shining example of what makes a great kid’s foam mattress.
What we like
- Reviewers say the mattress holds up over time, without sagging or flattening, thanks to its dense foam core
- The foam supports higher weights, meaning that this can double as a mattress for even larger adults, for maximum flexibility
- Cooling ventilation and gel infusion allows your child to sleep at a cooler temperature, which experts say leads to longer and deeper sleep
- An incredibly good price for a mattress made with high-quality materials
- Multiple layers give real support combined with plusher comfort, meaning your child can sleep well on their side, back or stomach
- Manufacturer’s warranty, Amazon endorsement, and thousands of positive reviews mean you can purchase with confidence
- CeriPUR-US and Oeko-tex: tested for safety, quality, and emissions
Score
- Quality of Materials: 90/100
- Cost: 92/100
- Availability: 100/100
- Comfort: 97/100
- Longevity: 99/100
Overall score: 95.6/100
A quality sleep experience is key to our kid’s success! It gives them the energy they need to learn and play!
2. Classic Brands Cool Gel Ventilated Memory Foam 8-Inch Mattress
Like the Olee Sleep Gel Infused Memory Foam Mattress, the Classic Brands Cool Gel Ventilated Memory Foam 8-Inch Mattress delivers cooling comfort in a great value bed-in-a-box.
The mattress is made up of three layers: a white textured fabric cover, a 2-inch gel-infused memory foam top layer, and a 6-inch high-density memory foam layer. The top layer is designed to cradle the body, as the memory foam slowly adjusts to your child’s contours as they shift positions during the night.
The top layer also draws heat away from the body, for a cooler and more restful sleep. The lower layer provides support and pressure relief. The overall firmness is stated as medium-firm, but many reviews say it’s on the softer side, making it a good choice for side sleepers.
Gel memory foam has gained popularity over traditional foam thanks to its increased breathability. It’s also hypoallergenic and resistant to mold, allergens, dust, mites, and bacteria.
The Classic Brands Cool Gel Ventilated Memory Foam 8-Inch Mattress is CertiPUR-US Certified, meaning that it’s been tested for performance, emissions, and durability. The mattress comes with a 10-year “worry-free” warranty, and customer service is available 7 days per week.
What we like
- With a 10-year worry-free warranty, you can feel confident in the mattress’ performance over time
- CertiPUR-US Certified means that it has been independently reviewed for the quality of materials and low emissions
- Firmer comfort level means more support, especially crucial for kids who sleep on their backs
- Gel memory foam is the ideal material for cooling, lowering body temperature and getting users closer to the cool ambient team recommended by sleep experts
- 55 lb. mattress weight and bed-in-a-box shipping is convenient and makes it easy for a single person to transport the mattress to the child’s room
- Works well with adjustable bases as well as traditional bed frames
- High breathability and resistance to dust, mites, mold, etc. means the mattress will stay fresh over time
- Thicker 2-inch top layer provides extra cushioning over comparable models, which have thinner top layers
- Incredibly low price for a gel memory foam mattress model, as this new hybrid material tends to be more expensive
Score
- Quality of Materials: 90/100
- Cost: 94/100
- Availability: 100/100
- Comfort: 95/100
- Longevity: 99/100
Overall score: 95.6/100
Kids get a little grumpy without their sleep, right?
3. Lucid 10 inch Twin Hybrid Mattress
If you’re looking for a premium, hybrid comfort sleep experience that’s still an excellent value, the Lucid 10 inch Twin Hybrid Mattress is the way to go.
This mattress’s top two layers are made with three popular natural materials: Bamboo, Charcoal, and Aloe Vera, all of which act to contain the chemical odors we associate with foam mattresses. Beneath these, a layer of 2-inch support foam alleviates pressure points, with dual transition layers creating an even feel.
The mattress’ core consists of 5.5 inch individually encased steel coils, which improves airflow and responds to movement as your child shifts during the night. A full 5 inches of edge support adds to the mattress’ durability. The mattress is CertiPUR-US Certified, having been tested for low emissions and material quality.
Most of the features and materials in the Lucid Hybrid Mattress are found in high-priced luxury mattresses, and this model tied for the highest score on “quality of materials” for our entire ranking of Best and Top Mattresses for Kids. This kids’ mattress is an exceptional value.
Buyers back up the company’s claims about durability and comfort. Buyers say this kids’ mattress is on the softer side and emits less chemical smell than most foam mattresses. The manufacturer provides a 10-year warranty against manufacturer defects, which is valid whether purchased through Amazon or directly from the company.
what we like
- Bamboo, Charcoal and Aloe Vera act to contain the chemical smell most memory foam mattresses emit
- Premium materials usually found in luxury mattresses, including memory foam, steel springs, Bamboo, Charcoal and Aloe Vera
- Hybrid model combines the plush cradling of memory foam with the solid support of a traditional coil mattress
- Well-suited for all sleep positions: side, stomach ands back (and kids who cycle through all of these in a night!)
- This mattress has a reputation that makes new buyers confident
- Ships rolled in a box, and eligible for Amazon Prime- this mattress is readily available and convenient to order
Score
- Quality of Materials: 100/100
- Cost: 82/100
- Availability: 95/100
- Comfort: 98/100
- Longevity: 99/100
Overall score: 94.8/100
Hey… only the best for our children’s physical health. Check out the Lucid 10 inch Twin Hybrid Mattress at Amazon.com!
4. Zinus 12-Inch Memory Foam Green Tea MattresS
One of the challenges of shopping for online mattresses is not knowing what you’re getting. The Zinus 12-Inch Memory Foam Green Tea Mattress has been thoroughly vetted- awarding it a high star rating on Amazon.
Got questions? Over 75 questions have been posted and answered on Amazon by either other buyers or the manufacturer, including “how’s the edge support” and “does this mattress hold up over time?” The Zinus Memory Foam Green Tea Mattress’s solid online reputation makes this a kids mattress you can buy with confidence.
The mattress consists of four layers: a woven jacquard cover, 2.5 inches of body-cradling Memory Foam on top, 2 inches of Comfort Foam below, and a core of 5.5 inches Airflow High-density Base Support Foam. The Sinus Green tea Mattress is CertiPUR – Certified for durability, material quality, and performance, and the memory foam is infused with Green Tea extract and Castor Natural Seed Oil, which inhibits odor & bacteria naturally.
The 12-inch model also features a cooling airflow construction, to help your kid get a more comfortable and deep sleep. At just 33 lbs., this is one of the lightest mattresses in our ranking of Best Kids’ Mattresses, so it’s a cinch to transport to your kids’ room or move to a guest room later on. It’s also one of our thickest mattresses, with a full 12-inch thickness.
The Zinus Mattress ships rolled in a box and can take between 2-7 days to fully expand to its final size and softness.
what we like
- CertiPUR certified, having been independently tested for durability, material quality, and performance.
- More environmentally friendly than most models, made in part with sustainable plant oils
- Four foam layers target multiple comfort needs, from cushioning to support
- At 33 lbs., this is one of the lightest kids’ mattresses out there, making it easy to transport to your kids’ bedroom
- Good value for high-quality materials and construction
- Eligible for fast and free shipping on Amazon Prime
- A thickness of a full 12 inches makes this one of the very thickest mattresses in our entire listing of Best Kids’ Mattresses
Score
- Quality of Materials: 90/100
- Cost: 90/100
- Availability: 100/100
- Comfort: 88/100
- Longevity: 99/100
Overall score: 96/100
Are you looking for a quality mattress for a dorm room or vacation home? Check out the Zinus 12-Inch Memory Foam Green Tea Mattress!
5. Zinus Ultima Comfort Memory Foam 6-Inch Mattress
Like the Zinus 12-Inch Memory Foam Green Tea Mattress, the Zinus Sleep Master Ultima Comfort Memory Foam 6-Inch Mattress has earned a solid reputation.
Customers praise the mattress for comfort and value. In fact, the high popularity of this affordable new kids mattress has raised it to the rank of “#1 New Release” in the mattress category on Amazon. The manufacturer’s “worry-free” 10-year limited warranty provides some additional peace of mind.
Like other foam models on our Best Kids Mattresses list, the Zinus Sleep Master Ultima Comfort Memory Foam 6-Inch Mattress ships rolled up in a box and takes about 2 days to expand to its full size, once opened. It’s eligible for Amazon Prime, and customers ordering through this channel can get it fast and receive free shipping on their order.
Like the company’s Memory Foam Green Tea Mattress, the Zinus Sleep Master Ultima Comfort model replaces some of the petroleum-based material with plant-derived material, BioFoam, making this option a bit greener than the average foam mattress. The trip layer is composed of 1.5 inches Memory Foam, with a core of 4.5 inches High-density Base of Support Foam underneath.
This is an affordable kid’s mattress that still has some of the same high-quality materials as a high-end product.
What we like
- Quality of Materials: 90/100 Foam material provides cushioning and support, while the absence of springs makes jumping on the bed impossible (preventing damage to both bed and kids)
- Greener option, thanks to the inclusion of some plant-derived BioFoam
- Free and fast shipping through Amazon Prime
- Convenient bed-in-a-box packaging and lightweight of only 20 lbs. makes getting the mattress set up is a cinch
- A low price makes this an exceptionally affordable kids mattress.
Score
- Cost: 90/100
- Availability: 100/100
- Comfort: 88/100
- Longevity: 99/100
Overall score: 93.4/100
The Zinus Sleep Master Ultima Comfort Memory Foam 6-Inch Mattress is thinner… but still a quality sleep mattress for your child!
6. Sealy’s Response Performance Mattress
A full 50% of your weight rests in the center of your mattress when you sleep, which can quickly lead to center sagging. Sealy has proactively addressed this problem with its Sealy’s Response Performance mattress, which features Posturpedic Technology, reinforced support in the zone of heaviest weight-bearing. That, along with DuraFlex Edge System reinforced coil edges, makes this an exceptionally durable mattress.
This plush mattress boasts a brand-exclusive Response Pro Encased Coil System, which allows each of the coils to move independently, for lower motion transfer and outstanding support. On top of this, the mattress has an inch thickness of plush foam, with the brand’s signature SealyCool Cooling Gel Memory Foam.
Below, this is a 2-inch layer of SealyCushion Air Foam for breathability and added softness, as well as a soft, but durable ComfortLoft knit cover wraps the outside.
Customers may balk at the price tag, but the mattress’ long life span means it can be used throughout childhood or can be repurposed for a guest bed, ensuring anyone a faithful night’s sleep. Another reason this pricey mattress is actually a good value- it’s made by Sealy, one of the nation’s biggest and most well-established manufacturers. The mattress is made in the USA and backed by a 10-year warranty.
The Sealy Performance Collection offers durable all-over support, plus exclusive Posturepedic Technology for reinforced support where you need it most, for a truly comfortable night’s sleep. Their innerspring mattresses offer exceptional full-body support with ease of movement, for that sleep-on-top feeling and the comfort you want.
We use exclusive Posturepedic Technology to deliver the stable, all-over support you want, with reinforced support under the heaviest part of your body. Engineered with zones of support, Posturepedic Technology pairs state-of-the-art engineering with the highest quality materials to target the right level of support for each area of the body, resulting in exceptional all-over comfort.
what we like
- Created by Sealy, one of the nation’s oldest and most reputable mattress companies. You’ll know you’re getting a well-built product backed up by an established brand
- Made in the USA, this mattress supports domestic manufacturing and meets US manufacturing standards, and has a smaller carbon footprint than one built in an international factory
- 12 inch thickness makes this one of the thickest mattresses in out Best Kids Mattresses ranking, for superior cushioning
- Individually encased coils add to longevity and provide responsive support without motion transfer
- Reinforced coil edges and added support in center zone make this a highly durable mattress
- Medium-soft surface is ideal for stomach and side sleepers
- Does not need to be flipped to maintain its surface
Score
- Quality of Materials: 90/100
- Cost: 70/100
- Availability: 100/100
- Comfort: 97/100
- Longevity: 99/100
Overall score: 91.2/100
With a little higher price tag, you are getting a mattress coming to you from a trusted name in quality beds from the Sealy Performance Collection. Check it out!
7. My Green Mattress – Pure Echo GOTS Certified Organic Cotton Natural Mattress
If you’re looking to create the safest environment for your little one, you’re likely interested in finding the best full size mattress for toddler’s that won’t expose them to chemicals and irritants. After all, they spend at least 8 hours per day in close contact with the mattress’s surface, and a safer mattress means better air quality and a healthier kid.
My Green Mattress – Pure Echo GOTS Certified Organic Cotton Natural Mattress offers a more natural mattress that’s gentle on your kid and on the planet.
This mattress is free from toxic chemicals and from polyurethane foams. The outside is a quilted cover made from GOTS organic cotton and all-natural eco-wool sourced from California, with a layer of organic cotton batting underneath. The core is composed of a strong pocketed coil innerspring system, which offers medium firm lumbar support.
While most mattresses come with a 10-year warranty, the My Green Mattress – Pure Echo GOTS Certified Organic Cotton Natural Mattress boasts a 25-year warranty. That longevity and premium materials and construction more than justify the steep price tag.
what we like
- No chemical odors from off-gassing, as is common with synthetic memory foam mattresses
- Organic and natural components are more eco-friendly than traditional synthetics
- Made in the USA for best practices and highest standards in manufacturing, along with a lower transportation carbon footprint
- Compressed and rolled for easy transport, with free domestic shipping
- GREENGUARD Gold Certified, the most elite standard in natural mattress purity, independently tested as free from chemical off-gassing (VOCs), formaldehyde and phthalates
- 25-year warranty far exceeds market standards
Score
- Quality of Materials: 100/100
- Cost: 72/100
- Availability: 90/100
- Comfort: 98/100
- Longevity: 99/100
Overall score: 91.8/100
For an environmentally-friendly option for your child’s sleep mattress, take a look at the My Green Mattress – Pure Echo GOTS Certified Organic Cotton Natural Mattress… and it’s latex-free!
8. Classic Brands 10-Inch Pillow-Top Innerspring Mattress
Innerspring mattresses are a great choice for kids, with durability, breathability, and reduced motion transfer. The Classic Brands Innerspring Pillow Top 10-Inch Mattress is an affordable and readily available option for this type of mattress model, which can often run several hundred dollars.
This innerspring kid’s mattress is constructed with pocketed, individually wrapped coils made of tempered steel. Each 6-inch spring has one inch of pillow top and one inch of quilt fiber, and another inch of quilt fiber below, all surrounded by a plush knit cover.
The mattress has a medium-firm feel, so it may be best suited for kids who sleep on their backs, or just those who prefer a firm sleep surface.
The mattress is eligible for Amazon Prime, meaning free and fast shipping for Prime members. It arrives rolled in a box for convenience, and (unlike most memory foam mattresses) requires no time to expand before setting up. The manufacturer offers a 10-year warranty as well.
what we like
- Fast and free Amazon Prime shipping, conveniently rolled packaging
- 10-year “worry-free” warranty
- Individually pocketed coils provide motion transfer reduction and support, while a foam layer adds comfort
- Innerspring provides cooling and breathability
Score
- Quality of Materials: 80/100
- Cost: 86/100
- Availability: 100/100
- Comfort: 90/100
- Longevity: 99/100
Overall score: 91/100
Very affordable, the Classic Brands Innerspring Pillow Top 10-Inch Mattress is an exceptional offer!
9. Signature Sleep Contour 8-Inch Independently Encased Coil Mattress
This best kid’s single mattress is another affordable option for those in the market for a coil mattress, with the reduced motion transfer, cooling action, and breathability that comes with that type of model.
The Signature Sleep Contour 8 is made with 480 15-gauge independently encased coils in a layer that’s 8 inches thick, with a layer of high-density foam above and below for added softness, surrounded by a soft knit cover.
The foam layer is made from CertiPUR-US certified foam, free from toxic chemicals, and low in emissions. The mattress can be flipped, meaning you’ll be able to get extra life out of it and extend its longevity.
This best kid’s single mattress is priced reasonably and is eligible for free and fast shipping through Amazon Prime. It arrives compressed and rolled for easy setup, and requires no tie to decompress into its full size, meaning it will be ready to use right away.
what we like
- Made from CertiPUR-US certified foam, free from toxic phthalates, mercury, lead, etc. low in emissions
- Can be flipped to distribute the wear and tear between two sides for extended use
- Solid reputation
- Excellent value for the price, with free shipping for Prime members
Score
- Quality of Materials: 90/100
- Cost: 84/100
- Availability: 85/100
- Comfort: 90/100
- Longevity: 99/100
Overall score: 91/100
Need it fast? Get it fast… through Amazon Prime! This Signature Sleep Contour 8-Inch mattress will them sleeping like a baby!
10. Casper’s sleep element Mattress
Casper was the first major brand to shake up the industry with its direct to consumer marketing of bed-in-a-box mattress delivery. It’s been highlighted by sources like Good Housekeeping and Time for quality and innovation and has a serious following of loyal buyers.
The brand’s high-quality mattresses can be costly, however, so the company also offers an economical “sleep element” model, which is 8.5 inches thick.
The Casper Sleep Element twin kids mattress has three foam layers: a durable base for support, a cradling memory foam layer, and a soft, plush top layer with open-cell foam top for maximum breathability. The mattress cover is durable, made from upholstery-grade fabric.
This is one of the most expensive twin-size mattresses on our list of Top Rated Kids Mattresses, but the quality of materials and premium construction more than justify the price tag, making it a fine choice for one of the best children’s single memory foam mattress. The full-size mattress costs a hair more.
Those ordering the mattress through Amazon will also enjoy free shipping with a Prime membership and can rest easy with a 10-year warranty. Casper’s 100 night trial period also allows you to try the mattress risk-free, with a free pickup and full refund if your kid doesn’t like the mattress’s feel.
what we like
- 100 night risk-free trial and 10 year warranty means you can shop with confidence
- CERTI-PUR certified, this mattress is independently tested as free from toxic chemicals and low in emissions
- Great brand reputation, with a number of consumer awards from sources like Good Housekeeping
- Cooling and breathable foam for softness and sleep comfort
Score
- Quality of Materials: 90/100
- Cost: 80/100
- Availability: 95/100
- Comfort: 90/100
- Longevity: 99/100
Overall score: 90.8/100
Who started the “bed-in-a-box” trend? CASPER! With 100 nights to check it out… How can you go wrong?!?
Things to Consider
What kind of mattress is best for a child?
If your child is transitioning from a baby crib mattress to a regular mattress, you will find many options to choose from on the market today. For the best support, you will want to look for a quality innerspring mattress or the best memory foam mattress for a child. The degree of firmness needed is often a concern; however, memory foam mattresses are not recommended for babies or young toddlers under the age of three.
How do I select the right mattress for my child?
Several factors may go into choosing the right kids’ foam mattress for your little one, such as:
- Budget
- Needed mattress size
- Durability
- Comfort
- Type of mattress, such as:
- Memory Foam
- Innerspring
- Hybrid
- Organic
Is a memory foam mattress a good choice for kids?
Memory foam mattresses are often softer and use your body heat to mold to your own shape; therefore, small children, such as babies and young toddlers, should not be allowed to sleep on one… as young babies could get their little noses blocked and foam mattresses do not offer the proper support that children under three need while they are sleeping.
Should a child sleep on a soft or firm mattress?
If you are trying to determine the right firmness for your child, consider their age. Typically if they are under the age of 18 months, a firm mattress is recommended for proper development and for safety. As your child grows older, let them choose one that is comfortable to them.
What is the best rated mattress for a child?
Check out our choice for the best online mattress for kids: The Nectar Twin Mattress + 2 Pillows Gel Memory Foam Mattress – CertiPUR-US Certified Foam. This option comes with a forever warranty and 180 night risk-free home trial to see if you love it… or not! It comes highly recommended, winning several awards. The Nectar Twin is one of the best rated mattresses for kids and young adults.
What is the best mattress for a baby bed crib?
A baby bed crib mattress is an important purchase for parents. The mattress must be firm (to avoid sudden infant death syndrome) and fit snugly within the crib. Organic crib mattresses are free from harmful toxins and chemicals… which is best, of course. Here’s one to consider: Newton Baby Crib Mattress and Toddler Bed.
Is a gel or memory foam mattress better for kids?
A gel mattress is a mixture of foam and gel. If your child sleeps hot, a gel mattress may be a better option as it is cooler, although a foam mattress may provide better support.
What are the sizes that mattresses typically come in?
A children’s single memory foam mattress is generally a good size to start with; however, as they grow they may desire a larger bed to stretch out on. Here is a size guide to consider before purchasing:
- Crib: 28″ x 52″
- Twin: 38″ x 75″
- Twin XL: 38″ x 80″
- Full: 54″ x 75″
- Queen: 60″ x 80″
- King: 76″ x 80″
- Califonia King: 72″ x 84″
