Buying a mattress for a child comes with an entirely different set of recommendations and buying tips, since the sleep needs of children are unique from adults. Too often parents overlook the most important things to consider when shopping for their child's mattress—especially if they are upgrading from a crib, which doesn't require as much consideration of the feel of the bed. But before you make the leap to buy a new bed for your child, consider these 4 tips.
Consider the types of materials in the mattress.
Mattress are made of many different kinds of materials, with some being better than others for children. If your child suffers from allergies or has sensitive skin, it might be a good idea to opt for more natural materials in your mattress, including latex and latex alternative foam beds. Always look for certifications like Certi-Pur for foam mattresses, which ensure that the foam inside the mattress was compliant with environmental and health standards.
Buy a mattress that allows for your child to grow.
Most likely, the mattress will come with a 10 year warranty—but it's likely to still be in use even longer than that. Don’t skimp on size, and instead buy a mattress that will fit your child a decade from now. A good size to choose is Twin XL, which is longer than a standard twin but not as large as a full size mattress.
Never buy used.
No question here. Used mattresses may bring bacteria, mold, mites, bed bugs and even unwanted allergens and fluids along with them. Don’t take a chance – go new.
Bring your child along on mattress shopping trips.
It's not always easy to get a straight answer of a child when it comes to the comfort of a mattress, but if you plan to keep your mattress for upwards of a decade, it's a good idea to include them in the purchase decision. Ask your child to lay down on their back, their side and finally their stomach—and allow at least 5 to 10 minutes to determine how comfortable the bed feels.
