According to the National Sleep Foundation, your child will spend 40 percent of childhood asleep. Many children sleep on their first mattress into their teens, meaning they use the same model for ten years or longer. Sleep is the primary activity of early development, so providing proper back support and comfort will ensure your child is getting the quality sleep that is crucial to physical and mental health. Use these criteria to find the perfect mattress for your child.
Price
You don’t need to use up the family nest egg on a quality mattress for your child, but cheap models tend to be lower quality, regardless of material. A bargain mattress will save you money up front, but will likely lose its comfort and ability to provide support after a short time, meaning you could end up spending up to twice as much in replacement costs.
Comfort
Comfort is a primary factor when choosing a mattress, and that shouldn’t change when shopping for a child. If your child is old enough, have a discussion about sleeping position. Knowing whether you’re shopping for a back, stomach, or side sleeper will help you choose a model that will provide the best comfort. If you’re not sure of a preference, it’s best to choose a mattress with a neutral comfort, meaning it’s not too soft and not too firm. This will ensure that your child receives proper support without being uncomfortable. Our Comfort Scale® makes it easy to find mattresses in this range.
Durability
Because children’s mattresses are more likely to be treated like trampolines, you’ll also want to find a model that boasts durability. Most mattresses include sophisticated coil systems that are manufactured for long life, but keep in mind that a kid’s mattress will be aggressively tested, another reason to avoid bottom-shelf products. View our helpful durability chart to find the best mattress for your child
Size
Remember to carefully measure your child’s bed, as some may require a special size. A mattress that is too short or narrow can pose a safety hazard by creating a gap the child may fall into, so it’s especially important to make sure you select a model that will fit properly. Many models are available in irregular and custom sizes.
By investing in a high-quality mattress for your child, not only are you providing a safe, comfortable place to sleep each night, but you are also encouraging healthy development during a time when it is most important. Take the time to find the right mattress, and while your child enjoys the benefits of a good night’s sleep, you’ll get the satisfaction of knowing you made the best choice possible.
Posted by Dan 
