The Top 10 Mattresses for Kids in 2023

Getting your kids the right mattress is key to providing them with a comfortable, restful sleep critical for healthy development. With so many options on the market, choosing the best mattress for your child can feel overwhelming.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll review the key factors to consider when shopping for kids mattresses and compare the top-rated models for 2023.

What to Look for in a Mattress for Kids

Here are the most important features to keep in mind when picking out a mattress for your toddler, child or teen:

Size

Make sure to choose the right mattress size for your child’s age, room size, and expected growth. Common kids mattress sizes include:

• Crib (28” x 52”) – Standard crib size for infants & toddlers.
• Twin (38” x 75”) – Great size for bigger kids transitioning from crib to “big kid” bed.
• Twin XL (38” x 80”) – Allows growing kids more leg room.
• Full (54” x 75”) – Gives two small kids space to share. Provides ample room to teens.

Measure your child’s bedroom and purchase accordingly, allowing at least 2 feet of clearance on all sides for safe entry and exit.

Firmness

Firmer mattresses provide better support for growing kids and teens. Look for a firmness rating between 6-8 on the 1-10 scale, with 10 being the firmest.Medium-firm options are better suited for smaller toddlers.

Materials

Breathable, hypoallergenic materials are best for avoiding overheating and allergies. Look for plant-based foams and natural fibers like cotton, wool, and latex versus cheaper polyurethane foam and synthetic fabrics.

Durability

Kids can be rough on beds! Choose high density, resilient foams and durable fabrics that resist staining, tearing and impressions to get a long lifespan from the mattress.

Value

You’ll likely need to purchase new mattresses as your kids grow, so find affordable quality options that give you the biggest bang for your buck. Many top brands offer budget-friendly kids lines.

Keeping these factors and your child’s needs in mind, below are 10 of the top-rated mattress options for your little one.

The 10 Best Mattresses for Kids in 2023

1. Nectar Memory Foam Mattress

Best For: All types of sleepers, ages 3+

With a medium-firm feel, the Nectar memory foam mattress conforms closely to relieve pressure points while keeping kids fully supported. It isolates motion well so kids sharing a room won’t disturb each other tossing and turning.

Who It’s Best For

The Nectar is ideally suited for kids ages 3+ who need spine support and joint pressure relief. It accommodates all sleeping positions. The generous trial window and warranty provide peace of mind.

Price Range: $659

2. Birch Organic Mattress

Best For: Eco-conscious shoppers, ages 3+

The Birch mattress is a great non-toxic, natural option made from organic cotton, wool, latex and other sustainable materials. It’s GREENGUARD Gold certified for indoor air quality. The slightly firmer feel gives excellent support for proper spinal alignment as kids grow.

Who It’s Best For

The Birch Organic is perfect for health-conscious parents seeking an organic, non-toxic crib mattress for their child made from sustainable materials. It’s very breathable and durable.

Price Range: $1592

3. Zinus 6″ Spring Crib Mattress

Best For: Value seekers, ages 5+

Who It’s Best For

The Zinus 6″ crib mattress provides firm support for growing toddlers from its steel coil interior springs. The coil system is encased in high-density foam for comfort, while the sewn-in waterproof cover protects against accidents and spills. This lightweight mattress meets federal flammability standards and is GREENGUARD certified for indoor air quality. The foam layers used are CertiPUR-US certified for durability and performance.

Price Range: $145

4. Sealy Soybean Foam-Core Crib Mattress

Price Range: $109

The Sealy Soybean crib mattress uses sustainably sourced soybean oil in its foam core as a replacement for some petroleum-based materials. This creates a firm and supportive sleeping surface for babies and toddlers. The pearl embossed waterproof cover resists stains, tears and wetness. Low VOC emissions meet indoor air quality standards. It’s lightweight, at only about 9 lbs, for easy crib sheet changes and transportation. Sealy designed this mattress to provide an affordable, non-toxic mattress option for eco-conscious parents.

5. Milliard Hypoallergenic Baby Crib Mattress

Price Range: $62

The hypoallergenic Milliard crib mattress features a premium convoluted foam filling encased in a waterproof outer cover to keep the interior dry. The durable binding and reinforced seams prevent tears and leaks. Made from mildew-resistant materials, this crib mattress lets air circulate through its perforated structure while preventing dust mites. Easy to clean by wiping down and it meets all US safety standards. Milliard also sells a dual-sided version with infant and toddler support layers.

6. Dream On Me Foam Crib Mattress

Price Range: $59

This Dream On Me crib mattress features a 5” thick high-density foam core for firm support and comfort. The stain-resistant vinyl cover zips off for easy cleaning. Meets the CPSC federal flammability standards for safety. CertiPUR-US certified foam is free from harmful substances like PBDEs, TDCPP or TCEP flame retardants, mercury, and heavy metals. The lightweight foam construction makes sheet changing a breeze. Designed to provide an affordable yet high quality crib mattress.

7. Graco Premium Foam Crib Mattress

Price Range: $89

Graco’s crib mattress features breathable open-cell foam layers to help air circulate and keep baby cool. The middle layer provides cushioning comfort while the firm bottom layer offers sturdy support. The water-resistant cover resists moisture from diaper leaks or spills. It’s GREENGUARD Gold certified to meet rigorous standards for limiting chemical emissions. The perforated bottom allows for airflow so hot air escapes. This premium foam mattress provides excellent cushioning comfort at an affordable price.

8. Safety 1st Heavenly Dreams Crib Mattress

Price Range: $71

The Heavenly Dreams crib mattress from Safety 1st uses a high-density fiber core thermo-bonded together to create a firm and supportive sleeping surface for infants and toddlers. The cushiony fiber material promotes airflow to prevent overheating. The extra thick waterproof vinyl cover protects against leaks and wipes clean easily. With its sturdy design weighing under 8 lbs, it’s built to handle everyday use and hold up over time. Low VOC emissions meet indoor air quality standards.

9. Colgate Eco Classica III Crib Mattress

Price Range: $195

Colgate’s Eco Classica III crib mattress features an eco-friendly design with all organic materials, including a coconut coir interior made from coconut husks. The waterproof backing and organic cotton cover provide a natural sleeping surface free from vinyl and toxic chemicals. Reinforced orthopedic-grade steel coils add firm support that’s durable for infants and toddlers. Colgate mattresses are GREENGUARD Gold and GOTS-certified organic. This model provides an eco-conscious crib option focused on sustainability.

10. Hiccapop Baby Crib Mattress

Featuring a soft yet supportive foam core, the Hiccapop crib mattress combines comfort, support, and safety. The perforated design allows maximum air circulation to keep your baby cool while sleeping. The extra thick vinyl cover resists tears and stains while containing liquids and spills. Reinforced stitching provides durability to withstand daily use. Lightweight and easy to move during sheet changes. Meets all CPSC and CPSIA safety standards.

Conclusion

Choosing the right mattress helps ensure your kids stay comfortable and get their necessary zzz’s for proper growth and development. Make sure to select the appropriate size mattress for your child’s age and bedroom space. Prioritize firmness ratings between 6-8 to keep their spine aligned.

Breathable materials like cotton, latex, and plant-based foams allow better airflow. Look for durable materials and construction that provide lasting support. And don’t forget value – you’ll likely go through a few mattresses as they grow!

We hope our guide to the top 10 mattresses for kids helps you and your child rest easy. Sweet dreams!