The Best Mattresses for Kids

We spend approximately a third of our lives sleeping, which makes having a good quality mattress so important for getting a restful slumber. Kids can spend upwards of 12 hours a day sleeping, and require the right level of support for optimal health and well being.

Finding the best mattress for kids means reading reviews, studying product features, and diving into the ins and outs of available sizes and materials. With the right mattress for kids, ensuring your little one gets a fitful night’s slumber can become a quick, over-and-done with task.

We reviewed dozens of mattresses for kids to identify the best of the best, based on Amazon reviews, how well they performed in tests, cost, and other considerations. We narrowed our search down to 5 of the top-rated mattresses for kids parents can purchase to ensure a restful and healthy sleep.

When you’re in the market for a mattress for a kid, you may want to consider the mess potential and read The Best Mattress Protectors to make sure your child’s new mattress is ruined right after purchase.

Top Pick
Signature Sleep Contour Encased Mattress
An independently encased coil center is covered in a layer of high density foam for head-to-toe comfort.

We’ve identified Signature Sleep 5426096 Contour Encased Mattress as the best mattress for kids out there. With an independently encased coil center that’s covered in a layer of high density foam, this mattress for kids is one that will keep your little one sleeping softly and soundly. These benefits allow them the rest they need for proper development.

The 5 Top-Rated Mattresses for Kids

Editor's PicksBrandRating
Best OverallSignature Sleep 5426096 Contour Encased Mattress4.3
Runner UpTuft & Needle Twin Mattress4.1
Best Budget BuyLinenspa 8 Inch Memory Foam and Innerspring Hybrid Mattress4.4
Best Twin Mattress for KidsModway Jenna 10” Twin Innerspring Mattress4.5
Best Memory Foam Mattress for KidsZinus Ultima Comfort Memory Foam 12 Inch Mattress4.3

*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change

Our Top Pick: Signature Sleep Contour Encased Mattress

The Signature Sleep Contour Encased Mattress took the top spot on our list of the best mattresses for kids, and boasts an independently encased coil center that’s covered in a layer of high density foam for added comfort. This hybrid construction offers the best of both worlds for sleepers of all kinds, while the reversible design lets you flip and rotate the mattress for many years of use.

Those who purchased and reviewed this mattress for kids appreciated that it offered a comfortable sleep for little ones, and felt that the construction and materials were quite durable. While some users noticed a smell from the foam, they said it dissipated within a couple of weeks.

With a price tag of about $200 for a twin, it’s fairly reasonably priced, and the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.3 on Amazon with more than 9,200 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing parents to make the investment.

Signature Sleep Contour Encased Mattress Key Features: 

  • Available in a choice of sizes
  • Available in a choice of heights
  • Made without phthalates, PBDEs, TDCPP, or TCEP, and is low VOC

Our Runner Up Pick: Tuft & Needle Twin Mattress

Runner Up
Tuft & Needle Twin Mattress
Made in the USA, with a 100-night sleep trial.

The Tuft & Needle Twin Mattress took the runner-up spot on our list of the best mattresses for kids, and uses a special adaptive foam to provide a bouncy yet supportive feel. It is suitable for all sleeping positions, and helps to reduce uncomfortable pressure points. It boasts heat-wicking graphite and cooling gel within the foam, and a breathable plush cover.

Those who purchased and reviewed this mattress for kids appreciated that it was easy to unpack and set up, and that it offered a firm yet comfortable rest. Those who needed to contact customer service found them to be outstanding. Some people still found this mattress too warm for their preferences, something to consider if you “sleep hot.”

At a cost of around $350 for a twin, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.1 on Amazon with more than 7,700 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing parents to make the investment.

Tuft & Needle Twin Mattress Key Features: 

  • Available in a choice of sizes
  • Includes a 10-year limited warranty
  • Comes complete with a 100-night trial to see if it’s right for your child

Best Budget Pick: Linenspa 8 Inch Memory Foam and Innerspring Hybrid Mattress

Best for Budget
Linenspa 8 Inch Memory Foam and Innerspring Hybrid Mattress
A budget-friendly option with a sleek and simple design.

The Linenspa 8 Inch Memory Foam and Innerspring Hybrid Mattress is an excellent choice for those looking for a mattress for kids that won’t break the bank. It boasts a memory foam and tempered steel coil innerspring construction that provides a medium firm feel suitable for youngsters. The cozy knit cover is soft yet breathable, and comes rolled for convenient shipping and setup.

Those who purchased and reviewed this mattress for kids appreciated that it was easy to set up, and offered a comfortable sleep for the price. Some people commented that there are small flecks of brown in the packaging that look like bed bugs, but the company addressed these “carbons” and say they pose no harm to the mattress or users.

With a cost of approximately $98 for a twin, this mattress for kids is a solid choice for those looking for a mattress for kids on a budget. It has a rating of 4.4 on Amazon with more than 10,000 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing parents that this budget-friendly pick is just as good at helping their children get a good night’s sleep as its more expensive counterparts.

Linenspa 8 Inch Memory Foam and Innerspring Hybrid Mattress Key Features: 

  • Available in a choice of sizes
  • Available in a choice of heights
  • Includes a 10-year limited warranty

Best Twin Mattress for Kids: Modway Jenna 10” Twin Innerspring Mattress

Best Twin Mattress for Kids
Modway Jenna 10” Twin Innerspring Mattress
Responsive to the needs of the side, back, and stomach sleeping styles.

The Modway Jenna 10” Twin Innerspring Mattress is an excellent option for those looking for a twin-size mattress for kids. It boasts an individually wrapped pocket coil construction that is responsive to the needs of side, back, and stomach sleepers. Individually encased springs help prevent motion transfer, while the inch of foam on top helps to prevent pressure points.

Those who purchased and reviewed this mattress for kids appreciated that it was firm and offered plenty of support for young sleepers. People also commented that it was quiet and not squeaky, and the topper was soft and comfortable. Most users found any smell disappeared quickly after removing the packaging.

With a price tag of about $176, it’s about the middle of the road as far as the cost of mattresses for kids go, and the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.5 on Amazon with more than 600 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing parents to make the investment.

Modway Jenna 10” Twin Innerspring Mattress Key Features: 

  • Available in a choice of sizes
  • Includes a 10-year warranty
  • Quilted polyester tight-top cover

Best Memory Foam Mattress for Kids: Zinus Ultima Comfort Memory Foam 12 Inch Mattress

Best Memory Foam Mattress for Kids
Zinus Ultima Comfort Memory Foam 12 Inch Mattress
Memory foam layer molds to the natural shape of the body.

The Zinus Ultima Comfort Memory Foam 12 Inch Mattress is a great choice for older kids looking for the comfort of a memory foam mattress. It boasts six inches of high-density base support foam, three inches of pressure relieving comfort foam, and three inches of memory foam. It has been CertiPUR-US Certified for durability, performance, and content, and comes complete with a 10-year limited warranty.

Those who purchased and reviewed this mattress for kids appreciated that it was easy to set up, and felt it offered a comfortable sleep. Some people found there was a smell when removing the packaging, but most said it disappeared after a couple of weeks. Those who needed to contact customer service found them to be excellent.

At a cost of around $345 for a double/full, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.3 on Amazon with nearly 14,000 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing parents to make the investment.

Zinus Ultima Comfort Memory Foam 12 Inch Mattress Key Features:

  • Available in a choice of sizes
  • Available in a choice of heights
  • Knitted jacquard cover

Who Should Buy a Mattress for Kids

A mattress for kids is an ideal choice for anyone with young children. As soon as your child moves out of their crib and into a toddler or “big kid” bed, they’ll require a new mattress.

You might also want to buy a new mattress for your child(ren) if their current mattress becomes soiled in a significant way. Accidents are a part of childhood, and without adequate protection, your child’s mattress can become soiled. This isn’t sanitary, and mattresses are difficult to clean thoroughly, so it’s sometimes better to simply replace the mattress.

Another reason someone might buy a mattress for kids is if their child has grown and gets a new bed. If your child was previously in a single sized bed, and moves into a double, or even a queen, they’ll of course need a new mattress.

Finally, sleep experts recommend replacing a mattress about every 7-10 years, depending on comfort and support. Mattress life varies wildly depending on how it is cared for, slept on, and how often you rotate it.

Top Pick
Signature Sleep Contour Encased Mattress
An independently encased coil center is covered in a layer of high density foam for head-to-toe comfort.

Important Features to Consider

Not all mattresses for kids are created equal. A mattress for kids should be supportive and made of quality materials. Here’s what to consider when evaluating the options in search of the best mattress for kids:

  • Size. Arguably the most important consideration when it comes to choosing the best mattress for kids is size. You’ll want to choose a mattress that is the right size for the bed frame, as well as something that will last your child a while. Twin mattresses measure 38”x75”, while twin XL mattresses measure 38”x80”, and a full mattress measures 54”x75”.
  • Type. There are three main types of mattresses: innerspring, foam, and hybrid. Innerspring mattresses are a popular choice, and last for a long time. They tend to be firmer, sturdier, and more supportive for most sleeping styles. Foam mattresses are not recommended for young children, but older children who tend to sleep on their side may benefit from this type of mattress. Hybrid mattresses offer a good compromise between the sturdy support of an innerspring mattress with the cushier feel of foam on top.
  • Firmness. Another important consideration when picking a mattress for kids is the firmness. While it is recommended that children under 18 sleep on a firm surface, once a child is a couple of years old they can sleep on more plush mattresses. It really comes down to personal preference, so let your child test out a bunch of different mattresses in a showroom if at all possible.
  • Durability. Kids are tough on their belongings, and mattresses are no exception. Look for those with high quality thick foam or wrapped steel coils for increased durability. And be sure to protect your investment with a mattress protector cover or pad.
  • Materials. Some parents consider organic materials to be important when purchasing products for their children, and mattresses are no exception. Keep in mind that if you purchase a foam mattress that it will off-gas for a few weeks. While the smell from off-gassing is not harmful, it can be disruptive to sleep. Keeping their room well ventilated can help.
  • Price point. Finally, consider how much you are willing to spend on a mattress for kids. Mattresses for kids vary in price from $100-$1,000 or more. You can frequently find discounts during “mix and match” bedding events that can make buying a mattress for kids more affordable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of mattress for a child?

The best type of mattress for a child will depend on a few different factors, including their age, sleep position, and personal preference. Choose a mattress that is the right size for them, and can grow with them. A single might fit your budget better initially, but many parents find as their child grows they then need to purchase a double. If you have a really tall child, XL mattresses provide a bit of extra length. A mattress with a lower profile will be easier for younger children to get in and out of bed, but is less of a concern for older kids. Then, look for a mattress with the right amount of firmness. This really is something that comes down to personal preference, just like adults, so let your child test mattresses in a showroom, whenever possible. Back sleepers fare fine with any sort of mattress, although side sleepers will benefit from a softer mattress. Stomach sleepers should look for a soft to medium firm mattress, although sleep experts tend to discourage this position.

What size mattress should I get for my child?

What size mattress you should get for your child will vary on how much space they have in their room, and what your budget can afford. Smaller mattresses will be more affordable than larger mattresses, but might not last as long. At a minimum, a single or single XL is ideal, while a double or double XL is more likely to last your child into their teens. The XL models provide extra length for taller children, but keep in mind it can be more difficult to find bed frames and sheets to fit these mattresses. Experts generally recommend against queen or king sized mattresses for kids, as they are simply too big for the child and are more expensive than other more suitable options.

Is a memory foam mattress good for a child?

A memory foam mattress is not good for a child, according to sleep experts. They are especially not recommended for young children, but older children who tend to sleep on their side may benefit from this type of mattress. Children might find they get too hot to sleep comfortably on a memory foam mattress. They might also be bothered by the off-gas smell that many of the foams produce.

How do I choose a mattress for a teenager?

Choosing a mattress for a teenager requires the same steps as for younger children or adults. Find the right size, find the right support, and let them test it out. If they’ll be moving the mattress with them when they leave for college or to live on their own, weight might be another important consideration.

Other Mattresses for Kids We Reviewed

Top Pick
Signature Sleep Contour Encased Mattress
An independently encased coil center is covered in a layer of high density foam for head-to-toe comfort.

We looked at 20 other mattresses for kids. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best mattresses for kids list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your child(ren). The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.

Hybrid Mattress for Kids

Sealy, 12-Inch, Hybrid Bed in a Box

Sealy, 12-Inch, Hybrid Bed in a Box

This hybrid mattress for kids boasts a layer of encased coils, topped with a layer of comfort foam and a layer of memory foam for the ultimate in sleep comfort.

Key Features: 

  • Available in a choice of sizes
  • Available in a choice of heights
  • Includes a 10-year limited warranty

Cost: $745/full

FLIP by Nest Bedding Double Sided Hybrid Bed in a Box

FLIP by Nest Bedding Double Sided Hybrid Bed in a Box

This hybrid mattress for kids boasts a gel foam and coil construction, and features a medium and firm side designed to suit all styles of sleepers.

Key Features: 

  • Available in a choice of sizes
  • 30-night sleep trial
  • Includes a 10-year limited warranty

Cost: $399/full

iDealBed Luxe Series iQ5 Hybrid Luxury Plush Mattress

iDealBed Luxe Series iQ5 Hybrid Luxury Plush Mattress

This hybrid mattress for kids boasts smart foam and adaptive response pocketed coil construction for optimal temperature regulation and comfort. It is compatible with all foundation and frame styles.

Key Features: 

  • Available in a choice of sizes
  • 120-night sleep trial
  • Includes a 10-year limited warranty

Cost: $1,000/full

LUCID 12 Inch Hybrid Mattress

LUCID 12 Inch Hybrid Mattress

This hybrid mattress for kids boasts bamboo charcoal and aloe vera infused memory foam to eliminate odors and promote a fresh sleep. Motion isolating springs won’t disturb your little sleeper.

Key Features: 

  • Available in a choice of sizes
  • Available in a choice of heights
  • 100-night sleep trial

Cost: $400/full

Leesa Hybrid Mattress

Leesa Hybrid Mattress

This hybrid mattress for kids boasts premium foam layers and individually-wrapped pocket spring construction in order to provide excellent edge-to-edge support for young sleepers.

Key Features: 

  • Available in a choice of sizes
  • 100-night sleep trial
  • Made in the USA

Cost: $1,395/full

Brooklyn Aurora Luxury Cooling Gel Hybrid Mattress

Brooklyn Aurora Luxury Cooling Gel Hybrid Mattress

This hybrid mattress for kids boasts unique cooling technology thanks to the use of specialty breathable materials. It is CertiPur-US certified, and is suitable for use with most bed frame styles.

Key Features: 

  • Available in a choice of sizes
  • Available in a choice of firmnesses
  • Made in the USA

Cost: $1,199/full

Vesgantti Multilayer Hybrid Mattress

Vesgantti Multilayer Hybrid Mattress

This hybrid mattress for kids boasts a multi-layer foam and pocket spring support system to provide excellent support to the body, while helping to reduce pressure points.

Key Features: 

  • Available in a choice of sizes
  • Available in a choice of tops
  • Absorbs noise and vibration from sleep movements

Cost: $220

Classic Brands Mercer Pillow-Top Hybrid Mattress

Classic Brands Mercer Pillow-Top Hybrid Mattress

This hybrid mattress for kids boasts traditional innerspring wrapped coils and gel memory foam construction to help provide an optimal sleep experience.

Key Features: 

  • Available in a choice of sizes
  • 100-night sleep trial
  • Includes a 10-year limited warranty

Cost: $317/full

Memory Foam Mattress for Kids

Casper Sleep Foam Mattress

Casper Sleep Foam Mattress

This memory foam mattress for kids boasts four layers of premium foam to provide a comfortable sleep experience. Zoned support helps ensure proper sleep alignment.

Key Features: 

  • Available in a choice of sizes
  • Available in a choice of heights
  • 100-night sleep trial

Cost: $895/full

Nectar Queen Mattress

Nectar Queen Mattress

This memory foam mattress for kids provides optimal support for all positions of sleeper, and comes complete with two free pillows for added value.

Key Features: 

  • Available in a choice of sizes
  • Includes a warranty for the life of the mattress
  • 180-night sleep trial

Cost: $700/full

Rivet Full Mattress

Rivet Full Mattress

This memory foam mattress for kids boasts a three layer design for responsive cushioning, while the special top layer helps to reduce pressure points for a more comfortable slumber.

Key Features: 

  • Available in a choice of sizes
  • Made in the USA
  • Includes a 10-year warranty

Cost: $327/full

Layla Sleep Copper Infused Memory Foam Mattress

Layla Sleep Copper Infused Memory Foam Mattress

This memory foam mattress for kids boasts a copper infused cooling system to help provide a more comfortable sleep, and offers variable support that is suitable for all sleeping positions.

Key Features: 

  • Medium-soft on one side and firm on the other
  • Thermogel-infused cover
  • Compatible with all foundation and frame styles

Cost: $900/full

Classic Brands Cool Gel and Ventilated Memory Foam Mattress

Classic Brands Cool Gel and Ventilated Memory Foam Mattress

This memory foam mattress for kids boasts three layers of foam construction to provide the ultimate support and comfort to your child’s rest. It is naturally antimicrobial and hypoallergenic.

Key features: 

  • Available in a choice of sizes
  • CertiPUR-US certified
  • 100-night sleep trial

Cost: $274/full

Zinus Memory Foam Twin Mattress

Zinus Memory Foam Twin Mattress

This memory foam mattress for kids boasts a three layer foam construction, and comes complete with a terry cover with moisture barrier. It fits bunk, trundle, and day beds.

Key Features: 

  • Available in a choice of sizes
  • Available in a choice of covers
  • CertiPUR-US certified

Cost: $94/twin

AC Pacific 6″ Foam Mattress

AC Pacific 6" Foam Mattress

This memory foam mattress for kids boasts a diamond quilted fabric that is breathable while still being 100% waterproof — perfect for little ones who still have the occasional night time accident.

Key Features: 

  • Available in a choice of sizes
  • High-density memory foam construction
  • Compatible with all foundation and frame styles

Cost: $140/full

Innerspring Mattress for Kids

Classic Brands Innerspring Mattress

Classic Brands Innerspring Mattress

This innerspring mattress for kids boasts a medium-firm feel, and features an individually-wrapped tempered steel coil system for a responsive and supportive sleep experience.

Key Features: 

  • Available in a choice of sizes
  • Stretch knit quilted non-slip cover
  • Compatible with all foundation and frame styles

Cost: $96

Naturepedic Verse Organic Mattress

Naturepedic Verse Organic Mattress

This innerspring mattress for kids boasts encased coils with edge support, and thick organic cotton to help keep little ones feeling cool and comfortable. Organic wool in the top layer promotes a cool, sweat-free sleep.

Key Features: 

  • Available in a choice of sizes
  • Made in the USA
  • Certified to GOTS standards

Cost: $1,099/full

Zinus 6 Inch Spring Twin Mattress

Zinus 6 Inch Spring Twin Mattress

This innerspring mattress for kids boasts steel Bonnell coils for excellent support, and comes in a convenient two-pack suitable for multi-child families or bunk beds.

Key Features: 

  • Available in a choice of heights
  • Includes a 1-year warranty
  • CertiPUR-US certified

Cost: $135/twin package of two

Signature Sleep 6-Inch Coil Mattress

Signature Sleep 6-Inch Coil Mattress

This innerspring mattress for kids comes in a convenient two-pack suitable for multi-child families or bunk beds, and features a soft cover over high-performance comfort coil springs.

Key Features: 

  • Available in a choice of sizes
  • CertiPUR-US certified
  • Ergonomically-designed

Cost: $241/full package of two

Oliver Smith Revitalize Sleep Luxury Mattress

Oliver Smith Revitalize Sleep Luxury Mattress

This innerspring mattress for kids boasts 500 independently pocketed coils combined with a layer of quality foam and polyester between the cover and the coils for optimal support and comfort.

Key Features: 

  • Available in a choice of sizes
  • Comfortable firm feel
  • Breathable organic cotton cover keeps sleepers cool

Cost: $140/full