The Best Mattresses for Kids of All Ages, Tested by Children and Parents
These are the top-tested children's mattresses for every age, bed size, and budget.
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Kid-specific mattresses are designed to uniquely support your child's growing body. When it's time to upgrade to a big-kid bed, you'll want it to be comfortable to sleep on and cost-effective, but it's also important that it grows with them as they age and is made without potentially harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Our top picks:
- Best overall: Saatva Youth Mattress
- Best value: BB Kids Mattress
- Best organic: Avocado Eco Kids Mattress
- Best waterproof: Helix Kids Mattress
At the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, our fiber scientists tested more than 20 models from top mattress brands and kid-specific companies, evaluating materials, special features, and prices. We also worked with at-home consumer testers to try out the mattresses with their own children. From the many mattresses we evaluated, we recommend these eight beds to help your child have the sweetest dreams.
Pros
- Flippable design to grow with kids: firm on one side, soft on the other
- Built-in waterproof protection against accidents
- Price includes in-home set up
Cons
- Too tall for some trundle and bunk beds
Saatva's Classic Mattress is our top-tested bed for adults, and the brand's kid-friendly model lives up to our expectations. It's an innerspring mattress with a two-sided design that's made to grow with your child. The firmer side offers more support for younger kids ages 3 to 7, and the cushioned side features added comfort foam for a softer surface that's best for ages 8 to 12. Both sides offer zoned support for proper spinal alignment. What's also helpful is that the price includes in-home setup.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS:
✔️ High praise from testers: "I like the softness of this mattress. It is soft without feeling like you are completely sinking in. It still provides good support, and it keeps us cool while sleeping," said our tester speaking of her experience lying on the mattress while putting her kid to bed. "This mattress is nicer than other ones we have had... softer, more supportive, and just all around better."
✔️ Thoughtful design: The organic cotton cover has a water-resistant finish for easy clean-up from inevitable accidents with a waterproof barrier on the inside for extra protection for bigger messes. Parent testers also appreciated the side handles for easy adjusting.
✔️ Materials: Though it's not entirely organic, Saatva says it uses thistle as a flame retardant (rather than a chemical one), and its foams are CertiPUR-US certified to ensure they're made without specific chemicals that are deemed hazardous and have low VOCs.
✔️ Taller than most mattresses for kids: Mattresses designed for kids aren't as tall as those for adults, but this one stands at a comfortable 10-inch height. Note that it might be too high for most trundles and bunk beds; we instead recommend the brand's Bunk & Trundle Mattress.
RELATED: Saatva Classic Mattress Review
| Height | 10 in. |
| Available sizes | Twin, Twin XL, Full |
| Delivery type | Full-service setup |
| Trial period | 365 days (with a $99 return fee) |
Pros
- Stain- and spill-resistant upper
- Cooling gel-infused foam layer
- Low profile works with bunks
Cons
- Can't be flipped for use on both sides
Since your kid won't be sleeping on their children's mattress for long, you might want to consider a slightly more affordable option like this one from Brooklyn Bedding that costs less than half the price of some other models that are featured. The mattress is made entirely of foam and has a shorter profile of 6 inches, which keeps it cost effective and is more compatible with bunk beds or trundles, but it doesn't flip like other kids mattresses. It also uses cooling gel-infused foam to help with temperature regulation, which is ideal if your kid is sweaty sleeper.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS:
✔️ Good feedback from testers: Our testers gave the bed-in-a-box high scores for easy setup and a smooth delivery process. Once opened, testers said their kids slept well on the mattress. One shared, "It's firm, like most children's mattresses, but not so firm/hard that it isn't comfortable."
✔️ Hot sleepers said it slept cool: Two testers who said their children run warm were impressed by the bed's breathability, including one who noted, "My daughter who is a hot sleeper remained cool and pleasant while sleeping."
✔️ Protective design: A finish on the mattress encasement protects it from spills, sweat, and stains, but it's CertiPUR-US and GREENGUARD Gold certified, so it's made without specific hazardous chemicals and has lower levels of VOCs.
| Height | 6 in. |
| Available sizes | Twin, Twin XL, Full |
| Delivery type | Ships in a box for DIY setup |
| Trial period | 120 days |
Pros
- Good price for a certified organic mattress
- Hybrid model combines coils and latex for balance of comfort and support
- Low profile is suitable for bunk beds but still works well in standard frames
Cons
- Not flippable
This lower-profile hybrid model from Avocado (our favorite organic mattress brand) is designed just for kids and uses certified organic materials. It's fully certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and uses bouncy GOLS-certified organic latex for extra support. There are also no added chemical flame retardants or polyurethane foams. Plus, it's reasonably priced—on par with most non-organic kids' mattresses.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS:
✔️ Versatile height: The 7-inch height offers a good balance: It's low enough to fit into bunk beds and some trundle beds, but it can also be used in a regular bed frame.
✔️ Top feedback from testers: Our testers gave this mattress perfect scores across the board. They said it feels supportive with less of a "sinking in" feel than other models, noting it's firm but "feels great to lie on." One tester shared, "[The] sheets stay on great... My daughter loves her bed and doesn't want to come out!"
✔️ Quality materials and design: The coils are individually encased, allowing for improved airflow, and the latex material has an open-cell structure to prevent it from trapping body heat for more comfortable sleep. It can't be flipped, but the Medium firmness level is ideal for slightly older kids and is designed to support bodies up to 115 pounds.
RELATED: The Best Organic Mattresses
| Height | 7 in. |
| Available sizes | Twin, Twin XL, Full |
| Delivery type | Ships in a box for DIY setup |
| Trial period | 100 days |
Pros
- Two-sided mattress can be flipped as your kid ages
- Kid testers found it comfortable from the start
- Waterproof lining to protect against accidents and spills
Cons
- Some testers wished there were handles for easier setup
This flippable mattress combines coils in the center with foam on both the top and bottom. Its firmer foam side is for 3- to 7-year-olds, while the softer side is for 8- to 12-year-olds. On a scale of 1 to 10, the brand says the firmness level of the soft side is a 4 to 5, while the firm side is a 6 to 7. The mattress also has a water-repellent finish to prevent liquids from seeping inside. And like other memory foam options included here, it's CertiPUR-US certified.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS:
✔️ Immediate comfort: One tester shared, "This mattress felt great from the start. The material is soft and almost plush, and even covered with a sheet, it feels pillowy. Laying on it was immediately pleasurable—my son gave a huge sigh and said 'I can sleep on this forever.'"
✔️ Good feedback from testers: While our testers wished the bed was equipped with handles for easier setup, they were happy with it overall and gave it high scores for comfort. One detailed, "Coming from a crib mattress, it has so much more attention to detail. I don't sink into it on the edge or the middle when I read to my kids. It is a mattress that I feel will last the time of the bed."
✔️ Flippable design: While we like the flippable aspect, some of our testers didn't notice a huge difference in feel between the two sides and said they were both fairly plush.
| Height | 8 in. |
| Available sizes | Twin, Full |
| Delivery type | Ships in a box for DIY setup |
| Trial period | 100 days |
Pros
- Certified organic and uses natural materials
- Firm yet comfortable surface
- Available in all standard bed sizes
Cons
- Not specifically designed for kids
For parents who prefer to buy mattresses made completely of natural materials, My Green Mattress beds are certified organic so they follow strict standards throughout the entire manufacturing process. This style in particular is ideal for children because of its firm yet contouring feel and stands out for its pocketed coils and zoned construction, which means it'll have give in key areas like the shoulders as your kids age.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS:
✔️ Comfy feel: A tester shared, "I would absolutely consider getting additional mattresses and recommending that my folks get them for the kids' room in their house. It is not too soft or too firm; it is just right for both the kids and me." Another parent tester said she liked the level of firmness of the Kiwi mattress and appreciated the overall support it offers, especially at the edges of the bed.
✔️ Excellent value: Testers were impressed by the quality and organic materials. One parent said, "It's a great mattress for our child. It doesn't have any of the fancy features, but honestly, it does what we need it to do."
✔️ Versatile design: Our testers who used it for their kids said it was so comfortable that they enjoyed sleeping on it themselves. It's also not designed just for children, making it a great option for older kids, teens, and young adults. While many kid-specific mattresses are only available for smaller beds, this one comes in seven sizes including Queen and King.
| Mattress height | 8 in. |
| Available sizes | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Full XL, Queen, King, California King |
| Delivery type | Ships in a box for DIY setup |
| Trial period | 120 days |
Pros
- Made without foam or latex, so there's no need for added flame retardants
- Two-sided with one quilted surface and one waterproof
- Breathable coiled construction
Cons
- Innersprings offer less pressure relief for older kids
Not only is this firm innerspring mattress GOTS-certified organic and GREENGUARD-certified, but it's also made without polyurethane foams or latex and requires no added flame retardants or glues. Instead, the mattress is manufactured using cotton fibers, synthetic materials derived from sugarcane, and steel coils. The firmness makes it ideal for a child's first bed because it supports their developing body, but it may not provide the pressure relief needed for older kids.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS:
✔️ Protective, flippable design: Instead of having two firmness levels like other featured beds, it offers a waterproof side for easy cleanup, which is especially helpful during potty training, and a quilted side for a more comfortable sleeping surface.
✔️ Top-performing brand: Naturepedic's adult mattresses and crib mattresses continually stand out in our tests, earning top marks for comfort, support, and overall satisfaction. Our testers also loved that the brand's beds had none of the strong chemical odors or "off-gassing" smells that are commonly associated with mattresses.
✔️Comfort and support: We're actively retesting this model, but past testers reported no issues with getting their children accustomed to this bed. While it's on the firmer side, it offers the support needed for growing children.
| Height | 6 in. for Trundle and 7 in. for Twin and Full |
| Available sizes | Twin, Full, Trundle, Trundle Short |
| Delivery type | Ships in a box for DIY setup |
| Trial period | 100 days |
Pros
- Two-time winner of Good Housekeeping's Parenting Awards
- Reversible design to grow with your child
- GREENGUARD certified ensures product is tested for VOCs, pollutants, phthalates, and formaldehyde
Cons
- Some parents found it too firm for themselves
Flippable kids' mattresses have two sides with different firmness levels, so the mattress can grow with your kid. This one has a firmer side designed for ages 3 to 7 and a plusher feel recommended for ages 8 to 12. Each side of the mattress is labeled with its firmness level for easy setup and uses materials like cotton, latex, wool, and individually wrapped steel coils for added support. It's also GREENGUARD certified, meaning this product has been tested for VOCs, pollutants, phthalates, and formaldehyde
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS:
✔️Award-winner: We gave this pick a Good Housekeeping Best Parenting Award twice in a row because of its quality materials and comfortable feel. Through years of testing this mattress, it has consistently earned top scores from all of our parent testers. One tester described it as “superior, without a doubt” compared to her child's old mattress.
✔️Flippable design: Compared to other flippable styles, this one stood out: Each side felt noticeably different to our testers. While some parents found it too firm for their liking, their kids had no complaints.
✔️Comfortable support: Our testers highlighted the pocketed coils and springy latex. One parent shared, "The mattress was firm, but not hard. [My daughter] said that right away. She also loved that it came with two pillows. That was a bonus. One for her and one for a couple of stuffies who, I have been told, also really like the new bed."
| Height | 8 in. |
| Available sizes | Twin, Full |
| Delivery type | Ships in a box for DIY setup (in-home set-up available starting at $129) |
| Trial period | 100 days |
Pros
- Contouring and cushioning feel that works for kids up to age 15
- Side handles for easy setup and flipping
- More layers than other models
Cons
- Some testers noted a chemical smell upon opening
While most kids' mattresses are fairly firm, this one has more of a soft, cushioning feel that cradles pressure points that older kids will love. It combines CertiPUR-US certified foam with individually wrapped coils and plush fibers, all encased in a cotton cover. It uses more layers of fill than other models we've featured, making it similar to an adult mattress that's designed for spinal alignment.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS:
✔️Contouring comfort: One tester said that besides this mattress being great for her child, she also loved the comfort herself when lying in bed to read bedtime books. Others agreed, with one noting, "It contours well to my body with a nice, comfortable and bouncy feel. It honestly feels better than my pricey adult mattress—it has good back support."
✔️ Grows with your child: One parent was particularly excited about how the mattress is designed to grow with her son. We've had a range of children try this bed, and all found their recommended side supportive. The brand said the flippable design is suitable for children ages 3 to 15, which is one of the largest ranges we've seen.
✔️ Easy set-up: When asked about ease of setup, one tester said, "The handles on the side are helpful when moving the mattress onto the top bunk. As for packaging, I appreciated the cutouts on the box. It allowed for moving the box more seamlessly." Another said it quickly took shape, though it needed to off-gas for a full day.
| Height | 8 in. |
| Available sizes | Twin, Twin XL, Full |
| Delivery type | Ships in a box for DIY setup (full service delivery available for $125) |
| Trial period | 120 days |
How we test mattresses for kids
At the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, we regularly test mattresses for every type of sleeper by reviewing the models firsthand, having testers try them to provide user feedback, and surveying our proprietary tester panel for more long-term notes on the mattresses they own. In recent years, we've tested more than 20 different mattresses for kids to find our top recommendations.
Regarding kids' mattresses in particular, we pay close attention to the materials and construction to ensure they're a proper fit for a child's body rather than an adult's. We're also more cautious of materials used in children's products to make sure they're made without harmful additives; GH fiber scientists review each mattress' materials and certifications.
Parent testers weigh in on everything from ease of delivery and setup to comfort and support to how well their kids sleep on the mattress. They also compare the mattress to previous mattresses their kids have used.
Along with reviewing and testing the mattresses, some of our Textiles Lab analysts have visited the mattress factories where many of our top picks are produced. They regularly meet with brand representatives to dive deeper into the mattress manufacturing process and learn more about the brands and beds.
What type of mattress is best for a kid?
While an adult may benefit from a bed with more pressure relief, the best mattress for a kid tends to be firmer and more supportive. As kids get older, they may prefer a softer, plusher bed. That's why so many kids' mattresses are flippable with one firm and one soft side. It's important to remember that what feels comfortable to a child may not feel as comfortable to an adult. That being said, your child can certainly let you know what feels best.
Since kids are still developing, we tend to recommend more models made of latex and other plant-based materials given indoor air quality concerns around potential off-gassing chemicals associated with memory foam. Plus, kids don't necessarily need memory foam's pressure relief the way heavier adults might.
Mattresses for kids may also have a lower profile than adult mattresses and are usually available in Twin, Twin XL, and Full sizes. If you're specifically looking for a mattress for a toddler bed, you can use a crib mattress, which is often two-sided with both an infant side and a toddler side.
What to look for when shopping for the best mattress for kids
A children's mattress is one of the most important (and expensive!) purchases you'll make for them, so choosing which style to buy is no easy decision. While there's no one-size-fits-all solution, there are several factors to consider when you shop. Here's what to keep in mind:
✔️ Size: Most kid-specific mattresses are available in at least Twin and Full sizes, but some may also be available in larger bed sizes. This is ultimately a matter of personal preference based on the amount of space you have and how much you're willing to spend.
✔️ Height: Children's mattresses aren't as tall as ones for adults and typically don't surpass 10 inches. In fact, most mattresses for kids are only 6 to 8 inches high. In general, a taller mattress means more layers for comfort and support. While 6-inch styles may be good for toddlers, an older child may prefer something more substantial. If you're using the mattress on a bunk bed, make sure to follow the height restrictions listed on the bed's specifications: Typically it shouldn't be taller than 8 inches.
✔️ Firmness: Just like adults, different kids will have different preferences on how firm they'd like their mattress to feel. A rule of thumb for younger kids who aren't able to help shop is that the mattress should be firm to support their body's development.
✔️ Materials: Most mattresses are made up of foam, coils, or a combination of both. Memory foam provides pressure-relieving comfort, while metal coils give support, breathability, and that familiar bouncy feeling to the bed. If you prefer more natural bedding for your child, you can opt for an organic mattress made of materials like latex, wool, and cotton. Organic mattresses tend to cost more, but they're typically high quality and well-made. They're also a great alternative if you're worried about the potential VOC off-gassing associated with memory foam.
✔️ Certifications: The following certifications are helpful to look for to ensure the products use high-quality materials that you'll want in your home.
- Global Organic Textiles Standard (GOTS) and Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) are the top organic certifications.
- GREENGUARD certification shows the mattress meets strict indoor air quality standards.
- CertiPUR-US certified memory foam mattresses verify they're made without certain harmful chemicals and have low VOC emissions.
- OEKO-TEX certifications ensure there are no unsafe levels of harmful chemicals in textile components, like the outer cover.
✔️ Water-resistance: Some mattresses designed for kids have water-resistant or waterproof properties to prevent damage from bedwetting accidents and other liquid spills and stains, including protective films, finishes, and fabrics. You can also use a waterproof mattress protector, which can help extend the life of the mattress.
✔️ Delivery and setup: Consider whether you want a white-glove delivery service to set up the mattress in your home. It might sound easier to have a company do it for you (especially since it's sometimes free), but our testers often enjoy being able to do it themselves without having to schedule a delivery.
✔️ Cost: The mattresses in this roundup that cost over $500 are worth the splurge because they grow with your child and can be expected to last for years. That being said, you certainly don't need to spend a fortune to get a quality mattress, and there are plenty of lower-cost options that deliver both comfort and support.
✔️ Return policy: With more people turning to the internet to buy bedding, brands have become more lenient with letting you try the mattress at home. Some companies offer free-trial periods in which you can get a full refund for any reason. Just make sure you check that there are no hidden return fees or restrictions.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Lexie Sachs is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she oversees bedding testing, including mattresses. For over a decade, Sachs has been actively reviewing and reporting on mattresses of all kinds, from crib and kids' mattresses to mattresses for hot sleepers, back pain sufferers, and more. To find the best mattress for kids, Sachs leveraged her background in fiber science and worked with at-home kid testers and their parents for firsthand insight.
Amanda Constantine is a home & apparel reviews analyst who joined the Textiles Lab in 2022. She has slept on, tested, and reviewed many mattresses and has visited factories to see kids' and crib mattresses being constructed firsthand. Constantine has assigned dozens of mattresses to kid testers and reviewed feedback from parents.
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