Every parent wants what is best for their kids and you can only make a sensible purchasing decision if you have the right information to hand. Kids grow up so quickly, before you know it they will have outgrown their cot and you will have to make a decision on a new mattress for them.
Choosing the right mattress for your child is crucial, as the quality of sleep has a direct influence on their physical and mental development. In order to help you find a mattress that will provide them with the best sleep, we have put a few hints together to help you in your search for a mattress.
There are a couple of things you need to pay attention to when looking for the perfect children’s mattress such as the type of mattress, size, potential additional features and the level of comfort.
Mattress type
It is generally recommended that you choose a mattress designed with a box spring support system such as an open coil or a pocket sprung mattress since they are best for providing support for your child’s growing bones.
Latex and memory foam mattresses are good mattress types for adults but are not ideal for toddlers as their bodies are constantly changing and developing. You should avoid going for a mattress which your child will sink into as this can cause stiffness and discomfort.
Additional Features
Many mattresses for children are designed with additional features such as a hypoallergenic or anti dust mite cover. As children are particularly sensitive to allergens it can useful to pay a little extra and get a mattress you can look after more easily, such as one with a removable and washable cover.
Mattress size
The mattress size you choose for your kids should provide enough room for them to move around at night and also be long enough so that you don’t have to purchase a new one in a couple of years when they grow up. Parents generally go for a single sized mattress but you can also consider a wider size such as a small double mattress which is a good transitional size for a big kid.
Mattress comfort
Regarding the level of comfort and support, you should consider a medium or firm mattress for your child in order to provide their growing bones with the right support. Also look for a model that is at least 200mm thick as this is the recommended standard mattress thickness in the UK.