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10 Best Toddler Mattresses of 2024

Updated
With the perfect mattress for your toddler’s needs, they’ll be sleeping on cloud nine.

So, it’s time for your toddler to make the move from a crib to a big-kid bed. This is a big step!

Choosing the best mattress for your toddler can be the difference between them sleeping well in their big-kid bed or waking continually. And with your toddler’s new ability to climb out of their bed, you’re going to want a bed they’ll be excited to sleep in.

You may have discovered that there’s more to choosing a toddler mattress than just grabbing the first one you see. We’ll explain the differences between the various types and give you our recommendations for the best toddler mattresses.

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the Milliard Flip Mattress for Babies and Toddlers
Best Toddler Crib Mattress
Milliard Flip Mattress for Babies and Toddlers
  • Firm side for babies & soft for toddlers
  • CertiPur certified & low VOC
  • Soft & hypoallergenic cover
Product Image of the Graco Premium Foam Crib and Toddler Mattress
Best Cheap Toddler Mattress
Graco Premium Foam Crib and Toddler Mattress
  • Greenguard gold certified
  • Has water-resistant washable cover
  • Budget option
Product Image of the Newton Baby Crib and Toddler Mattress
Best Breathable Toddler Mattress
Newton Baby Crib and Toddler Mattress
  • Breathable material
  • Washable cover & core
  • Free of chemical emissions
Product Image of the Linenspa 8-Inch Hybrid Mattress
Best Toddler Twin Mattress
Linenspa 8-Inch Hybrid Mattress
  • Sturdy & durable material
  • Medium-firm feel mattress
  • 10-year limited warranty
Product Image of the Zinus 6 Inch Gel Infused Mattress
Best for Hot Sleepers
Zinus 6 Inch Gel Infused Mattress
  • Cooling gel & green tea infusion
  • 6-inch mattress height
  • High-density base foam
Product Image of the Naturepedic 2-in-1 Organic Kids Mattress
Safest Toddler Mattress
Naturepedic 2-in-1 Organic Kids Mattress
  • GOTS & UL/Greenguard certified
  • Has waterproof and quilted side
  • Made of organic cotton
Product Image of the Milliard Premium Memory Foam Crib and Toddler Mattress
Best Toddler Memory Foam Mattress
Milliard Premium Memory Foam Crib and Toddler Mattress
  • Firm but soft for ultimate comfort
  • Hypoallergenic & CertiPur certified
  • Has cloud-like waterproof cover
Product Image of the Casper Sleep Element Twin Mattress
Best Durable Toddler Mattress
Casper Sleep Element Twin Mattress
  • Engineered to prevent sagging
  • Recycled plasticconstruction
  • Includes a better sleep guarantee
Product Image of the Eco Classica III Baby and Toddler Mattress
Best Eco-Friendly Toddler Mattress
Eco Classica III Baby and Toddler Mattress
  • Can be used for babies & toddlers
  • Uses plant-oil-infused foam
  • Lightweight mattress
Product Image of the LUCID 5 Inch Hypoallergenic Memory Foam Mattress
Best Hypoallergenic Toddler Mattress
LUCID 5 Inch Hypoallergenic Memory Foam Mattress
  • Certipur-US gel-infused foam
  • Made with bamboo charcoal base
  • 5 inch mattress height

Review Methodology: At Mom Loves Best, we understand how important your child’s rest is, so we’ve conducted an in-depth evaluation of the best toddler mattresses. We’ve performed rigorous tests and compared the performance, design, and user experience of each product. Our hands-on research includes assessment of key decision-making factors such as comfort, durability, material safety, and ease of cleaning. Our findings are based on solid data, personal experiences, and professional criteria. We rank each mattress based on these standards, providing you with clear, objective analysis. Trust our review to guide you to the mattress that’ll provide your toddler with the best sleep.



The Best Toddler Mattresses of 2024

These are our ten favorite toddler mattresses.

Milliard Flip Mattress for Babies and Toddlers

Best Toddler Crib Mattress

If you want a mattress that can transition with your child from newborn to toddler, the Milliard Flip Mattress is a great option. This unique mattress fits all standard-sized cribs and toddler beds.

With a firm foam base, it’s great for babies. As your child graduates to a toddler bed, they will be comforted by the familiar feel of their mattress. When they’re ready, the mattress can be flipped to the opposite side, which is topped with a soft layer of memory foam for a more comfortable sleep.

As we’re well aware, the toddler stage tends to include many nighttime accidents as little ones transition out of diapers. This mattress is topped with a waterproof, washable cotton cover, making clean-up a breeze.

Pros

  • Has a firmer side for babies and a soft side for toddlers.
  • CertiPur certified, low VOC, and free of heavy metals.
  • Soft, hypoallergenic cover is easy to wash.

Cons

  • Cotton cover may shrink in the dryer.

Product Specs

Dimensions 52 x 27.5 x 5.5 inches
Weight 13 pounds
Toddler or Twin Sized Crib
Foam or Coils Foam
Certified CertiPUR-US

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4.5 / 5
Comfort
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Mattress Compatibility
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

User Experience

I recently purchased this mattress for my little ones and couldn't be happier with the results. The dual-sided design provides the perfect firmness for both babies and toddlers, making it a long-lasting investment. However, I did replace the waterproof cover with my own sheet, as the original seemed to make the mattress too firm and lost its effectiveness after washing.

Graco Premium Foam Crib and Toddler Mattress

Best Cheap Toddler Mattress

This mattress is a great option if you’re looking for an inexpensive, no-frills, basic foam mattress for your toddler’s bed. It fits both a standard crib and toddler bed and is the recommended firmness for babies and toddlers. This means you won’t need to purchase a second mattress when your baby ages out of their crib.

Graco has been a trusted brand in baby and toddler products for over 65 years. Graco products always come highly recommended, and this mattress is no different. With thousands of five-star reviews, you can trust that it has passed the quality test.

This mattress is also Greenguard Gold certified, which means it meets the most stringent guidelines for total VOC emissions (1).

Pros

  • One of the least expensive options.
  • Greenguard Gold certified, exceeding the standard testing for emissions.
  • Comes with a water-resistant, washable cover.

Cons

  • Some users complained it didn’t fully expand.

Product Specs

Dimensions 52 x 27.6 x 5 inches
Weight 7 pounds
Toddler or Twin Sized Toddler
Foam or Coils Foam
Certified Greenguard Gold, Cert-PUR-US

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4 / 5
Comfort
4 / 5
Durability
3.5 / 5
Mattress Compatibility
5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Personal Perspective

Got this Graco mattress for my little one and it exceeded my expectations. It took about four and a half days to fully inflate, but once it did, there was no weird smell and it fit perfectly in the crib. My child sleeps comfortably on this GREENGUARD Gold certified mattress, switching positions without waking up in discomfort, and it's firm enough to be suitable for a newborn as well.

Newton Baby Crib and Toddler Mattress

Best Breathable Toddler Mattress

If you’re looking for a toddler mattress with maximum breathability for the safety of your little one, this Newton mattress fits the bill. Newton claims their mattress is 100% breathable and is proven to reduce suffocation risk. This makes it a great choice for toddlers who are tummy sleepers.

Another unique feature of this mattress is that it’s completely washable, unlike any other toddler mattress we’ve seen. The cover can be washed and dried in a cool setting, and the core can be rinsed in the shower or tub to remove any messes.

It doesn’t contain any foam, latex, or adhesives and is Greenguard Gold certified free of off-gassing.

This mattress comes in your choice of four colors to match your nursery decor.

Pros

  • More breathable than other mattresses.
  • Washable cover and core.
  • Free of chemical emissions.
  • Great for babies and toddlers.

Cons

  • Some users reported a chemical smell upon unpackaging.

Product Specs

Dimensions 52 x 28 x 5.5 inches
Weight 11 pounds
Toddler or Twin Sized Toddler
Foam or Coils Neither
Certified Greenguard Gold

Our Ratings

Safety Features
5 / 5
Comfort
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Mattress Compatibility
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.75 / 5

Community Feedback

This breathable crib mattress has provided me with peace of mind for my little one's safety during sleep. It is comfortable, easy to clean, and doesn't have any plastic smell. Knowing that my child can still breathe even if they end up face down on the mattress has made a huge difference in our sleep quality.

Linenspa 8-Inch Hybrid Mattress

Best Toddler Twin Mattress

This twin mattress is great for toddlers who have graduated to a big-kid bed. With its comfortable combination of standard mattress coils topped with soft, hypoallergenic memory foam, it will have your toddler sleeping like a baby. And you can rest easy knowing they’re sleeping on a certified CertiPur surface that is made without harmful toxins or chemicals.

The medium-firm feel of the mattress is comforting to young children while still being safe. And the memory foam topper helps with spine alignment.

Although the Linenspa mattress is heavier than other foam mattresses, its solid design will keep it in place in spite of a toddler’s bouncing. And it’s made to last for years. This is why Linenspa offers a limited ten-year warranty on their mattresses.

Pros

  • A combination of springs and foam makes it sturdy and durable.
  • Arrives in a narrow vacuum-sealed package.
  • Comes with a 10-year limited warranty.

Cons

  • Thicker than other options.
  • Memory foam may be too warm to be safe for younger toddlers.

Product Specs

Dimensions 75 x 39 x 8 inches
Weight 30 pounds
Toddler or Twin Sized Twin
Foam or Coils Both
Certified CertiPUR-US

Our Ratings

Safety Features
3.5 / 5
Comfort
5 / 5
Durability
5 / 5
Mattress Compatibility
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

First-Hand Impression

I'm a happy customer of this mattress and have purchased two for my children. They find them comfortable and love sleeping on them. I work in the hospitality industry and have been trained to identify and handle bedbugs, so I was extra cautious when I noticed some reviews mentioning bedbugs. I inspected both mattresses thoroughly outside my house before bringing them in and found no signs of bugs or unpleasant smells. This mattress is a great affordable option, but if you're ever concerned about potential bedbug issues, I recommend inspecting it outside before bringing it into your home.

Zinus 6 Inch Gel Infused Mattress

Best Toddler Mattress for Hot Sleepers

Although memory foam mattresses tend to be known for trapping heat, this one is unique. Made with cooling gel and infused with green tea, it is much cooler than most, making it better suited for young children. And it is CertiPUR certified, so you know it has been thoroughly tested and exceeds air quality expectations.

This 6-inch mattress is just the right height for toddlers. Its high-density base foam is known for relieving pressure, making it a great choice for back sleepers.

Pros

  • Cooling gel and green tea infusion help prevent overheating.
  • Comes with a 10-year limited warranty.

Cons

  • Some users claim it didn’t inflate evenly.

Product Specs

Dimensions 75 x 39 x 6 inches
Weight 20.75 pounds
Toddler or Twin Sized Twin
Foam or Coils Foam
Certified CertiPUR-US

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4 / 5
Comfort
5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Mattress Compatibility
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

User Experience

Best decision I made for a good night's sleep was purchasing this mattress in a box. At first, I was skeptical about the concept, but after experiencing the perfect firmness and cooling effect, I'm completely sold on it. This mattress provided me with much-needed relief from pregnancy-related discomfort and body aches, and it's lightweight, making it easy to change the sheets and maintain its shape.

Naturepedic 2-in-1 Organic Kids Mattress

Safest Toddler Mattress

As your toddler will spend a great deal of time in their bed (at least, you hope they will!), you don’t want them being exposed to toxic chemicals in their mattress. The Naturepedic organic mattress is 100% GOTS certified, meeting all organic textile standards. It is also UL/Greenguard certified for low chemical emissions.

One side of this unique mattress has a waterproof surface (made from natural organic cotton and sugarcane) for toddlers who may still be having nighttime accidents. The flip side includes a luxurious quilted layer for older children who prefer a softer sleeping surface.

This beautiful mattress contains both innerspring coils and generous layers of organic cotton, making it supportive and durable as well as soft.

And although this mattress is more pricey than other options, you can feel good knowing it was made in the U.S.

Pros

  • GOTS, UL/Greenguard, and Made Safe certified.
  • Made with a waterproof side and a quilted side.
  • Organic cotton combined with coils is breathable and cool.

Cons

  • Pricier than most toddler mattresses.
  • Considerably heavier than other toddler mattresses.

Product Specs

Dimensions 75 x 38 x 7 inches
Weight 56 pounds
Toddler or Twin Sized Twin
Foam or Coils Both
Certified GOTS, Greenguard Gold, Made Safe

Our Ratings

Safety Features
5 / 5
Comfort
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Mattress Compatibility
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.75 / 5

Personal Perspective

After purchasing this hypoallergenic mattress for my toddler, I was pleased with the organic components that cater to my child's allergies. The waterproof side is particularly helpful for nighttime potty training, and the mattress is GreenGuard Gold certified. Although the mattress initially had a firm feel and a strong smell upon opening, it aired out after a few days and provided a comfortable sleeping experience for both my child and myself. The packaging was well-done and easy to unpack, with no chemical smell present.

Milliard Premium Memory Foam Crib and Toddler Mattress

Best Toddler Memory Foam Mattress

If your toddler is a bit like The Princess and the Pea, you’ll want a mattress that’s soft, comfortable, and breathable while still being firm enough to offer the support they need. This Milliard memory foam mattress will do just that.

It’s luxuriously soft and comes fitted with a cloud-like waterproof bamboo cover. Bonus points that the cover can easily be tossed in the wash when soiled.

The memory foam top layer maintains its shape while providing the perfect blend of soft and firm. This mattress is sure to keep little ones hanging onto their dreams as long as they can.

Milliard foam is tested and certified, low VOC, and free of mercury, lead, and other heavy metals. And it’s hypoallergenic. You can rest assured that your toddler will be safe and sound as they sleep.

Pros

  • Firm enough to be supportive but soft enough for ultimate comfort.
  • CertiPur certified to be free of harmful metals and low VOC.
  • Comes with a waterproof, washable bamboo cover.
  • Costs less than many similar mattresses.

Cons

  • Memory foam may cause overheating in some babies and toddlers.
  • It is heavy for a foam mattress.

Product Specs

Dimensions 52 x 27.5 x 5.5 inches
Weight 10.12 pounds
Toddler or Twin Sized Toddler
Foam or Coils Foam
Certified CertiPUR-US

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4.5 / 5
Comfort
5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Mattress Compatibility
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Community Feedback

In my experience, this mattress has been a fantastic purchase for my twin babies, who now sleep through the night. The softness and reversible feature are great, but I did find the waterproof cover to be a bit firm, so I replaced it with my own waterproof sheet. This mattress fits perfectly in a standard crib with no gaps, making it safe and comfortable for both babies and toddlers. Although there was a slight chemical smell from the cover initially, it quickly dissipated and did not affect our overall satisfaction with the product.

Casper Sleep Element Twin Mattress

Best Durable Toddler Mattress

The Casper Sleep Element mattress is a popular choice not just for kids but for adults as well. This firm mattress has a soft, breathable, pressure-relieving top layer that will provide a comfortable sleep for your toddler. This top layer is cooling to help protect your child from overheating.

This is a great choice if you’re looking for a durable mattress that will last throughout childhood. It comes with a limited 10-year warranty.

Each mattress is made from up to 121 recycled plastic bottles, making this a unique and eco-friendly choice. And Casper is so confident in the quality of their mattresses that they offer a 100-night risk-free trial.

Pros

  • Made to last for years.
  • Engineered to prevent sagging.
  • Uses recycled plastic in its construction.
  • Includes a better sleep guarantee.

Cons

  • Thicker than many other options.
  • Some users complain of a bad smell.
  • Heavier than most foam mattresses.
  • Pricier than other foam mattresses.

Product Specs

Dimensions 75 x 38 x 10 inches
Weight 41 pounds
Toddler or Twin Sized Twin
Foam or Coils Foam
Certified CertiPUR-US

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4 / 5
Comfort
4 / 5
Durability
5 / 5
Mattress Compatibility
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

First-Hand Impression

This Casper mattress exceeded my expectations in terms of comfort and quality. Upon arrival, it expanded quickly and evenly, providing a medium-firm feel that's just right for me. I've noticed significant improvements in my sleep quality, and my back feels well-supported. However, be prepared for a strong initial off-gassing smell, which does dissipate over time.

Eco Classica III Baby and Toddler Mattress

Best Eco-Friendly Toddler Mattress

If you are trying to reduce your carbon footprint, like many of us, an eco-friendly toddler mattress such as the Eco Classica III is a great choice.

This durable, plant-oil-infused foam mattress is made with a firm side for babies and a softer side for toddlers. So, there’s no need to purchase a separate mattress for your toddler bed, contributing to additional landfill waste.

This mattress is made in America and is Greenguard gold, and CertiPUR-US certified. You can be sure of a safe sleeping surface for your toddler with fewer harmful air emissions.

The mattress comes with a super-soft organic cotton waterproof cover.

Pros

  • Can be used for babies and toddlers.
  • Uses plant oils rather than petroleum-based oils.
  • Lightweight mattress makes for easy sheet changes.
  • Made in America.

Cons

  • Some users claim the waterproof cover isn’t very waterproof.
  • Users complain of poor stitching on the seams.
  • Pricey for a foam mattress.

Product Specs

Dimensions 52 x 27.75 x 6 inches
Weight 9.6 pounds
Toddler or Twin Sized Toddler
Foam or Coils Foam
Certified Greenguard Gold, CertiPUR-US

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4.5 / 5
Comfort
4 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Mattress Compatibility
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

User Experience

Got this crib mattress for our newest family member and found it to be safe, comfortable, and environmentally friendly. The dual firmness design allows for easy transitioning from crib to toddler bed, adding value to the purchase. After extensive research and comparison, the Colgate Eco Classica III proved to be a reliable and trustworthy option that met our needs.

LUCID 5 Inch Hypoallergenic Memory Foam Mattress

Best Hypoallergenic Toddler Mattress

If your toddler has been diagnosed with allergies or you suspect they may have them, this memory foam mattress by LUCID is a good option.

We love that this mattress is made with a unique bamboo charcoal base that prevents odor build-up. This breathable, hypoallergenic mattress will remain fresh and cool. It also has a gel-infused memory foam top layer for extra comfort.

At just 5 inches high, this firm mattress is a safer option for busy toddlers who are likely to take a spill every now and then.

Pros

  • Made using CertiPUR-US gel-infused, hypoallergenic memory foam.
  • Cheaper than many other twin toddler mattresses.

Cons

  • Some users complain it’s too firm.
  • Some users claim the mattress didn’t expand properly.

Product Specs

Dimensions 74 x 37.5 x 5 inches
Weight 14.3 pounds
Toddler or Twin Sized Twin
Foam or Coils Foam
Certified CertiPUR-US

Our Ratings

Safety Features
4 / 5
Comfort
3.5 / 5
Durability
3.5 / 5
Mattress Compatibility
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

Personal Perspective

I'm thrilled with my new mattress and its ability to provide a comfortable and supportive sleeping experience. At first, I was worried it might be too firm, but after a few nights, my body adjusted and I now sleep soundly. This mattress is perfect for various bed types, from my own bed to my toddler's loft bed, providing comfort and improved sleep quality for the whole family. It's lightweight and easy to maneuver, making tasks like changing sheets a breeze. While some may find it a bit on the firmer side, a memory foam topper can easily be added for additional comfort without sacrificing support.

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Dimensions Weight Toddler or Twin Foam or Coils Certification
Milliard Flip Mattress for Babies and Toddlers Best Toddler Crib Mattress 52 x 27.5 x 5.5″ 13 lbs Toddler Foam CertiPUR-US
Graco Premium Foam Crib and Toddler Mattress Best Cheap Toddler Mattress 52 x 27.6 x 5″ 7 lbs Toddler Foam Greenguard Gold, Cert-PUR-US
Newton Baby Crib and Toddler Mattress Best Breathable Toddler Mattress 52 x 28 x 5.5″ 11 lbs Toddler Neither Greenguard Gold
Linenspa 8-Inch Hybrid Mattress Best Toddler Twin Mattress 75 x 39 x 8″ 30 lbs Twin Both CertiPUR-US
Zinus 6 Inch Gel Infused Mattress Best for Hot Sleepers 75 x 39 x 6″ 20.75 lbs Twin Foam CertiPUR-US
Naturepedic 2-in-1 Organic Kids Mattress Safest Toddler Mattress 75 x 38 x 7″ 56 lbs Twin Both GOTS, Greenguard Gold, Made Safe
Milliard Premium Memory Foam Crib and Toddler Mattress Best Toddler Memory Foam Mattress 52 x 27.5 x 5.5″ 10.12 lbs Toddler Foam CertiPUR-US
Casper Sleep Element Twin Mattress Best Durable Toddler Mattress 75 x 38 x 10″ 41 lbs Twin Foam CertiPUR-US
Eco Classica III Baby and Toddler Mattress Best Eco-Friendly Toddler Mattress 52 x 27.75 x 6″ 9.6 lbs Toddler Foam Greenguard Gold, CertiPUR-US
LUCID 5 Inch Hypoallergenic Memory Foam Mattress Best Hypoallergenic Toddler Mattress 74 x 37.5 x 5″ 14.3 lbs Twin Foam CertiPUR-US

How to Choose the Best Toddler Mattress

When it comes to toddler mattresses, you may not think the details are important. But most toddlers spend more time in their bed than out of it, making their bed their primary environment. These little details can add up to be quite significant.

Size

The first thing you should take into consideration is what size of bed you’d like your toddler to have. Most people choose either a toddler bed or a twin bed. Before purchasing a toddler bed frame, check your crib manual to see if it converts to a toddler bed.

A toddler bed is the same size as a crib (usually 52 by 28 inches), but it lacks the “prison cell” feel, with the mattress being closer to the ground and without crib bars. Most toddler beds, instead, have low railings surrounding the bed, with an opening for the toddler to climb in and out on their own.

A toddler bed fits a standard crib mattress. And most children will outgrow their toddler bed around the age of three. The advantage to a toddler bed is that it feels similar to a crib, which can be comforting, but it allows for a little more independence.

Twin beds are much larger than toddler beds (usually 75 x 38 inches). Twin beds are commonly used for children, and they can even accommodate an adult, provided they are under six feet tall.

However, twin beds, unlike toddler beds, don’t come fitted with a railing of any sort to keep your toddler from falling out. If your toddler is a wild sleeper, or if your twin bed sits high off the floor, it’s probably a good idea to purchase a safety rail to prevent injuries.

The advantage to a twin bed is that there’s enough room for you to lie down beside your toddler if they need a little extra comfort.

When Should We Switch to a Toddler Bed?

There is no standard age at which your child should transition from crib to toddler bed, but there are some indicators that it’s time to make the change.

  • Climbing: Can your little acrobat get themselves onto or over the crib bars when the mattress is in the lowest position? To avoid injury, it’s time to upgrade to a toddler bed.
  • New baby: Many parents choose to evict their toddler from the crib because they are expecting another baby and don’t want to purchase a second crib.
  • Potty training: Perhaps your child is potty trained and needs access to the bathroom at night? Then it may be best to move them to a toddler bed so they can make their own way to the bathroom at night.

Type

Once you know what bed size your toddler will be sleeping in, it’s time to choose the best mattress type to suit your needs.

Foam

Foam mattresses are lightweight and can be vacuum-packed, rolled, and shipped in a narrow box. They tend to be thinner and more lightweight than spring mattresses, which makes them a good option for toddlers as it keeps them lower to the ground and makes for easy sheet changes. They’re usually fairly inexpensive and tend to be the most common choice for toddler mattresses.

Innerspring

Innerspring mattresses, also called coil or spring mattresses, contain a core layer of metal support coils that add a little bounce. The coils are surrounded by comfort materials such as foam for cushioning and pressure relief. These tend to be heavier and maintain their shape a little better over time (2).

Latex

Latex mattresses are firm and supportive while still being breathable and comfortable. They are much more durable than other mattress options and often last for more than twenty years. One of the greatest advantages of latex mattresses is that they’re eco-friendly. And they are more resistant to bedbugs than other mattress types.

However, they also tend to be heavier and more expensive than other options. Plus, they should be avoided if anyone in your family has a latex allergy (3).

Hybrid

Hybrid mattresses contain a combination of layers and include an innerspring system. They often contain memory foam or latex layers and may also be topped with a cooling gel layer. These are a great option if you want the durability of an innerspring mattress along with the cushioning comfort of foam or latex (4).

Dual-Sided

Dual-sided mattresses are made to conform to the changing needs of babies and toddlers. Because babies need a very firm sleeping surface for safety, one side of these mattresses meets this standard. The flip side of the mattress includes a soft foam layer to be used for toddlers, who generally prefer a slightly softer sleep surface.

Durability

If you choose a toddler bed, the durability of the mattress is less of a concern as they will outgrow it around three years of age. However, if you plan on using the mattress for more than one child, or if you hope to get several years out of your twin mattress, durability is an important factor.

Latex mattresses are the most durable, generally lasting a minimum of 15 years. Innerspring or hybrid mattresses usually need to be replaced within 7 to 10 years. Foam mattresses last an average of 10 to 15 years (5).

Comfort

Toddlers can be a tough bunch to please. However, when it comes to mattresses, they are not as picky as adults. Most toddlers are content with a firm mattress as long as there’s a comfortable top layer.

Because toddlers tend to stay fairly warm at night, it’s important to ensure your mattress doesn’t trap in too much body heat. Look for a breathable mattress or one with a cooling gel layer to keep your child comfortable.

Toddlers are unlikely to complain about aching backs. Still, it’s important that their spines are properly supported during sleep so as not to cause issues further down the road. Check your toddler’s mattress periodically for stability, ensuring there are no sunken areas. Replace any mattress that no longer holds its shape.

Safety

As our toddlers spend a lot of time asleep, it’s important that we make their sleep area as safe as possible.

Flammability

American mattress producers are legally required to follow a stringent testing regime that includes open-flame testing. As there are many ways a mattress can ignite, your mattress must meet fire-resistance standards. Mattresses that don’t pass these tests are not allowed to be sold (6).

However, there are still frequent recalls on mattresses that aren’t up to par. So before using any toddler mattress, check the CPSC website to ensure there haven’t been any recalls on it.

Bed Height

The lower your bed frame is and the thinner the mattress, the closer your child will be to the floor, which will help prevent serious injuries if they fall off their bed. Look for a bed frame that is low to the ground, and combine it with a thin toddler mattress.

Safety Rail

Most toddler beds and convertible cribs include a built-in safety rail. But if your twin or toddler bed doesn’t include one, they can be purchased from most baby equipment stores or online.

Proper Fit

Measure your toddler bed before purchasing a mattress. You’ll want to ensure the mattress fits snugly in the frame to prevent little fingers from getting trapped. You shouldn’t be able to fit more than two fingers between the mattress and the bed frame.

Hypoallergenic

Beds are often a common trigger for allergy sufferers. Hypoallergenic mattresses are made to reduce the number of allergens that penetrate a mattress. They are usually made with dust-mite-resistant materials and anti-allergy covers (7).

If your toddler shows early signs of allergies, a hypoallergenic toddler mattress or mattress cover will be a worthwhile purchase.

Eco-Friendly

More than 18 million mattresses are thrown away each year in the United States (8). As there are only 56 mattress recycling facilities, most of these end up in landfills. This statistic alone may have you pricing out eco-friendly mattresses.

Eco-friendly mattresses are made without harmful chemicals, so they also provide a safer surface for your toddler, without the nasty effects of off-gassing.

Latex mattresses tend to be the top choice for eco-friendly mattresses as natural latex is a sustainable resource. Latex mattresses are usually recyclable and biodegradable.

Ease of Cleaning

Let’s face it: Toddlers are messy creatures — especially when they’re potty training. The easier a mattress is to clean, the easier your life will be. Many toddler mattresses are made with a waterproof outer layer, but if yours isn’t, you can always purchase a waterproof sheet to go under your toddler’s bedding.

Budget

Toddler mattresses come in a wide variety of prices. The most expensive mattress isn’t necessarily the best mattress for you. Consider your budget before shopping, and then look for a mattress in this range that suits your needs.

Foam mattresses tend to be the least expensive as the materials cost less to produce and they are easy to transport. Latex mattresses are usually the most expensive and, due to their density, are more costly to transport.

Warranty/Trial Period

Sometimes we need time to determine if a product suits our needs, and mattresses are no exception. If you’re still unsure about a mattress, check to see if the company offers a warranty or trial period.

However, if there’s a chance you’ll have to return a mattress, purchase it from a local supplier. Many mattresses purchased online will arrive in vacuum packaging and cannot be made to fit again once they have expanded, making them very difficult to return.


Toddler Mattress FAQs

Let’s look at some of the most common questions parents, and caregivers have about toddler mattresses.

What Kind of Mattress is Best for a Toddler?

Every family has unique needs, as does every toddler. The best mattress for one child may not be the best for another.

Comfort and safety are two of the most important criteria. Is the mattress firm enough that your toddler can move around on it with ease? Will it keep them cool? And is it just high enough that they won’t get injured if they fall off the bed?

Do Toddlers Need Special Mattresses?

If you have a toddler bed, a smaller bed made specifically for the toddler stage, you can continue using your crib mattress. However, crib mattresses are quite firm, as this is a requirement for infants, so you may wish to consider a mattress more targeted to toddlers.

Some people choose to skip the toddler bed and move straight to a twin bed. Any twin bed mattress will work for a toddler provided it’s firm enough, but you should look for one that’s better suited to children than adults.

Should Toddlers Sleep on a Firm or Soft Mattress?

Babies need a firm mattress for safety, and crib mattresses are also fine for toddlers. But many toddlers prefer a slightly softer sleeping surface.

If you’re shopping for a toddler mattress, look for one in the medium to firm range. Double-sided crib mattresses have a firmer side for babies and a softer side for toddlers that is topped with soft foam. This is a great choice if you want something to transition with your child from baby to toddler.

Are Foam or Spring Mattresses Better for a Toddler?

Both foam and spring mattresses are suitable for toddlers. Foam mattresses tend to be lighter and easier to transport, which makes for easier shipping, delivery, and maneuvering within the home. Coil or innerspring mattresses tend to be more durable.

But if you’re looking for the best of both options, a hybrid mattress is the way to go. These offer the durability and support of spring mattresses, but as they’re topped with a foam layer, they are a little lighter and may be more comfortable for your child.

If your toddler tends to be a hot sleeper, innerspring mattresses allow for more airflow and a cooler sleeping surface.

A newer alternative to spring or foam mattresses is latex mattresses. All-natural latex mattresses are more eco-friendly than other options while providing a more supportive rest (9).

Is Memory Foam Bad for Toddlers?

Although memory foam is often used for toddler mattresses, it can provide a warmer sleeping surface. This may lead to overheating, especially for babies and young toddlers.

Memory foam also tends to be higher in chemicals and release more unhealthy toxins (10).

If you’re looking for the comfort of a memory foam mattress for your toddler, search for one that’s firm and breathable. Some are made with gel beads or other cooling technologies that can help prevent overheating.

Look for mattresses that have been certified to be low VOC and safe from other harmful chemicals.

How Thick Should a Toddler Mattress Be?

If your toddler is sleeping in a toddler bed, you will need a standard crib mattress. The thickness of a crib mattress can range from about 4 to 6 inches.

However, if your toddler will be in a twin bed, this range will be much greater. The shorter the depth of your mattress, the closer your child will be to the floor if they bounce too high or fall out of bed at night. So, it’s safest to stick with a mattress that’s on the thinner side.

Foam mattresses tend to be thinner than most coil mattresses, which is why many parents opt for foam. For maximum safety, look for mattresses in the 5 to 8-inch range.


Rest Easy

Choosing the best toddler mattress for your child doesn’t need to be a difficult experience. You just need to know what size of mattress you require, your budget, and what additional features you’d like.

With the help of our guide, you can rest easy knowing you’ve made the best mattress choice to suit your growing toddler’s needs.

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About the Author

Tricia Roberts

Tricia Roberts is a freelance writer and editor of a wide variety of content. She is a mom to six children through birth and adoption and has fostered many more. Tricia loves seeing moms thrive and believes they can do so when they have access to a supportive parenting community. She enjoys serving as a board member at a local parenting support center. When she’s not writing, she’s reading — anything and everything! Tricia also finds joy in crafting, gardening, baking, hiking, and traveling — especially with her family.