Before getting your child to sleep in their new bed, you must remember that choosing the right mattress for them is essential as children spend between 10 to 14 hours a day sleeping and it’s important that they get the optimum amount of rest in their developing years.
So here’s how to look for a child-friendly mattress that is chemical free, safe for your child, comfortable and one that doesn’t break the bank.
Assess Your Child’s Needs
Before shopping, consider your child’s sleep issues which include allergies, bedwetting and insomnia. With these points in mind, narrow down your search to mattresses that offer benefits to the many different types of sleepers.
Types of Mattress
From memory foam and box spring to latex foam and smart gel, there are various types of mattresses, and each is suitable for a specific purpose.
Memory foam contours to a child’s body, while smart gel dissipates body heat. Box springs are soft and bouncy, whereas latex foams are available in varying levels of firmness and plushness.
Children need supportive and firm mattresses that keep their spine and bones aligned to reduce rolling and discomfort. So a high-density latex foam mattress is normally recommended as the higher the density, the firmer the sleeping surface.
Determine the Right Size
If your little one is transitioning from a crib to a big bed, then you should choose a twin-size children’s mattress. However, if you’re looking for long term, getting a super single or a single mattress would be a better option too.
Focus on Longevity
The perfect mattress MUST accommodate the growing stages of your child. So take into consideration the mattress’ longevity before buying. Anticipate growth spurts and how tall your child might be in a few years.
Consider the Material
Memory foam mattresses are made of synthetic materials that release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can cause allergic reactions such as skin irritation and respiratory problems. To protect your child, go for chemical-free mattresses made from natural latex, organic cotton or bamboo. These are hypoallergenic and breathable to ensure your child is safe and not exposed to toxic chemicals.
Discuss Their Sleeping Position
Your child’s sleeping position is vital in picking the best mattress. It’s during this stage where they start discovering their preferred sleeping styles. So, ask your children how they prefer to sleep be it side, stomach or back sleeper as each position requires different types of mattress.
For example, latex mattresses are perfect for side sleepers as its firmness supports the sleepers shoulder, neck and head.
Stomach sleepers need a medium-soft to firm mattresses which makes memory foam a suitable choice.
Back sleepers on the other hand need mattresses that support their hips, shoulders and trunk.
Evaluate Durability
Children love jumping on the bed and playing on them. Therefore, the mattress must be able to withstand a little abuse. So, choose one that’s durable, easy to clean, and can stand up to stains and mishandling.
Check the Comfort Level
Before making your final decision, check the comfort level of the mattress. Take your child with you and lay on it for at least 10 minutes. Then ask them if they feel comfortable and if they don’t, find out what’s wrong.
Finding the right mattress for your child is very important. If you don’t find a suitable mattress for your child, it can lead to future health issues. Therefore, always remember that while a good mattress encourages good sleep, it also plays a vital role in your child’s growth.
Here’s why choosing a good mattress is important for your little one!
- It ensures even weight distribution and spinal alignment which reduces the risk of body pain.
- It provides a comfortable sleeping environment, the absence of which can disrupt sleep and lead to a bad mood.
- It improves blood circulation by maintaining good body posture which makes your child wake up refreshed.
- Choosing an chemical-free mattress maintains a healthy environment for your child as it doesn’t let dust mites breed inside it.
- A perfect comfort choice mattress gives back support for a comfortable sleeping position which reduces tossing and turning, and breathing problems.
Finding the right mattress for your children should never be taken lightly as it’s necessary to provide them with a pleasant sleeping environment. With the help of this guide, you can now be able choose the perfect mattress for your child. You can also always drop into our Sealy Sleep Boutiques or Harvey Norman stores and speak to a Sealy Sleep Expert for more sound advice.
Good luck!
