Disclosure – We rely on reader support to run SleepMattressHQ.com. If you purchase products using our links, we may earn a commission. Click here to read about our process.
As a parent, we all want the best for our kids. When it comes to sleep, the role of a comfortable bed is vital. If the kid does not get enough sleep, it will be a task to soothe a cranky child throughout the day.
Most parents tend to invest in the best twin mattress for their kids but then they have heard stories about memory foam mattresses. This leads to a very important question:
Is a Memory Foam Mattress Good for a Child?
Yes, memory foam mattresses are safe and good for a child but a word of caution if the child is a baby or toddler. A toddler needs a firm mattress to sleep on. Also, the thickness of the mattress should be minimal as the weight of the kids is way less than any adult.
The memory foam has good contouring properties but looking at the weight of the child, a thin mattress will be more supportive.
Can a Baby Sleep on a Memory Foam Mattress?
A toddler or baby can sleep on a memory foam mattress but as parents are primary caregivers they need to understand a few things about the baby bed. A toddler needs a firm and breathable sleeping surface. Using a cheap memory foam mattress is not advisable as it may contain some toxins.
Most babies sleep in the crib but some parents prefer toddlers to cosleep with them. A baby cosleeping means a lack of a firm surface. It is advisable to make the baby sleep in the crib using a type of mattress that is firm or use a firm mat over the existing mattress.
There are many affordable options for kids but the quality of materials used should not be ignored. Suffocation is an exaggeration in most cases as memory foam contouring is according to the weight and baby weight does not make an indention deep enough to cause breathing problems.
A firm mattress is often recommended for the first two years of the baby for better bone development and formation.
Can a 3 year old Sleep on a Memory Foam Mattress?
Yes, a 3-year-old can easily sleep on a memory foam mattress but avoid buying a cheap mattress. Many parents feel kids will outgrow faster. A quality mattress will be devoid of any toxins and is hypoallergenic.
You don’t want your child to develop life-long allergies at a young age.
Three Things You Need to Consider
To sum up, there are 3 things you need to consider while choosing a memory foam mattress for a child.
Age of Child
This is your topmost consideration. A child under 2 years of age has specific requirements and one of them is a firm sleeping surface for better bone formation and development. A child over 2 or 3 years of age can sleep on a memory foam mattress but the other two factors are important.
Memory Foam Mattress Thickness
Pick up a mattress with a thin profile. Kids do not need a plush mattress as many parents believe that more thickness will give them extra comfort. However many kids like to jump on the bed and do other activities involving jumping. So a hybrid mattress with an innerspring as a base provides the responsiveness that can be satisfying for kids who love to jump.
Mattress Material Quality
Lastly, remove cheaper options out of proportion as nothing is more important than the health of your child. Be mindful and sure of the materials used in the mattress. The memory foam should be CertiPUR-US certified and hypoallergenic.
