by When choosing a good mattress for your child, there are a few things you’ll have to keep in mind. Mattresses can range in firmness, thickness, and type. And depending on your child’s sleeping position and weight, one might be better than the other.
A soft mattress can be more comfortable if your child is lightweight and sleeps on their side or back. Alternatively, a medium-firm mattress might be a better option if your child is a heavy sleeper. The latter provides more support for the growing bones. Additionally, if your child sleeps on their stomach, you’ll want to choose a firm or medium-firm mattress (also check 10 amazing mattresses).
Hunting for a mattress for a 3-year-old can be a hectic job. Fortunately, we have reviewed some reliable mattresses for a 3-year-old kid.
Best Mattresses For 3 to 4 Year Old Kids
Top 8 Best Mattress for 3,4 or 5 years old childs
GhostBed Classic
- High-density support foam
- Breathable & plush knit cover
A perfect and classic combination of latex and gel memory foam
The latex and memory gel foam together provide medium firmness to the mattress. This firmness proves to be best for supporting the delicate backs of young kids. It is a good mattress for a four-year-old; with the high-density foam, the supports go a long way.
Another best feature is the breathable cover which is easy to clean. We understand that with kids, keeping things orderly and hygienic can be a nightmare. But the blend of viscose and polyester makes the cover spillproof and hassle-free to wipe off any dirt.
To support the coolness of the gel memory foam, the latex layer is quite porous and aerated. This feature enables adults and children to feel pleasant and cool while sleeping. Since kids sleep for long hours, the foam does not collect the heat underneath the body like most foams. The GhostBed construction helps eliminate the excess heat to regulate temperatures.
Moreover, you can even accessorize with a GhostProtector Cool & Crunch-Free Mattress Protector. A 100% waterproof and comfortable mattress protector to help you keep your kid’s bed neat (check the top rated waterproof mattress protectors).
PlushBeds Healthy Child Mattress
- Premium encased coils
- Pressure relief
A carefully crafted hybrid mattress for your little one
There is nothing much better than an organic approach. It’s a relief that your child is not breathing in harsh chemicals but enjoying nature in their sleep. With PlushBed, the organic material for the mattresses is serene for every parent.
GOTS-Certified Organic Cotton Cover is what your kids sleep on. It is a soft layer that acts as a fire barrier, thus keeping your precious sleeper safe and sound. The cotton is stretched and has not been tampered with to lose its softness. The GOLS-Certified Organic Latex is antimicrobial and anti-motion transfer. So, you can put your child to sleep and the mattress without any disturbance. The latex is better at dissipating heat than memory foam and keeps things cooler.
The coils are encased in fabric to keep them stable and help them provide enthusiastic support. This aids in zero motion transfer; hence your child will enjoy the best sleep.
This Plushbed mattress is the kid’s version of The Luxury Bliss. The Organic Hybrid Latex Mattress has the same features and can be found in 2 varying firmnesses. With medium and medium firm, the mattress is pure luxury for adults and kids alike.
Leesa Youth Mattress
- Breathable knit cover
- CertiPUR-US®
It provides correct firmness for all types of sleepers.
Leesa youth mattress is a combination of 3 types of foam. The first foam layer is memory foam. With its premium qualities, this layer is responsive and keeps the heat at bay. The foam provides nurturing comfort to a child, so they feel safe while sleeping.
The second serene foam layer cushions the memory foam. The foam is well aerated with its multiple micro air capsules and stays cool. This keeps the sleeper comfortable and provides a good night’s sleep.
Lastly, the base foam is the layer that provides great support. It keeps the other layers intact and stable, prolonging their life and support. This foam layer reduces the chances of the mattress sagging and keeping up with the growing age of your child.
The best part is that all the material used is CertiPUR-US certified. So, your child is safe when sleeping on the Leesa Youth mattress. They have the comfort of exclusive foam and assurance of sleeping on non-toxic material.
For the early years, you can cover the mattress with a High-quality mattress protector. The Tencel mattress protector by Leesa is waterproof and keeps the temperatures cool (check the top rated cooling mattresses for hot sleeper). It is antimicrobial, made with durable material, and lasts as long as possible.
And the cherry on the top is the 100-night trial that helps you and your child decide what’s best.
Emma original
- Perfectly balanced for all body types
- Medium-firm range
Multiple foam layers of comfort and peace of mind with crafting perfection.
Your child’s sleeping posture should always be a priority when buying a mattress. Emma’s mattress has foam layers that provide optimal support for the joints and curves. Shoulders, back, and hips are well supported, giving adults and kids extreme comfort when they lay on either side or back (also check 10 amazing mattresses for back pain). There are over 100 supportive points hence a great mattress for a 4-year-old.
This mattress is great for hot and sweaty summer nights. It is ultra-breathable and open-celled, which guarantees adequate airflow and heat resistance. The sleeper stays cool and sweat-free, and dry throughout the warm nights.
The premium quality material ensures that it serves from 3 years to teens. The mattress is built to last with a good ten-year warranty and durable construction. With five layers of exclusive foam, your child gets undisturbed sleep and is ready to conquer the world every morning.
The five foam layers, each with its fine feature to enhance comfort and absorb heat, work in unison, making this a great mattress. And to complete its elegant look, you can drape it Emma mattress protector. This protector keeps the mattress hygienically clean, free of allergens, and breathable. It is OEKO-Tex® 100 Certified, which means it is suitable for infants.
Molecule 1 mattress
- Balanced body support
- Ideal for warm sleepers
Sleep with protection from allergens and ultimate comfort with Molecule
Molecule 1 is a 100% polyurethane foam mattress with four layers of highly engineered variations. The base of the mattress is 7 inches of firm support that assists spinal support. The foam is breathable with advanced heat transfer qualities. It is called the Contourflo.
The layer above works on targeted areas for kids and adults alike. With the 3D precision contouring, it adjusts automatically to the different curves of the body. This turns out to be great for adults as it relieves pressure. It is a cozy and comfortable zone for kids to rest their bodies on and fall asleep. This layer is the Recoveryflo.
Next is the Restoreflo foam, which offers excellent pressure relief and promotes airflow. Thus, keeping your child cool and comfortable all night long (check 10 top rated mattresses with great comfort). Finally, the cover that keeps all the layers intact is a piece of work. The advanced cover regulates the temperature and moisture. It protects against bacterial growth, and your child gets a good night’s sleep.
Of course, a mattress looks incomplete without a good sheet, and Molecule has the best ones in the store. The Percale and the Sateen sheets are built to last wash after washing. They keep the surface cool and are extremely skin-friendly. A great, hypoallergenic, temperature-regulating sheet works like a charm. The materials of all the beddings are well defined and made to last.
Naturepedic 2-in-1 organic kids mattress
- Waterproofing
- Premium innerspring
Two sides for two decades of proper growth of your kid
When we hear the word organic, it is believed to be safe, healthy, and long-lasting. And Naturepedic never disappoints as far as quality, warranty and comfort are concerned.
However, the inner layers are the same from both ends. The upper layers of each end vary to help you give extensive options for your child. One side is a quilt layer with a PLA comfort layer and organic cotton fabric.
PLA, though synthetic, is extracted from non-GMO sugarcane. Being plant-based, it does not off-gas any harmful and toxic chemicals. Naturepedic only uses US-grown and certified organic cotton.
The other side combines PLA and organic cotton but is waterproof. The layers next to the quilt and the waterproof end are a comfort layer. One inch of this layer on each side provides firmness with a cushioning effect.
The 7-inch innerspring support contouring your child’s delicate body is in the middle. The open structure of the springs provides more breathability for excellent heat dissipation.Â
Moreover, if you prefer to make both sides waterproof, use the Organic Waterproof Mattress Protector. It allows water vapor to pass through for more ventilation but blocks liquid spills. Similarly, a PLA pillow with w/organic fabric is great for your kid’s bed. They are highly hypoallergenic and wrapped in pure cotton for extreme softness.
Helix KIDS
- High levels of airflow
- Flippable design for growing kids
 Your kids will enjoy a nice and cozy cooler surface no matter which side they sleep on.
The mattress is designed to change as kids’ needs and preferences change over time. It is a flippable mattress catering to your kid’s needs from 3 to 12. So, whether it’s a mattress for a 3-year-old or older, this mattress is perfect in every way (check 10 amazing mattresses for kids).
With its two carefully crafted sides, the mattress is ideal if you have a little one at home. One side provides firmness to the gentle bones; flip it to get the softer side for the little older ones.
Both sides have a water repellent finish and a microbe shield to keep your little one safe and dry. The repellent is plant-based RUCO-DRY BIO NPE. It keeps the fabric of the cover stain free and maintains its airy structure.
To keep up the microbe shield, the mattress uses AEGIS, which fights bacteria that may cause a foul odor.
Each side is dealt with differently to prioritize temperature regulation and keep the mattress cool. The softer side has a breathable Tencel to keep it ventilated. The firmer side has a layer of gel memory foam to absorb heat away from the surface.
You can add a Helix Weighted Blanket, which is perfect for snuggling and sleeping. The two-sided blanket has soft fleece and sheared microfibers on one side. The more choices your kids get, the more they enjoy bedtime.
Layla memory foam mattress
- Antimicrobial
- Rapid cooling
The Beautyrest 13.5 Hybrid 1000 Infinicool is a 13.5-inch hybrid innerspring plush soft tight-top mattress. It has a base support layer of innerspring pocket coils with age/memory foam layer resting above.
This model from Beautyrest is very difficult to find both (1) online and (2) in-stores. As a result, we strongly recommend considering similar alternatives.
Surprisingly enough, the Beautyrest 13.5 Hybrid 1000 Infinicool is actually quite a good mattress. Especially when you consider the quality of materials & specifications.
Another mattress gives you the best of both worlds.
Call it a mattress for a 4-year-old with a soft and a firm side, just like Helix Kids and Naturepedic 2-in-1 mattresses that witness your kid’s growing years.
Layla memory foam mattress is copper gel infused. This feature is an overall game changer for Layla. A foam mattress tends to be a heat inducer, but the copper gel in the memory foam improvises.
Secondly, Copper is a naturally antimicrobial element. The gel condenses and forms an antimicrobial barrier when applying pressure to the foam. This barrier protects against odor-causing bacteria and keeps your mattress fresher for longer.
Lastly, Copper gel in the foam is designed to react to increased pressure. It makes the foam firmer and more responsive. This helps it stay soft and comforting overall and provides ample support where you need it most.
Hence giving you a mattress that keeps its sleeper cool and provides correct firmness. Flip the mattress to the firm side when your kids need support for their delicate backs.
The mattress is available for a 120-night trial and a lifetime warranty. Layla has 3 types to offer:
- Essential Protector
- Cooling Protector
- Encasement Protector
The protectors vary, giving quality protection from heat, spills, and dirt.
What Type of Mattress Is Best for A 3-Year-Old?
Well, conclusively, a memory foam mattress is best for 3 years old. First, it’s not springy, so jumping on it is not fun. No matter how cozy it is, if the kids do not get a bounce, they don’t consider it a play area. Hence the mattress has a better chance of lasting longer. Secondly, memory foam is hypoallergenic and dust mite-proof. Thus, you are assured that your child is sleeping safely.
Should A 3-Year-Old Have a Firm Mattress?Â
A growing child needs plenty of sleep to relax the muscles and re-energize for the next day ahead. A good 10-12 hours of sleep is ideal for a 3 to 6-year-old. And similarly, a good mattress is as essential as their sleep. A twin xl mattress for a 4-year-old or so should be able to:
- Keep the child’s posture supported.
- Maintain a hygienic approach and make it easy to clean.
- Support throughout the growing years with reliable durability.
Remember, you will need to consider your child’s sleeping style. What side your kid enjoys? Determining whether are they stomach sleepers or side sleepers will help decide the mattress firmness of the toddler bed (check 10 great mattresses for stomach sleepers).
Choose the one with all the features and make a favorable decision. Up till a certain age – say around five years, a less firm mattress may be agreeable. But later on, the back will need good support to assist with the growth; hence, a firmer mattress will be eligible.
Can A 3-Year-Old Sleep On A Memory Foam Mattress?
The 3 most significant factors to consider when addressing this question are
- The child’s age and size
- The memory foam properties
- The mattress properties.
Memory foam provides great contouring, which might be useless for a lightweight 3-year-old. But since mattresses aren’t bought frequently, we need to consider what will be beneficial in the long run. With aging, memory foam will eventually become a perfectly supportive mattress. And to counter its heat build, many enhanced features incorporated in some mattresses solves the problem.
As a parent, you know what’s best for your child. You will be the best judge of your child’s needs and abilities. With that said, exercising caution and attentiveness is essential when considering a memory foam mattress. However, memory foam can be perfectly safe for most kids and teens.
What Kind of Mattress Is Good for Toddlers?
Toddlers find a plush mattress more pleasing because of the cozy softness. They need a warm and comfortable surface to sleep on for long hours. However, a supportive approach is necessary to help them keep their alignment. But it’s too early to decide what sleeper they are, so it is better to go for a softer option. Whatever brand mattress you buy, a little less firm should be the one.
What Size Bed Should a 3-Year-Old Have?
A 3-year-old should have a bed that is big enough for them to sleep in comfortably. However, it should not be so big that they feel lost in it. A twin mattress is usually a good option for a 3-year-old.
Should A Toddler Have a Firm or Soft Mattress?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on the individual toddler and what they prefer. Some toddlers prefer a firm mattress, while others prefer a softer one (check the best selling soft mattresses). Ultimately, it is up to the parents to decide what mattress their toddler will have. However, a firm mattress is generally considered fine. But a little softness will keep them sleeping longer.
When Can a Child Have A Softer Mattress?
A child can have a softer mattress when they are old enough not to need the extra support. However, we should consider that some firmness will always be necessary. The mattress of a four-year-old should be very soft as it can result in musculoskeletal disorders. And as far as the softness is concerned, it shouldn’t be too soft to be a safety hazard.
Are Foam Mattresses Okay for Toddlers?
Foam mattresses provide the correct balance between softness and firmness. A toddler or above needs to feel cozy and should have the support for proper spine alignment. Foams serve best by doing so.
But then, issues arise if the foam used is not certified or may contain harmful chemicals. Hence it is important to get a good quality foam or memory foam mattress to keep your child healthy. Or you can always go for an innerspring mattress for 3 years and older.
What Should I Look for In a Kid’s Mattress?
Remember a few things to remember when choosing a mattress for your child. Like when you pick out a mattress for yourself, you want to ensure it is good.
- A long-term warranty
- The right size
- The right firmness
- A Material that is easy to clean
These factors can make a big difference in your child’s sleep patterns and your peace of mind.
Key Takeaways: Choosing the Best for Your 3-Year-Old
Unveiling the Ideal Mattress Type
For a 3-year-old, a memory foam mattress emerges as a suitable choice owing to its non-springy nature which curtails the playful bouncing, extending the mattress’s lifespan. The hypoallergenic and dust mite-proof properties of memory foam further assure a safe sleeping haven for your child.
Firmness Factor: What Suits a Toddler?
The firmness of the mattress plays a crucial role in supporting the child’s posture and ensuring a hygienic, easy-to-clean surface. While a less firm mattress might suffice until around five years of age, as the child grows, a firmer mattress becomes essential to aid in proper back support and overall growth.
Memory Foam Mattresses: A Wise Choice?
Though memory foam offers excellent contouring, it may not be quite beneficial for a lightweight 3-year-old. However, as mattresses are long-term investments, the evolving supportiveness of memory foam with age makes it a wise choice. Parents need to exercise caution and attentiveness when considering a memory foam mattress, ensuring it’s safe and suitable for their child’s needs.
Plush vs Supportive: The Toddler Mattress Dilemma
Toddlers often find a plush mattress appealing due to its cozy softness, yet a supportive mattress is necessary to maintain proper alignment. The choice between a firm or soft mattress ultimately depends on individual preference, with some toddlers favoring the firmness while others enjoy a softer surface.
Size Matters: Selecting the Right Bed Size
A twin mattress usually fits the bill for a 3-year-old, providing ample space for comfortable sleep without making them feel lost in a vast sleeping area.
Transitioning to a Softer Mattress: When is the Right Time?
The transition to a softer mattress comes into play when a child outgrows the need for extra support. However, a certain degree of firmness remains essential to prevent musculoskeletal disorders and ensure safety.
Foam Mattresses: Balancing Softness and Support
Foam mattresses strike a fine balance between softness and firmness, ensuring coziness alongside proper spine alignment for a toddler. It’s imperative to opt for certified, good quality foam to avoid exposure to harmful chemicals, keeping the child’s health at the forefront.
Key Considerations in a Kid’s Mattress
When on the hunt for a child’s mattress, factors such as a long-term warranty, appropriate size and firmness, and easy-to-clean material are pivotal. These considerations not only enhance your child’s sleep patterns but also bring peace of mind to parents in knowing they’ve made a thoughtful choice.
Our Recommendation
It is always challenging to decide what will be best for the kids. This is because kids are still growing, and mattresses for kids need to be comfortable. They should be able to sleep all night and support their growing bodies.
Memory foam mattresses are best as they provide balanced comfort. However, some hybrid mattresses turn out to be ideal in their combination. In the end, it’s what you think will suit your kid and what will make their golden growing years peaceful and comfortable.