Choosing a mattress for your child or teenager involves considerations beyond just comfort and budget. Young people's bodies are still developing, making proper support especially important. Additionally, children spend more time on their mattresses than adults (thanks to those gloriously long sleep requirements), increasing exposure to any potentially harmful materials. This guide covers the key safety considerations when selecting mattresses for young people.
Age-Appropriate Mattress Considerations
Children's mattress needs evolve significantly as they grow. What works for a toddler won't suit a teenager, and what's safe for older children may pose risks for younger ones.
Toddlers and Young Children (Ages 2-5)
When children transition from cots to beds, typically between ages 2 and 3, safety becomes paramount. At this age:
- Firmness is crucial: Young children need firmer mattresses than adults. Their lighter body weight means they won't sink into the mattress the way adults do, and a too-soft surface can create suffocation risks
- Waterproof protection: Accidents are common, so waterproof mattress protectors or mattresses with waterproof covers are essential
- Consider low beds: Falls from bed are common as children learn to sleep in larger spaces. Low bed frames or mattresses on the floor reduce injury risk
- Guardrails: Temporary bed rails can prevent falls while children adjust to their new beds
Soft, plush adult mattresses can pose suffocation risks for young children. If a child's face can sink into the surface, the mattress is too soft. Always choose firm mattresses for children under 5.
School-Age Children (Ages 6-12)
As children grow, their mattress needs begin to resemble those of adults, though some distinctions remain:
- Medium-firm mattresses generally work well for this age group
- Consider that children in this age range often grow rapidly—a mattress that fits at age 6 may feel cramped by age 10
- King single mattresses become increasingly practical as children grow taller
- Quality remains important, as school-age children need 9-11 hours of sleep for proper development
Teenagers (Ages 13-18)
Teenagers' mattress needs closely mirror those of adults, but some considerations are unique to this age group:
- Teenagers need 8-10 hours of sleep, making quality mattresses an investment in their health and academic performance
- Growth spurts may affect firmness needs—a teenager gaining significant weight may suddenly find their mattress too soft
- Consider that this mattress may see them through moving out—durable, quality options pay dividends
- Temperature regulation matters, as teenagers often run warm during sleep
Material Safety: What's in Your Child's Mattress?
Children are more vulnerable to chemical exposures than adults. Their smaller body size means chemical concentrations have greater impact, and their developing systems may be more susceptible to disruption. Understanding mattress materials helps you make safer choices.
Certifications to Look For
- CertiPUR-US: Ensures foam is made without ozone-depleting chemicals, heavy metals, formaldehyde, phthalates, and other concerning substances
- OEKO-TEX Standard 100: Tests for harmful substances in textiles; Class 1 certification is specifically for products used by babies
- GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard): Certifies organic fibres and environmentally responsible processing
- GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard): Certifies organic latex content
- Greenguard Gold: Tests for chemical emissions into indoor air
New mattresses often emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), creating a noticeable smell. While most off-gassing is harmless, it's sensible to unwrap new mattresses in a well-ventilated area and allow them to air out for 24-72 hours before use, especially for children's mattresses.
Fire Retardants
Australian mattresses must meet fire safety standards. Historically, this was achieved using chemical flame retardants, some of which have raised health concerns. Many modern manufacturers now use safer methods:
- Natural fire barriers made from wool, silk, or thistle
- Inherently fire-resistant materials that don't require chemical treatment
- Newer, safer chemical treatments when necessary
If flame retardant chemicals concern you, look for mattresses that specifically advertise meeting fire standards without traditional chemical retardants, or consider organic and natural mattress options.
Sizing Considerations for Growing Children
Children grow unpredictably, and a mattress purchase represents a long-term investment. Strategic sizing helps ensure the mattress remains suitable as your child grows.
When to Consider a King Single
The king single size (107cm x 203cm) often represents the best long-term value for children's mattresses because:
- The 203cm length accommodates growth through the teenage years and beyond
- The 107cm width provides adequate room for active sleepers
- It fits in most bedrooms without overwhelming the space
- It can potentially last into young adulthood
- Under age 5: Single size is usually adequate
- Ages 6-8: Single or king single, depending on child's size and room space
- Ages 9+: King single recommended for longevity
- Tall children: King single essential for adequate length
Allergy Considerations
Many children suffer from allergies or asthma, and mattresses can harbour common triggers like dust mites, mould, and pet dander.
Hypoallergenic Options
- Natural latex: Inherently resistant to dust mites and mould
- Dense memory foam: Less hospitable to dust mites than innerspring
- Waterproof protectors: Create barriers against allergen buildup
- Encasement covers: Fully enclose the mattress to block allergens
Maintenance for Allergy Prevention
- Wash bedding in hot water (at least 55°C) weekly
- Vacuum mattresses monthly with a HEPA-filter vacuum
- Keep bedroom humidity below 50% to discourage dust mites
- Consider allergen-proof mattress encasements rather than just protectors
Mattress Firmness for Children
Children's firmness needs differ from adults. General guidelines:
- Young children: Firm surfaces are safest and provide the support growing bodies need
- School-age children: Medium-firm typically works well, providing support without being uncomfortably hard
- Teenagers: Firmness should match their sleep position, similar to adult recommendations
Avoid very soft or plush mattresses for children under 10. Their lighter body weight doesn't compress the mattress adequately for proper support, and soft surfaces can contribute to poor sleep posture.
If your child complains about a new mattress being uncomfortable, give it at least 2-3 weeks for adjustment before considering a return. Children often take longer than adults to adapt to new sleep surfaces.
Durability and Longevity
Children are notoriously hard on mattresses. Jumping, spills, and general wear mean children's mattresses often need replacement sooner than adult mattresses. When choosing:
- Look for durable materials that can withstand active use
- Consider reinforced edges for mattresses that will see jumping
- Use waterproof protectors to guard against spills and accidents
- Choose mattresses from companies with good warranty coverage
Second-Hand Mattress Cautions
While budget considerations often make second-hand mattresses attractive, exercise caution:
- Never use a mattress that's been in a flood or fire
- Check carefully for signs of bed bugs, mould, or staining
- Consider the mattress's age—older mattresses may have degraded fire retardant treatments or accumulated allergens
- Ensure structural integrity—no sagging, broken springs, or worn areas
When possible, investing in a new mattress provides peace of mind about safety, hygiene, and remaining lifespan.