How to choose a mattress for a child: materials, fillers


In order for children to have sound and healthy sleep, you need to choose the right mattress. There are a huge number of models on sale, differing in filler, the presence of a spring block and even upholstery. Prices for various products start from 2,500 rubles. and higher. However, cost is not the only thing you should pay attention to. We share the best tips and useful life hacks to help you choose the perfect children's mattress.
  1. Mattress size
  2. Design
  3. Filler
  4. Upholstery
  5. Rigidity
  6. Versatility
  7. Orthopedic properties
  8. Age
  9. Manufacturer
  10. Price
The best mattresses for children
1Plitex Eco LatUniversal product
2Baby Sweet "Ryton"Best orthopedic properties
3EcoForm Cotton BabySleepMaximum comfort
4Baby Flex Dream "Ascona"The optimum ratio of price and quality
5Kids Smart "Ormatek"The highest mattress

Other ratings:

  • 10 best tips for choosing a pillow for a child

Mattress size

Product width, length and height

The first thing you need to do to choose the right mattress is to take measurements from the crib: along the outer and inner perimeter. To avoid mistakes in the store, take a measuring tape with you, since all manufacturers label their products differently.

Length

should be 10-15 cm larger than the child’s height. For younger ages from 3 to 12 years old, standard mattresses are suitable, the length of which ranges from 160 to 190 cm.

Width

should be at least 2 times the width of the child’s shoulders. The width is usually from 60 to 120 cm.

Thickness

can vary from 15 to 24 cm. Keep in mind that the thickness of the mattress should allow the child to easily lie down and also easily get out of bed.

Special products are produced for newborns, the length of which is 95-120 cm and the width from 60 cm. Mattresses of these sizes provide reliable support for the baby’s spine. However, the sizes of cribs may vary, so when choosing, you need to base your choice on them.

Plitex Eco Lat

Universal product

The children's mattress from Plitex not only has orthopedic properties, but also different levels of rigidity. On the one hand, it is more rigid, therefore suitable for infants, on the other, it is less rigid and can be used up to 4 years. Rating participant:
10 best mattresses for newborns

Spring or springless mattress

Immediately after birth, the choice is clear: of all types of children's mattresses, only hard, springless options provide sufficient rigidity. However, as you get older, when stiffness decreases, spring models can also be considered. But which design is better?

Mattresses with independent springs are preferable. Firstly, they distribute the load more evenly and eliminate the “hammock effect”. Secondly, they better support the natural shape of the spine. But there is one caveat: the density of the springs.

Good orthopedic performance is achieved only with a large number of springs per square meter. meter. As a result, the mattress turns out to be very heavy. And not every crib can handle such weight. Therefore, you definitely need to check what the maximum weight is indicated in the bed passport.

Models with a dependent spring block are much less suitable:

  • springs react to weight only in groups, which reduces the anatomical characteristics of the mattress;
  • if the block sag (for example, due to overload), the mattress becomes practically unusable.

There are few advantages: an affordable price and a frame available in some models along the edge of the frame. This is clearly not enough for the baby to fully rest.

Design

With or without springs?

The key characteristic of each mattress is the presence or absence of a spring block. Looking ahead, it is worth noting that both types are suitable for a comfortable and complete rest.

On springs

. They are not recommended for children under 3 years old, so they are usually purchased for preschool children and teenagers. They are divided into two categories: with dependent and with independent spring block.

Models with dependent spring block

They are inexpensive, but have little orthopedic effect. All springs are fixed in a steel frame, which ensures the safety of the resting child and prevents him from accidentally falling during sleep.

Mattresses with independent block

Great for children who need spinal support (for example, with diseases of the musculoskeletal system). Among the disadvantages, it is worth highlighting the large weight of the products, which cribs are not always able to withstand.

Without springs

. The interior of such mattresses is made of one or 2-3 layers of filler. It can be natural or synthetic. We recommend choosing mattresses whose design consists of a combination of several materials. Springless products are an excellent solution for newborn babies and children aged 1-2 years.

Features of children's models

If you are still thinking about whether your child needs an anatomical mattress or whether the properties of an anatomical product are quite enough to maintain health, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the opinion of doctors. Experts advise purchasing any of the models for children under 2 years old - they provide good support for the spine and muscular frame. An incorrect sleeping place not only creates certain inconveniences, it can cause a curvature of the spine, muscle tension, headaches and other health problems.

For children over two years old, any anatomical mattress of medium hardness is suitable. This bed adapts to the characteristics of the body, allowing the muscles to relax and the spine to take the most natural position and maintain it during sleep.

Children's models must comply with the standards established by law. Choose products from trusted brands to be sure of their quality. Analogues that do not have quality certificates are cheaper, but may be unsafe for health. Thus, the filler often contains formaldehyde and other harmful substances. It is desirable that the surface of the mattress and the internal filling be made from the most natural materials possible.

Filler

Which filler is best for children?

The rigidity, elasticity and firmness of a children's mattress depend on the filler. For children, we recommend choosing natural materials that do not interfere with air circulation and can withstand even the highest loads.

Review of the best fillings for children's mattresses:

Coconut coir.

Natural hard material made from coconut fibers (coir) impregnated with natural latex. It has excellent orthopedic properties, therefore it is recommended for small children under 3 years old. When choosing, keep in mind that the thicker the coir, the harder the mattress will be.

Artificial or natural latex

. The main feature of the material is elasticity. Due to this, latex mattresses perfectly retain and restore their shape. They have good thermoregulation and are very durable. Their average service life is from 15 to 20 years. However, there is also a minus – the high price.

Viscoelastic (highly elastic) foam

. The properties are almost similar to latex, but there is a significant difference - thermoregulation is much lower. Otherwise, the material has no disadvantages. It remembers the contours of the human body, costs less than latex and distributes weight evenly.

Other fillers.

These include polyurethane foam, holofiber and horsehair. The first two materials are inexpensive and have excellent breathability, so they are suitable for children aged 5-6 years. Horsehair is very elastic and wear-resistant, but it is the most expensive and rare filler.

A great way to save money is to choose a combination mattress. In such products, the filler differs depending on the side. One might have coconut flakes, the other might have latex.

How to choose the right mattress by age

When wondering how to choose a children's mattress, first of all you need to take into account the age of the baby. The future design must correspond to the size of the baby and be compared with the parameters of the crib. Age is also a priority criterion for choosing optimal hardness and filler.

How to choose a mattress for a newborn in a crib


When purchasing a sleeping surface for a baby, you must use the most elastic products. The filler material must be thin, otherwise it will sag, causing a negative impact on the spine. From the second year of life, the use of slightly softened surfaces is allowed (but only slightly). Until the baby is three years old, the mattress should be firm and elastic.

Which mattress to choose for a child over three years old


Upon reaching the age of three, children develop an S-shaped curvature of the spinal column, so staying on a hard surface will lead to discomfort. Now you need to buy a mattress with moderate or medium hardness, preferably made from artificial or natural latex. Also, some parents use combined solutions, where both sides have different rigidities.

Which mattress is best for a 5-6 year old child?


It is already problematic for a five-year-old child to sleep in a small crib, so it is being replaced with an enlarged model. In this regard, a new mattress is purchased that matches the size of the bed. The optimal surface hardness is medium, and the filler can be latex, polyurethane foam, or combined materials. For 5-6 year old children, spring mattresses with a minimum number of springs are suitable.

Which mattress to choose for a child seven years old and older


When a child goes to school, he begins a different life, full of additional stress. He spends a significant part of the daytime in a sitting position, so he quickly gets tired and feels discomfort in the spine. To relieve stress and restore strength, the child needs to fully rest, and without a good sleeping place this is impossible. At primary school age, children are shown beds with a medium degree of hardness and independent springs. They guarantee suitable conditions for healthy rest and maintain the curves of the spine, promoting its normal development.

Upholstery

What should the cover be like?
The upholstery determines how comfortable it will be to care for the mattress. There are mattress covers made from natural (cotton, linen) and artificial (polyester) materials to choose from. Another option is upholstery made of a combined fabric (for example, jacquard). All options are comfortable, but artificial materials impress with their water resistance.

Another nuance is the type of mattress cover. It can be removable or non-removable. For children, we recommend choosing removable models that are easy to wash.

EcoForm Cotton BabySleep

Maximum comfort

The BabySleep children's mattress is made with side aerators - air ventilation holes. This guarantees not only the durability of the product itself, but also maximum comfort while relaxing. Rating participant:
5 best premium mattresses

Criteria for choosing a mattress for a child?

For children, it is recommended to choose a mattress that

  • will be able to provide him with healthy sleep;
  • will support a positive emotional state;
  • will be an excellent means of preventing spinal diseases.

Manufacturers offer various types of mattresses, but when choosing children's products it is important to consider:

  1. Matching the size of the mattress to the parameters of the crib
  2. Technical characteristics of the selected model
  3. Material (artificial or natural)
  4. Reliability
  5. Easy to care for.

The video explains in detail what a children's mattress should be like.

Rigidity

Which option should I choose for my child?

The main function of a children's mattress is to ensure the correct position of the spine and the child's comfort while sleeping. To do this, the product must have an optimal level of rigidity. There are three types of mattresses on the market.

Hard

. They do not sag or sag under load, so they are well suited for newborns and children under 3 years old. Natural materials (for example, coconut coir) are usually used as filler for hard mattresses.

Medium-hard

. Recommended for children from 3 to 7 years old. At this age, they begin the active growth phase and the musculoskeletal system is formed, so they need moderately hard mattresses that adapt to the rapidly growing children's body.

Soft

. For children over 7 years old, standard soft mattresses are suitable, since their musculoskeletal system is already formed. Here you only need to pay attention to the convenience, quality of the product and the filler used.

Coconut or latex?

• Coconut fiber (coir) is a hard natural material that is considered the key to the proper development of the spine in children. It breathes, is hypoallergenic, does not rot, allows moisture to pass through, and is durable.

• Natural latex is a durable, breathable material made from the foamed sap of a rubber tree, which is soft and supports posture during sleep. It breathes well, does not cause allergies, does not allow moisture to pass through, is hygienic, does not deform during use, and has an orthopedic effect.

Fillers made from natural materials are of pure environmental origin and are used even for infants.

Versatility

Single-sided or double-sided mattresses?
Children's mattresses can be single-sided or double-sided. If everything is clear with the first ones, then the second ones differ in that they are suitable for sleeping on both sides. They are made from several materials at once, the number of which sometimes reaches 3-5 fillers at a time.

Double-sided mattresses are more expensive, but if you consider that the sides may differ in hardness, then such costs are well justified by comfort and durability.

Popular types of children's mattresses

There are 4 types of mattresses for babies on the children's product market.

Springless

Springless orthopedic products are distinguished by the absence of metal springs. They are more expensive than spring ones, but are more useful for babies.

There are various fillers for mattresses - coconut coir (the best option), latex. The elasticity and support of the child's body is ensured by a combination of layers of several fillers.

Products may have different hardness. The properties depend on the fillers used and the order of their arrangement.

Products made from coir are very hard: they are uncomfortable for adults, but experts advise purchasing them for children.
Springless coir mattresses allow air to pass through well and are moisture resistant. Advantages

  • high strength;
  • noiselessness;
  • orthopedic characteristics.

Flaws

  • high price.

Spring

Spring mattresses are available with dependent and independent spring blocks. In the first case, the springs are fastened to each other, in the second, each of them functions separately from the other springs and is placed in a special case.

With independent spring block

The product is characterized by the same rigidity over the entire area. This option is short-lived, but there is an advantage - affordable cost.

With dependent spring block

Products with a dependent spring block are not the best option for children. Such mattresses do not have orthopedic properties. It is recommended to purchase them for children over 3 years old. The best option is models with many springs (from 300 per 1 m2). They are comfortable and safe, meet strict quality requirements, are silent, last a long time and are considered orthopedic.

Advantages

  • good support for the spine.

Flaws

  • high price.

Combined

Combined mattresses are produced to achieve a certain rigidity parameter. Thus, to obtain a hard, elastic mattress, manufacturers combine several layers of latex and coconut coir. Products with an independent spring block can be wrapped in a sheet of coconut coir to achieve rigidity and a sheet of latex for softness.

Such double-sided mattresses are distinguished by their versatility: it is useful for a child of 3-5 years to sleep on a hard mattress, but from the age of 6 the product can be turned over to the side with latex.

Advantages

  • can be used for children of different ages.

Flaws

  • body support is lower than that of springless ones.

Orthopedic

An orthopedic mattress prevents problems in the development of the musculoskeletal system, including spinal curvature. It ensures the optimal position of the child's body when the spine remains straight, but the muscles relax, which ensures complete rest.

Such products are manufactured with an independent or dependent spring block. For the baby, the first option is optimal.

Advantages

  • ensuring correct body position regardless of the baby’s posture;
  • adjusting the structure to the curve of a newborn’s fragile back;
  • prevention of many diseases.

Age

How to choose a mattress based on age?

We come to the most interesting part - choosing a mattress, depending on the age of the child. We tell you which products are suitable for whom:

Up to 3 years

. Choose hard mattresses, with natural fillers as a priority. The mattress cover must be removable; moreover, we recommend stocking up on several at once - the need to replace them may even arise several times a day.

From 3 to 7 years

. Your baby has grown up, and now the bed is a place not only for sleeping, but also for playing. Choose medium-hard mattresses with any filling. A removable mattress cover is optional, but it is still more convenient than a non-removable one.

From 7 years

. At this age, you can switch to regular soft mattresses. There are no longer any strict restrictions, so everything is left to the choice of the parents and the child himself. Just don’t forget to make sure that the brand’s products are certified before purchasing.

Baby Flex Dream "Ascona"

The optimum ratio of price and quality

Highly elastic foam, jacquard upholstery, height 11 mm - this is the best choice for newborns in the mid-price category. The cost of the mattress is 100% justified by its orthopedic properties and materials used in production. Rating participant:
10 best mattresses for newborns

What is better for a child: bonnel or independent springs

Modern mattresses can be equipped with two types of blocks - dependent (Bonnel) or independent.
Representatives of the first type are characterized by affordable cost, orthopedic properties, and resistance to stress. People often buy them because of the low price, but don't rush into making a decision.

The presence of metal springs connected directly can lead to squeaks that will prevent the child from resting peacefully.


Independent blocks use a special method of connecting springs. It involves the use of covers for each section, which prevents them from touching each other. This eliminates squeaks or the “wave” effect, and also guarantees a flat surface for resting.

Manufacturer

Brands you can trust
Choose mattresses for children only from reliable Russian or foreign manufacturers. If you decide to save money and buy a product from a little-known brand, then be sure to request a Certificate of Quality! Companies you can trust are popular brands whose products are well-known.

Askona –

is a Russian manufacturer whose collections include spring and springless mattresses.

Mediflex –

a domestic company specializing in the production of orthopedic products with various fillers.

Dormeo

is an Italian brand that offers a huge selection of mattresses made from natural materials for children.

IKEA

is a Swedish company that produces products of consistently high quality at very attractive prices.

Other brands offering comfortable, safe and high-quality mattresses include: DreamLine, Peligrin, Lance Elin, Violite, Sakura, Ormatek.

The best mattress brands for children

Plitex

One of the largest enterprises in the CIS for the production of children's mattresses. The company has been operating for more than 10 years, earning the trust of customers and recognition at international exhibitions. The manufacturer strives to produce the best mattresses for newborns, taking into account the recommendations of orthopedists and offering unusual design solutions. During production, the anatomical features of the baby’s body are taken into account.

The high quality of the products is accompanied by an affordable price compared to competitors.

The company is located in Minsk, Belarus.

Pali

The Italian manufacturer has been developing a wide range of products for children for a long time. Today the company is a leader in the production of children's goods.

Pali mattresses provide comfort and safety for babies. The manufacturer is distinguished by its attention to detail and the desire to produce a product of ideal quality. The materials used in production are tested by an independent laboratory to ensure they are non-toxic

The company is located in the northeast of Italy in the Friuli region.

Nuovita

The Russian manufacturer specializes in the production of goods for newborns. Products from Nuovita are a combination of modern technologies and excellent European quality. Mattresses for children from this brand are distinguished by convenience, functionality, safety and comfort. The manufacturer carefully monitors the quality of products. The company produces children's mattresses in the middle and budget price categories.

The company is located in Moscow and has been operating since 2015.

ComfortBaby

Another Russian manufacturer that produces high-quality products for babies. The company specializes in the production of functional children's furniture and accessories, as well as textiles for cribs. Mattresses from ComfortBaby are high quality and safe, elastic and durable. They last a long time, do not contain unpleasant odors, and will ensure comfortable and healthy sleep for your baby.

The company is located in St. Petersburg, has a branch in Moscow, as well as many representatives throughout Russia and abroad.

Red Castle

The French manufacturer of children's products offers ergonomic mattresses for newborns at an affordable price. Children's mattresses from Red Castle are an example of high quality and safety. The materials used in production undergo strict quality checks.

When developing children's mattresses, the company's specialists take into account the recommendations of pediatricians and other practicing doctors in France. The result is high-quality products for the health and proper development of the child.

Do you have any questions? Contact our staff by phone +375 (29) 652-50-08

for consultation and ordering. Experts will describe in detail all types of children's mattresses from manufacturers and assist in selecting a suitable product. We are waiting for you among our clients!

Top 5. Kids Smart "Ormatek"

Rating (2021): 4.40

For children from 3 to 12 years old, a mattress from Ormatek based on the innovative 4D Smart block (512 springs per bed) is well suited. Natural coconut coir is used as a filler, but keep in mind that this makes the mattress quite expensive compared to other products. One of the features of the model is different covers. For mattresses with a width of up to 70 cm and a length of up to 140 cm, the cover is removable, for products of larger sizes it is non-removable. The height is 17 cm, the maximum weight per bed reaches 100 kg. The warranty on the mattress is 2.5 years or 5 years. To get an extended warranty, you will have to purchase an additional mattress cover, and if you take into account that the cost of the product itself is already quite high, then the costs increase.

Characteristics:

RUB 14,770 / Russia / Type: with independent spring block

The effect of a mattress on the development of a newborn

Healthy and uninterrupted sleep has a positive effect on the physical and psychological state of the baby, on his behavior and mental abilities. In addition, in the first 2-3 years of life, the child’s musculoskeletal system actively develops. If you choose the wrong mattress, there is a risk of curvature of the spine and disruption of the functioning of internal organs. Sometimes parents are afraid to purchase mattresses that are too hard, believing that the child will be uncomfortable on it, but this is not the case.

Children are susceptible to allergies, and the effect is most often cumulative. Therefore, the mattress should be harmless to the health of the newborn and hypoallergenic, not absorb moisture, and dry quickly.

In order for children to have a restful and uninterrupted sleep, the size of children's mattresses must correspond to the dimensions of the crib. If the mattress is smaller than the crib, then the product will “ride” on its surface, and if it is larger, unevenness will arise. In both cases, the quality of sleep deteriorates and the spine is adversely affected.

Top 4. Baby Flex Dream "Ascona"

Rating (2021): 4.50

An orthopedic springless mattress from Askona is an excellent choice for newborn babies. It is based on a block of highly elastic polyurethane foam, the main advantage of which is hypoallergenicity. On both sides the polyurethane foam is covered with linen, which prevents compression of the baby's soft tissues. This is a natural and safe material that creates a healthy microclimate. As for the cover, it is removable and made of jacquard. A big plus is the additional antibacterial impregnation. The height of the mattress is 11 cm; on sale you can find products with different lengths and widths.

Characteristics:

RUB 4,622 / Russia / Type: springless

Inexpensive and economy models

And although the cost of coconut and coconut-latex mattresses for newborns is not that high, many parents are looking for more budget-friendly mattresses. Among these, children's mattresses made of holofiber and polyurethane foam have become widespread (read about the comparison of artificial and natural latex). However, we do not recommend using them from birth due to the unsuitable rigidity of these materials. If you really want to save money, then such mattresses can be recommended for use for children aged 2 years and older.

Top 3. EcoForm Cotton BabySleep

Rating (2021): 4.60

The main feature of this mattress is the Naturalform block, which is a new generation hypoallergenic material. It is quite elastic and provides good breathability. Pure coconut slabs are also used as filler. They make the mattress more rigid and hygienic. Additionally, the model has ventilation holes - aerators, which ensure a comfortable sleep for the child. The removable cover is made of high-quality jacquard with antistatic impregnation. Mattress height – 11 cm.

Characteristics:

RUB 4,889 / Italy / Type: springless

Care instructions

In order for the purchased mattress to last a long time and not lose its properties, you must adhere to the following rules for its operation:

  1. Use a high-quality waterproof mattress cover that protects the accessory from dust, moisture, etc.
  2. Use slats or slats as a base for the mattress to create conditions for complete air exchange.
  3. Ventilate the product weekly by taking it out into the fresh air or at least placing it vertically.
  4. Turn the mattress over once a month so that both sides receive an even load.

Important: It is recommended to wash both the sheets and the mattress cover regularly to keep them fresh and clean. It is beneficial to buy 2 mattress covers to quickly replace a dirty one with a clean one.

Top 2. Baby Sweet "Ryton"

Rating (2021): 4.90

If you are looking for a mattress for a child aged 1 to 6 years, then pay attention to the Rayton model. It is made on the basis of a combined foam filler, which provides support for the children's spine and excellent orthopedic properties. The foam adapts to the curves of the body, but does not press through over time. The set includes a jacquard cover, but there is a minus here for the buyer - it is not removable. The product warranty is 1.5 years. Height – 11 cm. The manufacturer claims that the service life of the mattress reaches 10 years. Considering that it is relatively inexpensive, this is quite enough.

Characteristics:

RUB 4,550 / Russia / Type: springless

Orthopedic and anatomical mattresses

There is a clue in the word itself. Translated from Greek: ortos – straight, correct; pedia – education. These are special mattresses designed to correct postural problems. You can’t think that they will heal on their own. These are only medically recommended assistants in the hands of parents.

The advantage of such products is their ability to support your back. They allow you to relax all areas of the spine during rest and return the body to its natural position. Experts can tell you how hard a mattress is needed for a particular child. If chosen incorrectly, it will nullify all the efforts of the attending physicians. The anatomical design is intended only to support posture and can be purchased for a practically healthy child.


The photo shows an orthopedic Blue Sleep Hybrid mattress with microsprings and body memory foam.

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