Find out how to choose the mattress that best suits your child's needs.
Sleep is essential to a child’s development, so it’s important to ensure they always get a good night’s sleep. And that starts with choosing the right mattress. Just as with a newborn, the comfort, well-being, and health of a growing child should not be overlooked. In this article, you’ll learn about the criteria to consider when choosing a children’s mattress.
Choose the right size
The standard length of a children’s mattress is generally 190 cm. However, the width can vary from 70 cm to 120 cm depending on the size of the bed and the size of your child’s room. Plan ahead by choosing a bed that’s spacious enough and the mattress that goes with it. Keep in mind that your child will need more space as they grow.Bedding is generally replaced every 10 years. A small 70 x 190 cm children’s mattress that your 6-year-old uses, for example, won’t be comfortable enough by the time they’re a teenager. Also consider the possibility that they might one day invite one or more friends over for a sleepover—and that they’ll all want to sleep in the small bed. To ensure your child can enjoy their mattress until they’re 16, the best option is to choose a single mattress measuring 120 x 190 cm. Opt fornatural latex mattresses , which are known for their long lifespan.
For optimal comfort: the latex mattress
Parents tend to give their children mattresses that are too soft, thinking they’re ensuring their comfort. However, it’s important to know thata mattress that’s too soft will no longer provide adequate support. Therefore, avoid putting a memory foam mattress on your child’s bed, especially since children tend to sleep on their stomachs (a position not recommended with this enveloping mattress). Your child may end up with a hollow in their back and tense shoulders, not to mention difficulty breathing. And of course, in addition to being uncomfortable, a mattress that’s too firm can cause muscle stiffness and potential back pain. So, what kind of mattress should you choose for a child? For a child over 4 years old, opt for a “Medium” firmness level corresponding to at least 28 kg/m³. For a teenager, choose a density of 35 kg/m³. Keep in mind, however, that because of the number of components foam mattresses may contain, density and firmness aren’t necessarily proportional. In other words, even with a high density, a foam mattress may not provide the necessary support for your child.A latex mattress, on the other hand, contains no other components that could skew your calculations. Its elasticity and multiple support zones make it a mattress capable of adapting to your child’s body shape.
Choose a mattress made from natural materials
Foam-based children’s mattresses are very popular and appreciated for their low cost. However, the harmful effects of this synthetic material on your child’s health should be taken into account. In fact, this type of mattress is produced through a complex manufacturing process involving petrochemical treatment. Therefore, a synthetic mattress is not recommended for your child’s health.If you don’t want to take any risks, keep in mind thata natural latex mattress is the safest option when it comes to bedding. It is made from rubber tree sap and contains no substances classified as harmful. As a result, a 100% natural latex mattress is naturally dust-mite-resistant, hypoallergenic, and antibacterial. Be wary, however, of synthetic latex mattresses. These can be identified by the label “100% latex.” Since they are also produced through a petrochemical manufacturing process, these mattresses are not recommended. Opt for mattresses labeled “natural latex” or “100% natural latex,” and make sure they carry the EUROLATEX certification. You can also choose a solid wood children’s bed for greater durability.
Pay attention to the mattress's breathability
It is well known that children have a hard time tolerating heat and tend to sweat a lot at night. It is therefore recommended to choose a mattress that provides good ventilation and wicks away moisture. With this in mind, avoid polyurethane foam mattresses, which are known for their poor thermoregulation. They are heat-sensitive and do not handle moisture well. Once again, a latex mattress is highly recommended. Breathable and moisture-wicking, a mattress made from this natural material also helps regulate the temperature of your child’s bed. This way, your child can enjoy its coolness when it’s hot and its warmth in the winter. Say goodbye to bad nights and nightmares!
We hope you enjoyed this article.
Naturally, the Kipli Team