How to choose a right mattress for your child

A safe, non-toxic mattress can determine whether your child sleeps well or not

One of the most important decisions a parent can make is choosing an organic kids mattress. Sleep is critical to your child’s health and well-being, and since kids spend more than one third of their lives in direct exposure to their mattress materials it’s crucial to their health that those mattress materials be safe, organic and non-toxic.

A safe, non-toxic mattress can determine whether your child sleeps well or not. Kids are more vulnerable to the toxins in mattresses since their fragile organ and elimination systems are developing and they can’t easily detoxify. During sleep, children’s bodies work to recover from the accumulation of toxins and stress from their day. The cells attempt to regenerate and the body tries to eliminate toxins. The last thing you want to do is introduce more toxins from your child’s mattress.

 The way to ensure a non-toxic sleep environment is to avoid polyurethane foam, memory foam and other synthetic materials. Also avoid mattresses with fire retardants. Your kids need a mattress with good quality organic, non-toxic materials.

While firm support for your child is the most important feature in a safer mattress for kids, comfort counts too! Many mattresses contain conventional cotton fiber (treated with pesticides), synthetic filling materials made with harmful chemicals, or polyurethane foam for comfort. At Naturepedic, we focus on using healthier materials like certified organic cotton and plant-based PLA batting.

 Pay attention to how your child sleeps to help you select the ideal comfort and support levels needed in the best organic mattress for their needs.

 I. Side Sleepers - If your child sleeps on their side, they need a little more cushion to reduce tension and pressure on their developing skeletal system. Check out the Naturepedic Verse with encased coil support if your child is older or a side sleeper. You can also get a quilted mattress pad to provide extra comfort.

II. Tummy Sleepers - For kids who sleep on their stomachs, a firm mattress is important to help reduce pressure on the back and shoulders. Many young children end up flipping around to their stomach at some point in the night, so try the Naturepedic 2-in-1 Ultra with a waterproof side great for potty training and a quilted side for a little more cushion.

III. Back Sleepers - If your big kid sleeps on their back, this is the best position for spinal health! Medium or cushion firm support is great for back sleepers, but remember that kids need a little more firmness than adults. Take a peek at the Naturepedic Quilted Deluxe for firm support and a quilted surface for a little more comfort.

 2. Your Child’s Weight And Age

Be careful of what you pay for. A cheap bend may not necessarily be the safest option for your child. When buying a bed for your toddler, it is important to consider their weight and age. The changeover from cot to a regular bed should occur between 18 and 36 months. By this time, your toddler should be in a suitable bed, with a suitable mattress.

 3. Spinal Support Is Vital

One of the most important things that matter for a sleeping child is their spine support. Both the neck and spine must be in a neutral position. This reduces stress and encourages spinal growth without obstructions. The spine of a toddler can grow up to 1.5cm at night, and this comes from filling of the intervertebral discs between the vertebrae with water. This means the mattress should be soft enough to make them comfortable, yet stable enough to prevent sinking in.

 4. Hygiene Is Important

It is required by law to treat every new bed for dust mites before selling them. However, this does not prevent them from forming in beds over time. Special mattress protectors give beds an additional moisture-barrier and anti-allergenic properties. Avoid using sprays such as Glen 20 to remove bacteria and dust mite because the risks are higher. Now you know what to consider when bed shopping, here are some reasons why natural latex beds are best for your growing child.

5. Room to grow

It can be tempting to save money by going with the smallest mattress for a small child, but consider the big picture. Children grow quickly, and the ideal mattress will be one with a long lifespan that can adjust to a child’s needs as he or she gets bigger. To avoid having to go through the process again in just a year or two, it’s best to buy the highest quality you can afford with the long-term in mind.