When you buy your first mattress for your child, you know you have to get something for the crib, and crib mattresses are essentially the same. They can be made from different materials, but you don’t have to worry about coils or foam, or anything like that. However, as your children grow, there are many things to consider when you want to get them a new bed and mattress. If you take a few things into consideration, your choices are going to be easier to make.

Latex mattresses like the one shown here are one of the best mattresses for children and teens because they are hypoallergenic, soft and durable.

Some suggest that latex mattresses are the best for anyone under the age of 18. This is because the material is durable, and these are hypoallergenic. That means any children or teens with allergies are going to benefit from this material – unless of course they are allergic to latex. Otherwise, this material is a great idea. This can be pricey, but it is worth the price if your children develop any type of allergy as they grow. They help the most with dust mites, but there is a benefit with any type of allergy.

If you want to think about construction, smaller children under the age of 12 are not going to be too picky about coils and the like, as they do not really have enough weight on their frame yet. Some of the more sturdy coil systems may actually be too hard on their bodies. They should have something a bit softer. The pocketed coil beds may do well, as well as any other types with a lower coil count (see Majestic Sit & Sleep’s selection of Innersprings Mattresses). Once they reach 12 and up, however, they may need something sturdier.

When choosing the best mattresses for children and teens you also have to worry about the growth of your child. Some children have spurts that make their current bed size too small in a matter of months. That means getting them something they can grow into if you are worried about having to buy mattresses over and over again. Twin beds can be wonderful, but some people buy a full size when children outgrow the toddler size so they do not have to worry about having to buy a larger mattress in a few years.

If you have space considerations, think about bunk beds for your children that share a room, or even as an option so they always have room for a friend to stay over. Another great space-saving idea is futons because they can double as a sofa when your children have company.

For the most part, you don’t have to worry too much about the type of mattress you buy for your child unless they have a specific medical condition or allergies. Most children can sleep on just about anything and feel good in the morning. If they are not sleeping well, or are involved in sports, you may want to put extra consideration into the type and size of mattress you buy so they are getting the most out of a night of sleep.