Toddler Mattress Guide

Types

• The mattresses that fit toddler beds come in two main types: foam and innerspring. The foam mattresses consist of the foam layer inside of a cover designed to protect it. They are generally lighter than innerspring mattresses and often cost less. Innerspring mattresses use coils inside to provide support. Most people feel the innerspring mattresses hold their shape longer than foam mattresses. Deciding which type is best really comes down to quality--whether you want high end or low-rate--rather than type for both kinds of mattresses.

Quality

• A toddler mattress is an investment in your child's comfort and safety. Spending a little more to get a higher quality mattress is worth it in the long run. Understanding what makes a quality mattress, whether foam or innerspring, helps you pick one out for your toddler.

  A quality foam mattress is heavy in weight, which also relates to its density. Pick up the mattress options to compare the weights. It is also firm. Firm mattresses are better for babies and toddlers. You also want a foam mattress that springs back to its original shape quickly after being compressed. Press firmly on the mattress and watch to see how long it takes the impression to disappear.

  When choosing an innerspring mattress, you will want to look at more than just the number of coils, since this is just one part of what makes the mattress. Like the foam mattress, you want a firm innerspring mattress. Also look for border rods and the gauge of the steel in the coils. On this type of mattress, the number of turns on the coil and the durability of the material from which the coils are made will affect its firmness. I

Warranty

• Consider the warranty that accompanies each potential toddler mattress option. Compare the length of each warranty as well as the aspects it covers. A good mattress warranty should protect you against poor workmanship and inferior materials. You will likely find limitations on any crib warranty that excludes rips or tears in the mattress material. The mattress with the longest warranty isn't always the best option. If you have two very similar mattress options, use the warranty differences as a tie-breaker. Otherwise, focus more on the quality of the mattress itself.