Your little one has outgrown the baby stage, and you’re starting to wonder, is it time to upgrade from the crib mattress? This transition marks one of the biggest milestones in childhood. It’s not just about moving to a “big kid bed.” It’s about giving your child the right foundation for healthy, restful sleep that supports their growing body and developing mind.
Whether you’re preparing for this change or already knee-deep in bedtime negotiations, here’s what parents should know about when to make the switch, how to do it smoothly, and how to choose the best mattress for kids that will last through the years ahead.
When to Transition from a Crib Mattress
Most children are ready to move from a crib to a real bed between ages 2 and 3½. The timing depends less on age and more on readiness and safety.
Signs your child is ready include:
✅ They’re climbing out of the crib or asking for a “big kid bed.”
✅ Potty training has begun or is right around the corner.
✅ They’re taller than the crib’s side rail (usually around 35 inches).
✅ They’re struggling to get comfortable on the small, firm crib mattress.
If your toddler is constantly escaping the crib or seems cramped, it’s safer and more comfortable to move to a larger sleep surface.
Why the Right Mattress Matters
A crib mattress is designed for infants—it’s intentionally firm to reduce suffocation risk and provide stability for developing bones. But once your child becomes a toddler, a too-firm mattress can actually cause discomfort and restless sleep.
A kids’ mattress, on the other hand, is built for bodies that are growing fast and need balanced support for the spine, shoulders, and hips. It also helps promote deeper, more consistent sleep—something parents notice right away when the transition goes well.
The best mattress for kids isn’t just a smaller version of an adult bed. It should be:
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Supportive yet cushioned – Medium-firm is ideal for alignment and comfort.
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Made with safe materials – Look for CertiPUR-US® certified memory foam to ensure it’s free from harmful chemicals and strong off-gassing.
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Sized right for the room and child – Twin mattresses are most common, but twin XL or full may be better to grow with the child.
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Durable and easy to clean – Accidents happen, so a removable, washable cover is a must.
The Ideal Mattress Type for Growing Sleepers
When shopping for your child’s first mattress, you’ll encounter memory foam, innerspring, and hybrid options. Each has pros and cons, but for most families, memory foam or hybrid mattresses provide the best balance of comfort, safety, and longevity.
Memory Foam Mattresses for Kids
A memory foam kids mattress contours to the body, distributing weight evenly and reducing pressure points. It’s especially good for children who toss and turn or wake frequently during the night. The key is choosing a memory foam that’s breathable and certified for safety.
5 Little Monkeys’ 8" Original Kids Mattress is one example of this done right. Designed specifically for children, it offers medium-firm support with temperature-regulating foam that prevents overheating—a common issue with traditional memory foam.
Hybrid Mattresses for Kids
A hybrid mattress combines coils with layers of foam for a slightly bouncier feel and added edge support. These are great for kids who prefer a more “grown-up” feel or who sleep on their stomach or side.
The 5 Little Monkeys Hybrid Kids Mattress blends supportive coils with plush, CertiPUR-US® certified foam—giving kids the best of both worlds.
The move from crib to big kid bed can feel exciting—or intimidating—for both you and your child. Here’s how to make it easier:
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Get them involved. Let your child pick out sheets, a blanket, or a pillow to make their new bed feel special.
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Keep bedtime consistent. Maintain the same bedtime routine to help them feel secure—story, cuddle, lights out.
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Use guardrails at first. For safety, add side rails until your child adjusts to sleeping without crib walls.
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Place the new bed in the same spot. Familiar surroundings help prevent confusion or resistance.
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Praise independence. Celebrate the milestone! Positive reinforcement helps your child embrace the change.
Why 5 Little Monkeys Is the Best Kids Mattress Brand
Choosing the right brand is just as important as choosing the right mattress type. 5 Little Monkeys is widely recognized as one of the best kids mattress brands because it was designed specifically for children—not adults. Every detail was engineered with kids’ sleep health and parents’ peace of mind in mind.
Here’s what sets 5 Little Monkeys apart:
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CertiPUR-US® certified foams – Made without harmful chemicals or fiberglass.
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Organic cotton cover – Soft, breathable, and washable.
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Temperature-regulating foam – Keeps kids cool and comfortable through the night.
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Perfect support for growing bodies – Medium-firm design promotes healthy alignment from toddler years through pre-teens.
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Complete sleep system available – Matching bedding, pillows, and waterproof protectors ensure a cohesive setup.
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Risk-free trial and free shipping – Parents can try the mattress at home for 100 nights.
Unlike mattresses that are simply downsized adult beds, 5 Little Monkeys mattresses are intentionally crafted for smaller frames and lighter weights. The foam density, contouring, and airflow are all optimized for kids—helping them fall asleep faster, wake up less, and grow stronger.
Safety and Longevity
Safety is non-negotiable. Look for certifications, washable covers, and breathable designs to ensure your child’s sleep environment is clean and non-toxic.
A high-quality kids mattress like 5 Little Monkeys can last 8 to 10 years, meaning it often carries your child from toddlerhood through their tween years—making it a smart long-term investment.
To protect that investment, add a waterproof mattress protector right from the start. It guards against spills, nighttime accidents, and dust mites without sacrificing comfort or airflow.
Final Thoughts
Transitioning from a crib mattress to a big kid bed is a huge milestone, for both your child and you. Choosing the best mattress for kids ensures this new chapter starts with comfort, confidence, and better sleep for everyone.
Whether you choose a twin or full size, memory foam or hybrid, prioritize safety, support, and durability. And if you’re looking for a trusted, parent-approved option, 5 Little Monkeys continues to stand out as one of the best kids mattress brands for quality, safety, and long-lasting comfort.
A healthy night's sleep start with the right foundation, and for growing bodies, the right mattress makes all the difference.