How to choose the best mattress for kids

Good night good morning pillow and grey stardust bedding set.


How to choose
the best mattress
for kids


How to choose
the best mattress
for kids

With children needing from 10 - 14 hours of sleep a night, depending on their age, it’s important to provide them with the perfect foundation for a good night’s slumber. The best mattress for children should give support and comfort yet allow for a child’s growing size and weight.

At GLTC we have a handpicked collection of children’s mattresses to suit different budgets and requirements. From pocket-sprung systems and anti-allergy finishes to cooling air vents – we’ve thought of all the little details to help you find the best kids’ mattress.

All our mattresses are made by experienced manufacturers in the UK, are fully tested to British Standards, and (apart from our Toddler Mattress) they're all covered by our 5 year warranty.

How to choose
the best mattress
for kids

With children needing from 14 - 10 hours of sleep a night, depending on their age, it’s important to provide them with the perfect foundation for a good night’s slumber. The best mattress for children should give support and comfort yet allow for a child’s growing size and weight.

At GLTC we have a handpicked collection of children’s mattresses to suit different budgets and requirements. From pocket-sprung systems and anti-allergy finishes to cooling air vents – we’ve thought of all the little details to help you find the best kids’ mattress.

All our mattresses are made by experienced manufacturers in the UK, are fully tested to British Standards, and (apart from our Toddler Mattress) they're all covered by our 5 Year Warranty.

With children needing from 10 - 14 hours of sleep a night, depending on their age, it’s important to provide them with the perfect foundation for a good night’s slumber. The best mattress for children should give support and comfort yet allow for a child’s growing size and weight.

At GLTC we have a handpicked collection of children’s mattresses to suit different budgets and requirements. From pocket-sprung systems and anti-allergy finishes to cooling air vents – we’ve thought of all the little details to help you find the best kids’ mattress.

All our mattresses are made by experienced manufacturers in the UK, are fully tested to British Standards, and (apart from our Toddler Mattress) they're all covered by our 5 year warranty.

 

Luxury Comfort

  • - Available in UK and European single size
  • - Suitable for all single beds, including raised beds
  • - Pocket sprung for superior comfort
  • - 561 spring count
  • - Side vents for better air circulation
  • - Natural wool & cotton blend comfort layers
  • - Soft, cotton rich cover with anti-allergy finish
  • - Hand tufted
GLTC luxury kids' mattress

Luxury Comfort

  • - Available in UK and European single size
  • - Pocket sprung for superior comfort
  • - Natural wool & cotton blend comfort layers
  • - Soft, cotton rich cover with anti-allergy finish
  • - Extra deep option available (depth 25cm)
  • - Hand tufted
GLTC luxury mattress
GLTC classic comfort kids' mattress

Classic Comfort

  • - Available in UK and European single size
  • - Suitable depth for all single beds, even top bunks
    and raised beds
  • - Comfortable, open coil spring construction
  • - 177 spring count (UK) & 192 spring count (Euro)
  • - Soft, cotton rich cover with anti-allergy finish
  • - Polyester comfort layers
  • - Arrives rolled for convenience

 

For Spare Beds

  • - Slim mattress suitable for underbed truckles
  • - Available in UK and European single size
  • - Comfortable, open coil spring construction
  • - Soft, cotton rich cover with anti-allergy finish
  • - Polyester comfort layers
  • - Arrives rolled for convenience
GLTC truckle mattress
Nutkin toddler & cot bed mattress

 

For Toddlers & Babies

  • - Toddler & cot bed mattress with premium comfort
    and support
  • - Breathable comfort layers
  • - Supportive pocket sprung construction
  • - Water-resistant cover with anti-allergy finish
  • - Cover can be washed at 60º
  • - Suitable from birth
GLTC classic mattress

Classic Comfort

  • - Available in UK and European single size
  • - Suitable depth for all single beds, even top
    bunks and raised beds
  • - Comfortable, open coil spring construction
  • - Soft, cotton rich cover with anti-allergy finish
  • - Polyester comfort layers
  • - Arrives rolled for convenience
  • - 192 Spring Count

For Spare Beds

  • - Available in UK and European single size
  • - Comfortable, open coil spring construction
  • - Soft, cotton rich cover with anti-allergy finish
  • - Polyester comfort layers
  • - Arrives rolled for convenience
GLTC truckle mattress
Nutkin toddler & cot bed mattress

For Toddlers & Babies

  • - Toddler & cot bed mattress with premium comfort and support
  • - Breathable comfort layers
  • - Supportive pocket sprung construction
  • - Water-resistant cover with anti-allergy finish
  • - Cover can be washed at 60º
  • - Suitable from birth
GLTC luxury kids' mattress

Luxury Comfort

- Available in UK and European single size

- Suitable for all single beds, including raised beds

- Pocket sprung for superior comfort

- 561 spring count

- Side vents for better air circulation

- Natural wool & cotton blend comfort layers

- Soft, cotton rich cover with anti-allergy finish

- Hand tufted

- Extra deep option available for single beds (depth 25cm)

GLTC classic comfort kids' mattress

Classic Comfort

- Available in UK and European single size

- Suitable depth for all single beds, even top bunks and raised beds

- Comfortable, open coil spring construction

- 192 Spring Count

- Soft, cotton rich cover with anti-allergy finish

- Polyester comfort layers

- Arrives rolled for convenience

GLTC truckle mattress

For Spare Beds

- Slim mattress suitable for underbed truckles

- Available in UK and European single size

- Comfortable, open coil spring construction

- Soft, cotton rich cover with anti-allergy finish

- Polyester comfort layers

- Arrives rolled for convenience

Nutkin toddler & cot bed mattress

For Toddlers & Babies

- Toddler & cot bed mattress with premium comfort and support

- Breathable comfort layers

- Supportive pocket sprung construction

- Water-resistant cover with anti-allergy finish

- Cover can be washed at 60º

- Suitable from birth

Find out more
Young boy sleeping in dinosaur bedding

30 Night Comfort Guarantee
We’re so sure of the quality of our mattresses that we offer a 30 Night Comfort Trial on our UK and European Standard single sized mattresses (truckles excluded). So once you’ve decided which mattress to buy, you can do so with the confidence. If the comfort level isn’t quite right for your child, you can return it within 30 nights for a refund or you can choose to upgrade your mattress to a different one.

Why buy a children's mattress from GLTC?


Why buy a children's mattress from GLTC?


We make them child friendly

Not only are children lighter and wrigglier than grownups, they're also more prone to overheating and their shape is constantly changing; allergies are often an issue too. That's why our children’s mattress range includes things like more sensitive, pocket sprung systems, anti-allergy finishes or side vents (to allow the mattress to breathe and air to circulate). Whatever your child needs, we've got it covered.

young girl laying on dotty bedding


We make them child-friendly

Not only are children lighter and wrigglier than grownups, they're also more prone to overheating and their shape is constantly changing; allergies are often an issue too. That's why our children’s mattress range includes things like more sensitive, pocket sprung systems, anti-allergy finishes or side vents (to allow the mattress to breathe and air to circulate). Whatever your child needs, we've got it covered.

Young girl laying on top of confetti spot bedding
young girl laying on dotty bedding

We make them child-friendly

Not only are children lighter and wrigglier than grownups, they're also more prone to overheating and their shape is constantly changing; allergies are often an issue too. That's why our children’s mattress range includes things like more sensitive, pocket sprung systems, anti-allergy finishes or side vents (to allow the mattress to breathe and air to circulate). Whatever your child needs, we've got it covered.


Stack of mattresses


We make them better

Apart from comfort, it's about keeping your child safe and offering you good value. We make sure all our kids’ mattresses receive the same meticulous care and attention whether they’re designed for luxurious comfort or speedy delivery; that's why they're all made by experienced manufacturers here in the UK.

Stack of mattresses

We make them better

Apart from comfort, it's about keeping your child safe and offering you good value. We make sure all our kids’ mattresses receive the same meticulous care and attention whether they’redesigned for luxurious comfort or speedy delivery; that's why they're all made by experienced manufacturers here in the UK.

Stack of mattresses

We make them better

Apart from comfort, it's about keeping your child safe and offering you good value. We make sure all our kids’ mattresses receive the same meticulous care and attention whether they’re designed for luxurious comfort or speedy delivery; that's why they're all made by experienced manufacturers here in the UK.

Young boy playing on top of rainbow stardust bedding

We make them last

We rigorously test our kids’ mattresses to make sure they can withstand life in a family home; that’s how we know they’re tough, as well as supremely comfy. In fact, so confident are we of their quality and durability that we offer a 5 year warranty on all our single mattresses. So you see, with a GLTC mattress in your home, everyone can sleep easy.

We make them last

We rigorously test our kids’ mattresses to make sure they can withstand life in a family home; that’s how we know they’re tough, as well as supremely comfy. In fact, so confident are we of their quality and durability that we offer a 5 year warranty on all our single mattresses. So you see, with a GLTC mattress in your home, everyone can sleep easy.

Young boy playing on top of rainbow stardust bedding

We make them last

Our Five Year Warranty. We rigorously test our kids’ mattresses to make sure they can withstand life in a family home; that’s how we know they’re tough, as well as supremely comfy. In fact, so confident are we of their quality and durability that we offer a 5 Year Warranty on all our single mattresses. So you see, with a GLTC mattress in your home, everyone can sleep easy.

We make them last

We rigorously test our kids’ mattresses to make sure they can withstand life in a family home; that’s how we know they’re tough, as well as supremely comfy. In fact, so confident are we of their quality and durability that we offer a 5 Year Warranty on all our single mattresses. So you see, with a GLTC mattress in your home, everyone can sleep easy.

Young boy playing on top of rainbow stardust bedding

Buying the best mattress for your child

You can rest easy when you buy one of our children's mattresses; we've teamed up with experienced, UK based mattress makers to bring you all the comfort and choice your kids need.

But buying a mattress for a child is an important investment; it's a decision that affects your sleep as much as theirs after all, and it's not something you do often, so it's likely to be hindered by unfamiliar jargon and a multitude of confusing options.

We hope this children's mattress buying guide and glossary helps you make your decision.


Buying the best mattress for your child

You can rest easy when you buy one of our children's mattresses; we've teamed up with experienced, UK based mattress makers to bring you all the comfort and choice your kids need.

But buying a mattress for a child is an important investment; it's a decision that affects your sleep as much as theirs after all, and it's not something you do often, so it's likely to be hindered by unfamiliar jargon and a multitude of confusing options.

We hope this children's mattress buying guide and glossary helps you make your decision.

You can rest easy when you buy one of our children's mattresses; we've teamed up with experienced, UK based mattress makers to bring you all the comfort and choice your kids need.

But buying a mattress for a child is an important investment; it's a decision that affects your sleep as much as theirs after all, and it's not something you do often, so it's likely to be hindered by unfamiliar jargon and a multitude of confusing options.

We hope this children's mattress buying guide and glossary helps you make your decision.


Mattress FAQ

What type of mattress should I buy for my child?

For adults and children alike, the most comfortable and healthy sleep position is with a straight spine; this means we need a supportive mattress.

  •  

What do we mean by a supportive mattress?

A supportive mattress is a responsive mattress, that can adapt to all the curvy (or not-so-curvy) parts of the body, whether it's the shoulders, hips, waist or head.

  •  

Do children need a more supportive mattress than adults?

Yes, it is even more important for children's mattresses to be supportive. This is because:

Children tend to be lighter in weight than adults; they make less impact on the mattress so they need a more sensitive mattress to respond to their contours.

They change position in bed more than adults, so their mattress needs to respond accordingly.

Their shape is constantly changing as they grow; a more supportive mattress will be able to respond to these changes, resulting in greater comfort.

So that's your watch word when it comes to choosing the best mattress for kids; it's not about being firm, or soft, it's about being supportive.

  •  

What makes a mattress more, or less, supportive?

Mattresses are made up of an inner support core (consisting of metal bed springs), various comfort layers and then an outer cover.

The level of support offered depends on the type of sprung core and the comfort layers: the sprung core varies according to the spring count, and whether they are of open coil or pocket sprung construction (see our glossary for more help). The thickness and softness of the comfort layers is also important.

A pocket sprung system is the most supportive and responsive to your child as it grows and offers a more premium level of comfort.

An open coil system is supportive and comfortable and is often used in children’s mattresses, but is not as responsive to individual parts of the body that may be heavier e.g. hips or shoulders.

  •  

Do I need a different sort of mattress for a bunk bed or cabin bed?

Yes. GLTC bunk beds and raised beds do require a mattress with a maximum depth of 15cm for safety reasons, which may narrow down your options; you will find this information in the product details of your preferred bed.

  •  

Is there a standard single size mattress?

The quick answer is, no! We recommend that you check the mattress requirements for the specific bed, before ordering your mattress.

We offer two single sized mattresses and each one fits specific beds. This information will be in the product details of your preferred bed and will narrow down your options.

UK standard single size: 190L x 90W cm

European standard size: 200L x 90W cm – this is a longer mattress that fits our European sized beds.

  •  

What sort of mattresses do GLTC offer?

To save you wading through heaps of different kids’ mattresses we've whittled down our range to just a handful; between them we think we've answered all your children's needs, so all you have to do is pick the right size and depth for your bed (you'll find our specific mattress recommendations listed with your chosen bed).

Luxury Mattress
Our hand tufted Luxury mattresses offer your children superior comfort thanks to their pocket sprung construction; they also feature a luxurious comfort core of natural wool blend and cotton blend layers, side handles, and air vents.

They're available in two depths depending on the height of the bed you have; the shallower All Rounder design comes in both UK and Euro single sizes and is suitable for all beds, including raised beds and top bunks.

Classic Mattress
Our Classic range of children’s mattresses offer a good level of comfort with an open coil construction and comfort layers made from non-allergenic polyester.

They’re available in both UK and Euro single sizes only, in an All Rounder depth which is suitable for all beds including raised beds and top bunks.

Truckle Mattress

Here's a guaranteed good night's sleep for your guests; our open coil truckle mattresses feature polyester comfort layers and an anti-allergy finish. At 12cm high they’re a slimmer mattress designed to fit into our underbed truckle drawers, which slide smoothly under a range of our beds.

Our truckle mattresses are available in both UK and European sizes and are designed for occasional use.

Nutkin Toddler & Cot Bed Mattress
The perfect mattress for babies and toddlers, thanks to its cosy but supportive pocket sprung construction and breathable, machine washable cover with an anti-allergy finish. Suitable from birth, this mattress fits in cot beds or toddler beds. It measures 70W x140L x 10H cm.

If you have inherited a cot bed or toddler bed or are re-using your cot bed/toddler bed, it is recommended that you replace your cot bed/toddler mattress with each child in order to offer the highest levels of hygiene and support.

Do you recommend any mattresses for specific beds?

Yes, you will find our specific mattress recommendations in the product details for each bed.

  •  

So what do I need to consider before making my final decision?

Ask yourself what sort of bed is it, i.e. a Bunk, Cabin, Single, Toddler, or Truckle; then check if it's a standard UK sized single, or a longer European sized one. If you’re not sure (take a look at the details of each mattress for our mattress recommendations).

SIZE – what size bed is it? – UK single, Euro single, toddler/cotbed or under bed truckle drawer?

                    • o If the mattress is for a bed at home, measure the internal space of the bed base.
                    • o If the mattress is for a GLTC bed, check the detail on the web page.
                    • o Be sure to double check your measurements!
  •  

DEPTH – Is the bed raised?

    • o If it is bunk, cabin, mid or high sleeper then you will need a mattress that is 15cm depth (max).
    • o If it is a single bed or lower bunk you can look at deeper options.
    • o If it is a truckle, you need a slimmer mattress that fits under the bed.
  •  

COMFORT LEVEL – Superior Luxury Pocket Sprung Comfort or Classic Open Coil Comfort?

We recommend opting for the best mattress you can within your budget. A high-quality mattress will stand you in good stead for many years and will be a solid investment.

If you’re still not sure, take a look at the mattress recommendations on each bed page OR have a look at the details of each mattress on its product page.

 

You may also find our mattress glossary helpful. Failing that, do give us a call: we're always happy to help: 0344 848 6000.

 

Mattress Glossary

Anti-allergy vs Non-allergenic: Anti-allergy is a safe chemical finish applied to fabrics or fibres that actively stops dust mites from colonising in your mattress. Dust mite faeces cause allergies in people, not dust itself. By stopping the dust mites colonising, there should not be any dust mite faeces to cause reactions. This anti-allergy finish can be applied to any fabric. All GLTC mattresses have an anti-allergy finish on the mattress covers – singles (UK & Euro) and toddler/cot bed. Non-Allergenic refers to whether the materials used are known to cause allergies or not. For example, a polyester fibre or fabric is a man-made fibre and is not known to cause allergies, therefore is non-allergenic. You cannot apply this term to some natural products, such as feathers or wool, as some people could have a reaction to elements of them.

British Standards: All GLTC mattresses are tested to and conform to the British Standards required for mattresses to be legally sold in the UK. Our single and truckle sized mattresses (both UK & European sized) are tested to and conform to BS 7177:2008+A1:2011 for domestic use. Our toddler/cot bed sized mattress is tested to and conforms to BS 7177:2008+A1:2011 for domestic use and BS EN 16890:2017.

Comfort layers: In general, the higher the density or thickness of the layer, the greater the comfort. Depending on the mattress, the comfort layers can be soft, white polyester fibres; layers of foam positioned on either side of the sprung inner core; or natural and polyester blended fibres. In a shallower mattress such as the All Rounder or truckle styles, the comfort layers are loaded onto one side to make them more comfortable. To understand the comfort layers used for our different mattress types, please look at the individual product details.

European size: this refers to the longer length single sized beds & mattresses frequently found on the continent. These mattresses are 10 cm longer than standard UK ones and measure 200L x 90W (cm); they only come in our All Rounder depth of 15 cm. Some of our beds require these longer mattresses; please check the individual bed details for more information.
Please note: there is also a European sized truckle mattress available and the size of this mattress is different to the above.

Hand tufting: a traditional technique of fixing all the layers of the bed. This is when the comfort layers stacked on top of the mattress are held in place by a pattern of tufts, which are attached to the inner core; it gives a quilted look and indicates a superior comfort level, the more filling a mattress has the more it needs hand tufting. This is only used on our Luxury Pocket Sprung mattresses.

Mattress depth: mattresses vary in depth due to the size of their springs and the depth of their comfort layers. Bunk and cabin beds will require a shallower mattress for safety reasons, truckle mattresses are shallower in order to fit neatly into the truckle drawer. Please take note of our recommendations on the appropriate depth mattress your bed requires, which can be found in the product details.

Non-turn: Some of our mattresses do not require turning. Modern spring systems are more durable due to their superior construction, so turning is no longer required. This superior construction also means the comfort layers are loaded at the top to maximise comfort and support. We make the mattresses for our raised beds ‘non-turn’ as turning a mattress on a high bed can be difficult. However, rotating a mattress from top to toe does extend its durability and spreads the wear and tear.
Please note: The flat side of the mattress is the base of the mattress on a non-turn product and is not designed to be slept on.

Open coil: coiled springs make up the durable, inner core of your mattress. Open coil springs are linked together, so that if one spring is compressed, the adjacent one will react too - think of a domino effect. An open coil mattress is a supportive mattress, but less so than a pocket sprung one. All our open coil mattresses are part of our "Classic" range and come in single and truckle sizes.

Pocket sprung: this means that the springs at the core of your mattress are individually wrapped or "pocketed"; they therefore move independently of one another, allowing the mattress to contour more exactly to your child's shape and weight. This means they will have a more supportive reaction to your child's body than an open coil mattress. All our pocket sprung mattresses are part of our “Luxury” range.

Spring count: in general the more springs in a mattress, the better it can react to the unique contours of your child. You will find more springs in a pocket sprung mattress than in an open coil mattress.

Standard UK size: this is the typical size of beds & mattresses in the UK. These mattresses measure 190L x 90W (cm). GLTC have UK sized mattresses in All Rounder and Truckle depths.

Toddler mattress: our toddler & cot bed mattress is a smaller size to suit our Toddler Bed and Cot Beds. It measures 140H x 70W x 10H (cm), and feature a breathable, washable anti-allergy cover; the pocket sprung construction ensures maximum comfort. If you have inherited a cot bed or toddler bed or are re-using your cot bed/toddler bed, it is recommended that you replace your cot bed/toddler mattress with each child in order to offer the highest levels of hygiene and support.

Turning: manufacturers often advise flipping your mattress over to spread the wear and therefore prolong the life of your mattress; mattresses that do not require turning are of an equally high quality but are more convenient (however they can be rotated to help extend their life, see Non-turn).

Truckle mattress: a shallower mattress, specifically designed for truckle drawers. GLTC’s truckle mattresses are available in an open coil construction due to their shallower depth and their less frequent use.

Waterproof: the GLTC toddler and cot bed mattress features a removable waterproof panel underneath the cover – a practical feature for certain stages of your child's development.

 

Mattress Care & Delivery

Mattress Care
Your mattress will be delivered either flat (Luxury range & Nutkin) or rolled (Classic range & Truckle).

If your mattress is delivered flat, before you remove the packaging and break the seal, please check the mattress fits your bed. If a mistake has been made and the wrong sized mattress has been ordered or delivered, it is much easier to return the mattress when it is sealed and packaged.

If your mattress is rolled, you will not be able to check without removing the packaging.

Remember to air your mattress!
Do not use your mattress immediately. Once you have removed the packaging or unrolled the mattress it is important to let the mattress rest and regain its shape (in the case of the rolled mattresses). It is also important to allow the mattress to fully air/breathe for a few hours or overnight, if possible.

To pass UK regulations/British Standards, mattress fabrics require finishing treatments which may leave a slight odour. This will harmlessly and naturally dissipate during airing.

Airing a mattress is also important during use. Pull back the duvet cover and air the bed each day to allow the natural moisture that builds up during the night to be released. This will help promote a healthier sleeping environment and applies to all beds of all shapes and sizes.

For specific care instructions for your mattress, please look at the label on the mattress itself.

Mattress Delivery
All but one of our mattresses are held in our 2-man delivery warehouse. This means that the delivery of your mattress will depend on your location.

The Classic All Rounder Mattress (UK Single only) is stocked at our standard delivery warehouse, so can be despatched on next day delivery, if required.

Returning Mattresses
If you wish to exchange or return your mattress please contact us on 0344 848 6000, but do ensure your purchase qualifies for a retur. Please read our mattress returns policy here.

The reason for the return will need to be explained and you may be required to send images to demonstrate the issue to our customer services team.

GLTC reserves the right to refuse to collect a mattress if it is judged by us to be in a dirty or soiled condition.

 

Mattress Guide

What type of mattress should I buy for my child?

For adults and children alike, the most comfortable and healthy sleep position is with a straight spine; this means we need a supportive mattress.

 

What do we mean by a supportive mattress?

A supportive mattress is a responsive mattress, that can adapt to all the curvy (or not-so-curvy) parts of the body, whether it's the shoulders, hips, waist or head.

 

Do children need a more supportive mattress than adults?

Yes, it is even more important for children's mattresses to be supportive. This is because:

Children tend to be lighter in weight than adults; they make less impact on the mattress so they need a more sensitive mattress to respond to their contours.

They change position in bed more than adults, so their mattress needs to respond accordingly.

Their shape is constantly changing as they grow; a more supportive mattress will be able to respond to these changes, resulting in greater comfort.

So that's your watch word when it comes to choosing the best mattress for kids; it's not about being firm, or soft, it's about being supportive.

 

What makes a mattress more, or less, supportive?

Mattresses are made up of an inner support core (consisting of metal bed springs), various comfort layers and then an outer cover.

The level of support offered depends on the type of sprung core and the comfort layers: the sprung core varies according to the spring count, and whether they are of open coil or pocket sprung construction (see our glossary for more help). The thickness and softness of the comfort layers is also important.

A pocket sprung system is the most supportive and responsive to your child as it grows and offers a more premium level of comfort.

An open coil system is supportive and comfortable and is often used in children’s mattresses, but is not as responsive to individual parts of the body that may be heavier e.g. hips or shoulders.

 

Do I need a different sort of mattress for a bunk bed or cabin bed?

Yes. GLTC bunk beds and raised beds do require a mattress with a maximum depth of 15cm for safety reasons, which may narrow down your options; you will find this information in the product details of your preferred bed.

 

Is there a standard single size mattress?

The quick answer is, no! We recommend that you check the mattress requirements for the specific bed, before ordering your mattress.

We offer two single sized mattresses and each one fits specific beds. This information will be in the product details of your preferred bed and will narrow down your options.

UK standard single size: 190L x 90W cm

European standard size: 200L x 90W cm – this is a longer mattress that fits our European sized beds.

 

What sort of mattresses do GLTC offer?

To save you wading through heaps of different kids’ mattresses we've whittled down our range to just a handful; between them we think we've answered all your children's needs, so all you have to do is pick the right size and depth for your bed (you'll find our specific mattress recommendations listed with your chosen bed).

Luxury Mattress
Our hand tufted Luxury mattresses offer your children superior comfort thanks to their pocket sprung construction; they also feature a luxurious comfort core of natural wool blend and cotton blend layers, side handles, and air vents.

They're available in two depths depending on the height of the bed you have; the shallower All Rounder design comes in both UK and Euro single sizes and is suitable for all beds, including raised beds and top bunks; the luxurious Extra Deep design is only available in a UK single size, and is suitable for single beds and lower bunks.

Classic Mattress
Our Classic range of children’s mattresses offer a good level of comfort with an open coil construction and comfort layers made from non-allergenic polyester.

They’re available in both UK and Euro single sizes only, in an All Rounder depth which is suitable for all beds including raised beds and top bunks.

Truckle Mattress
Here's a guaranteed good night's sleep for your guests; our open coil truckle mattresses feature polyester comfort layers and an anti-allergy finish. At 12cm high they’re a slimmer mattress designed to fit into our underbed truckle drawers, which slide smoothly under a range of our beds.

Our truckle mattresses are available in both UK and European sizes and are designed for occasional use.

Nutkin Toddler & Cot Bed Mattress
The perfect mattress for babies and toddlers, thanks to its cosy but supportive pocket sprung construction and breathable, machine washable cover with an anti-allergy finish. Suitable from birth, this mattress fits in cot beds or toddler beds. It measures 70W x140L x 10H cm.

If you have inherited a cot bed or toddler bed or are re-using your cot bed/toddler bed, it is recommended that you replace your cot bed/toddler mattress with each child in order to offer the highest levels of hygiene and support.

 

Do you recommend any mattresses for specific beds?

Yes, you will find our specific mattress recommendations in the product details for each bed.

 

So what do I need to consider before making my final decision?

SIZE – what size bed is it? – UK single, Euro single, toddler/cotbed or under bed truckle drawer?

  • o If the mattress is for a bed at home, measure the internal space of the bed base.
  • o If the mattress is for a GLTC bed, check the detail on the web page.
  • o Be sure to double check your measurements!

 

DEPTH – Is the bed raised?

  • o If it is bunk, cabin, mid or high sleeper then you will need a mattress that is 15cm depth (max).
  • o If it is a single bed or lower bunk you can look at deeper options.
  • o If it is a truckle, you need a slimmer mattress that fits under the bed.

 

COMFORT LEVEL – Superior Luxury Pocket Sprung Comfort or Classic Open Coil Comfort?

  1. We recommend opting for the best mattress you can within your budget. A high-quality mattress will stand you in good stead for many years and will be a solid investment.

    If you’re still not sure, take a look at the mattress recommendations on each bed page OR have a look at the details of each mattress for our mattress product pages.

  2.  

 

You may also find our mattress glossary helpful. Failing that, do give us a call: we're always happy to help: 0344 848 6000.

Mattress Glossary

Anti-allergy vs Non-allergenic: Anti-allergy is a safe chemical finish applied to fabrics or fibres that actively stops dust mites from colonising in your mattress. Dust mite faeces cause allergies in people, not dust itself. By stopping the dust mites colonising, there should not be any dust mite faeces to cause reactions. This anti-allergy finish can be applied to any fabric. All GLTC mattresses have an anti-allergy finish on the mattress covers – singles (UK & Euro) and toddler/cot bed. Non-Allergenic refers to whether the materials used are known to cause allergies or not. For example, a polyester fibre or fabric is a man-made fibre and is not known to cause allergies, therefore is non-allergenic. You cannot apply this term to some natural products, such as feathers or wool, as some people could have a reaction to elements of them.

British Standards: All GLTC mattresses are tested to and conform to the British Standards required for mattresses to be legally sold in the UK. Our single and truckle sized mattresses (both UK & European sized) are tested to and conform to BS 7177:2008+A1:2011 for domestic use. Our toddler/cot bed sized mattress is tested to and conforms to BS 7177:2008+A1:2011 for domestic use and BS EN 16890:2017.

Comfort layers: In general, the higher the density or thickness of the layer, the greater the comfort. Depending on the mattress, the comfort layers can be soft, white polyester fibres; layers of foam positioned on either side of the sprung inner core; or natural and polyester blended fibres. In a shallower mattress such as the All Rounder or truckle styles, the comfort layers are loaded onto one side to make them more comfortable. To understand the comfort layers used for our different mattress types, please look at the individual product details.

European size: this refers to the longer length single sized beds & mattresses frequently found on the continent. These mattresses are 10 cm longer than standard UK ones and measure 200L x 90W (cm); they only come in our All Rounder depth of 15 cm. Some of our beds require these longer mattresses; please check the individual bed details for more information.
Please note: there is also a European sized truckle mattress available and the size of this mattress is different to the above.

Hand tufting: a traditional technique of fixing all the layers of the bed. This is when the comfort layers stacked on top of the mattress are held in place by a pattern of tufts, which are attached to the inner core; it gives a quilted look and indicates a superior comfort level, the more filling a mattress has the more it needs hand tufting. This is only used on our Luxury Pocket Sprung mattresses.

Mattress depth: mattresses vary in depth due to the size of their springs and the depth of their comfort layers. Bunk and cabin beds will require a shallower mattress for safety reasons, truckle mattresses are shallower in order to fit neatly into the truckle drawer. Please take note of our recommendations on the appropriate depth mattress your bed requires, which can be found in the product details.

Non-turn: Some of our mattresses do not require turning. Modern spring systems are more durable due to their superior construction, so turning is no longer required. This superior construction also means the comfort layers are loaded at the top to maximise comfort and support. We make the mattresses for our raised beds ‘non-turn’ as turning a mattress on a high bed can be difficult. However, rotating a mattress from top to toe does extend its durability and spreads the wear and tear.
Please note: The flat side of the mattress is the base of the mattress on a non-turn product and is not designed to be slept on.

Open coil: coiled springs make up the durable, inner core of your mattress. Open coil springs are linked together, so that if one spring is compressed, the adjacent one will react too - think of a domino effect. An open coil mattress is a supportive mattress, but less so than a pocket sprung one. All our open coil mattresses are part of our "Classic" range and come in single and truckle sizes.

Pocket sprung: this means that the springs at the core of your mattress are individually wrapped or "pocketed"; they therefore move independently of one another, allowing the mattress to contour more exactly to your child's shape and weight. This means they will have a more supportive reaction to your child's body than an open coil mattress. All our pocket sprung mattresses are part of our “Luxury” range.

Spring count: in general the more springs in a mattress, the better it can react to the unique contours of your child. You will find more springs in a pocket sprung mattress than in an open coil mattress.

Standard UK size: this is the typical size of beds & mattresses in the UK. These mattresses measure 190L x 90W (cm). GLTC have UK sized mattresses in All Rounder, Extra Deep, and Truckle depths.

Toddler mattress: our toddler & cot bed mattress is a smaller size to suit our Toddler Bed and Cot Beds. It measures 140H x 70W x 10H (cm), and feature a breathable, washable anti-allergy cover; the pocket sprung construction ensures maximum comfort. If you have inherited a cot bed or toddler bed or are re-using your cot bed/toddler bed, it is recommended that you replace your cot bed/toddler mattress with each child in order to offer the highest levels of hygiene and support.

Turning: manufacturers often advise flipping your mattress over to spread the wear and therefore prolong the life of your mattress; mattresses that do not require turning are of an equally high quality but are more convenient (however they can be rotated to help extend their life, see Non-turn).

Truckle mattress: a shallower mattress, specifically designed for truckle drawers. GLTC’s truckle mattresses are available in an open coil construction due to their shallower depth and their less frequent use.

Waterproof: the GLTC toddler and cot bed mattress features a removable waterproof panel underneath the cover – a practical feature for certain stages of your child's development.

Mattress Care & Delivery

Mattress Care

Your mattress will be delivered either flat (Luxury range & Nutkin) or rolled (Classic range & Truckle).

If your mattress is delivered flat, before you remove the packaging and break the seal, please check the mattress fits your bed. If a mistake has been made and the wrong sized mattress has been ordered or delivered, it is much easier to return the mattress when it is sealed and packaged.

If your mattress is rolled, you will not be able to check without removing the packaging.  

Remember to air your mattress!

Do not use your mattress immediately. Once you have removed the packaging or unrolled the mattress it is important to let the mattress rest and regain its shape (in the case of the rolled mattresses). It is also important to allow the mattress to fully air/breathe for a few hours or overnight, if possible.

To pass UK regulations/British Standards, mattress fabrics require finishing treatments which may leave a slight odour. This will harmlessly and naturally dissipate during airing.

Airing a mattress is also important during use. Pull back the duvet cover and air the bed each day to allow the natural moisture that builds up during the night to be released. This will help promote a healthier sleeping environment and applies to all beds of all shapes and sizes.

For specific care instructions for your mattress, please look at the label on the mattress itself.

 

Mattress Delivery

All but one of our mattresses are held in our 2-man delivery warehouse. This means that the delivery of your mattress will depend on your location.

The Classic All Rounder Mattress (UK Single only) is stocked at our standard delivery warehouse, so can be despatched on next day delivery, if required.

 

Returning Mattresses

If you wish to exchange or return your mattress please contact us on 0344 848 6000, but do ensure your purchase qualifies for a return (add link to returns).

The reason for the return will need to be explained and you may be required to send images to demonstrate the issue to our customer services team.

GLTC reserves the right to refuse to collect a mattress if it is judged by us to be in a dirty or soiled condition.

Mattress FAQ

What type of mattress should I buy for my child?
For adults and children alike, the most comfortable and healthy sleep position is with a straight spine; this means we need a supportive mattress.

What do we mean by a supportive mattress?
A supportive mattress is a responsive mattress, that can adapt to all the curvy (or not-so-curvy) parts of the body, whether it's the shoulders, hips, waist or head.

Do children need a more supportive mattress than adults?
Yes, it is even more important for children's mattresses to be supportive. This is because:

Children tend to be lighter in weight than adults; they make less impact on the mattress so they need a more sensitive mattress to respond to their contours.

They change position in bed more than adults, so their mattress needs to respond accordingly.

Their shape is constantly changing as they grow; a more supportive mattress will be able to respond to these changes, resulting in greater comfort.

So that's your watch word when it comes to choosing the best mattress for kids; it's not about being firm, or soft, it's about being supportive.

What makes a mattress more, or less, supportive?
Mattresses are made up of an inner support core (consisting of metal bed springs), various comfort layers and then an outer cover.

The level of support offered depends on the type of sprung core and the comfort layers: the sprung core varies according to the spring count, and whether they are of open coil or pocket sprung construction (see our glossary for more help). The thickness and softness of the comfort layers is also important.

A pocket sprung system is the most supportive and responsive to your child as it grows and offers a more premium level of comfort.

An open coil system is supportive and comfortable and is often used in children’s mattresses, but is not as responsive to individual parts of the body that may be heavier e.g. hips or shoulders.

Do I need a different sort of mattress for a bunk bed or cabin bed?
Yes. GLTC bunk beds and raised beds do require a mattress with a maximum depth of 15cm for safety reasons, which may narrow down your options; you will find this information in the product details of your preferred bed.

Is there a standard single size mattress?
The quick answer is, no! We recommend that you check the mattress requirements for the specific bed, before ordering your mattress.

We offer two single sized mattresses and each one fits specific beds. This information will be in the product details of your preferred bed and will narrow down your options.

UK standard single size: 190L x 90W cm

European standard size: 200L x 90W cm – this is a longer mattress that fits our European sized beds.

What sort of mattresses do GLTC offer?
To save you wading through heaps of different kids’ mattresses we've whittled down our range to just a handful; between them we think we've answered all your children's needs, so all you have to do is pick the right size and depth for your bed (you'll find our specific mattress recommendations listed with your chosen bed).

Luxury Mattress
Our hand tufted Luxury mattresses offer your children superior comfort thanks to their pocket sprung construction; they also feature a luxurious comfort core of natural wool blend and cotton blend layers, side handles, and air vents.

They're available in two depths depending on the height of the bed you have; the shallower All Rounder design comes in both UK and Euro single sizes and is suitable for all beds, including raised beds and top bunks; the luxurious Extra Deep design is only available in a UK single size, and is suitable for single beds and lower bunks.

Classic Mattress
Our Classic range of children’s mattresses offer a good level of comfort with an open coil construction and comfort layers made from non-allergenic polyester.

They’re available in both UK and Euro single sizes only, in an All Rounder depth which is suitable for all beds including raised beds and top bunks.

Truckle Mattress
Here's a guaranteed good night's sleep for your guests; our open coil truckle mattresses feature polyester comfort layers and an anti-allergy finish. At 12cm high they’re a slimmer mattress designed to fit into our underbed truckle drawers, which slide smoothly under a range of our beds.

Our truckle mattresses are available in both UK and European sizes and are designed for occasional use.

Nutkin Toddler & Cot Bed Mattress
The perfect mattress for babies and toddlers, thanks to its cosy but supportive pocket sprung construction and breathable, machine washable cover with an anti-allergy finish. Suitable from birth, this mattress fits in cot beds or toddler beds. It measures 70W x140L x 10H cm.

If you have inherited a cot bed or toddler bed or are re-using your cot bed/toddler bed, it is recommended that you replace your cot bed/toddler mattress with each child in order to offer the highest levels of hygiene and support.

Do you recommend any mattresses for specific beds?
Yes, you will find our specific mattress recommendations in the product details for each bed.

So what do I need to consider before making my final decision?
SIZE - what size bed is it? - UK single, Euro single, toddler/cotbed or under bed truckle drawer?

* If the mattress is for a bed at home, measure the internal space of the bed base.

* If the mattress is for a GLTC bed, check the detail on the web page.

  • Be sure to double check your measurements!
  •  

DEPTH - Is the bed raised?

* If it is bunk, cabin, mid or high sleeper then you will need a mattress that is 15cm depth (max).

* If it is a single bed or lower bunk you can look at deeper options.

* If it is a truckle, you need a slimmer mattress that fits under the bed.

  •  

COMFORT LEVEL - Superior Luxury Pocket Sprung Comfort or Classic Open Coil Comfort?

We recommend opting for the best mattress you can within your budget. A high-quality mattress will stand you in good stead for many years and will be a solid investment.

If you’re still not sure, take a look at the mattress recommendations on each bed page OR have a look at the details of each mattress on its product page.

You may also find our mattress glossary helpful. Failing that, do give us a call: we're always happy to help: 0344 848 6000.

Mattress Glossary

Anti-allergy vs Non-allergenic: Anti-allergy is a safe chemical finish applied to fabrics or fibres that actively stops dust mites from colonising in your mattress. Dust mite faeces cause allergies in people, not dust itself. By stopping the dust mites colonising, there should not be any dust mite faeces to cause reactions. This anti-allergy finish can be applied to any fabric. All GLTC mattresses have an anti-allergy finish on the mattress covers – singles (UK & Euro) and toddler/cot bed. Non-Allergenic refers to whether the materials used are known to cause allergies or not. For example, a polyester fibre or fabric is a man-made fibre and is not known to cause allergies, therefore is non-allergenic. You cannot apply this term to some natural products, such as feathers or wool, as some people could have a reaction to elements of them.

British Standards: All GLTC mattresses are tested to and conform to the British Standards required for mattresses to be legally sold in the UK. Our single and truckle sized mattresses (both UK & European sized) are tested to and conform to BS 7177:2008+A1:2011 for domestic use. Our toddler/cot bed sized mattress is tested to and conforms to BS 7177:2008+A1:2011 for domestic use and BS EN 16890:2017.

Comfort layers: In general, the higher the density or thickness of the layer, the greater the comfort. Depending on the mattress, the comfort layers can be soft, white polyester fibres; layers of foam positioned on either side of the sprung inner core; or natural and polyester blended fibres. In a shallower mattress such as the All Rounder or truckle styles, the comfort layers are loaded onto one side to make them more comfortable. To understand the comfort layers used for our different mattress types, please look at the individual product details.

European size: this refers to the longer length single sized beds & mattresses frequently found on the continent. These mattresses are 10 cm longer than standard UK ones and measure 200L x 90W (cm); they only come in our All Rounder depth of 15 cm. Some of our beds require these longer mattresses; please check the individual bed details for more information.
Please note: there is also a European sized truckle mattress available and the size of this mattress is different to the above.

Hand tufting: a traditional technique of fixing all the layers of the bed. This is when the comfort layers stacked on top of the mattress are held in place by a pattern of tufts, which are attached to the inner core; it gives a quilted look and indicates a superior comfort level, the more filling a mattress has the more it needs hand tufting. This is only used on our Luxury Pocket Sprung mattresses.

Mattress depth: mattresses vary in depth due to the size of their springs and the depth of their comfort layers. Bunk and cabin beds will require a shallower mattress for safety reasons, truckle mattresses are shallower in order to fit neatly into the truckle drawer. Please take note of our recommendations on the appropriate depth mattress your bed requires, which can be found in the product details.

Non-turn: Some of our mattresses do not require turning. Modern spring systems are more durable due to their superior construction, so turning is no longer required. This superior construction also means the comfort layers are loaded at the top to maximise comfort and support. We make the mattresses for our raised beds ‘non-turn’ as turning a mattress on a high bed can be difficult. However, rotating a mattress from top to toe does extend its durability and spreads the wear and tear.
Please note: The flat side of the mattress is the base of the mattress on a non-turn product and is not designed to be slept on.

Open coil: coiled springs make up the durable, inner core of your mattress. Open coil springs are linked together, so that if one spring is compressed, the adjacent one will react too - think of a domino effect. An open coil mattress is a supportive mattress, but less so than a pocket sprung one. All our open coil mattresses are part of our "Classic" range and come in single and truckle sizes.

Pocket sprung: this means that the springs at the core of your mattress are individually wrapped or "pocketed"; they therefore move independently of one another, allowing the mattress to contour more exactly to your child's shape and weight. This means they will have a more supportive reaction to your child's body than an open coil mattress. All our pocket sprung mattresses are part of our “Luxury” range.

Spring count: in general the more springs in a mattress, the better it can react to the unique contours of your child. You will find more springs in a pocket sprung mattress than in an open coil mattress.

Standard UK size: this is the typical size of beds & mattresses in the UK. These mattresses measure 190L x 90W (cm). GLTC have UK sized mattresses in All Rounder, Extra Deep, and Truckle depths.

Toddler mattress: our toddler & cot bed mattress is a smaller size to suit our Toddler Bed and Cot Beds. It measures 140H x 70W x 10H (cm), and feature a breathable, washable anti-allergy cover; the pocket sprung construction ensures maximum comfort. If you have inherited a cot bed or toddler bed or are re-using your cot bed/toddler bed, it is recommended that you replace your cot bed/toddler mattress with each child in order to offer the highest levels of hygiene and support.

Turning: manufacturers often advise flipping your mattress over to spread the wear and therefore prolong the life of your mattress; mattresses that do not require turning are of an equally high quality but are more convenient (however they can be rotated to help extend their life, see Non-turn).

Truckle mattress: a shallower mattress, specifically designed for truckle drawers. GLTC’s truckle mattresses are available in an open coil construction due to their shallower depth and their less frequent use.

Waterproof: the GLTC toddler and cot bed mattress features a removable waterproof panel underneath the cover – a practical feature for certain stages of your child's development.

Mattress Care & Delivery

Mattress Care
Your mattress will be delivered either flat (Luxury range & Nutkin) or rolled (Classic range & Truckle).

If your mattress is delivered flat, before you remove the packaging and break the seal, please check the mattress fits your bed. If a mistake has been made and the wrong sized mattress has been ordered or delivered, it is much easier to return the mattress when it is sealed and packaged.

If your mattress is rolled, you will not be able to check without removing the packaging.  

Remember to air your mattress!
Do not use your mattress immediately. Once you have removed the packaging or unrolled the mattress it is important to let the mattress rest and regain its shape (in the case of the rolled mattresses). It is also important to allow the mattress to fully air/breathe for a few hours or overnight, if possible.

To pass UK regulations/British Standards, mattress fabrics require finishing treatments which may leave a slight odour. This will harmlessly and naturally dissipate during airing.

Airing a mattress is also important during use. Pull back the duvet cover and air the bed each day to allow the natural moisture that builds up during the night to be released. This will help promote a healthier sleeping environment and applies to all beds of all shapes and sizes.

For specific care instructions for your mattress, please look at the label on the mattress itself.

Mattress Delivery
All but one of our mattresses are held in our 2-man delivery warehouse. This means that the delivery of your mattress will depend on your location.

The Classic All Rounder Mattress (UK Single only) is stocked at our standard delivery warehouse, so can be despatched on next day delivery, if required.

Returning Mattresses
If you wish to exchange or return your mattress please contact us on 0344 848 6000, but do ensure your purchase qualifies for a return. Please read our mattress returns policy here.

The reason for the return will need to be explained and you may be required to send images to demonstrate the issue to our customer services team.

GLTC reserves the right to refuse to collect a mattress if it is judged by us to be in a dirty or soiled condition.

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