As parents teach their small kids to sleep in the big bed, the kind of mattress they sleep on should also be given consideration.

“Big boy” or “big girl” mattresses must be free from any ropes or elastic bands and the like, as this will pose a hazard or threaten the child’s safety.

Mattress sheets must fit the mattress precisely, so that there is no danger of the child sliding off the bed. The mattress must also fit the bed frame well, as gaps can also cause accidents.