mini travel cot with mattress

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The 9 Best Toddler Travel Beds, Tested by Our Editors and Their Mini Explorers

With the right travel bed, your tot will sleep (almost) anywhere

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Verywell Family / Nick Kova

Traveling with toddlers isn't easy, but you can still have a wonderful time exploring new places with your family—you just need to be prepared. Toddler travel beds provide consistency and protected sleep space, resulting in a well-rested child and a smoother trip for everyone. 

For some parents, portable toddler travel beds are must-haves to provide young children with a secure place to sleep while on vacation. “Simpler is always better, especially when thinking of traveling with toddlers . So, when it comes to a toddler travel bed, you don't need all the bells and whistles,” says Anjuli Gans, MD, a pediatrician at the Karabots Pediatric Care Center in West Philadelphia. “There are a lot of fancy ones out there on the market, but your baby really just needs a safe and comfortable place to sleep ." 

We spent hours testing these products (20 total) in the lab and our homes by assembling and disassembling them—sometimes with one hand—and timing the whole process. We also studied the beds' features, how well they hold a toddler's weight, and how easy they are to clean. Our list shows the best toddler travel beds we’ve tested, which we’ll continue to update as we test new models.

• Our Testing Process And Experts
• Factors To Consider

Your Questions, Answered

Best overall, jetkids by stokke cloudsleeper.

• Assembly 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Ease of Use 5 /5

Why We Like It

If you plan to hit the road with your little one and need a toddler travel bed that is comfortable and easy to travel with, then the JetKids by Stokke CloudSleeper Kids Inflatable Bed is our top pick for you. Designed for children ages 3 and up, this travel bed features side bumpers to keep your child from rolling onto the floor. There's also an air mesh cover to keep your child cool at night. 

We loved this inflatable bed's unique design, which is very easy to fill up and took us only five minutes to put together and inflate, which is great when traveling with little kids. And since it's light and comes with a small bag with handles, so it's easy to move around. The mattress also has a removable and washable cover that can be spot-cleaned and dries quickly, so your little one can get back to bed. 

When you’re done with it, deflate the mattress, pack it back into its packing cube, and you're good to go!

But Take Note

Setup is incredibly easy, thanks to an integrated pump that lets you inflate the mattress in minutes by using your hands or feet. It’s meant to lie on the floor, so there’s no additional assembly required. Although we noticed it can sound a bit noisy when a child moves on it. Otherwise, we didn't experience any additional issues.

The Details

• Material: Nylon
• Weight: 4.1 pounds
• Size: 59.1 x 29.5 x 6.7 inches inflated; 15 x 11 x 4 inches in travel bag
• Recommended Age/Weight Limit: Ages 3 years and up; up to 68 pounds

Verywell Family / Vicky Wasik

Best Inflatable

Eltow inflatable toddler bed.

 Amazon

• Assembly 4.5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5
• Ease of Use 4.5 /5

The Eltow Inflatable Toddler Bed is portable and easy to set up, and it comes at a lower price than our top pick, the Stokke. Unlike other inflatables, the Eltow toddler travel bed consists of an outer section with bumpers on two sides and a mattress that fits snugly inside the outer shell. It's not sitting directly on the floor but is at floor level.

We love that it took us just five minutes to set up and is lightweight and portable . It comes with a high-speed pump, two patches in case of punctures, and a travel bag for storage. And thanks to a vinyl layer that protects against punctures, it's well-equipped to withstand wear and tear. Plus, it comes with a bag, so it's super portable. Unfortunately, it doesn't come with a sheet, so you'll have to pack one in your luggage. 

One flaw is that the mattress has a plastic smell that sticks around for a few hours once the mattress is removed from its packaging. (It should go away if you allow the product to air out for a day or two before use.) Assembly is straightforward, but removing the pump nozzle without losing air can be difficult when done alone, so we recommend getting a partner to help you out.

• Material: Vinyl
• Weight: 10.21 pounds
• Size: 63 x 40 x 12 inches inflated
• Recommended Age/Weight Limit: Up to 310 pounds

Best With Pump

Hiccapop inflatable toddler travel bed.

• Ease of Setup 5 /5
• Ease of Cleaning 4.5 /5

The Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed is ideal for parents who want their toddler close to the ground with bumpers on all sides of the bed. A removable mattress rests in a higher outer shell that ensures your little one cannot roll off. It's designed for kids making that transition between cribs and big-kid beds, and it's easy to deflate and pack into its carrying bag before moving to your next destination.

Setup is relatively quick once you get the hang of detaching the electric pump, and it's easy to move around with the handles. Another plus: It comes with a patch kit. The handles are not as easy to clean as the rest of the bed, but we do appreciate that the removable mattress comes in three different colors for kids who definitely have their design preferences. 

The mattress has a faint chemical smell at first, but it's not as eye-watering as some of the other inflatables we tested. It's also very durable due to its thick vinyl material .

• Weight: 8 pounds
• Size: 62 x 39 x 12 inches inflated

Verywell Family / Tamara Staples

Best for Camping

Enerplex kids inflatable travel bed.

This puncture-proof toddler travel bed can be used during trips or at home as a transitional bed for toddlers who are still in that in-between stage. A 120-volt electric pump (and three universal nozzles) is a game changer and makes inflating the bed a breeze. We love how quickly and easily this bed can be put together: It took us five minutes to blow up both parts of the bed and attach a fitted sheet. Best of all, we didn’t even need to glance at the instructions while doing so.

In case you worry about your toddler rolling off the mattress, the EnerPlex Kids Inflatable Travel Bed has bumpers along three sides. The removable coil-beam mattress rests snugly inside the outer shell and fits a standard crib sheet. 

Even though the bed is bulky, it comes with a large carry bag that you can wear as a backpack, freeing your hands for luggage or a kid. We also like that the electric pump comes with an adapter for your car, making it ideal for camping. It can be wiped down and the crib sheet can be tossed in the laundry for cleanup. One downfall: It has a chemical smell.

• Material: Not listed
• Weight: 11.88 pounds
• Size: 66 x 44 x 13 inches inflated
• Recommended Age/Weight Limit: 36 months and up; up to 150 pounds

Best Pop-Up Crib

Babybjörn travel crib light.

• Durability 5 /5
• Portability 4.2 /5
• Design 5 /5

The BabyBjorn Travel Crib is a great option for parents who prefer more of a crib design than an inflatable mattress. Toddlers who need more than bumpers to keep them safe in bed can benefit from this travel crib’s high mesh walls and a mattress that sits low to the floor—which means it's difficult to climb in and out of, let alone roll off of. You won’t need to worry about messes or nighttime accidents because the fabric can be wiped down quickly, and the exterior fabric can be removed from the frame and washed.

The BabyBjorn is a dream to assemble: Setup takes two minutes, and you can put a standard crib sheet on the bed without a struggle, even after attaching the mattress to the four corner safety latches. The mattress is comfortable and a standard crib size . It is also a good pick if you need a travel bed that isn't hard on your back. It is very light, it comes with a carrying case, and it fits into a car trunk. However, the mattress does lie low to the ground, so picking up your child may be tough on your back if they are lying down.

The main reason this crib isn't our top pick is that it's much more expensive than most of the other products on this list, but it's a worthwhile investment if you have the room in your budget.

• Material: Polyester
• Weight: 13 pounds
• Size: Mattress 23.5 x 41 x 1.2 inches; assembled crib 32 x 44 x 24 inches; 19 x 23.5 x 5.5 inches in bag
• Recommended Age/Weight Limit: 0-3 years, or until your toddler can climb out of this travel crib

Verywell Family / Jessica Juliao

Best Budget

Hugbino inflatable toddler bed.

• Assembly 4 /5
• Ease of Use 4 /5

The Hugbino provides a lot of the same features as other inflatable mattresses on this list, but at a lower price. The removable mattress is coated in soft velvet flocking to keep your little one comfortable while they snooze, and bumpers along all four sides of the outer shell keep them in bed. It's also a cinch to clean. We appreciate that the mattress can be spot-cleaned, and a sheet can go over the mattress for extra protection.

This inexpensive bed does come with an electric pump, but the setup is not as easy as with other travel beds we tested. We had to use two sets of hands to get the nozzle on before it started to deflate. However, it is light and easy to store and comes with a carrying bag .

• Material : Polyvinyl chloride
• Weight: 6.63 pounds
• Size: 63.6 x 42.5 inches inflated
• Recommended Age/Weight Limit : Not listed

Best Crib to Fly With

Guava family lotus travel crib.

• Ease of Setup 4.5 /5
• Portability 4 /5
• Value 3.8 /5
• Ease of Cleaning 4 /5

This crib can’t make traveling on a plane with a toddler less challenging, but it can simplify your life when you get to your destination. In terms of ease of use, this travel bed only took us five minutes to set up and didn't require too much prep work to understand how to put it together. The setup process isn't as straightforward as other travel beds we tested, but it's not difficult.

An access door makes it easier to get to your little one without leaning over the side. You can use the entrance to lay them on the padded, waterproof mattress inside the mesh enclosure or let them go in and out of the crib when they are awake. The mattress is easy enough to wipe, but the fabric around the top of the crib is so absorbent that it's tough to give it a good cleaning. You can also unzip the bed cover and throw it into the washer for a deep clean. This convenience does come at a higher price than a lot of competitors, however.

We like the travel crib's packaging, which comes with shoulder and backpack straps that make it easy to carry around in an airport. It is a tad heavy, however.

• Material: Polyvinyl chloride
• Weight: 13 pounds, 15 pounds with bag
• Size: Mattress 41.5 x 23.5 x 1.4 inches; crib 45.5 x 31.5 x 25.5 inches; 24 x 12 x 8 in backpack
• Recommended Age/Weight Limit: 0-3 years, or until child can climb out

Verywell Family / Leticia Almeida

Best for Naps

Milliard toddler nap mat.

The Milliard Toddler Nap Mat Tri Folding Mattress can be used for napping anywhere. Simply unfold it at the hotel, a relative's house, or a camping tent, and your little one is good to get their sleep on. It doesn't come with a carrying case, which may make it a pain to carry. But if your toddler spills a drink or has an accident on this mattress, the good news is that it's effortless to clean: It has a removable bamboo cover that can be machine-washed and a foam mattress that can be spot-cleaned. Plus, it's got a cozy, thick mattress that's comfortable for naptime.

This folding mattress doesn't require any assembly—just take it right out of the box. However, after unboxing, it takes 48 hours to reach the highest comfort level.

• Material: Foam mattress, bamboo cover
• Weight: 8.74 pounds
• Size: 58 x 24 x 3 inches unfolded; 24 x 19 x 9 folded

Intex Dura-Beam Deluxe Air Mattress

• Comfort 5 /5
• Effectiveness 3 /5

The Intex Dura-Beam Standard Series Pillow Rest Raised Airbed is a good pick for families who want a larger travel bed without bumpers that’s a little higher off the floor (16.5 inches) than the toddler beds on this list. A built-in pump makes for easy assembly, since you just turn the panel to either inflate or deflate, and you’re done! When it needs a cleaning, just wipe down as needed.

The mattress comes with a duffel bag for storage and travel, but it's not the most compact, and the bag isn't as comfortable as others we tested. On the plus side, the bed has a built-in pillow rest , so you won’t have to pack an extra pillow for your kid when you travel.

• Weight: 10.16 pounds
• Size: 75 x 39 x 16.5 inches inflated
• Recommended Age/Weight Limit: Up to 300 pounds

Our Testing Process and Experts

To find the best toddler travel beds, we tested 20 beds in the Parents Testing Lab and in our own homes. We first tried to assemble the travel beds—with one hand, if possible. After that, we noted whether we needed to use both hands or had to get another adult to help. We also timed just how long the setup took for each bed. We then tested how well the toddler travel beds hold a toddler's weight using a 25-to-30-pound sandbag.

Next, we looked at how hard it would be to clean messes on the beds, examining hard-to-reach areas and taking note of the material and what it felt like to wipe it. We tested whether we could use a standard crib sheet as well, and then we tried to disassemble the beds one-handed. After breaking them down, we considered how long it took us and how difficult it was to place the beds inside their carry bags, if bags were included. Finally, we lifted the carrying bags to assess the beds’ portability. 

In addition to lab and real-world testing, we spoke with medical experts to gather their input on how to choose a toddler travel bed. We spoke to the following experts:

• Anjuli Gans , MD, a pediatrician at Karabots Pediatric Care Center, West Philadelphia
• Lynelle Schneeberg , PsyD, a pediatric sleep psychologist and author

Factors to Consider in a Toddler Travel Bed

• Comfort: As you’ve probably realized when getting a kid to sleep at home, comfort is key. Comfort for some toddlers may mean a favorite blanket, while others require a crib. Parents should consider various must-haves to make traveling easier and smoother when trekking across the country—or a few hours away—with your little one.
• Safety: Dr. Gans recommends researching products on the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) website to determine their safety and ensure that they haven't been recalled. When purchasing a crib or bassinet, parents of babies should also practice the same safe sleeping rules they implement at home. "Every toddler travel bed has age and weight requirements, so I would definitely check those first and make sure it matches up (with your toddler's age and weight)," she explains. Then, stick to simple beds without all the added features. "The less they have, the better.” Once you've narrowed down your selection to simple beds, make sure there are no bumpers or parts that can potentially trap your baby, and check corner points and sharp corners. "Corner points are sometimes a place where kids can get clothing caught or get injured, so make sure it doesn't have sharp corners," explains Dr. Gans. "And remember that pillows and blankets are still recommended for toddlers age 2 and over."
• Ease of Use: If you need a toddler travel bed that is easy to carry, quick to assemble, and doesn't require much work, then ease of use and portability must be considered when selecting a toddler travel bed. Some toddler travel beds can be assembled using one hand and only take minutes to assemble. That is very helpful if you arrive at a destination with a sleeping or cranky tot . You may want to look for bags that allow hands-free carrying. Another consideration is whether the bed is easy to put in those bags so you don’t find yourself fighting to pack it back in when it’s time to go home. If you are in a situation where you don't have a toddler travel bed, don't worry. "If you are staying somewhere, and they allow you to request a crib, you can pull out the mattress and just lay it on the floor," Dr. Gans adds. "If it's in a safe place for your toddler, then it is perfectly fine. Make sure it is somewhere they can have adult supervision at all times and within eye view, because you may not be able to safetyproof rooms the way you can at home."

How can I keep my toddler in bed while traveling?

A pack-and-play or travel bed with inflatable bumpers (which are not recommended for babies, of course!) can help keep a toddler from rolling onto the floor. You can also bring along some of their favorite items from home to help them want to stay in bed in a strange new place.

"The best thing to do when traveling is to bring along items from the child's home bedroom," recommends Dr. Schneeberg. "Parents can bring along the child's favorite pillow, 'bedtime buddy' (security object), and favorite books, for example. If the child is used to a certain night light or a sound machine , these can be brought along as well."

Can my 2-year-old sleep in a travel cot?

Certain travel cots are appropriate for 2-year-olds, but young 2-year-olds who haven't yet transitioned to a toddler bed may be more comfortable and safer in more crib-like pack-and-plays or travel beds with safety rails.

Can I put my 3-year-old in a toddler cot?

Unless a manufacturer suggests otherwise (usually based on a child's weight or height), most toddler travel cots are appropriate for 3-year-olds who have already transitioned from a crib to a bed.

How much is a toddler travel bed?

A high-quality travel toddler bed will generally cost between $60 and $100, although some can be cheaper, and certain models can cost upwards of $200. Pricier travel beds often come with more accessories and features, although not every family will need extra bells and whistles.

Ambrosia V. Brody is a California-based editor, journalist, and mother of three. She has worked as a professional journalist for more than 16 years. You can find her at the library, Starbucks, or the park with her kids when she isn't writing.

By Ambrosia V. Brody Ambrosia Viramontes Brody has worked as a professional journalist for more than 16 years.She is a California-based editor, journalist, and mother to three.

• Travel Products

Nuna Sena Mini Travel Cot review

As its name suggests, this is the smaller version of Nuna’s Sena Travel Cot.

The Nuna Sena Mini is one of the easiest travel cots on the market. It pops up in an instant and can be folded away with just one hand, in one movement! It’s a simple product but so effective, and easy to store and transport – it’s compact when folded and not too heavy to carry. The cot is easy to clean and includes a comfortable mattress, skid-proof feet and padded edges. It can also be used during the day as a playpen for small babies. For its simplicity, convenience and versatility, the Nuna Sena is great value for money.

It’s suitable for children up to around 18 months, so it’s ideal for younger babies who are already accustomed to a crib or Moses basket. It’s useful if space is limited. Thanks to the ‘zig-zag’ frame design, it’s really simple to set up and pack away – even with one hand.

It has a mattress pad that fits over a cushioned base, which is raised off the floor. This is a stylish option, but it is on the heavy side, due to it having an aluminium frame. However, one of the benefits of this is that it does feel reassuringly sturdy.

Related: Best crib

Tested by mum Alexandra Linton for the M&B Awards 2017:

Would you recommend this to other mums?

I highly recommend this travel cot. It is very easy to put up and down, no fiddly clips or sides that have to come together. Just pull it apart and fix the floor panel on to the velcro and it's ready to go. If I can do it anyone can! It's a great size as well for my 3 month old not too big so she doesn't feel lost in it. The design is really stylish not in your face with garish bright colours. The material used is high quality, it is a really sturdy cot.

How did this product make your life easier?

The ease at which I can put it up and down is such an advantage . The small size is perfect as the rooms in some hotels can be limited as well as transporting it in the car. Also as the floor of the cot is raised it's easy to get my baby out of it without bending over and hurting my back getting her out. The mesh provides a dark screen so it minimises the light in the morning.

What changes would you make to this product?

I would like it to be lighter, to carry it upstairs is a tiring experience. It's very bulky when it's down to carry. If they could make it more cosy for young babies by providing a insert that would help. It's hard to say as the way it folds to open and close it is the best feature but it's also made from thick plastic which makes it heavy so I don't really know how they could make it lighter.

Tested by mum Kayleigh Miller for the M&B Awards 2017:

I would recommend this travel cot to everyone. It's a good size for travel and for setting up in your living room as a second cot. The build quality is great and no matter how many times I've put up and down (a lot!) it still assembles with ease. Not only this but my baby sleeps like a dream in there due to the thick quality foldable mattress.

I've been able to have my baby sleep in my living room during the day and travel to others' houses with ease as she loves sleeping in this cot. With the raised level my back has been saved and the mesh sides means my baby and I can see each other whilst I'm grabbing some all-important time to do housework.

Would you choose this product to win?

The size of this travel cot means it can easily fit in any room and works well as a cot for full-time use. Not only does it assemble easy but the stand-out reason for me loving this cot is the quality of the mattress, my baby sleeps well on this meaning can be used easily during the day for quality sleep.

The one thing I would change abiut this cot is the price. Although I do believe it is worth every penny, it's not a price I could justify spending on a cot that is mini in size and she would grow out of. This price point would have ruled me out of buying it which I truly believe is a shame as it really is a great product

Tested by mum Elizabeth Tate for the M&B Awards 2017:

I would recommend the Nuna Sena Mini because the size is just right for fitting in to the boot of your car or across the back seat. It feels very well made, durable, and safe for baby to sleep in. The mattress is also soft and my baby seemed to not notice a difference to his own cot (he slept the same as if he was in his own cot).

It means we can have an overnight stay or two somewhere with the knowledge our baby is safe and secure in the travel cot. We even found the travel cot helpful for when visiting friends or family in the evening. We can set up the travel cot in their home, so our baby can continue with his bed time routine that we have established.

Although I found this product to be quite pricey at approx £120, I do feel it is value for money. My reasons being it is lightweight so I found it easy to carry up and down stairs and take outside to the car. Its compact size means it is easily fitted in to our car and doesn't take up much space when stored away when not in use. I found the handy bag/cover useful too for storage.

I found the second stage of the set up difficult and my husband had to help me. I found I didn't have the strength to open up the cot to its maximum size by pressing in the middle. The floor was carpeted so I'm not sure if that's the reason why I struggled. Perhaps something like a set of wheels on the bottom of the legs could be helpful to make it easier to fully open the travel cot when it's on carpet. Obviously the wheels would need to have a lock to ensure the cot stays stationary.

Tested by mum Lisa Leyland for the M&B Awards 2017:

The SENA Mini is contemporary, compact, lightweight and comes with carry bag and handle so makes for easy transportation. It is very stable and has dual use for baby and toddler; the raised cosy sleeping space allows parents to check on baby with ease, it gives baby more room than a moses basket, but still nice and cosy to allow baby to sleep without there being too big. The mattress is padded, so negates the requirement for an additional mattress.

I think that this travel cot is the best one I have seen, it's easily erected and dismantled in one movement unlike other brands. The outer is durable fabric & easily cleaned. Converts easily from a small cosy baby cot to a toddler bed, the thick padded mattress is soft enhancing baby’s sleep. The mesh offers ventilation and parents peace of mind. It is easily stored when both flat & erect, takes up much less room than a normal others, with still a good internal space for the age range.

It opens one handed, has a padded mattress and 2 sleeping positions which seem to aide a better night's sleep for baby. It is compact for transportation, negates the requirement to take a moses basket when baby is small as we used to do. It grows with baby and comes with a 2 year guarantee. Its easily cleaned and very easy to store away. When its erect it isn’t bulky and doesn’t take up a lot of space like other brands.

The only one thing which I think could be improved is when it is time to put the cot back into the bag, it is a two handed, push, pull, jiggling job to do. I think that if 2 Velcro straps were placed on the rear of the mattress which then wrapped around the whole cot when putting into the bag would enable an easier slip into the bag. Other brands do this and it seems to work.

Tested by mum Vicki Mulraney for the M&B Awards 2017:

I would definitely recommend the Nuna SENA mini to fellow mums. This travel cot is very easy to assemble and dismantle, which is one of its most positive attributes. In addition, I think the higher level for younger babies is a really beneficial feature. Finally, as travel cots go, the Nuna SENA mini Is aesthetically pleasing.

We keep the Nuna SENA mini at Granny's house which enables us to put the baby to sleep there, ensuring she's safe and comfortable. It comes with a comfortable mattress layer and the baby sleeps very well in it. It can also be easily packed away if we are going away anywhere and require to take a bed for the baby.

Quite simply, this product is far superior to others that I have used based on how easy it is to assemble and dismantle. In addition, the quality, comfortable mattress that comes with it as standard, makes it stand out from the crowd. Finally, the Nuna SENA mini is large enough to accommodate a baby/ young toddler without taking up too much room.

The only negative thing about the Nuna SENA mini is that it is quite heavy and a little cumbersome. This however is a worthwhile trade off because of all the really positive features, primarily the ease of use and the quality of the product. This would definitely not stop me from purchasing this again.

Corinne Hills, 37, from Sheffield, is mum to Arthur, 14 months, Wilfred, three, Tobias, five, and Tom, 15, said:

‘This feels safe and robust, and was the easiest to assemble. The fabric quality is lovely and the mattress is thick, but it’s a heavy cot and cumbersome when folded.’

Roz Walker, 32, from Glasgow, is mum to Aaron, seven months, said:

‘I like that standard cot bedding fits this cot’s mattress, which feels thick and luxurious. But this cot is noticeably small and my seven-month-old son almost fills it already.’

Naomi Johnson, 32, from Peterborough, is mum to Logan, 10 weeks, and Elizabeth, 11, said:

‘This is stylish, sturdy and easy to use. I love that you can leave the bassinet layer in place during storage. It’s ideal for my newborn, who settles better in small spaces.’

Weighs: 8.9kg

Available from: nuna.eu

See More Travel Products

Product Information

Nuna Sena Mini Travel Cot

Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot Review

Read our Nuna Sena Aire travel cot review to see why it's a best buy

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‘It's easy to use and delivers a great night's sleep.’

Comfortable

Clever design

Multi-purpose

Pricey but an investment buy

Why you can trust GoodtoKnow. Our experienced Consumer Editor & parent reviewers spend hours testing products to help you make the best choice. Find out how we test and review products.

Darryl Baker and her 10-month-old daughter Cole tested the Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot to see if it was worth flying off with.

The Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot is as impressive as it sounds: clever design, multi-functional and with an emphasis on comfort. ‘My baby was on cloud nine – quite literally – in this cot,’ said Darryl, who reviewed it for our travel cots buying guide. 

The cot comes with two levels: a higher, newborn insert which means you can easily lift very little ones in and out, while the lower level works for older children or as a playpen.

Luxury was certainly in mind and the travel cot has a slick design and a thick, padded mattress. While Darryl found the cot to be quite heavy and thought it would be difficult to use if you were lacking in space in your car boot, she believes it's worth it's £200-plus price tag. It’s ‘the Rolls-Royce of travel cots,’ she said.

VIEW AT VERY | £249.99

Weighs: 10kg | Age Range: Birth to 3 years

Unlike others on the market, the Nuna Sena Aire Travel Cot is genuinely easy to pop open and fold away again. This is because of its zig-zag leg design, which means it pushes into place and can be folded away with one hand. 

‘Anyone who's ever had a fight with a travel cot will appreciate how superior this function is,’ said tester Darryl. The sides have a stylish black/grey mesh design so your baby is always easy to see while also being cocooned.

The mattress that comes with it is lovely and padded, which again sets it apart from the hard surfaces many babies sleep on with other travel cots. 

The finishing touch? An organic cotton sheet is included which is soft and gentle, especially on allergy-prone skin. The only downside that our tester found was how big this travel cot is. ‘Its large size and considerable weight will cause issues if you have limited space or are travelling alone,’ she said. ‘A large duffle-like bag is provided, but I found it quite heavy and had my husband handle it.’

Comfort and features

The standout feature of this travel cot is that it has a smaller bassinet upper section which is perfect for newborns and means you don’t have to bend down into the cot. Darryl thought this idea was ‘genius’. When your baby gets bigger – or if you want to use it as a playpen – this upper section can be removed.

In terms of comfort, our tester could not find fault. Using a travel cot can often mean broken sleep even when the baby is sleeping through, but not with this cot and its emphasis on comfort really pays off. 

‘This really is luxury; in fact, my toddler looked on with a hint of envy when she had to sleep on a sofa bed during a recent night away,’ she said. ‘The Air design claims to provide "unparalleled relaxation" and if my 10-month-old could talk, she'd agree.’

Value for money

At just under £250, the Nuna Sena Aire sits in the premium travel cot category and Darryl joked that, if you’re off on holiday, ‘this luxury product deserves a luxury destination!’

It is a really clever and comfortable travel cot though, and it has a price that reflects this. Darryl said that it would suit parents for whom budget and space isn’t an issue and who need a great bed for their baby while away from home. The fact that the newborn insert can be removed and it can be transformed into a playpen for older children means that it can be used when you get home from your travels too.

You might also like to read our Joie Kubbie Sleep Travel Cot review – it’s our pick of the best travel cot overall, according to our parent reviews. And don’t forget to check out the rest of our baby product reviews .

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Best Travel Cribs

The best travel cribs are super portable to make your job as carrier-of-all-the-stuff a tad easier., by jen labracio.

Traveling with babies and kids can be so rewarding, but there’s one thing you need when you get going: gear. To make things easier, you may want to have a travel stroller (or maybe your usual travel system will work just fine) and a travel car seat , but no matter how lightly you want to pack, your little one will need a safe place to rest. The best travel cribs are super portable to make your job as the baby gear schlepper a tad easier.

Babylist’s Top Picks for the Best Travel Cribs

• Best Lightweight: Babybjörn Travel Crib Light
• Best Affordable Lightweight: Chicco Alfa Lite Lightweight Travel Playard
• Best for Flying: Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib & Play Yard
• Best Affordable: Graco Pack ‘n Play Portable Playard
• Best for Toddlers: Newton Baby Travel Crib and Play Yard
• Most Versatile: UPPAbaby REMI Travel Crib & Playard
• Most Portable: Aeromoov Instant Travel Cot
• Best for Small Spaces: Bugaboo Stardust Playard
• Best for Car Travel: Maxi-Cosi Swift Playard

In This Article

How we chose the best travel cribs.

• Our Top Picks

What Is a Travel Crib?

Do you need a travel crib, what to look for in a travel crib, babylist’s picks for the best travel cribs, best lightweight travel crib.

Babybjörn Travel Crib & Organic Sheet Bundle - Dark Green

Why we love it.

Weighing in at just 13 pounds, the Babybjörn Travel Crib is one of the lightest travel cribs on the market, making it especially ideal if you’re a family who’s routinely on the go. Top features include an incredibly easy setup (it unfolds and breaks down in one motion, and there are no loose parts to worry about), breathable mesh sides and a firm but ultra-comfy mattress that parents rave about. The mattress and the fabric frame are both machine washable, so it’s easy to clean. And when the crib is folded in its carrying case, it will fit within any airline baggage compartment. Wheels up, with baby in tow!

Keep in Mind

You’ll want to stop using this travel crib around three years old or until your little one is able to climb out of it. But unlike many other travel cribs, there’s no weight limit for the Babybjörn, since the crib’s mattress rests on ground. This means you’ll get more time out of this travel crib than most.

What Babylist Parents Say

“Very happy with this travel crib – lightweight, packable, set up is incredibly easy, and it’s simple to disassemble for cleaning. The thing that set this crib apart for other similar travel-appropriate pack-and-plays for us was the thicker mattress – our 9 month old slept just as well in this travel crib as she does at home. Great product, we would highly recommend!” -BH

Additional Specs

Best Affordable Lightweight Travel Crib

Chicco Alfa Lite Lightweight Travel Playard - Dove

A lightweight travel crib is a sound investment if you’re a family who’s frequently on the go or if you plan on using it for multiple children, but many cost upwards of $300, especially after you add on accessories like sheets. Chicco’s Alfa Lite is a stellar lightweight travel crib but is about half the price of other similar options. And don’t worry—you won’t be sacrificing on features or quality. It weighs 13 pounds, is easy to open and close, folds down into a zippered carrying bag (with a large shoulder strap) and even has a zip-down side for easy access to your little one.

The Alfa Lite is Greenguard Gold Certified. Some parents mention that the mattress is on the thinner side.

“This travel playard is perfect. The design is sleek and the safely measures are advanced. The side opening zipper is buckled to the leg so no little hands can magically unzip themselves. The mattress pad also gets buckled in place. It took seconds to set up and take down. The travel playard makes your life so much easier while traveling and doesn’t take up much of any space in the car. 100/10 recommend buying!!!” -Sophia K.

Best Travel Crib for Flying

Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib & Play Yard

If you’ve ever traveled with kids, especially via plane, you know the value of having one less thing to tote around. Meet the Lotus: the travel-crib-turned-backpack that no traveling family should leave home without. This ultra-lightweight crib folds seamlessly into a compact, backpack-style carrying case, leaving your hands free to deal with the other 142 things they’ll be tasked with for attempting to leave the house with your littles in tow. (This feature comes in especially handy in airports.) We also love the unique zip-down “door” feature of the crib’s mesh side—it makes getting down on baby’s level for cuddles, feeding or play super easy, then quietly zips back up and locks into place.

Like the Babybjörn Travel Crib, the Guava’s mattress is flush to the ground, meaning there’s no weight limit usage recommendations here, either. Some parents report that the mattress is fairly thin, however.

“The Lotus crib is one of the best products we have. It is lightweight, folds and assembles in just a few snaps, and has mesh sides. The fabric comes completely off and is machine washable.” -Kristin

Best Affordable Travel Crib

Graco Pack 'n Play Portable Playard - Reign

If you’re looking for simple, sturdy travel crib that will stand the test of time but won’t break the bank, this Pack ‘n Play from Graco fits the bill. Although it’s basic, the features are anything but—there are a ton of things that you (and your little one) will love. We especially appreciate the sturdy frame, the roomy area for play and sleep and the push-button fold for quick and easy breakdown. And at around $70, this travel crib is perfect for using as an extra playard around the house and for keeping at the grandparents’ house or anywhere else you know you’ll be visiting on a regular basis.

You can’t attach any extras to this travel crib, like a bassinet or changing table. And some parents complain that the mattress is on the thin side, so that may be something to consider if you’re planning on using it for more than just the occasional weekend away. It’s also fairly heavy, so you won’t want to use it if you’re traveling by plane or anywhere else where you’ll need to carry it around frequently.

Best Travel Crib for Toddlers

Newton Baby Travel Crib and Play Yard - Grey (2023)

As your baby grows into a toddler , many parents still need the safety that the confines of a crib provide—especially while traveling. But what happens when your toddler is too big for their travel crib but too little for a bed? Enter the Newton. The mattress is about two times larger than most travel cribs, making it ideal for an older toddler who may be sized out of a smaller playard. It’s also 100 percent breathable and washable, made with the same Wovenaire technology used in the brand’s much-loved crib mattress. It’s flush to the ground, so there’s no weight limit, and it’s super comfy and GREENGAURD Gold Certified.

The playard weighs in at about 17 pounds, so while it’s not the lightest on the market, it’s still fairly easy to travel with and the weight is for a good cause. Assembly and breakdown are easy and the crib comes with a travel bag for easy storage. And it’s not just for the toddler years; there’s a bassinet insert for use from day one. Oh, and when you are ready to graduate your toddler from the travel crib, check out these great toddler travel beds .

Because of the Newton’s larger sleep space, it’s a bit bulkier than some of the other travel cribs on our list. The travel bag only has a handle, not a shoulder strap or backpack straps. And the crib is too large to store in the overhead compartment of an airplane

“I despise traditional pack n play style things. Newton’s playard is innovative and will definitely grow with a child from infancy through the preschool years! My 4.5 year old can still sleep in it comfortably with plenty of space. I really appreciate the thought that went into this product.” -Mona

Most Versatile Travel Crib

UPPAbaby REMI Travel Crib & Playard - Charlie

And speaking of multifunctional products, the Remi from UPPAbaby is the best choice if you’re looking for an all-in-one travel crib and playard to use both at home and when you’re on the go. There’s a ton of functionality built in to this smartly designed (and beautiful) playard. It’s Greenguard Gold Certified and includes a removable bassinet, a zip-down side panel, a triple layer air mesh mattress and a smooth, simple fold that takes one hand and only a few seconds. There are also lots of accessories to add on. A few of our favorites include the changing station , organizer and canopy .

The Remi is expensive, and even moreso when you start adding on accessories. It’s also fairly heavy, weighing in at about 20 pounds. This isn’t a big deal if you’re planning to use it mostly at home and for the occasional overnight trip, but if your family travels frequently and you need to bring along a place for your baby to sleep, it may not be your best option.

“Incredibly easy to set up. Our baby just started crawling and we don’t have a good play yard set up yet, so this was great to put him in a for the meantime. We purchased it instead of a Graco pack and play because of the zipper access and mattress quality. Love it!!!” -Rachel

Most Portable Travel Crib

Aeromoov Instant Travel Cot - White Sand

Pop-up tent meets travel crib in the Aeromoov. This 11-pound playard works just as well for a day at the beach or the park as it does for an overnight at grandma’s and is our top pick if you’re looking for one piece of gear you can use both indoors and out. The origami-style fold takes about two seconds (literally), and once it’s folded down, the whole thing slips into a bag and is less than five inches wide. It’s easy to stash for travel or throw over your shoulder and carry if you need to bring it along for an outdoor adventure. (There are also lots of useful accessories available like a sunshade and a mosquito net.) Another feature we love: there are two levels, one upper level bassinet-style for newborns up to about two months and a the main lower level for older babies and toddlers.

If you’re using the crib indoors and your little one moves around a lot, the fabric makes a “swishing” sound that’s a bit loud.

Best Travel Cribs for Small Spaces

Bugaboo Stardust Playard - Grey Melange

Simple, streamlined and seamless. The Bugaboo Stardust is one of the smaller travel crib + playards on our list, but it packs a big punch. Unlike most travel cribs that open from the center of the base and feature fold-out legs, the standout feature here is the accordion-style fold. It makes it quick and easy to open and close by either pushing or pulling each side. You can even fold the Stardust with the mattress still inside—a pretty big deal and a huge time-saving (and sanity-saving) feature.

The Stardust weighs about 14 pounds and has a compact design that’s ideal for spaces that can’t handle a giant playard, either at home or when you’re on the go. There’s also a bassinet attachment for younger babies, a really comfortable mattress and all-around mesh panels.

The maximum weight limit for the Stardust is similar to the other travel cribs on our list, but because of smaller size, your little one may outgrow it in height sooner than they would with other playards. It’s also on the pricier side.

“I’m a first time mom and it feels like I have tried all the baby products out there. We were in the market for a new pack n’ play so I recently purchased this for my 5.5 month old and it is a game changer when it comes to portability and ease. I’ve found other products like this are bulky and difficult to store, but the Stardust is slender, lightweight and unfolds in one second. (No exaggeration.) I would highly recommend this product for travel, sleeping or playtime - in fact, we’re looking forward to traveling with it over the holidays!” -AlexT

Best Travel Crib for Car Travel

Maxi-Cosi Swift Play Yard - Classic Graphite

Weighing in at just over 18 pounds, the Maxi-Cosi Swift is too heavy and bulky for regular air travel. But it’s also quite a bit lighter than many of the standard playards on the market, so we still wanted to consider it for our best-of list. That’s why think it’s an ideal choice if you’re a family who travels frequently by car. While you won’t want to lug it around on the regular, it’s easy enough to load and unload from any vehicle. And the setup and breakdown? It’s an actual dream, especially during travel when you have 14 other things to do after you set up your little one’s sleep space. Parents rave about how easy it is—it actually folds in one step using only one hand. Other pros to love include a super sturdy design, a comfortable mattress and a bassinet attachment that comes included at no extra cost.

As noted above, the Swift weighs about 18 pounds, so it’s not the lightest travel crib of the bunch, but isn’t the heaviest, either.

“We have tried a handful of play yards and the difficulty of putting them down and back up is what always frustrates us. The swift is truly like no other. It takes less than 5 seconds to set it up and less than five seconds to break it down. Not only is it so easy but it’s also so aesthetically pleasing!!” -Momof3

• We analyzed results from Babylist’s Best Baby Products survey, which polled 6,000 Babylist users and asked them to share the baby products they love the most and why.
• We utilized insight from the Babylist editorial team, including Gear Editor Jen LaBracio, an expert in the baby space for over six years and a mom of two who has written hundreds of baby gear guides and personally researched and tested hundreds of baby products, including many travel cribs.
• We reviewed customer reviews from hundreds of real Babylist parents.

A travel crib is a portable crib you can use for sleep or play when you’re away from home with your baby or toddler. While you can use most playards for the same purpose, travel cribs are specifically designed with travel in mind; they’re lighter, more compact and easier to set up and break down than your average playard. Travel cribs generally accommodate newborns to toddlers about three years old.

Whether or not you need a travel crib depends on how often you travel and where you’re heading on your next adventure.

Many hotels and even some rental homes may supply a travel crib. Using a baby gear rental company is an option, too. But if you’re staying somewhere that doesn’t supply a crib, you don’t want to rent or you simply prefer to be in control of what your baby sleeps in while you’re away, investing in a travel crib is probably a good idea.

Besides being a place to rest, travel cribs are also a safe place for your little one to play, especially when you’re away from your usual surroundings and potentially dealing with a non- babyproofed space. (We’re looking at you, sharp table corners and exposed electrical sockets.) You can even use some travel cribs as a napping spot on days spent at the beach or park.

Travel cribs can be expensive. A travel crib is also something you’ll use for years, especially if your family travels frequently. Think through these features before you buy.

• Weight. This is one of the most important features to look for in a travel crib. A lightweight travel crib is easier to lift and carry than a heavier option. To figure out if this is important to you or not, think through how often you’ll be traveling and which modes of transport you generally use. Do you travel infrequently and often by car? Plan to use your travel crib only for a trip to the grandparents’ once a year? Then your travel crib’s weight may not be hugely important to you. Are you planning several trips by plane where you’ll need to bring your travel crib along? Then the weight of the travel crib you choose should jump to the top of your priority list.
• Size and portability. Similar to weight, the size and overall portability of your travel crib are important features, but also dependent on how often you travel and how you get wherever you’re going. If you’re a frequent flyer, you’ll want a travel crib that’s not only lightweight but portable, too. Look for a compact crib and something that has either backpack straps or another easy way to carry it through someplace like an airport or train station. If not, however, a slightly larger travel crib or one that doesn’t come with built-in carry straps may be just fine.
• Longevity. How long you’ll be able to use your travel crib is a big factor to consider while shopping. One thing to consider is the crib’s design. Although not outwardly labeled this way, there are two basic types of travel cribs: cribs with raised mattresses and cribs where the mattress lies flush with the floor. Most travel cribs with raised mattresses have weight maximums. This means that if you have a larger, heavier child, they may exceed the travel crib’s weight long before you feel comfortable letting them sleep in a regular bed or even a toddler travel bed while you’re away from home. Travel cribs where the mattress sits directly on the floor, however, often do not have weight maximums. While your little one still may outgrow the crib by height, these types of travel cribs often can be used for a longer period of time.
• Ease of breakdown and setup. Travel with babies and toddlers is no easy feat. Look for a travel crib that sets up and breaks down quickly and easily so you can spend less time grappling with gear and more time enjoying your vacation.
• Materials and breathability. Look for a travel crib with a breathable mattress, breathable mesh sides and one that’s made from soft, comfortable materials. If it’s important to you, you may prefer a travel crib that’s GREENGUARD Gold Certified or uses organic materials. Removable and machine washable sides and covers are also nice-to-have features in case of a mess.
• Budget. Travel cribs can get pricey, especially if you want one that’s extremely lightweight and portable. Thinking through how often you’ll be traveling and what types of features will make the most sense to you can help you determine your budget.

Jen LaBracio

Senior gear editor.

Jen LaBracio is Babylist’s Senior Gear Editor, a role that perfectly combines her love of all things baby gear with her love of (obsessive) research. When she’s not testing out a new high chair or pushing the latest stroller model around her neighborhood, she likes to run, spin, listen to podcasts, read and spend time at the beach. In her past life, she worked for over a decade in children’s publishing. She lives outside of Chicago with her husband and their two boys, Will and Ben.

'The size of an apple seed': How to protect your family from bed bugs during summer travel

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — The summer of adventure is here! According to TSA, the summer of 2024 is expected to be the busiest summer of travel ever.

The expected record travel comes after TSA saw record-breaking numbers during Memorial Day Weekend including the single-day record of 2.95 million people scanned through TSA on May 24th. Buffalo Niagara Airport was one of the many airports that saw an influx of travelers that weekend.

"We are already seeing some of our numbers that are up from 2023," NFTA Public Information Officer Kelly Khatib said. "For Memorial Day weekend, we actually saw about a 15% increase from last year so we’re just expecting those numbers to grow and grow."

With the busy travel expected, TSA is urging travelers to follow the recommended airport arrival times — two hours for international travel and an hour and a half for domestic. Khatib offered an important tip as you head to the airport.

"When you’re packing, make sure that you start with an empty bag," Khatib said. "People, especially from Western New York, we got a lot of hunters here. Sometimes, you leave ammunition, you leave guns, we do not want that to come through our airport."

Starting with an empty bag is the best way to ensure that you avoid bringing a prohibited item on the plane. It's also the best way to be sure you don't come back home with unwanted guests — bed bugs.

"It's extremely easy [to get into your suitcase]", President of Buffalo Exterminators Robert Mettal said.

7 News joined Mettal and his co-worker at a bed bug assignment at a home in Buffalo. We talked to him about traveling and how bed bugs could affect a trip. He gave tips about what people should do when they first arrive at their hotels/lodging areas.

"They should pull off the sheets and the covers and look at the seams of the mattress," Mettal said. "If you’re strong enough flip the box spring as well. Usually, around there, you’ll look for little dots, the excretion of the bed bug or they can possibly catch a bed bug which looks like a little apple seed."

When we went inside, we spoke to Mettal's coworker, manager Brandon Shotwell who offered tips about what people should do when they get home from vacation.

"First thing they should do is take a contractor bag, empty their clothes into it with the suitcase, tie it up. Seal it with duct tape that’s the best way to do it," Shotwell said. "Take it immediately to a washer and dryer."

If you do come across them when you get home, Shotwell urges you to act immediately.

"Immediately same thing. Bag, washer and dryer, then call an exterminator for an inspection," Shotwell said.

You can learn about more ways to protect your family from bed bugs during your travels here .

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How to tell if you have bed bugs in hotels, rentals and what to do if you take them home

When it comes to insects, few are as insidious as the bed bug .

They can live for more than a year without food. Their bodies are slim and flat, allowing them to squeeze into tiny spaces and hide. When they bite, many humans don’t have a visible reaction, so they can freely multiply and spread until the problem is more out of control.

In short, bed bugs are survivors and the last thing you want to bring home from vacation.

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USA TODAY spoke to experts on the subject to help travelers avoid them on the road and to figure out what to do in the worst-case scenario: they infest the home.

Here’s what you should do to avoid bed bugs:

Preventing bed bugs ahead of time

One myth many people have about bed bugs is that they’re only a problem at cheap motels and rentals with low ratings.

That’s simply not true, said Michael Bentley, director of training and education at the  National Pest Management Association .

“Bed bugs don’t see dollar signs,” he said. “It could be the top-of-the-line, five star hotel. It can be the one-star, in-and-out hotel that you're stopping at for a quick overnight while you're making a cross-country trip. Bed bugs don’t care.”

Bentley and other experts recommend scouring through recent reviews of any potential lodging.

“I usually go two or three months deep and see what the cleanliness situation’s been looking like,” said Halee Whiting, owner of a hotel sales support  company  and a popular TikToker who created a viral  video  about how to check your lodging for bed bugs.

Whiting prefers the reviews on TripAdvisor and recommends looking at brand websites for reviews because those are written by loyalty members.

Bed bugs: Potentially record summer travel + low housekeeping staff = bed bug nightmares

How to look for bed bugs

Anytime a traveler walks into a new hotel or a rental like Airbnb or VRBO, either leave the luggage outside or put it in the bathroom, ideally the bathtub, according to experts.

Bed bugs gravitate toward places with fabric where humans like to lounge, like beds and sofas.

“There's likely no place where bedbugs are infesting the bathtub,” Bentley said. “If they're in the bathtub, we've got a bigger problem and we're not we're not making it any further into the bedroom.”

Keep the luggage away from the rest of the property until after it is thoroughly inspected it for bed bugs.

How to find bed bugs in hotels

To find out if a hotel or Airbnb has bed bugs, it’s going to take more than a cursory inspection.

Don’t just pull back the bed’s fitted sheet and eyeball it.

First, turn off all the lights and close the shades and turn on the flashlight on your phone, Whiting recommends.

Shine the flashlight on the beds during inspection. Pull the sheets back and check under the creases of the mattress.

“They’re pretty cryptic insects,” Bentley said. “Their body is flattened, kind of like business cards, so they can tuck themselves into these tiny nooks and crannies inside of beds and bed sheets and a little seams along the bedspread.”

You’re not only looking for bugs but also, “tiny brownish, blackish red spots,” he said.

“As bedbugs feed, they pass a lot of that undigested blood that they're feeding on straight through its feces,” he said. “So they defecate a lot while they're feeding. So if you happen to see little black spots, that could clearly be an indication that bedbugs are there or have been there and have been feeding.”

Bed bugs can also create a sweet, musty odor akin to sweaty gym socks, said Ron Harrison, an entomologist and global director of technical services for Orkin .

"If you have one or two you won't smell it," Harrison said. "But if you have a bad infestation you can smell it when you walk in the room."

What to do if you find bed bugs in a hotel

If you find bed bugs or any sign of them, like their feces, document what you’ve found in photos and video and contact your hotel or rental host immediately.

Most good hotels will refund the stay and put the room you found them in and every room around it out of order until the bed bugs can be exterminated, Whiting said.

One property, however, only put the room in question out of order, which allowed the bugs to spread and eventually forced the closure of 24 rooms until the problem could be solved, Whiting said.

Airbnb's policy is to refund guests if they come across bed bugs but it doesn't always mean there won't be extra costs.

Andrew Forcier of Columbus, Montana, said Airbnb refunded him when he found bed bugs in his apartment rental in Montreal earlier this year, but only covered 30 percent of the more expensive hotel he had to book at the last minute instead. That cost him $500.

What kills bed bugs

Even if travelers don't believe they have been exposed to bed bugs, experts provided best practices to avoid spreading an infestation.

Experts recommend washing the clothes you packed in hot water and putting them in the dryer upon returning home because heat kills bed bugs. They also recommend storing luggage in the attic where it's warmer, or at least away from bedrooms if possible.

If the worst-case scenario happens and bed bugs infest a house, experts agree that it's not the time for home remedies.

"There really are no over-the-counter, do-it-yourself solutions, because these are such incredibly effective, cryptic insects," Bentley said. "When it comes to hide and seek, there is no better player in the game out there than bedbugs."

Using less-effective home methods could allow a population to thrive and spread, he said.

"The safest solution is to go with a pest management professional."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How to tell if you have bed bugs in hotels, rentals and what to do if you take them home

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The Best Mattresses of 2024

We've tested hundreds of models — and surveyed over 10,000 mattress owners — to find the most comfortable and supportive options.

Best Overall Mattress

Saatva classic mattress.

Best Value Mattress

Allswell luxe hybrid.

Best Mattress for Side Sleepers

Tempur-pedic tempur-cloud.

Best Hybrid Mattress

Bear elite hybrid.

Best Mattress for Couples

Helix dusk luxe.

Best Mattress on Amazon

Tuft & needle t&n original mattress.

Best Mattress for Back Pain

Nolah original 10”.

Best Memory Foam Mattress-in-a-Box

Casper original mattress.

Best Soft Mattress

Puffy lux hybrid mattress.

Best Firm Mattress

Stearns & foster estate mattress.

A good mattress is key to a good night's sleep, but finding one that feels comfortable and doesn't cost a fortune can seem like a daunting task. Not to mention, you want to ensure it's easy to set up in your bedroom, feels supportive whether you sleep on your side, back or stomach and will last beyond just a few years.

Saatva is our top recommendation because it consistently earns high ratings from our testers and is a great value compared to other luxury mattresses on the market. It offers the convenience of online bed shopping, but unlike most online mattresses that are primarily made of foam and shipped compressed in a box, this one is a traditional innerspring, which is more durable, firmer and more breathable than foam beds.

The ordering and delivery process also stand out compared to others. Saatva is a direct-to-consumer brand with an easy-to-use website, though it does have 16 showrooms where you can feel the mattress in person. When you order, you choose from two heights and three firmness levels to match your preferences and sleep position. "Luxury Firm" is closest to medium firmness and it's the brand's most popular option. You can also add an optional foundation if your bed frame doesn't have a flat, hard surface. White glove delivery and setup are included in the price, and the delivery team can even haul away your old mattress. Saatva offers a year-long return period to make sure you truly love sleeping on the bed. If it's not a good fit, you can return it for a $99 pick-up fee.

Two things to keep in mind regarding the cost: First, we've seen Saatva prices regularly increasing over the past several years, and we expect this trend to continue. Second, we've noticed that it's almost always marked down, so avoid paying full price for this one.

WHO IT'S BEST FOR:

• People who prefer a traditional, firm and bouncy mattress instead of the sinking-in feel of memory foam.
• Hot sleepers; the innerspring interior makes it more breathable than foam layers.
• Anyone who would benefit from enhanced edge support, which makes it easier to get in and out of bed.
• Shoppers who need full-service set up and mattress removal.

WHO SHOULD AVOID IT:

• Sleepers who prefer cradling, pressure-relieving memory foam; they may find this bed feels too firm.
• Partners who easily disturb each other with movement, as innerspring models don't offer as much motion isolation as foam.
• Budget-focused shoppers. Though it does offer a good value — it's built to last and luxury mattresses can cost several thousand dollars — $2,000 for a Queen still isn't cheap.

TESTER NOTES: We've surveyed over 100 Saatva mattress owners, who gave it top ratings for comfort, support and overall sleep quality. Users also highlighted its customer service; they said ordering and in-home setup went smoothly and any issues that came up during the process were quickly resolved. Reviewers also told us that this mattress sleeps cooler, feels firmer and offers more edge support than memory foam mattresses . One described it as "firm, but not hard" while another said it's "comfortable and just the right amount of plush." Some praised it for being "the best mattress ever," and one said it led to "the best sleep I've ever had."

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Here's Why Saatva Is Our Pick for the Best Overall Mattress

An affordable mattress doesn't have to feel cheap. This one from Allswell is a fraction of the cost of others, but it still has standout features and exceptionally high ratings from our testers that set it apart from other low-cost models, including inexpensive bestsellers on Amazon. And while mattress prices have skyrocketed in recent years, Allswell pricing has stayed low and consistent. In fact, we never see this one go on sale, so don't hold off for a holiday weekend to buy it.

It's a hybrid mattress with both memory foam and coils for a mix of comfort and support. It comes in just one firmness level — a medium — but does feel a bit plush. Your purchase includes free shipping, and the mattress arrives in a box for you to set up on your own. It's not built to order, so you can expect to receive the mattress within days of purchasing.

• Price-conscious shoppers (including apartment renters and first-time homeowners) who are looking to spend under $500 without sacrificing comfort.
• Young adults (especially people in their 20s); this mattress was more well-loved by a younger crowd in our tests and surveys.
• Sleepers who prefer a plush (yet still supportive) surface.
• Older individuals or anyone with mobility issues. The lack of edge support and DIY setup can be a deterrent.
• People who prefer a firm mattress.

TESTER NOTES: The feedback from our survey respondents and testers said that this mattress was absolutely a great value, and some even said it got rid of their neck and back pain. The most common complaint was that there was less edge support when getting in and out of bed. Still, users couldn't believe how expensive it felt. One described it to us by saying, "This mattress is supportive and plush, and it feels like a fancy hotel bed," while another raved, "It feels like sleeping on a real, plush hotel mattress, but at a fraction of the price."

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Why the Allswell Luxe Hybrid Is Our Best Value Mattress

Tempur-Pedic mattresses are well known for their high-quality foam that offers superior pressure relief and motion isolation, but the brand's models can get very expensive. Fortunately, this newer mattress is a boxed model that uses three layers of its proprietary foam for cradling comfort and has a more attainable price tag. The foam takes weight off your pressure points and helps keep your spine in neutral alignment, making it ideal for side sleepers. It has a medium firmness and the brand says that although it may feel a bit too firm when you first lie down, it slowly adapts to your body shape to feel like a personalized fit.

Though it's still somewhat expensive, you can save 30% off the full price of this mattress using the code CLOUD30 at checkout. If you prefer a model with coils, you can upgrade to a hybrid version for an extra $200. However, our testers tend to like the all-foam models from Tempur-Pedic better, which makes sense because the brand's foam is considered best in class.

• Side sleepers who need pressure relief for their hips and shoulders without too much sinking in.
• People who want to invest in the unique feel of Tempur-Pedic's foam without overspending.
• Couples who worry about sleep disruption; this one has good motion isolation.
• Anyone who prefers a tall mattress; it's only 10 inches high.
• Sleepers who like a firm bed instead of a conforming surface.

TESTER NOTES : Our panelists gave it high scores for comfort, support and overall sleep quality. "We were delighted with the comfort," said one tester. "The foam is lovely if you like that feeling of sinking into a warm hug when you sleep. We can’t deny that we slept well on this mattress." Another user told us, "I feel like my entire body is supported in a very gentle way." Users also note that the foam holds up surprisingly well over time. A tester compared this model to a previous mattress-in-a-box they slept on and noted, "It was definitely a major upgrade."

If you're a hot sleeper, we also recommend the Tempur-Luxe Breeze Mattress . This model uses unique phase change technology that's been proven in tests to keep you feeling up to 10 degrees cooler while you sleep. It costs over $5,000 for a Queen, but it comes with full-service delivery and setup, and our testers say it looks and feels as good as new, even after years of sleeping on it.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Tempur-Pedic's Tempur-Cloud Delivers Luxurious Memory Foam to Your Door

If you're not sure whether to buy memory foam or innerspring, this model combines the benefits of both and is consistently a tester favorite thanks to its comfort that you have to feel to believe. It's made of several layers of foam and coils, including foam with five zoned sections to promote alignment. Each section has varying firmness levels depending on where you need more pressure relief or more support. It also has reinforced edge support, which is not typically found in boxed mattresses.

Because it's a boxed model, it's intended for DIY setup. However, the brand does offer a white glove delivery service for an extra $175. It's also worth noting that the brand makes claims about using natural minerals that turn your body heat into energy, which is then reflected back to you to enhance recovery. We couldn't verify these claims in our research, but we still stand behind the mattress for its incredible comfort.

• Side and back sleepers.
• Back pain sufferers, according to our testers.
• Anyone who has struggled to find a truly comfortable mattress.
• People who prefer firm innerspring mattresses or all-foam models.

TESTER NOTES: Our testers gave it perfect scores across the board, with one saying, "It is the most comfortable mattress we have ever slept on." We've had new testers try this model each year and they consistently tell us they have better, more uninterrupted sleep than on any other mattress they've tried before. One also noted, "This is undoubtedly the best mattress we have ever owned. We have traveled all over and have never had the sleep experience we now have every night."

The Goldilocks of mattresses — i.e., not too hard yet not too soft — this medium firmness pick provides a happy balance for couples with different needs . It's a hybrid model with layers of foam over coils and has luxurious add-ons like a moisture-wicking cover, zoned sections for ergonomic support and a built-in pillowtop for added comfort.

For several hundred dollars less, the Dusk version (without the "Luxe" in the title) has similar features, but fewer support layers. Helix's most popular line is the Midnight , which promotes pressure relief for side sleepers, though our testers and analysts were most impressed by the Dusk Luxe model. If you're not sure which model is right for you, Helix offers a sleep quiz to help you sort through its options.

• Sleeping partners with different firmness preferences.
• Any sleeper that changes position throughout the night.
• Sleeping partners with motion transfer issues.
• Shoppers concerned about the DIY setup; this one is heavy because of its many layers and doesn't have side handles.

TESTER NOTES: Our t esters gave it high scores in all areas — from ease of setup to comfort to overall sleep quality — and noted that they feel properly supported whether on their sides, backs or stomachs. One reviewer highlighted, "It's a good mix for me (a side sleeper) and my partner (a back sleeper)."

Users also say it has a contouring feel against pressure points, and one described it by saying, "It feels plush but doesn't feel like it's swallowing me up, and there's just enough bounce that allows me to shift and turn over in the night." They did note that they can sometimes feel their sleeping partner move if they're too close together.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Helix Carries Over 20 Mattresses — Here's Why We Love the Dusk Luxe Model

Tuft & Needle T&N Original Mattress

If you like the speed and accessibility of shopping on Amazon, it makes sense to consider getting your mattress there too. This popular model is affordable at under $1,000 and arrives in a box at your home within days, which is a big feat since the mattress industry is notorious for shipping delays. It has a simple, no-frills design with just two foam layers.

The brand boasts its proprietary T&N Adaptive Foam technology that's supportive and resilient yet contours your body without feeling stiff. Plus, graphite and ceramic gel are added to the foams to help pull away body heat, a key feature as memory foam alone can cause overheating.

• Shoppers who need a mattress delivered quickly (rather than waiting for a scheduled delivery service).
• Sleepers who prefer a firmer memory foam instead of one that's more cushy and plush.
• Price-conscious buyers.
• People who need edge support when getting in and out of bed.
• Those who would prefer a taller mattress with more layers .

TESTER NOTES: Even though it's lower priced, our reviewers gave it high marks across the board — from the ordering process and setup to the comfort and support. Several commented on liking its firmness, and one user who's had it for five years told us, "My Tuft & Needle mattress is so much more comfortable than any mattress I've ever had in the past. My husband and I both experience much less back pain."

Our reviewers also raved about the brand's customer service, commenting that the representatives were friendly and helpful. They also highlighted the motion isolation and said they couldn't feel movement from sleeping partners. The only real complaint was that there wasn't much edge support, so it may sag when you sit on the sides.

The best mattresses for back pain are made of memory foam and have a medium firmness level, giving you pressure relief and cradling comfort. Not only does this Nolah model check off those boxes, but our testers swore it eased their discomfort. It's made up of three layers of foam (with pressure-relieving foam on top and more dense, supportive foam on the bottom), but there's also a "hybrid" variation with cutouts in the foam to mimic the flexibility and responsiveness of coils.

• Sleepers struggling with pain, like hip pain, back pain, pregnancy-related pain and sciatica.
• Side sleepers; though it can be used for a range of sleep positions.
• People who prefer a taller mattress, especially for getting in and out of bed. This one is only 10-inches high, but Nolah's Evolution 15-inch model is a taller, more expensive hybrid model that was also loved by our reviewers with back pain.

TESTER NOTES: One user told us this model "offers back support while still cradling pressure points." They added, "It has been significantly helpful in relieving back pain for my husband, who has scoliosis." Another owner who's had it for four years said it has kept its shape well, and a recent tester of the newer hybrid variation said, "On the first day of testing, I went to bed with a strained back from hours of sitting at my desk. When I woke up the next day, the pain was completely gone." And though memory foam is known to trap heat, reviewers told us this one sleeps surprisingly cool.

If you're not used to sleeping on an all-foam mattress like this one, it may take some getting used to. Testers told us it felt too soft at first, but they ultimately loved sleeping on it and found it to be supportive.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Sleep Testers Swear Nolah's Mattress Alleviates Back Pain

Casper is practically synonymous with "mattress-in-a-box" because the brand helped online bed shopping hit the mainstream. As a result, it's one of the most popular mattresses among our panelists and in the bedding industry. This model is made entirely of memory foam, but it has zoned layers that make it stand out from other foam models on the market because they're ergonomically designed for spine alignment. The purchase includes free shipping for you to set up on your own.

Casper started with this Original model that it called the "one perfect mattress." It has since added new models and the Original has gone through some updates since it first launched, and it's the one we think offers the most bang for your buck. The company recently updated its entire mattress assortment and we are currently testing the One model , which is similar to the Original but doesn't have zoned support. However, you can still buy the Original (which we've extensively tested) on Amazon.

• Sleepers who prefer the cradling comfort of memory foam.
• Those willing to spend a bit more for foam to get ergonomic support.
• Back and side sleepers because of the split zones for alignment.
• People over the age of 40, who may not find it as comfortable. It was more well-liked by our under-40 testers.

TESTER NOTES: The brand as a whole earned high scores across the board from more than 130 Casper mattress owners in our survey, and users noted how well it has kept its shape over time. Most people told us they love this specific model and especially highlighted the ease of ordering and setup as well as the 12-inch height that isn't too tall and fits sheets nicely. One user on our panel liked how well "it conforms to your body," while a second one pointed out, "It helps with motion transfer much more than the old innerspring mattress I had." Another reviewer told us, "It is extremely comfy — so comfy that we bought two more for other beds."

Puffy stands out for feeling plush and indulgent, yet still supportive — i.e., it's a soft mattress that doesn't sink in or sag. It's a hybrid model that combines coils and foam layers that conform to your body, making it an ideal mattress for side sleepers or anyone who needs pressure relief. The mattress ships in a box within days for DIY setup at your convenience.

This model has undergone multiple updates over the past several years, and we've had users weigh in on how it compares to past versions. The main highlight is that there's improved support, including the edge support.

WHO IT'S BEST FOR :

• Side sleepers.
• Back pain sufferers.
• Anyone who prefers a cushiony feel for their mattress.
• People who prefer a firm mattress . Even though users describe it as supportive, it still has a plush feel.

TESTER NOTES: One tester said, "I feel like I'm sleeping on a cloud, but I still feel supported." The two most common highlights from reviewers are that they experience fewer aches and pains from it (especially compared to innerspring beds) and that the mattress keeps its shape nicely without forming indents. One said, "It's not too hard and not too soft," while another noted, "I am able to sleep more deeply on it." Just keep in mind: The brand claims to use cooling features, but it wasn't noticeable to some testers.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Puffy's Luxe Hybrid Mattress Feels Like Sleeping on a Cloud, According to GH Testers

Stearns & Foster Estate Mattress

This pick from Stearns & Foster is made with a complex coil system that's unique to the brand and offers premium support. It's available in multiple firmness levels, but the firm is labeled as a 9 out of 10 on the firmness scale. On top of that, it uses high-end materials (like a smooth and moisture-wicking Tencel outer cover) and is handcrafted, so you can expect it to last better than cheaply-made beds. We also love how it can be used with adjustable bases (which is more typical of flexible foams) and the fact that it includes in-home delivery and setup.

There's the option to add a pillowtop when you buy — a pillowtop firm is still rated as an 8 out of 10 on the firmness scale — or upgrade to the brand's Lux Estate model , which is more expensive but uses layers of memory foam at the surface for more pressure relief.

• Stomach sleepers.
• Heavier body weights.
• Anyone who prefers a firm mattress.
• In-store shoppers who want to feel it in person at their local mattress store .
• Side sleepers, especially those with lighter body weights because it can put too much pressure on the hips.
• Sleepers who prefer a plush mattress.

TESTER NOTES: The brand has a luxury price point, but users on our tester panel agreed that they slept well on their Stearns & Foster mattresses. In fact, we reviewed responses from over 150 owners of this brand, and it was especially loved by those who prefer a firm feel. When comparing the mattress to previous ones they own, users highlighted the firmness and support as the main upgrades. For instance, one noted that the mattress feels "thicker and firmer, and seems to have more support," while another told us, "I like how firm this mattress is as well as the quality of the outer material."

Purple Mattress

There are a lot of similarities between most mattress materials, but Purple is unique because of its GelFlex Grid: An elastic top layer that feels squishy yet surprisingly firm . It provides both support and pressure relief, along with excellent motion isolation and breathability. In fact, this air flow helps it feel cooler than other mattresses, even those with built-in cooling features.

This version is the base model, which is coil-free and ships in a box for you to set up on your own. The brand also carries a Purple Plus mattress that has an extra layer of foam and a softer feel than the original, plus a hybrid variation that has individual coils for more firmness, bounce and airflow.

• Hot sleepers who get sweaty at night.
• Couples because of its motion isolation.
• Heavier body weights; it has a 600-pound capacity (or 300 pounds on each side).
• People who are tired of the same old mattress feel and want to try something unique.
• Those who prefer to use a mattress pad or mattress topper. You won't feel the grid's cooling effects if there is excess material getting in the way.
• Cold sleepers; some people find the gel grid cools them down too much.
• People who prefer a tall mattress.

TESTER NOTES: For starters, testers noted that the cooling capabilities were obvious, saying it feels noticeably cooler than other beds they've owned and leads to better sleep. On top of that, our panelists swear it feels like the perfect combination of soft and firm. As one put it, "It's 'springy' and conforms to my body while still being supportive." Others describe it as feeling like "sleeping on air" and "like floating in every sleeping position." They also told us they couldn't feel their partners moving throughout the night thanks to its motion isolation. The main callout with this one is that several told us the delivery took longer than expected.

Avocado Green Mattress

If you prefer to skip memory foam and synthetic fabrics, this latex mattress is made of natural and organic materials. It's also certified by the Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) and Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) so you know the entire manufacturing process follows strict guidelines on the materials and ingredients used. The best part is that it doesn't skimp on quality by going green; in fact, it earned one of the highest scores for delivering quality sleep among our panel. It also earned the Good Housekeeping Seal and is backed by our limited warranty.

The mattress is on the firmer side (the brand calls it a 7 out of 10), but you can opt for a pillowtop for an extra cost that'll make it feel either medium or plush. Avocado also stands out for its generous year-long return policy, whereas most brands offer around 100 days. This mattress ships for free for you to set up on your own, or you can pay a $249 fee to have it delivered and set up for you.

• Eco-conscious consumers prefer organic materials over memory foam.
• Anyone who enjoys the floating feel of latex.
• Shoppers who prefer the sinking-in feel of memory foam; latex doesn't offer the same pressure relief.

TESTER NOTES: This mattress proves you don't need to sacrifice performance for an organic mattress . Users told us they love sleeping on it and said it keeps their body weight evenly distributed. One of our reviewers shared, "I like that it's made of organic and natural materials, that it's extremely comfortable and that it's held up even after years." Users also said the brand's customer service is top notch and they had no issues to report.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Avocado's Green Mattress is the Best Organic Mattress on the Market

Lexie Sachs (she/her) is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute and a lead reviewer of products in the bedding, travel, lifestyle, home furnishings and apparel spaces. She has over 15 years of experience in the consumer products industry and a degree in fiber science from Cornell University. Lexie serves as an expert source both within Good Housekeeping and other media outlets, regularly appearing on national broadcast TV segments. Prior to joining GH in 2013, Lexie worked in merchandising and product development in the fashion and home industries.

Grace Wu (she/her) is a product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she evaluates fabric-based products using specialized equipment and consumer tester data. Prior to starting at Good Housekeeping in 2022, she earned a master of engineering in materials science and engineering and a bachelor of science in fiber science from Cornell University. While earning her degrees, Grace worked in research laboratories for smart textiles and nanotechnology and held internships at Open Style Lab and Rent the Runway.

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How Often Should You Replace Your Pillows?

As with mattresses , pillows don’t have a hard-and-fast expiration date, so the only truly honest answer for when to replace them is a resounding “It depends.” The basic rule of thumb — and what I’ve heard over and over from experts — is to replace your pillows every two years, especially if you have asthma, a dust-mite allergy, or sensitive skin. But a well-maintained pillow can certainly last longer if it’s still supportive enough that you aren’t waking up with aches and pains. Whether it has been two years or not, here are the main things to consider before buying a new pillow .

Above all, make sure your pillow is supporting your head and neck

Beyond comfort, the main reason for sleeping with a pillow at all is to keep your head and neck in a neutral alignment with your spine. And because you sleep on it for hours every night, your pillow will inevitably wear out over time. If you’re dealing with any kind of neck pain , it may be a sign that your pillow isn’t doing its job, especially if it has gotten too flat or compressed after years of use, says chiropractor Dr. Jordan Duncan .

To test the supportiveness of your pillow, you can try what Dr. Joshua Tal , a psychologist who specializes in sleep disorders, calls the “shoe test,” which was created by Dr. Michael Breus , a clinical psychologist and founder of the Sleep Doctor wellness company. “What you do is you fold your pillow in half, put a shoe on the back side of the pillow, and then let go of the pillow,” explains Tal. “If the pillow folds back into shape and flings the shoe off of it, you’re good. If it doesn’t, it’s kind of lost its ability to hold your head up properly.” (Be sure to use a substantial shoe and not, say, a flip-flop.)

Tal also mentioned another test he uses with his patients: “I advise clients to stand up against the wall as if you were sleeping — so a back sleeper would stand with their back to the wall; a side sleeper would stand with their side to the wall — and then rest your head on the wall and notice how far it has to move to do that,” he says. “Then put your pillow in between where you’re resting your head and see if you’re standing up straight. That’s the key: You should be standing up straight if you have a good pillow.”

If your pillow looks or feels very lumpy — a possibility for down , down-alternative, or shredded-foam pillows — that may also be a sign it’s losing some of its structural integrity.

Pillows can get pretty gross over time

Because you’re essentially smashing your face and hair into them every night, and because they’re not always washing machine–friendly, pillows tend to need replacing more often than other bedding, solely from a hygiene perspective. The main concerns are asthma , allergies, and skin: According to Melanie Carver, chief mission officer of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), the fabric of a pillow is permeable to dust mites, and after two years of use, your pillow can be 10 percent dead dust mites and their droppings. Icky, yes, as well as particularly bad for people with dust-mite allergies . Other potential allergy triggers like pet dander and mold can also be absorbed by your pillow and cause symptoms to flare. If you have asthma, allergens in your pillow can make your symptoms worse.

Pillows can also trap dirt, oil, and dead skin cells, and according to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Annie Chiu , all of these can be irritants for your skin — even if you are diligently washing your pillowcase . Chiu explains that a pillowcase won’t act as a complete barrier, so irritants in your pillow can still cause trouble, especially if you have sensitive skin or persistent acne .

Yellowing or stains can be an indicator that your pillow has absorbed lots of moisture — from sweat, drool, skin-care or hair-care products, or going to sleep with wet hair — and needs to be replaced.

How important is the “every two years” rule, really?

If you’re balking at the idea of replacing your pillow every two years, you’re not alone. Two years is what AAFA officially recommends — and just about every expert I spoke to echoed it. But my own informal polling of friends and colleagues and a deep dive into Reddit discussions on how often to replace pillows suggest many people aren’t replacing their pillows as frequently as every two years, no matter what the experts say. Ultimately, while you may need to replace basic fiber pillows even sooner than two years because they may flatten more quickly, pillows made of sturdier materials can last much longer. You should mainly be mindful of whether issues like asthma, allergies, or neck pain are getting worse the longer you have your pillow.

Keeping your pillow as clean as possible will help it last as long as possible

Carver told me that washing your pillow once a month in hot water (130 degrees Fahrenheit) can help remove allergens like dust mites. However, this advice only really applies to pillows that are totally washable — and in my experience, the majority of them are not. Synthetic-fill down-alternative pillows and down pillows are the most likely to be washing machine–friendly, so if you have allergies or asthma and want to follow Carver’s guidance, you may want to seek out those fill types.

Most memory-foam and latex pillows have only a washable cover since the foam itself usually cannot be washed. And a 2013 paper from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) found that foam pillows are just as susceptible to dust mites as feather pillows, so it’s still important to wash your pillow covers regularly. Memory-foam pillows are often recommended as allergy-safe since the foam itself isn’t a food source to dust mites the way natural materials like feathers are, but like other types of synthetic pillows, foam can still collect your dead skin, which feeds the mites.

You can sometimes clean memory foam by sprinkling it with baking soda and vacuuming it, as recommended by cleaning expert Jolie Kerr, to help remove dust mites or dead-skin buildup. And while some experts (including Kerr) say it’s possible to clean memory foam in water as long as you hand-wash it, I have attempted this and forewarn you that it will take a long time for the foam to dry. (This means you may be risking mold or mildew, so proceed with caution and make sure you’ve got a well-ventilated space and a fan to speed up the process.) For latex pillows, you can follow a similar process as with memory foam. Latex manufacturer Turmerry recommends vacuuming the latex and then spot-cleaning with a damp cloth and mild detergent.

Consider a pillow protector

In addition to cleaning, Carver also recommends using an Asthma & Allergy Friendly–certified pillow protector to keep out dust mites and other allergens in the first place — they’re like mattress protectors for your pillow that go around the pillow before you add your actual pillowcase. But even with these precautions, AAFA still recommends replacing your pillow every two years.

Additional reporting by Hilary Reid and Chloe Anello .

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Celebrate Juneteenth at these Maine events

The holiday is Wednesday, but events start this weekend and run through the end of the month.

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Westbrook Middle School students Bella Zollarcoffer, Priscila Nzolameso and Sarikong Oak held tables educating and informing the community on Black hair history at Westbrook’s Juneteenth celebration last year. Cullen McIntyre/Staff Photographer

Juneteenth, which became both a federal and state holiday in 2021 , celebrates the anniversary of federal troops’ arrival in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, to ensure all enslaved people had been freed. This year, the holiday falls on Wednesday, but celebrations are happening over the next two weeks.

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. –  Indigo Arts Alliance presents The Welcome Table, an intergenerational symposium celebrating global cultural and culinary histories. Activities include art, movement and meditation workshops led by activists and cultural workers. 60 Cove St., Portland.  indigoartsalliance.me

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. –  Victoria Mansion is hosting a community day with free admission and a recitation of the Emancipation Proclamation by local actors. 109 Danforth St. Portland.  victoriamansion.org

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. –  Space and the Tate House Museum are putting on a Juneteenth community day with free admission and tours of Ashley Page’s “Imagining Freedom” exhibit at the museum. The historical art piece puts viewers into the shoes of an enslaved woman named Bet. 1267 Westbrook St., Portland.  space538.org Advertisement

1-6:30 p.m. –  The first event of “The City that Carries Us: Pain, Streets, and Heartbeats” will take place at the Public Theatre in Lewiston. The celebration will have a parade and a block party with performances, as well as scheduled activities and rituals throughout the day. It is hosted by the organization Maine Inside Out. 31 Maple St., Lewiston, maineinsideout.org

2-3 p.m. –  Through “Poems of Reckoning and Resilience,” the Portland Museum of Art and Maine Writers and Publishers Alliance seek to honor the legacy of Black Americans. Featured poet Nathan McClain will join local poets in the Great Hall at the museum to celebrate Black liberation and creativity. The museum is also offering free admission Saturday through Monday, in celebration of both Juneteenth and Pride Month. 7 Congress Square, Portland.  mainewriters.org

11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. –  The fifth annual Juneteenth Celebration on House Island in Casco Bay will focus on Black joy, as well as nature, health and economic opportunity. Guests can stay for one or two days, and partake in activities like camping, hiking, yoga and games, all led by BIPOC leaders. Fortland, House Island, Portland.  eventbrite.com

4:30-7 p.m. –  The Community Organizing Alliance is putting on an event with speakers, live performances, poetry readings, a voter registration drive and catering by Bab’s Table. There will also be opportunities to get involved in the racial justice movement. The Atrium at Bates Mill, 36 Chestnut St., Lewiston.  eventbrite.com

1-3 p.m. –  Riverbank Park in Westbrook will host a community event with art, poetry, music and guest speakers. There will also be a barbecue picnic, a student fashion show, hair braiding, pick-up soccer and more activities sponsored by the city. 667 Main St., Westbrook.  On Facebook.

7-8 p.m. –  The Portland Yoga Project is putting on a class called “Liberated Breath: A Juneteenth Yoga Experience” that seeks to reflect on the holiday through yoga. The class is free for BIPOC community members and is sponsored by the Portland Public Library. 7 Bedford St., Portland, allevents.in

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