Headboards can provide extra support, prevent wall damage, and elevate your bedroom decor.
So, do you actually need a headboard? Today, many headboards serve more of a decorative role than a functional one. Before purchasing a headboard, make sure that it is compatible with your platform bed or box spring frame. Headboard vs. No Headboard Initially, headboards were used as a barrier between the edge of one’s bed and the wall. This would keep a person’s head from getting too cold at night since walls would get very cold without insulation. As a result of better insulation and heating, headboards today have taken more of a decorative role. There’s no functional purpose that requires a bed to have a headboard, but there are uses — such as keeping pillows from falling on the floor. While a headboard can upgrade your bedroom’s aesthetics, choosing not to have one will leave you with several other design options. You could put up a piece of art at the head of your bed, paint the wall, or just keep your wall plain. If you do plan to use an art piece as a headboard, make sure that your pillows are far enough from the art to avoid injury in the case of a fall. Benefits of Using a Headboard Here are six benefits of using a headboard that you should consider when deciding how to furnish your bedroom. 1. Can Provide Extra Head and Back Support Your bed isn’t just where you sleep. A number of people read, get work done, scroll through social media, and much more in bed. If this sounds like you, a headboard may be beneficial to help you sit comfortably in bed for prolonged periods of time — your spine will thank you for it. 2. Can Keep the Cold Away Your bedroom’s temperature plays a large role in the quality of your sleep, with the ideal sleeping temperature being between 60 to 67 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re experiencing chills at night, a headboard could be helpful to keep your room warmer by providing extra insulation between you and your wall. In fact, the original use for headboards was to keep a person warm while they were sleeping. If your bed is against a wall with poor insulation, a headboard can provide the extra insulation needed to keep the cold away. 3. Can Prevent Wall Damage If you place your bed directly up against a wall, you may be in for an unfortunate surprise come move-out day. Your bed’s edges and corners can rub against the wall, removing paint as you toss and turn in the bed. Oil and sweat from your body can also come into contact with the wall, dirtying and staining your wall’s finish. A headboard will create a barrier between your bed and the wall, preventing any damage that may occur as a result of contact. 4. Can Keep Pillows Secure If you sleep without a headboard, you might know what it’s like to wake up in the middle of the night and find that your pillow is gone. Most of the time the pillow has just fallen between your bed and wall, but the issue could have been prevented by a headboard. In addition to using a headboard, choosing the right pillow for your bed can also alleviate this issue and help you get a better night’s rest. 5. Elevates Your Bedroom Decor A headboard can be a central piece of your bedroom’s decor. If you’re looking for an easy way to give your bedroom an upgraded look, a headboard might be the right choice for you. Headboards come in a large variety of different materials and designs, and the right one can create an attractive backdrop — making your bed stand out from your wall in more ways than one. When choosing a headboard, keep in mind that certain colours can either hurt or help your sleep. For example, blue can promote a sense of calm and serenity, while beige can be warm and peaceful. 6. Provides Extra Storage Bedroom storage is incredibly important, especially in small rooms with limited real estate. To make the most of your storage space, you may want to consider a bed frame with room for under-bed storage, such as the Casper Repose Bed Frame. Thankfully, a headboard can also double as storage. Some headboards come with shelves or drawers to help you save space and keep your bedroom organized. However, you’ll want to consider the extra square footage this may take up in smaller bedrooms. . . . Info sourced from https://casper.com/
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How do you feel after a bad night’s sleep? From drowsiness to headaches, the short-term effects of a night of low quality sleep are usually easy to notice as soon as we get out of our beds.
The long-term effects, on the other hand, can take slightly longer to develop. From a less effective immune system to weight and respiratory issues, low quality sleep can cause a wide range of negative health effects. Your mattress plays an important role in helping you fall and stay asleep. A mattress that’s too firm, too soft, not supportive enough or just plain uncomfortable can often be all it takes to prevent you from getting the quality sleep you need. Are you concerned about the effects your mattress is having on your health? In this guide, we’ll share 10 annoying – and in some cases, potentially serious – health side effects of sleeping on a bad mattress. Drowsiness It shouldn’t be any surprise, but low quality sleep will usually leave you feeling tired and drowsy. If your mattress prevents you from falling asleep, it could have an effect on your alertness throughout the day. While it’s normal to feel a little drowsy during the afternoon and particularly late in the evening, early or extreme drowsiness is not normal. If you can’t fall asleep easily on your mattress, it could be causing you to feel unnaturally tired during the day. Back pain Does your back hurt? While a wide range of different things, from sports injuries to joint issues, can cause back pain, a low-quality mattress can often force you to sleep in an unnatural position that twists and strains your back. If you need to twist awkwardly to feel comfortable in your bed, you could eventually injure your back. A soft but supportive mattress that lets you sleep comfortably on your back or side can keep your back straight and prevent injuries from developing. Obesity People that don’t get enough sleep, or often wake up during the night, have a higher risk of becoming obese than their peers. This is because the drowsiness and lack of energy caused by sleep deprivation can often lead to overeating. If you feel hungrier during the day but haven’t increased your activity level, a poor quality mattress could be to blame. You should be able to fall asleep in 30 minutes or less – if not, consider replacing your mattress or adjusting your lifestyle. Lung and throat irritation The older your mattress is, the higher the likelihood of it containing large numbers of dust mites. Dust mites are a reality in every mattress, but older mattresses have a particularly high chance of being a haven for these irritating creatures. Dust mites can lead to a number of skin and reparatory conditions such as eczema, asthma and sore throat. If your mattress and pillows are getting old, think about if it’s time to replace them. If new, take steps to prevent dust mites from developing. Weak immune system Have you ever noticed that you’re more likely to become sick when you don’t sleep enough? Long nights out with friends and low quality sleep at home can wear down your immune system and make you more likely to become sick. From fevers to the common cold, a weak immune system makes you more likely to get caught by a wide range of illnesses. Keep yourself protected against illness with a mattress that gives you the comfort and support you need for great sleep. What’s the protocol for asking my landlord for a new mattress? Can I actually do that? My current one makes my back so bad I feel sick Heart conditions If your mattress prevents you from getting eight hours of quality sleep per night, it could have a negative effect on your cardiac health. According to a European Heart Journal review, short sleepers have a 48% higher risk of developing heart disease. That’s not an insignificant amount. When you cut your sleep short or fail to enjoy a full night’s sleep because of an uncomfortable mattress, you could increase the risk of developing heart disease. Short sleep is also associated with a heightened risk of stroke, as well as high blood pressure. Replacing your mattress and spending an extra hour in bed could help you avoid several serious heart-related conditions. Memory issues It’s no surprise that your memory starts to fade after a bad night’s sleep. However, the long-term effects of sleep deprivation on memory are less well known and just as worrying. Sleep plays a fundamental role in creating memories. When you’re sleep-deprived, you won’t just fail to recall memories – you’re also less likely to form memories in order to remember the events that happen to you at that time. Premature ageing Have you ever noticed black half-moon shapes under your eyes after you wake up from a bad night’s sleep? If your mattress keeps you awake, it could affect your skin in both the short term and the long term. In a study of women’s sleep habits, cosmetic company Estee Lauder found that the women that slept the soundest had the youngest looking skin. Women that failed to get a good night’s sleep, on the other hand, were more likely to show signs of ageing. Joint soreness Is your mattress too firm for comfort? Firm mattresses are occasionally marketed as being good for your posture, but the reality is that they’re more likely to contribute to joint pain than softer, more supportive mattresses. There’s nothing wrong with a firm mattress, provided it’s supportive. If you sleep on a mattress that’s overly firm and stiff, the extra pressure on your tailbone, shoulders and arms could lead to joint soreness over the long term. Reduced libido The less you sleep, the lower your sex drive is likely to be. Research shows that lack of sleep has a serious negative effect on the sex drive and, in men, can lead to lower-than-normal levels of testosterone. The link between low quality sleep and a weak sex drive is common to both women and men, although men appear to suffer the most side effects. In addition to a lower sex drive, lack of sleep can lead to erectile dysfunction and a reduced sperm count. . . Original article from https://oddmattress.co.uk/ When testing out a mattress, you’re lying down under the fluorescent, surrounded by other buyers and a sales rep that watches you. If you’re pressured to buy a bed there because of the salesperson’s presence, you shouldn’t let the pressure decide for you.
Read the information about mattresses - innerspring, memory foam, hybrid, gel, and air beds below to make your decision: 1. Innerspring Mattresses Innerspring has been around since 1870, and it’s the first modern bed. It has different layers and spring coils at the core. It has numerous comfort layers that you can choose like memory foam, polyfoam, or latex. Advantages If you sleep on your back, you would want this type of mattress because of its firmness. In most cases, an innerspring mattress is the healthier option compared to a firm memory foam bed. It has good ventilation because the separation between the springs is hollow. It can keep you cool at night in comparison to a memory foam mattress. The springs have different strength levels making them a fun addition to your children’s bedroom because it can create a delightful childhood that can jump and down in their bedroom. It’s a beautiful stress reliever, even for adults. Disadvantages Innerspring mattresses have layers of foam and wool, and fibre which is prone to dust mites. If you have allergies, then the bed can affect you negatively. Of course, the risk is reduced if you clean it regularly. If you sleep beside someone that tosses and turns every night, then you might not get any sleep because there’s no separation of movement. If an individual moves, it will affect the mattress’s whole surface. 2. Hybrid Mattresses A hybrid bed blends pocket springs and foam in one best quality mattress. If you think you’re going to be hot in the bed, you won’t because of a gel layer mixed in the bed, making it cool throughout your sleep. Advantages It’s versatile; it has lots of beautiful qualities from latex or foam mattress and innerspring mattress. It’s considered an innovation in the mattress industry because of its clever use of different layers. Additionally, you have more firm levels. Disadvantages Despite a hybrid bed being expensive, you can only use it for six years, making it impractical to purchase a costly bed that will last for only six years. Because of the springs used, the isolation of movements is low. 3. Memory Foam Beds Memory foam mattresses are well-known for their incredible comfort level that can hug your body’s shape, and you won’t feel unsupported with the bed. Advantages Memory foams are considered the best mattress for individuals with neck and back pain and those who sleep on their side. It can conform to the body’s shape allowing for enhancing pressure point relief. It’s an affordable option in comparison with an organic mattress. Because it’s comfortable, you’ll feel relaxed, and hence it will improve sleep. Disadvantages Users of the mattress say that it sags and dips over time, and it doesn’t bounce back. When a bed sags, you won’t be getting the support that your body needs which causes back pain and body aches. Additionally, if you don’t like smelling a chemical smell when relaxing in your bed, it’s best to avoid this bed because it has an odd chemical smell. Albeit there are instructions on dissipating the scent, this isn’t a mattress you would want your infant child to use. 4. Gel Beds Gel beds can be used as an infusion to foam or just a standalone layer. It’s a new invention in the mattress industry. Have you seen the pads that they use to stand on? It’s the same material, but it’s been modified when placed in a mattress to suit a human’s weight. Advantages It’s much cooler as compared to memory foam mattresses making it more breathable. A gel bed can reduce the transfer of motion excellently, making it perfect for couples. As soon as you stand up in this mattress, you will bounce back immediately, and the bed will return to its original shape. Disadvantages It can sag over time, and its quality of returning to the original shape and wear off over time. There are also fewer firmness levels. It can be an expensive option because of the gel or layer used for individuals on a budget. 5. Air Mattress Airbeds are inflatable mattresses. It’s an ideal bed when you travel or if you live in a communal or tight space. Even though it’s made out of the air, it doesn’t mean that it isn’t comfortable. Advantages If you have a partner with a different preference from yours, you can change the level of firmness with just a push of a button. Because it’s made of air, it’s terrific for camping trips and backpacking. Additionally, it’s durable, and it doesn’t sag! It’s affordable with many uses. Disadvantages It cannot be used as a permanent bed, only for guests to sleep in temporarily. It takes too long to assemble with a noisy pump. Even though it’s affordable, it has a shorter warranty. Takeaway Now that you know the different advantages and disadvantages of a mattress, you can make an informed decision. You won’t let the sales talk pursue you into buying something you don’t want. Invest in your body’s needs by changing your mattress for a new one. . . Article from https://www.bigeasymagazine.com/ Shopping for a sleeper couch is more than just about picking a look you like. That’s because there are several types of mattresses and configurations and each one can affect sleeping comfort, sitting surface and space planning.
Futons. The most basic of sleeper couches, a futon has a metal or wood frame with a single mattress on top. When it’s folded up, the mattress creates both the back and seat of the sofa. While pretty comfortable as a bed, a futon can leave something to be desired as a sofa, since it has a firm and somewhat unforgiving seat. Daybeds. A daybed is a single twin mattress that sits in a frame to give it the look of a sofa. Since the frame lacks the cushioning of a standard sofa, this style is best for a room that’s not going to be used regularly for entertaining. Standard foldouts. This style is probably what comes to mind when you think of a sleeper sofa/ couch. The mattress is supported by a thick, canvas-like fabric that’s secured by springs on the side. Foldout mattresses come in a few different options: all innerspring, all-foam or innerspring with an air topper — which seems to be the winner for comfort. These sleepers require more space since you need room to unfold the mattress. The foldout sleeper comes in a wide variety of styles. Comfort and quality vary widely depending on the manufacturer, so if this is going to be a daily-use couch, purchase the best you can afford. The couches lack the supportive springs found in a non-sleeper couch, so they do feel a little different when you sit on them. As for sleeping, the thin mattress means you may feel the support bars when you lie down. Pullout pop-ups. This style operates like a trundle: A bottom mattress pulls out from under the couch. You can use it as two twin beds, as seen here, or pop the lower mattress up to create a larger bed. You don’t need as much space to pull out the bed since it has you sleeping parallel to the back of the couch. Since it’s an actual mattress, the pullout pop-up style provides a comfortable sleeping surface. It’s also comfortable as a sofa, as long as you like a more firm seating surface — you’re sitting on one of the innerspring mattresses. It can also be used in multiple configurations, such as a family-size chaise. Other things to consider. While comfort and style are important when choosing a sleeper couch, there are other things you should consider as well: how it will be used, how often it will be used for sleeping and what size room it will be in. How will it be used? Is this going to be the main couch in a living room or something used a lot less frequently in an office or guest room? If it’s going in the living room, you’ll want seating comfort to be a priority. Choosing a cushion with an innerspring core can help make up for the loss of the spring suspension. How much sleeping will it get? If the couch won’t be used for weeks at a time as a bed, then a standard foldout sleeper should be fine. For more regularly used sleepers, consider a pullout pop-up or an air-topped foldout mattress. How big is the room? You don’t want to have to move lots of furniture around whenever you want to transform the couch into a bed. Foldout sleepers take up the most space when converted to a bed. If you have a tight fit, go with a pullout pop-up. Sleeper couches are a great solution when you don’t have a designated guest room. While there’s usually some sacrifice on sofa structure or sleeping comfort if you keep your priorities in mind while shopping, you’ll be able to get the best of both worlds. . . . Article from https://www.houzz.com/ You may have heard the terms feather and down pillows used interchangeably. Most people think of them as the same thing, but they’re actually very different. We compare these two types of pillows and look at other pillow fillings, as well as care tips.
The materials come from different parts of the animal, and the structure of what is inside varies as well. For example, down pillows are made from quill-less feather clusters of the chest and underbelly of geese and ducks, while feather cushions are comprised of soft, quill-containing feathers from the wings and backs of the birds. This article looks at the differences between feather pillows vs. down pillows, weighing the pros and cons of each so that you can get the cushion that provides the best night of sleep possible. What are Down Pillows? They are made from clusters of down taken from the chest area of a goose, swan, or duck. They look like the fluffy white dandelions that kids (and adults) blow on to make a wish. Another way to think of the stuffing is like a cotton ball. When you lie on the surface of these down-filled cushions, it should feel like you’re sleeping on a bed of cotton candy. The clusters compress, though depending on how large or dense they are, you might notice that there is some springiness to the surface. Down brands are considered the ultimate luxury and often carry the highest price point. What are Feather Pillows? When feather pillows are made, the material is taken from the back of the animal and the wings. As you can imagine, each feather has a quill, so over time, thin cushions could allow the quills to poke through. You can minimize the poking by using a protector or thick pillowcase to shield yourself. The feather-filled types are often combined with down to make them softer. Pure feather varieties tend to have a slimmer profile and can flatten over time as the quills line up. Down vs. Feather Pillows Softness Down material is the softest, though it compresses when you lie your head on it. If you want something fluffier, opt for premium materials and a higher “fill power,” which will be discussed in a moment. Overall, expect down to feel plush while also light and airy. Feather is not quite as soft due to the presence of quills and the lack of “clustering.” Some have more filling than others, so they can still be soft and fluffy, but they may require manual fluffing during the course of the night or in the morning. Structure Down has a clustered structure from the tufts of fur taken from the birds. Premium material is taken from older birds in colder climates making the structure more soft and buoyant than clusters taken from younger birds in warmer climates. The structure of these pillows could feel looser and compress more than feathers, which might have a hint of crispiness from the quills. Fill Power Fill power refers to the amount of fluffiness or height (also called loft) in the pillow. The measurement applies down types only. The maximum fill power number is 850, and this figure represents the highest quality cushion you can get. Furniture and toys tend to have a fill power of 500, and anything over 650 is considered high quality. Origin Some of the best down and feather pillows typically come from Eastern Europe, specifically Hungary. The birds tend to be larger, more mature and provided with a natural environment and humane treatment. Birds raised in China tend to be subject to poor animal treatment standards and cleaning processes. You can look for certifications like Bluesign, which pertains to environmental and worker standards, as well as products carrying the Responsible Down certification, which prohibits the plucking for down and feathers from live birds, which is grossly inhumane and excruciatingly painful and cruel to the animal. Enemies of Feather and Down Fill Compression Natural fibres tend to break down and compress over time unlike memory foam, which tends to retain its shape. To get around this, invest in high-quality pillows that can last for ten to twenty years. Regular fluffing can also help keep the shape and support. Moisture You should avoid getting feather pillows wet. This means that when it comes time to clean them, take them to a qualified dry cleaner. Down pillows can be cleaned with soap and water, though you must still be careful to treat the materials gently. They must also be dried in a process that takes several hours. Failure to dry the item thoroughly could ruin the product almost immediately. If you tend to shower before bed, avoid going to bed with wet hair. If this is not possible, then wrap your hair in a scarf or add a pillow protector or extra pillowcase to avoid getting your damp hair on your down or feather cushions. Moisture can harm the product even before it gets to you! If the items were improperly transported or stored prior to purchase, they could arrive in your home with an odour. Make sure you check these items carefully and return or exchange anything that’s defective. Oil Oils from your skin or facial products can also damage your bedding. When possible avoid moisturizing your skin at night or sleep on your back during the early hours of the night to prevent the product from seeping into the material. Over time, oils from skin and beauty products could cause the surface to turn yellow and may also cause unpleasant odours. Goose vs. Duck While both animals provide high-quality materials, goose is the rarer and more expensive of the two. Goose down is known to be more plush and resilient than duck, providing a more luxurious experience as well as a longer life. Here are some other factors to consider:
Duck down is more economical and still very luxurious, so you should not feel like you’re getting something inferior if you choose this material. Down vs. Down Alternative Down alternative has numerous benefits. Not only is it less expensive, but it can be just as luxurious while also being hypoallergenic. People may want to consider down alternative in the following situations:
Proper Care If you take care of your pillows, they can last a long time. Here are some top tips for extending the life of your natural cushions:
. . . Original article sourced from https://www.sleepadvisor.org/ Sleigh beds are beautifully crafted pieces of furniture, with their curved and scrolled head- and footboards. But what is in between that impressive headboard and comforting footboard? And more importantly, will it damage your mattress? If you are contemplating buying a sleigh bed but you don’t know if it will be good for your mattress, you’ve come to the right place!
Sleigh beds are popular and are making a comeback Like most things style-related, bedroom furniture is also cyclical. People are getting bored by everyday beds that come without headboards or footboards. Furthermore, because of Covid-19, many people are forced to stay in bedrooms around the world and they quickly grow tired of standard beds without headboards. So they are turning back to classic bedroom furniture, like sleigh beds, to liven up their rooms. And honestly, why not? They are elegant, make a statement and are stylish. But you know this already, right? How can sleigh beds damage your mattress? According to an expert bedmaker - there are basically three ways in which a sleigh bed can damage your mattress: 1. You have the wrong size mattress for your sleigh bed Typically, a mattress fits “inside” the sleigh bed. Or between the two side arms of the bed. Now you can imagine, if your mattress is too small for the frame in which you put it, odds are the mattress is going to move around. Which will cause wear and tear. On the other hand, if your mattress is too big for the frame, you’ll have to force it in between the two arms. And this is also not good for the mattress. Whether it is a foam, hybrid or spring mattress, forcing it into a smaller space than what it was meant to rest on will compromise the structural integrity of the mattress and cut down significantly on its lifespan. 2. The sleigh bed does not offer enough support for your mattress Many sleigh beds (especially older ones) come without a proper support structure between the head- and footboard. In other words, no boxspring, no slats… The little support that these beds offer is actually meant to keep the bed stable, and not to support the mattress. So if you put your mattress in there, it will start sagging and the springs will permanently lose shape. 3. Crude finishing touches on the sleigh bed support system Once again, this problem can be associated with older sleigh beds (check for this if you buy a second-hand sleigh bed). Because older versions of these beds often come without support, people sometimes install their own support structures. They use plywood or sheets of chipboard to put a mattress on. These sheets of wood are often not cut to perfect size or they are splintered around the edges. If they aren’t cut to size, your mattress might get pinched between the sides of the bed and the sheet of wood. Alternatively, when there are splinters around the edges your mattress will definitely pick them up. 3 Tips to protect your mattress if you have a sleigh bed Just like there are three ways in which a sleigh bed can damage your mattress, there are three suggestions on how to prevent that damage: 1. Buy the right sleigh bed Experts say that the best way to prevent any damage to your mattress is to be careful when you look at sleigh beds for sale. Make sure that the bed you are buying is the right size and that it has a proper support structure. Look for something that comes with a built-in boxspring or has wide slats that are no further than 6 cm apart. Both a boxspring and closely spaced slats will provide your mattress with enough support so that it does not start sagging. 2. Follow the rotation instructions that come with your mattress You get different types of mattresses. Some of them must be rotated and flipped over, whereas others need only be rotated. Whichever type of mattress you have, there should be rotating/flipping instructions on the label or in the booklet that came with the product. Follow these instructions carefully to avoid causing permanent damage to your mattress. 3. Create your own support structure If you have an old sleigh bed that looks beautiful but has no support structure, or a badly built one, you can create your own. But be careful not to do shoddy work, because then you will end up damaging your mattress by getting splinters lodged in it or pinching it between the base and the sides. If you do decide to create your own supportive base, make sure of the following:
Original article sourced from https://www.themattresswarehouse.co.za/ When it comes to determining the right material for your bed, you have to make sure that the quality is good. Mattresses are among the hardest to be taken care of considering that they should never come into contact with moisture and they are very difficult to clean if they get dirty. There are a few ways on how you can keep the hygiene of your mattress. You should never eat on the bed, always change the bed, pillow sheet and keep your mattress dry at all times. Nevertheless, for those who are curious, another way on how you can keep your mattress clean and dry is by covering it with a mattress protector.
What is a waterproof mattress protector, you may ask? Well, it is actually a very good solution for those who would like to add some extra protection against any spills and to avoid bedwetting. The best part about using a waterproof mattress protector is that they will not only guard against odours and stains, but they will also be able to keep your mattress free from dust mites and allergens. By applying them, you will be able to prevent the growth of bacteria inside of your mattress. Aside from that, the fitted bed sheet will be secured nicely in its place if you’re using a protector. Just like how you need to find good quality bed frames and mattresses, you need to consider getting only the best quality waterproof mattress protector also. Do not go cheap and compromise on the quality, especially when you see there are some protectors for sale. You should handle getting one just like how you’re buying a mattress. It should be made from high-quality materials and has all the benefits and specifications you are looking for. Most of the traditional style of waterproof mattress protectors will cause sweating and discomfort to the sleepers because they have a plasticky feel to them. Imagine lying in the bed in a hospital, that’s exactly how it feels to be sleeping on the traditional protectors. However, as time passes and technology enhances, you will be able to find the modern versions of them which are specifically designed in order to offer additional padding and to be inconspicuous. Having extra paddings will help in creating a barrier between the sleeper and his or her mattress. Most waterproof mattress protectors in the market feature polyester, waterproof backing and a Damask or cotton cover. Some may also come with other materials as rayon felt for an extra lining that can absorb well. As a buyer, you need to be familiar with the sizing and how to take proper care of your protector as this will be the most important thing when you make a purchase. Types of Waterproof Mattress Protector Technically, there are two types. The first one is the one that encases the entire mattress including the underside and the second one is the type that will only cover the top and the sides of the mattress. Prior to purchasing, you should make your own decision on what type of waterproof mattress protector will you need for your mattress. It is very crucial to know what you will need for yourself. It is often your own preference for what works best for you during your sleep. Most of the buyers prefer the partial protectors because they are a lot easier to remove when needed to. While there are some that don’t mind having the protectors that cover the entire mattress because it offers help against allergens. What Are The Materials of Waterproof Mattress Protectors? They are usually made of a variety of materials. The quality of the protectors and the prices are determined by the materials that are used to make them. Most inexpensive protectors are probably made of plastic or rubberized materials and the best quality protector tends to have material that is both synthetic and hypoallergenic. Because these protectors are a lot better than the plastic ones, they are more breathable and prevent from excessively sweaty and warm during the night. Thus, they are often a lot more expensive. How Can Waterproof Mattress Protectors Help Those With Allergies? They have a lot of benefits as compared to not using them. This is because by using protectors, the exposure of the sleepers to the causes of their allergies can be limited and prevented. Most of us are allergic to household dust and especially dust mites. Dust mites are usually found in our mattresses and can cause such huge trouble over time. Dust mites thrive on skin and are the troublemakers in our daily lives, especially during our sleep. Buyers should know that by using a waterproof mattress protector, you will be protected against all types of allergens. If you would like to enhance the protection, you can opt for pillow covers that control allergies as well. Buying a Waterproof Mattress Protector There are so many places where you can get yourself the best quality waterproof mattress protector. Before purchasing, you must first decide on whether you want to opt for the inexpensive ones by searching through the variety of waterproof mattress protectors for sale or if you want to get the ones with materials of higher quality. However, you should also know that mattresses are usually a lot more costly than protectors and if you don’t want a single spill to damage your mattress, you should consider getting a protector for it. It helps a lot in creating barriers against dirt, stains, irritants and allergens. Even though the high-quality ones are a lot more expensive, they are the better choice if you’re opting for the material that offers less noise when you’re lying in the bed. Most waterproof mattress protectors come with designated standard sizes that match the sizes of your mattresses. You should consider buying protectors and finding a shop that offers protectors within the buyer’s requirements and budgets. All you need to do is spend more time doing the research before you make a decision. . . . Article sourced from https://www.themattresswarehouse.co.za/ We’ve done the research for you, and compiled this list of everything you need to know about single beds.
Single beds are the most versatile of all the bed sizes, but they’re not the most bought bed in South Africa, or in any other country. Let’s check out the pros and cons of this size bed: Pros
Awesome ideas for single beds A single bed is the only size bed that can be used for multi-purposes and is good for functional smart space designs. For couples Did you know that 1 out of 4 couples sleeps in separate beds? Push two single beds together (or keep ‘em apart), and enjoy these benefits:
For small kids On its own, the single bed is an excellent option for small kids:
Overnight visitors Single beds are popular in guesthouses. Here’s how you can copy their creative ideas:
Other uses for single beds
There you have it. All you need to know about the single bed. . . . . Article from https://geniebeds.co.za/ Whether you’re stuck in a rut and want to freshen up your space or you just think your room is in need of some TLC, revamping your bedroom can give things a whole new lease of life. However, if your budget is limited, you might not have the funds to completely renovate the space, so how do you go about refreshing your bedroom without spending a fortune? We’ve put together a quick guide to help you get started.
A Lick Of Paint A fresh lick of paint around your bedroom can help to not only fix any smudges, stains or flaking paint but can even make the whole room feel brighter and brand new. A new coat of paint, whether the same colour or a new one, is one of the fastest ways to have things feeling brand new and refreshed and if done right, can completely change the look and design. Going darker, lighter, more muted or bolder can all change the overall atmosphere of a room without ever having to touch a single piece of furniture or buy anything more than a tub of paint. Create A Feature Wall If you want to take the painting to a new level, what about creating a feature wall? Whether it’s a different, more bold colour compared to the other walls, or you invest in a roll or two or wallpaper instead, creating a feature can not only add something new and increase the wow factor, but it can also make smaller rooms like bigger and give bigger rooms a more unique, stylish and yet cosy feel. Install A New Headboard Headboards can add something new to your bedroom without having to invest in a whole new bed frame. You have the freedom to choose whichever headboard will suit your room best and in most cases, they are an inexpensive option that can completely refresh and revamp the space. Modern designs offer bold, unique prints for that statement bedroom and more traditional designs can bring a cosy, comfortable and relaxing environment perfect for a bedroom. Get Crafty What better way to create a personalised space than to make the decorations yourself? From a complete DIY project to revamping a second-hand piece of furniture or an accessory, getting crafty allows you to design your room exactly how you want to. No more searching for that perfect mirror – you can paint one for yourself.
If you’re handy with a crochet hook or some knitting needles, you could also try your hand at making blankets with chunky yarn. You can also knit with your arms for a very chunky blanket but shop around for affordable skeins of yarn to prevent paying out more than you can afford. Move Things Around Finally, moving things around your room can be a useful way to revamp and repurpose the space without having to spend any money at all. You can create what feels like an entirely different and new room with minimal effort and just a bit of time. You could move unnecessary furniture out of the room to increase the space available and open things up to make it brighter and airier or even make space for a furniture piece or accessory you’ve been wanting to bring into your room. Even the smallest of movements can revamp a bedroom, so plan out the best and most efficient places your furniture can be for a fresh new look. Revamping a bedroom doesn’t have to be costly. From a fresh coat of paint to a new orientation in the room itself and, of course, a new headboard to finish off the look, you can have a good-as-new bedroom without spending a fortune. Article from https://www.justheadboards.co.uk/blog/ How does your mattress feel these days? Maybe the springs creak when you turn over, or, worse yet, they poke into you and completely prevent you from finding a comfortable sleeping position. Perhaps it feels too bouncy, too soft, or too hard and keeps you lying awake. Maybe it even sags when you get into bed — a sure sign a mattress is on its last legs (or springs, as it were). You might wake in the morning feeling tired and stiff. You could also start to notice back, neck, and joint pain, along with irritability, fatigue, and other effects of poor sleep. Without a good-quality mattress, your sleep eventually suffers. If you’re experiencing any of the above, it’s probably time for a new mattress. Still, the prospect of mattress shopping might seem daunting enough to make you delay your search. Picking up a secondhand mattress on Craigslist or accepting a hand-me-down from a friend or family member might seem like a quick solution, but you’ll sleep much better on a mattress that’s right for you. Yes, you’ll need to spend some time considering different factors, but our guide can simplify the process. Keep reading for more details on what to consider when shopping for a new mattress. Before you start shopping for a mattress Ready to start shopping? Maybe you already have a few specific mattress traits in mind. Don’t head to your local retailer, search engine or mattress warehouse just yet. Start your search by considering a few more personal characteristics: Sleeping position Your preferred sleeping position can play a part in choosing the right mattress. Sleeping on a mattress that doesn’t offer the right support for your usual position can contribute to pain and poor sleep. Back sleepers If you mostly sleep on your back, softer mattresses probably won’t provide enough support to keep your spine properly aligned as you sleep. A firmer foam or hybrid mattress, which combines coils and foam, may help you get better rest. Side sleepers Sleeping on your side puts pressure on your shoulders and hips, so you’ll want to look for a softer mattress that cushions your body and helps relieve pressure at these key points. Many side sleepers find that memory foam or pillow-top mattresses provide an ideal blend of comfort and support. Stomach sleepers Healthcare providers generally recommend stomach sleepers switch to a sleeping position that offers better health benefits. According to Michael J. A. Longo, DC, a chiropractor at Renaissance Chiropractic Center in Washington, stomach sleeping puts stress on your spine. As time goes on, this can lead to back and neck pain. That said, if you can only get a good night’s sleep by sleeping on your stomach, you’ll want to make sure you sleep on the right mattress. An ideal mattress for stomach sleepers should firmly support the spine. If your mattress is soft enough to sink into, you might find yourself waking up with pain and stiffness. A firm hybrid or foam mattress usually works best. Combination sleepers People who change positions throughout the night are considered combination sleepers. If you turn over frequently, you’ll want to make sure you can get comfortable on your mattress in any position. A medium-firm mattress may offer just the right blend of comfort and support. You might want to skip memory foam mattresses since the body contouring benefits that work so well for side sleepers can make it difficult to change positions and leave you feeling stuck. Alternatives to consider include latex and other types of foam that respond well to movement. Hybrids also tend to make more responsive beds, since they combine innerspring support with foam comfort layers. Body Type Your body type can also affect the level of support you need from your mattress. “Every body is shaped differently, which can impact loading on your spine as you try to get to sleep,” Longo says. Sleepers with lower body weight, or people who weigh less than around 130 pounds, will most likely find a medium-firm mattress firmer than someone who weighs more. It’s fine if you prefer a firmer bed, but if you sleep on your side or need pain and pressure relief, you’ll likely want to look for a softer mattress. People weighing more than 230 pounds or so will generally need a firmer bed to get enough support. Hybrids, which combine supportive innerspring coils with the comfort of foam, can provide lasting durability. Look for mattresses taller than 12 inches, particularly if you prefer foam beds, since mattresses shorter than 12 inches may not offer enough support. Don’t forget to consider the size of the mattress. Full mattresses aren’t any longer than twin mattresses, so people over 6 feet tall may have trouble getting comfortable on anything smaller than a queen mattress. Most people find it tough to sleep with their feet hanging off the edge of the bed. If you have a larger frame, and you’ve been struggling to get comfortable enough to sleep, it may be time to upgrade your bed as well as your mattress. Pain If you regularly wake up with lower back or neck pain, your mattress may have lost its ability to support your body and keep your spine in a neutral position, Longo explains. Continuing to sleep on a mattress that doesn’t support you properly usually only makes your pain worse. Healthcare providers traditionally encourage people with persistent back pain to sleep on very firm mattresses, but research now suggests medium-firm mattresses may be the most beneficial at reducing pain and improving overall sleep quality. If you experience pain in your muscles, joints, or at key pressure points, like your shoulders and hips, a medium-firm foam mattress may work well for your sleeping needs. According to a 2015 study of 40 older adults experiencing various types of musculoskeletal pain, medium-firm foam mattresses may help relieve pain and reduce the time it takes you to fall asleep. Price New mattresses vary widely in price, depending on a number of factors, like:
Generally speaking, you can find quality queen mattresses for under R15,000. Price doesn’t always indicate quality, but a good average price to aim for is R8,500–R15,500. Luxury queen mattresses cost upward of R20,000. Looking for something a little less expensive? You can still find decent options in the neighbourhood of R4,500–R8,500. These mattresses tend to not have frills. So if you’re looking for additional features, such as temperature regulation, pillow tops, flippability, or enhanced pressure relief, you may want to consider a slightly higher price point. You may not necessarily need a luxury mattress, but you probably won’t sleep well on a poorly made mattress. You could also find yourself needing a replacement in just a few years, so it’s often worth investing in the best mattress you can afford. A good mattress should last around 10 years. How to choose a mattress Decided how much you want to spend on your new mattress? Understand your essential characteristics, such as body type and sleeping position? Once you check those off, you can start thinking about specific mattress features — and there are, in fact, plenty to consider. Mattress type Deciding on a mattress type can help you start narrowing down your search. You have several different options to consider:
Innerspring Chances are, you may have grown up sleeping on an innerspring mattress. Once a popular and inexpensive option, the innerspring mattress is harder to find these days. A true innerspring mattress contains steel springs, either in one continuous coil or coils individually pocketed in fabric. A thin layer of padding rests above the coils to prevent them from poking out. Most newer “innerspring” mattresses have enough comfort layers above the springs to push them into the “hybrid” category. These mattresses usually feel bouncier and harder than foam beds. Continuous coil systems are generally unable to prevent motion transfer between sleepers since they’re all connected. So if you sleep with a partner, you’ll want to look for a mattress with individually wrapped coils. Foam You’ve likely heard of memory foam, but foam mattresses come in other varieties, too. You’ll often find polyurethane foam used as the bottom layer in many foam mattresses. Some cheaper mattresses are made entirely of this foam, which gives them a firmer feel. The open-cell foam tends to be more breathable and less dense than memory foam. You might find it cooler and more responsive to the pressure of your body. Memory foam cushions and contours your body to relieve pain and pressure. However, it’s known to trap heat, leaving many sleepers uncomfortably hot. Many mattress companies create their own blends of foam by adding gel or perforations to help improve airflow and regulate mattress temperature. Latex foam If you have a latex allergy, you’ll want to avoid latex mattresses. Other sleepers, however, may find them cooler and more responsive than memory foam. People who sleep hot or change their sleeping position frequently may want to consider latex beds. They’re known to give the comfort of foam without making sleepers feel trapped in one spot. If you want a foam mattress but prefer to shop organic, you’ll want to search for latex options, since organic memory foam mattresses don’t exist. Many latex mattresses are natural or organic since they can be made with plant-based materials. Latex foam is also often more durable than memory foam, a benefit that slightly increases its price. Hybrid Hybrid mattresses feature a coil spring base under layers of latex or foam. This creates a blend of firm support and comfort that many people find ideal. While hybrids may not be the best option for people who need very soft beds, they work well for many body types and sleeping positions. Their construction also allows for more airflow than mattresses made entirely of foam, so hybrid mattresses often maintain a more comfortable sleeping temperature. The spring coils in hybrid mattress also make them more durable than foam mattresses. They’re also usually more expensive. Airbed Sure, you can take an inflatable bed with you when you go camping, but you can also purchase a slightly superior version for regular use. Airbeds intended for nightly use generally have foam or other padding on top for added comfort. Air mattresses that allow you to customize firmness may work well for people with changing support needs. Adjusting the mattress to your desired level of firmness each night could help improve spinal alignment and lead to reduced pain. Just make sure to seek out a quality option with a good warranty. Firmness Mattress firmness describes how a mattress feels under your body. Firmness typically ranges on a scale from 1 to 10, with a 10 being the firmest bed you can find. In general, medium-firm mattresses (which are often between 5 and 7 on the scale) provide a good blend of support and comfort for most sleepers. A small 2010 study suggests sleeping on a medium-firm mattress may help relieve pain and improve sleep quality. Of course, firmness is a subjective measurement. A mattress that feels hard to one person may feel too soft to someone else. Firmness can also vary depending on mattress construction and brand. One brand’s 6 may feel like another brand’s 5, and a medium-firm hybrid might feel harder than a medium-firm foam mattress. That’s why it’s always important to try out your new mattress and make sure it provides the right support. Longo recommends choosing the firmest possible mattress that still allows you to get quality sleep. If you’re lying awake or tossing and turning to get comfortable, your mattress isn’t the right firmness level. Note, however, that your body may need some time to get used to a new mattress, particularly if it’s firmer than your old one. This breaking-in period can take 3–4 weeks, so give it time. Support People with lower body weight can generally get good support from a foam mattress. But people with higher body weight may prefer the added sturdiness of coils underneath the foam. Support also refers to whether or not you sink into the bed. Some people want to feel cushioned by the bed, while others want to rest firmly on top. Mattresses with coil systems generally provide sturdier support, keeping you on the mattress, not in it. You may not think much about the edges of your bed if you sleep alone, but good edge support can make all the difference if you share your bed with a partner, move around a lot, or sit on the edge of your bed to get dressed. If your bed has weak edges, you might feel like the bed gives way easily when you sit on it. This can spell bad news at night if your partner rolls you to the edge, and you feel like you’re going to tumble to the floor. If you want good edge support, look for mattresses with reinforced edges. Customer reviews often give a clearer picture of how much edge support a mattress has. Pressure relief and body contouring Generally speaking, foam mattresses provide the best pressure relief and body contouring. If you desire pain relief at key pressure points, look for a mattress that gently conforms to your body when you lie down. This allows for your hips and shoulders to sink in slightly. A memory foam mattress offers the most pressure relief, but hybrids with foam layers may also work well. Mattress height While some budget mattresses may measure 9 inches (or less), 10 inches is a fairly standard mattress height. Mattresses under 10 inches won’t offer as much support or durability. You’ll find some mid-range and luxury mattresses measuring 13 or 14 inches in height, but taller isn’t always better. If you have less body weight, you may not need the extra support, so the mattress may feel too firm. Taller mattresses can also make it harder to get in and out of bed. This is something to consider if you have a limited range of movement or a bed frame that’s already tall. You may also need new sheets for a tall mattress. Most standard sheets only fit beds up to about 14 inches. Motion isolation This is an essential feature for partners sleeping together. Motion isolation refers to the mattress’s ability to keep you from feeling each of your partner’s movements at night. Good motion isolation means you can turn over, stretch, and even get out of bed without waking the person next to you. Foam mattresses tend to isolate motion better than other types of mattresses, but if you don’t want an all-foam bed, look for a hybrid with individually wrapped coils. Temperature regulation and cooling The temperature of your bed can make a huge difference in the quality of your sleep. If you’re too warm, you might wake up sweating or have trouble staying asleep. Cooling mattresses have special features designed to help keep you cool as you sleep, including:
Customer reviews can help provide a more accurate picture of whether the cooling features mentioned in the mattress description really work. Off-gassing The mattress-in-a-box industry has taken off in recent years. Many mattresses purchased online arrive compressed and rolled into a box. When you open the package, your mattress quickly inflates, and you might notice it gives off a strange smell. This odour comes from the various chemicals used to make your mattress flame-retardant. It may be somewhat unpleasant, but it isn’t necessarily harmful. Customer reviews often mention off-gassing. If you’re particularly sensitive to smells, you may want to check what other people have to say. Usually, this smell clears up after a few days, especially if you leave the mattress near an open window. Organic or eco-friendly materials Many brands prioritize sustainability and natural, renewable materials in their mattresses. They tend to mention this clearly on their website or in product descriptions. Reputable brands use clear language to describe which parts of their mattress have natural or organic certifications. If buying organic matters to you, note some brands may describe their mattresses as eco-friendly or all-natural. Other important considerations when choosing a mattress A mattress is often a significant investment. Once you find the mattress of your dreams, you might hesitate before committing to the purchase. What if it doesn’t quite measure up to the description, feels uncomfortable, or doesn’t stay cool? The good news is, most mattress brands understand your dilemma and offer some options to help give you peace of mind. Whenever possible, consider the following before you click the “Complete Order” button: Company policies When shopping online, you’ll want to verify whether a company offers:
Company reputation and transparency Look at the following criteria to determine a company’s reputation and commitment to transparency:
Along with the company’s business reputation, we also consider whether they provide clear, easy-to-find information about the materials they use in their mattresses and where they’re made. You’ll typically find this information in the FAQ section of the company’s website, if not directly on the product page. If you like the mattress and the price, you may want to go for it regardless of what you find about the mattress company’s reputation. But at the very least, it’s always best to check whether the mattress meets flammability requirements. Customer reviews If you’ve spent any time reading product reviews, you might already know to take them with a grain of salt. Reviews can offer a lot of insight about a product, yes. But you’ll also find that some customers leave 1-star reviews for issues beyond a company’s control. You’re generally safe to purchase a mattress that earns mostly positive reviews. Still, specific patterns in the reviews can give you a better idea of how the mattress holds up over time. You may notice a lot of customers mention things like sagging, loss of support after a few years, cooling features that don’t actually cool, weak edges, or low motion transfer. Where to shop for a mattress You can make a trip to a local retailer to purchase a new mattress, but you can also shop online. Shopping for a mattress in person offers a completely different experience from browsing online. Here’s what to know to prepare. In-store While lying down on the mattress in-store can absolutely give you an idea of how firm or soft it feels, don’t be fooled. A mere 5 or 10 minutes can’t compare to a full night of sleep — not to mention it’s a floor model that plenty of other people have already tested. You’ll still want to look for a mattress that comes with a trial period. Make sure to ask the salesperson plenty of questions about the mattress and its warranty:
Brick-and-mortar mattress stores often charge more than online retailers that sell the same mattress. Doing some research before you buy can help you make sure you’re getting the best price. You might find the same mattress at another store, or online, for much cheaper. Just keep in mind that different stores often call the same mattress by different names. You may be able to talk the price down a bit, but not everyone feels comfortable negotiating for a better bargain. If the mattress doesn’t feel right to you, keep looking! Your sleep is worth it. Online Many people find online mattress shopping a much more appealing option. One benefit of online shopping? You won’t have to do much digging to get your questions answered. You’ll often find most of the answers on the product page. Many websites also offer live chats with customer support staff, just in case you can’t find answers to more specific questions. It’s always a good idea to read through customer reviews before making a decision. Reviews often provide honest, detailed information about products and policies. Things to look for include:
You’ll often save a lot just by shopping online, but many brands also offer sales and other discounts throughout the year. If you know you’ll have trouble setting up the mattress yourself and you don’t have anyone to help, check to see if the company offers delivery, setup, and old mattress removal. Not every online company offers this service, and many brands charge an additional fee. Article from https://www.healthline.com/ Here are the pros and cons of bunk beds that will help you decide whether they are the way to go Kids’ bedrooms are often small but they need to be highly functional so as to fit in furniture like beds, study tables, wardrobes, book cabinets and toy shelves. In order to optimise space, bunk beds have emerged as a popular option for young siblings who share the same bedroom. These beds are available in a variety of playful design themes and colours that bring perpetual cheer into the kids’ bedroom; they not only look cute but effortlessly create an adventurous zone that the little ones just love. However, since the upper bunk is fixed at a height of about 5 feet (or more) from the floor level, there are questions about the bed’s safety and suitability. This makes it essential to weigh the strengths and shortcomings of bunk beds before you purchase one for your children’s bedroom. Pro: Ideal for small bedrooms Bunk beds are a great way to create more space. Since both the beds are connected vertically, the space occupied by two beds becomes equivalent to the space occupied by one bed. This arrangement creates more playing space and openness within a small bedroom. Pro. Ideal for storage and shelves Most bunk beds ensure clever utilisation of space. Well-designed bunk beds come with a lot of organised storage, such as drawers under the lower bunk, shelves for toys, mini wardrobes and steps (to climb up) that could also function as drawers for books, clothes, toys or stationary, just as in the example above. Tip: Some bunk beds come with the option of pull-out beds on castors which makes provision for an extra bed within a compact space. Pro: Kids get some private space Another advantage of a bunk bed is that it provides a small private space for each child within a shared bedroom. Take a look at these bunk beds: there are headboards that act as partitions and individual lights for each bunk so every kid has the option to stay up or read without disturbing the others. Note: Children will eventually outgrow their bunk beds so you can opt for beds that have the option to convert into full-sized single beds for later use. Con: Safety concerns
Tip: For the kids’ safety, it is important to keep some strict bedroom rules. The kids should not be allowed to jump on the bunk bed or run up and down the ladder or steps, especially when they are being playful or when they are with their friends. Con: Difficult to make beds Another drawback of the upper bunk is that since the upper bunk is fixed at a height and rests against a wall, both sides of the bed become virtually inaccessible. It becomes challenging to make the top bed because one has to climb the ladder or stand on a stepping stool to fix the bedclothes every day. Cons: Feels claustrophobic
Some kids find it claustrophobic to sleep on a bunk bed because they are not used to having the ceiling so close to them. Make sure that there is enough vertical clearance (approximately 4 feet) between the top and lower bunk as well as between the top bunk and the ceiling so that the children can sit up straight without banging their heads. Article sourced from https://www.houzz.in/ Smart, stylish and double duty – here's how to pick the right sleeper couch for your space. Sleeper couches are the perfect solution for instant relaxation or overnight guests – and they're especially ideal for compact spaces. Whether you prefer a multi-purpose sofa or want to maximise space for the occasional sleepover (once that becomes commonplace again), the best sleeper couch will need to be comfortable to sit on and ensure you have a good night's sleep. When you're limited on space, sleeper couches can be a real space-saver and a practical home essential that easily transforms from a comfy sofa to a cosy bed in minutes. A sleeper couch is also a great investment, saving you extra money in the long run (think no more deflating blow-up beds!), but with so many different types on the market, it can be a little challenging deciding on which sleeper couch suits your space. Gone are the days of just the traditional fold-outs, as sleeper couches have become more versatile with various styles, mechanisms, sizes and price range, looking just as comfortable and stylish as your standard bed. Before you buy a sleeper couch, there are some useful considerations. Firstly, how will it be used and how much space will you need? Will it be in the living room or spare room? Will it be used to sleep singles or couples? This will also influence the size of the mattress. 'Stage one of choosing the perfect sleeper couch for your space is considering how, and how frequently, it will be used,' agrees Nadia McCowan Hill, Resident Style Advisor for Wayfair. 'Traditional fold-out beds will reliably serve longer family stays, such as during the festive period and they come in a range of styles.' It's also important to consider how much space the sleeper couch will take up once it is fully opened out, and remember to measure up correctly! You don’t want a sofa too large to fit through the doorway or hallways. What type of mattress are you after? From open and pocket spring to the more supportive memory foam, you can find sleeper couches to suit your sleeping needs. And what style of sleeper couch and mechanism would you prefer? It's worth considering how practical the design would be in your space and its ease of use. 'As with any big purchase for the home, it's worth taking the time to decide on the style you are looking for and how it can help to enhance your space,' says Mark Reynolds, Buyer at Furniture Village. More importantly, if you can, try before you buy. There's nothing worse than spending money on a stylish sleeper couch for your space, only for it to feel uncomfortable or too hard to sit or sleep on. Read our useful guide to find the best type of sleeper couch to suit your home and lifestyle. Click-Clack sleeper couches For those who'd prefer a simple mechanism that's not back-breaking, the click-clack sleeper couch is a popular choice. This style of bed frame can easily transform from couch to bed in just minutes. Unlike more traditional fold-out sleeper couches, there is no separate mattress for sleeping as the seat and back cushion of the sofa becomes the sleeping space, much like a futon sleeper couch. With a simple 'click-clack', start by lifting the structure under the seating cushions. Drop the back down to make a flat surface to lie in or create a recliner position if you want to relax for those movie nights or delve into a book. 'Click-clack options are ideal for when kids of all ages have friends over last minute due to their quick and easy mechanisms,' advises Nadia McCowan Hill. 'Often designed with a bright palette and contemporary silhouette in mind, a click-clack sofa can be placed in more casual settings such as a playroom or home office.' Bear in mind, if this is placed against a wall, you'll need to move the sleeper couch to create space when turning it into a bed. Corner sleeper couch / L-shaped sleeper couch If you're short on space, the corner sleeper couch is a practical space-saving solution. Designed to be more versatile and ergonomic, it allows for more floor space. Modular sleeper couches give you the choice of having a right-hand or left-hand long side and a short side to suit your room shape and size, or you can opt for a chaise style if you want it armless. Corner sleeper couches also make an attractive and stylish piece of furniture. It's worth noting that corner sleeper couches can be huge and can dominate small spaces, so it’s important to check it's the correct size and dimension for your room before you buy. 'People often think that a corner sleeper couch means that the size of the bed itself will be greater,' says Rob Ellis, Head of Design at DFS, 'however typically the bed will still be a double in size, so do bear this in mind.' A single sleeper couch and single sleeper couch chair For those with bijou spaces, the single sleeper couch and chair beds are ideal. These are more popular in secondary lounges and open plan kitchen-diner spaces. 'Small sleeper couches such as snuggler or cuddler sleeper couches are a great option for those with smaller living spaces, who want a compact sleeping solution for when guests stay over,' suggests Rob Ellis. 'One slight downside is that as they are a little less popular than some of the other sleeper couch styles, you may find fewer style choices available. 'Single sleeper couch chair designs also have to be a little bulkier than a normal armchair in order to accommodate the bed mechanism.' So if you're opting for something a little more modern, just bear this in mind if you're working with more compact space. 2-seater sleeper couch The two-seater sleeper couch is a great compromise if you don't want something too big in your living space yet can offer a comfortable sleep. These sleeper couches are ideal for studio apartments or an additional piece of furniture in a large space. A popular choice for buyers, there is often a wider range of styles to choose from with most available in different fabrics such as leather or plush velvet. Most two-seater sleeper couches will fit one person comfortably, but two might be a bit of a tight squeeze – especially for those restless sleepers! Just make sure to check the weight and dimensions before you buy. A 3-seater sleeper couch and double sleeper couches Double sleeper couches or the three-seater sleeper couch offers more space and can accommodate a couple or even three people comfortably. These types are often found in larger living spaces and can be used as a regular bed. 'Double sleeper couches are perfect for long-term or regular guests,' agrees Mark Reynolds. 'These types often offer superior mattresses that will provide them with greater comfort and support.' Three-seater sofas often have roll-out mechanisms as they can accommodate a thicker, more supportive mattress. 'However, to make room for this convenient functionality, they require a bulkier mechanism, which can limit the shapes and styles available,' adds Rob Ellis. Sleeper couch with storage If you prefer a clutter-free home, a sleeper couch with storage maximises space and makes the perfect 2-in-1 combo. Nowadays, you can find plenty of sleeper couches that have hidden storage in the guise of compartments and drawers. These are ideal for storing extra bedding, throws, cushions and even kids' toys which is always handy. 'Clever furniture and built-in storage are staying relevant as we continue to adapt our lives too small space living,' agrees Nadia McCowan Hill. 'Hidden drawers and lift up compartments will always be a design bonus when selecting the ideal sleeper couch.' However, bear in mind that storage sleeper couches are usually larger sized sofas, so do make sure you have the right space to accommodate it. Pull-out sleeper couch Most sleeper couches have a pull-out mechanism where the bed base pulls out from underneath the seats. 'Pull-out sleeper couches feature either a two-fold or a three-fold mechanism,' adds Mark Reynolds. 'With a three-fold mechanism, the bed base pulls out from beneath the sofa cushions and unfolds in three movements. While the two-fold sleeper couches have a base that pulls out from beneath the sofa cushions, unfolding in two quick movements. These sleeper couches usually have a foam mattress on a springy webbing base and are best for occasional use.' All these options means you won’t have to worry about the cushions or rearranging anything. Simply add some bedding and comfy pillows for your perfect slumber.
Article from https://www.housebeautiful.com/ From open spring to bed-in-a-box, we explain the ins and outs of mattresses Getting a good night’s sleep is essential to staying happy and healthy.
But buying a mattress without doing your research first can lead to sleepless nights and achy mornings if you aren’t sleeping on a supportive base. And mattresses can cost anything from a few hundred pounds to thousands,so you’ll want to make sure your chosen mattress is worth the investment before you buy. Here, we’ve put together everything you need to know before you hit the high street (or browse the web – online-only mattress companies are on the rise). Whether you’re a side sleeper or suffer from chronic back pain, read on to find out what option is best for you. You can trust our independent reviews. We may earn commission from some of the retailers, but we never allow this to influence selections, which are formed from real-world testing and expert advice. This revenue helps us to fund journalism across The Independent. Types of mattress Open spring mattress: Also known as an open coil or continuous coil mattresses. These contain one long piece of metal wire coiled into numerous springs. There’s also an additional border rod or wire to maintain shape and provide structure. It’s a great value for money option, although sides are machine-stitched rather than hand-stitched, they are lighter than other models, making them easy to turn. They tend to be less supportive than other mattresses too, so are most suited to guest bedrooms or as children’s beds, where they are used occasionally or will need to be replaced regularly anyway. Pocket spring mattress: This type of mattress is more luxurious, as it’s made from individual, small springs housed in their own pocket of fabric. This means each spring moves independently, providing more support than open spring mattresses. You can buy soft, medium or firm versions, depending on your preference, and they are more breathable than memory foam or latex mattresses (so ideal if you’re always getting too hot during the night). These are heavy to turn though and can be filled with natural materials such as lambswool which may agitate allergies. This is a good option if you’re looking for a bed for two people, as the separate springs will cater for your different needs and weights, while they will also minimise the risk of you rolling towards your partner in the middle of the night. Bed-in-a-box: The game-changer of the sleep world, these mattresses have revolutionised the way we buy our beds. Casper, one of the first bed-in-a-box companies, launched in the UK in 2016 and its popularity has seen other brands such as Simba and Leesa follow suit. The name refers to the delivery method; removing the painful task of visiting mattress shops and waiting weeks for delivery, these mattresses are ordered online and arrive within days. Usually compressed and rolled into a box, there’s no need to “pivot!” like Ross and Rachel from Friends with one of these. Unravel the mattress and it will be ready to use within a few hours. They are usually made from foam or a hybrid between memory foam and springs. Memory foam mattress: These more modern mattresses are made from memory foam, which is a mouldable material that also responds to temperature and weight, and has hypo-allergenic properties. This means it will mould to the shape of your body, absorb your weight and relieve pressure on your joints. Not everyone likes the sinking motion of this type of mattress, and it can get rather warm, but it’s ideal for those who need support or suffers from a bad back, as it will maintain posture and align your spine horizontally when sleeping on your side. Latex mattress: As the name suggests, these mattresses are filled with latex foam, which is an especially breathable material, so you won’t overheat in the middle of the night. It’s also extremely durable and should last for many years. And it’s a good option for those with allergies or asthma. They can feel rather solid at first though, so they’re better suited to those who prefer a firmer bed. Usually heavy, latex mattresses can be difficult to turn and cheaper versions can develop lumps and dents over time. Hybrid: Drawing from a combination of materials that usually include memory foam, latex and pocket springs, hybrid mattresses are designed to give a more balanced sleeping experience. They often come with a pocket-sprung base and a memory foam top layer, providing both comfort and support – alleviating aches and pains by responding to your body’s shape. Continuous and coil: A popular budget option, a continuous coil mattress is made from a single looped wire, while an open coil mattress is made from single springs fixed together with one wire. These are significantly cheaper than other mattress types but be warned that with the attractive price tag comes to the likelihood of these mattresses wearing out and sagging quickly. These mattresses also move around a lot with you as you sleep – as they are designed as one unit – so if you or your partner tosses and turns in the night, we’d suggest you consider other options. Mattress firmness How firm your mattress is will affect how well you sleep. The type of firmness you need will depend on your sleeping position, height and weight. Here we explain what level of firmness is best for what type of sleeper. Soft: Side sleepers or those who change positions during the night are best suited to soft mattresses. This is because the way you sleep already relieves pressure from your spine so you want your mattress to mould to your body’s natural position. Medium soft: This is ideal for those who change their sleeping position during the night, as it will still mould to your body position but provide a little more support. Medium firm: This is best for people who sleep on their back as you require extra lower-back support, which this type of firmness offers. Firm: This type of mattress is ideal for those who sleep on their front, are over 15 stone or suffer from back pain. This is because it will keep your back in a relatively comfortable and stable position without allowing you to sink into it as you sleep, which can cause lower back pain. . Article from https://www.independent.co.uk/ Many bed stores offers a variety of top-quality beds and mattresses - offering an assortment of different bed sizes to suit every sleeper’s preference. Bed or Mattress Size Bed Dimensions (cm) Single Bed 91cm x 188cm Single Bed XL 91cm x 200cm Three Quarter Bed 107cm x 188cm Three Quarter Bed XL 107cm x 200cm The Bed & Mattress Size Guide Take a look at this guide to South African bed sizes. Single Beds A single bed size is an excellent choice for a kid’s bedroom or a spare room because of its smaller size and adaptability. Single beds and mattresses are ideal for those who need extra space because of a small room size or if you need to accommodate multiple sleepers, like a hostel. And while single beds are smaller and more affordable than larger bed types, they do not lack in quality when bought from a reputable bed shop. Three Quarter Beds The three-quarter bed is the perfect in-betweener size for a growing teenager or child. They can also be more cost-effective and adaptable for families who don’t want to invest in a double bed straight away. The three-quarter bed is typically one of the most popular customer choices. This bed size offers a little bit more room than a single bed but still gives you enough space if you’re working with limited bedroom space. Double Beds Double beds are arguably the most popular beds in the country. They’re ideal for those who are looking to stretch out and make the most of their sleeping space. The double bed or mattress option is a good choice for those who are sharing their beds with a partner. This is often the best bed size for many people because it fits comfortably fit into any standard bedroom. It’s the bed of choice when it comes to the hospitality industry, being the ideal bed for hotels or bed & breakfasts. Queen Beds If you’re looking for a bigger bed where you and your partner can sleep comfortably with that added bit of luxury, then the queen bed is the right size for you. Queen size beds or mattresses are a good size for all ages and are ideal for a spacious bedroom. The queen-sized bed is typically the most popular bed size for adults sharing a bed. King Beds If you’re looking for luxury, then look no further than a king-size bed or mattress. This is the largest bed size available and is known as the ‘Big Daddy’ of bed sizes. The king bed is always in high demand with the discerning shopper. Imagine never being interrupted while sleeping! The king-size bed takes your sleep experience to the next level. If your budget is accommodating and you have enough bedroom space, then a king bed size is a great investment. Complement this with a king-size memory foam mattress and you have a real winner! Special Bed Sizes Extra Length Beds Extra length bed options, which are longer and wider than a standard size bed, are typically available at bed shops too.
Extra length beds come in the following size dimensions: WIDTH LENGTH Single XL 91cm 200cm Three Quarter XL 107cm 200cm Double XL 137cm 200cm Queen XL 152cm 200cm King XL 183cm 200cm Article from https://www.themattresswarehouse.co.za Where is the best place to purchase a new bed?
You spend one-third of your life on a mattress—so it’s no wonder that you want to make sure that you buy the right one. But since mattresses last for years, maybe it's been a while since you’ve purchased a new one. As a result, you might feel confused about how to go about comparison shopping and getting the best deal without sacrificing satisfaction. As with most purchases, you can sometimes get a better deal online than in a bed shop. But there are also benefits to taking the more traditional path and doing your shopping in person. If you want to go the virtual route, rest assured that there is no difference in satisfaction between people who buy mattresses online, compared with those who get them at mattress showrooms. But you can’t just log on to a website and pick a mattress randomly—you still need to know what you like. That’s why, regardless of where you want to ultimately make your purchase, you should first go to a mattress showroom and test out different mattress styles to find out what you like. Firm or soft? Springs or memory foam? Shed your embarrassment and lie down on lots of different mattresses. Change positions a few times, making sure that you spend a few minutes on each side, your back, and your stomach. Even if you already have a specific type of mattress, you should still take this first vital step. Technology changes in the years between mattress purchases, and you may find that your preferences shift. Once you identify what you like, you can narrow down your options. So why not always buy the mattress in the store? One reason is the price. You will typically pay 15 percent less online, compared with in-store. And many websites offer easy returns. Website retailers know that customers will want to test out a mattress, so some include things like 90-day free trials as a way to convince customers that it’s a low-risk transaction. It is – but remember that you usually have to bear the burden of wrapping up the mattress and getting it to the post office or carrier for return. It also comes down to preference: Some people just like shopping from the comfort of home or don’t have a store nearby that sells what they’re looking for. That said, some people feel really uncomfortable making such a big purchase online. Maybe, for instance, you are worried about having to return it or want to lie on the actual mattress you’ll be buying. If that’s the case, you can still get a great deal at a store. If you find a mattress on a website for a great price, bring an online deal into a store and ask a salesperson if the store can match the price. Unlike websites that have a set price, mattress salespeople in stores have the ability to negotiate with you and get you a price that makes you happy. You might also end up with some great add-ons by shopping in a store, like a free mattress pad or free removal of your old mattress. Original article from https://www.sleep.org/ Before buying a new mattress from your preferred online bed shop, there are many factors to consider, such as material, firmness, and cost — but the first decision you’ll always have to make is size. Most mattresses are available in Twin, Full, Queen, King, and California King sizes with some stores offering crib and Twin XL sizes too. The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab consists of bedding experts who evaluate mattresses, sheets, and pillows for your perfect bed. Our pros explain the differences between standard mattress sizes to make it easier than ever to find your dream bed. While these are the standard dimensions, sometimes there will be slight differences brand to brand. It’s always best to confirm the specific dimensions of the mattress before buying. What mattress size is best for you? What are the differences between mattress sizes?
Single Once your child graduates from a crib, they’ll likely move to a “big kid bed,” where you’ll need a single mattress. Best for kids or other single sleepers, a single bed is also the best mattress size for bunk beds. Three-Quarter A bit wider than a single, a ¾ mattress is typically found in college dorms and is best for tall children, teenagers, or other solo sleepers. Double A double bed mattress is the first size that can accommodate couples. While it’ll offer a lot of space for single sleepers, couples will be a bit more cramped. It’s a popular choice for young adults or smaller guest bedrooms. Queen Queen is the most popular mattress size on the market, as it’s perfect for couples. It offers ample space to spread out and allow kids and pets to sneak onto the bed sometimes. King For a big family or lots of pets, a king-size bed can accommodate a huge crew. With a king mattress, couples each get about the width of a twin mattress to spread out and sleep comfortably. A King is best for couples who grew out of a Queen mattress or families who want space to all snuggle in bed. Super King Super King mattresses add 12cm to the length, making this the longest mattress style available, and 17cm to the width perfect for taller couples with kids or pets. Note that this style is usually the most expensive. How to find your perfect mattress size Overall, a quality mattress can last for over a decade, so we recommend investing in a mattress you love. While it’ll ultimately come down to personal preference, the following are some considerations to make before deciding which mattress size is best for your needs:
Article from https://www.goodhousekeeping.com When customers buy a new bed set or mattress from their local bed store, one of the very first things any good bedding sales consultant should do is offer the customer a mattress protector. Most customers immediately just say "NO" and mumble something about spending too much money on the bed already and see the suggestion as a mere upselling tactic. The fact is however that a mattress protector is the most important accessory you should purchase with your new bed. So right now you're probably thinking "So, why should I buy a mattress protector?". Listed below are four benefits of using a mattress protector. 1. Keeps your mattress clean Mattress protectors fit over your mattress pretty much the same as a fitted sheet and are easy to remove and wash. Most mattress protectors are waterproof and if you or your kids accidentally spill some juice, coffee or even food on your mattress, it will not be absorbed by your mattress, thus preventing permanent stains and foul smells over time. And as we all know, accidents do happen! When it does, you can simply wipe the mattress protector, remove and wash it in your washing machine. 2. Keeps your mattress more hygienic While we sleep we all sweat, produce oil from our skin and shed dead skin cells. All of this can be absorbed by your mattress over time and is usually impossible to clean. Research suggests that mattresses could contain as much as 4.5kg dead skin cells and could have absorbed as much as 160L of sweat and other bodily fluids within a period of 8 years. Yes, that sounds pretty gross but using a mattress protector will minimise this drastically and keep your mattress more hygienic for longer. 3. Reduces allergies Dust mites are microscopic organisms that feed on the dead skin cells absorbed by your mattress. These little organisms can cause allergy-related symptoms such as sneezing, coughing and difficulty breathing. By using a mattress protector and reducing the number of dead skin cells absorbed by your mattress, you will automatically be reducing the number of dust mites as they would have insufficient food sources to live off of and reproduce. So, if you generally suffer from allergies, especially while you sleep, a mattress protector might just be the cure you have searching for. 4. Protects your warranty Most mattress warranties will be void if there are any kind of stains or marks on your mattress. So, what’s the use of buying a new mattress with, let say, a 10-year warranty, when it is already void within the first year. Protecting your investment with a mattress protector is, in this case, a no-brainer.
Conclusion Many people overlook the importance of a mattress protector and only see it as an upselling gimmick. Not using a mattress protector on your bed is pretty much the same as having an expensive new smartphone and not having a protective case or screen guard on it, which I am sure you all have! Even if you already have a mattress that you have used for a few years, you can still purchase a new mattress protector to prolong the life of your mattress. Article from https://beds-on-line.co.za/ 1) Sleigh beds are often referred to as French beds as it was Napoleon who popularised this style of bed at his court in the French Empire period (from 1795 - 1820). These French originals were designed for one. Although they had the classic old-fashioned sleigh shape, there were usually slimmer than our current double ones and had more of a day-bed vibe. Used less for curling up with cocoa and soothing novels, they were used more for flouncing about on and socialising.
2) However, the French weren't the first to buy beds in this distinctive shape: courtesans in Napoleon's day actually got their inspiration from the shapes and styles of antique Roman beds that were often discovered throughout Europe in those days. The French, getting into the swing of their own empire, clearly fancied a taste of the Roman bedroom style. We're not sure if the Romans had sleighs, and they certainly won't have called them French beds, so we're guessing they just used good old 'lectus'. 3) By 1815 the sleigh bed had made its way to the US, where almost every town with a decent craftsman was seeing a flurry of them being made. Initially, they weren't entirely wooden beds but had simple wooden veneers. Later, they were made from solid cherry, oak or pine wood. They became particularly popular in the Southeast - east of the Mississippi River. Charles Platt Rogers was one of the early bed magnates, and his store - opened in 1855 - is still trading in the US. 4) One thing that's always been a constant about sleigh beds is that they have been luxury beds. French cabinet-makers were highly competitive with their rolled-out tops at both the head and foot end, trying to make the finished article as fancy as possible. The American versions increasingly became status symbols, seen in the fanciest homes and in the very smartest guesthouses. These days they aren't even always made of wood, with designers branching out into all kinds of swanky leather and metal combinations. 5) We're sure the ancient Romans, the flouncing French and the empire-building Americans of yesteryear enjoyed their sleigh beds. The feeling of snuggliness and security is second to none when you're tucked up in one. But we can't help but think it must have been a right hassle to get hold of one. We'd quite like our own vineyard, our own French maid or our own plantation. But we also like the idea of online beds. Here's to the pioneers! Article sourced from: https://loaf.com/ Bunk beds are the epitome of our childhood dreams. Reminiscent of summer camp, or big family vacations. Maybe you grew up on a bunk bed and don’t feel as excited about them, but you have to admit they’re convenient for space planning. Here are the best tips and tricks when designing your own bunk bed! BUILD BASICS Let’s start with the basics! The spaces between each bunk should be about 40 inches, with the mattress next to the bunk. If your ceilings don’t exceed 9 feet, it might be a little difficult to build a bunk with substantial space. For really high ceilings you can add built-in drawers or even a trundle bed!! These rustic white oak built-in bunk beds are bright and youthful, with wire details on the railing as an industrial feature. We keep styling in each bunk room uniform and streamlined, so we use the same pillow and throw styling for each bed. It brings the space together and feels cohesive! We stuck with a gender-neutral green, for the pillows. It’s convenient for each bunk to have control over the lighting, so choose one with a switch plate. Think about how much the kids rough house and move around. You don’t want a light fixture that’s too ornate or fragile. We like to stay clear of paper shades. If you have an open window between the bunks, it’s the perfect opportunity to add a window seat! We maximize comfort by getting custom cushion seating. Add throw pillows for bonus cosiness. We also had an opportunity to create built-in openings that could host frames, books, and more. Sure, they’re convenient but they’re also just beautiful, and tie in with the storage drawers lining the bottom of the bunks. THINK ABOUT THE KIDS This feels like a no brainer, but it’s important! Think about the safety and comfort of the people who get to actually enjoy the space. We start by using an LED lightbulb because they don’t get hot. Outlets can be a polarizing topic when it comes to safety. You don’t want your younger kids playing with them or sticking anything in there!! But it’s also nice for the older kids to have somewhere to charge. Most new outlets have a tamper-proof safety feature, but you never know!!
Be carful when designing rails for the top bunks— find the balance between high enough that the kids don't roll off versus making the bunk look like a prison cell. Article source: https://www.studio-mcgee.com/studioblog/2019/3/18/bunk-beds Bedroom Furniture Tips to Maximise Space Have you ever tried to change a baby’s nappy in an aeroplane bathroom? It’s basically impossible. Not an inch of free counter space, hardly room to turn around, let alone manoeuvre your little bundle of delight into position for the delicate operation. Odds are you end up with one foot in the toilet, bum cream in your eye and poop smears on the walls. With any bedroom that’s a tad on the small side, you’re bound to come up against some space challenges. Fortunately, unlike so many victims of those aggravating airborne ablutions, you don’t have to be pulled into a vortex of chaos. With some smart bedroom furniture choices and a little thinking outside the box, you can create the space you need, and have some poop-free fun in the process. You will no doubt come across loads of awesome small bedroom ideas gathered in herds all over the web—great for a day of leisurely browsing. To save you some time, we’ve boiled these down to just four basic concepts with a few of our favourite examples, so you can go forth and hack your way to small bedroom bliss! 1. Think Lite, think Light Firstly, it’s called a bedroom for good reason. The whole purpose of this space is to give you a place to click ‘refresh’ at the end of the day, and leave in the morning ready to take on the world. So ‘think Lite’ when it comes to furniture, and let your bed be the hero, while making sure anything else you include in the room is contributing in some essential way to your feeling peaceful and centred—not presenting you with more chaos. Do you really need your desk in here, or can it fit in another corner of the house? That sentimental rocking chair you inherited from grandma? Maybe it’s time for a yard sale. This doesn’t mean you have to go bare bones on style—it’s just about making careful choices. A well-chosen headboard will add that personal flair to your bed without sacrificing on space, while a bulky bed frame just takes up unnecessary room. Instead of billowy curtains, you could opt for a neat, modern blind. Keeping window dressings to a minimum will cut down the fuss and let more light in to keep the room feeling airy and bright. You may also want to ‘think Light’ when picking your colour scheme - lighter colours reflect more light and naturally help us feel more energised, awake, and open to possibility. On the other hand, darker, moody tones can make things feel more cosy and intimate, but they might also have you feeling like the walls are closing in on you. Go with your personality and what feels right for you – no need to white wash your walls into mental asylum mode, but going with lighter shades and adding a couple of mirrors is definitely going to help keep claustrophobia at bay. 2. Think multi-function While true multi-tasking may still be pie in the sky for us humans, we have fortunately come up with great ideas for furniture that can pull off more than one job at a time, and still look pretty doing so. Think about it this way – you can effectively ‘double your space’ if you pick furniture that performs more than one essential function. Why have a clunky chair that’s just a chair, when you can have a stylish storage box or ottoman that doubles as a chair, a bedside table, and a step ladder for all things ‘up’? Hooray for the humble (and potentially magical) floating shelf. This baby is the king of multifunction—nightstand, bookcase, desk, shoe-rack…the sky’s the limit (well, actually, the ceiling). 3. Think Up Have you ever noticed how fixated we are on floor space, while the top half of most rooms go totally underused? There are loads of innovative ways to put this ‘dead space’ to good use. Here are two of our favourites… No space for a bulky closet? Go vertical with a hanging garment rack above a modest size dresser. A leaning ladder is an awesome idea to create vertical storage space for all kinds of things while adding a quirky touch to your room. Plus, it’s easy to move around, with no installation required. 4. Think Under This may be the most obvious point, but it’s about much more than shoving your shoes and unmentionables under the bed… True story though, your bed offers one of the best places for hidden storage, particularly in the form of purpose-built storage beds (and of course you can do a DIY version, which might just require swapping out your traditional box base for a more space-savvy bed frame). Keep in mind that ‘thinking under’ often goes together with ‘thinking up’. A platform or loft bed may be a little less practical for some, but if you don’t mind literally ‘climbing into bed’, it can free up your room in a massive way with potential storage, seating, work or chill space underneath. Article source: https://www.cielo.co.za/blog/small-bedroom-ideas-n11
Which Royal Size is Right for You?
You want to sleep like royalty. No, you SHOULD sleep like royalty! If you’re trying to decide whether a king or queen size bed is right for you, here is how they measure up. Before making the leap to a bigger bed, do some legwork and consider your floor space, make sure the bed can get around corners, down the hall, or upstairs. Will the new headboard fit? Will there be space for other accessories? How big is a king-size bed? A king-size bed is approximately the size of two single beds. The standard king bed dimensions are 183cm x 188cm, which makes this bed, and excuse the pun, fit for a king! You might be wondering why two people might need all that space. A king-size bed is more than just a place to lay down your head. A bigger bed allows you to sleep diagonally, gives you more room to move around, and it’s also your quiet sanctuary. If your bedroom space, and budget, allows for it, then go for the king of beds. On the other hand, you might be wondering what the standard queen size bed dimensions are. How big is a queen size bed? A queen-size bed is a bit narrower with dimensions of 152cm x 188cm, with extra length also available. Queen size beds are still the most popular choice of bed size, as it provides you with a big enough bed for couples, but not too big for single sleepers. No matter the choice you make from the available beds Cape Town bed stores have, you will surely sleep like a king, or queen, very soon! . . . . . Article source: https://www.sleepmasters.co.za/king-vs-queen-bed In recent years, Scandinavian and Hygge-style interior decor has swept through the world. Ever since it really started to emerge in the 1950s, Scandinavian design has since become a staple in homes across the globe. This perfect blend of the clean and simple with warm textiles and wellness-driven design has turned homes into more comfortable places to live, so what better room to decorate in such a style than the bedroom? Neutral Tones Clean, neat, cosy – these are all words that come to mind when thinking of Scandinavian design and colour has a lot to do with it. Whites, blacks, greys and browns are common choices in a range of hues, designed to create a calm, muted environment that’s still airy and light enough to be comfortable, even when the weather is dull and dreary outside. Generally, white is the dominant shade, with blacks and greys as well as other pastel hues acting as accents or secondary colours. Lighting Lighting can make or break Scandanavian design. Traditionally, Scandinavian countries don’t get much light throughout the winter months, often as little as 6 or 7 hours and as a result, having enough forms of lighting around the home is a must. This can be anything from ceiling lights and lamps, to candles. Having a mix of cool and warm lights can make it easier to set the mood, making for a cosy, comfortable room. Scandinavian design is very focused on creating an ambience that makes staying at home and indoors a comfortable experience. For an almost whimsical glow, candles can give exactly that while creating a relaxing atmosphere that’s perfect for a bedroom. Warm Textiles You can never have too many blankets or cushions in general but for a Scandinavian bedroom interior, they really are a key point for getting the design down. In countries where this design originated, cold weather is common and so thick blankets, wool or mohair throws and other soft furnishings are a must-have to keep the bedroom feeling and looking warm and cosy. An upholstered headboard can offer the same benefits, creating a soft and warm space to sit with a warm drink and a book or laptop. Combine Wood And Metal The term ‘rustic’ is often thrown around alongside Scandinavian design and this usually manifests in a mixture of wooden and metal accents. Wood tends to take precedence, featured in flooring, tables, bedside cabinets and, of course, headboards, while metal accents have become more prominent in recent years, particularly in lamps, sconces and ceiling lights. Make The Most Of Plants In a time where more and more people don’t have a substantial garden, house plants are quickly taking over as a source of greenery and nature in the home. They also happen to be a great way to enhance a Scandinavian interior. They offer a pop of colour and a natural element to an already neutral and airy design and have even been reported to reduce stress and fatigue, as well as the risk of sore throats, headaches and colds. The Scandinavian interior design keeps warmth, cleanliness and relaxation at its heart, with airy and simple designs that are easy to navigate and maintain while offering all of the benefits of a cosy and comfortable space. Take a look at our headboards and find the perfect inspiration for you. Article source: https://www.justheadboards.co.uk/blog/2020/05/your-bedroom-style-guide-scandanavian/
WHEN was the last time you woke up for work not feeling tired? Complaining about lack of sleep is practically a national sport in Britain, with 48% of us not getting the recommended seven hours’ kip. Sleep deprivation now costs the UK economy over £40million a year in lost productivity And it’s worse for women. On average, we get an hour’s less sleep than men, while 74% of us say our snoozing is often disturbed. Sleep deprivation now costs the UK economy over £40million a year in lost productivity, so there’s never been a better time to up your sleep game. LIGHTS OUT Gradually reducing light at night can help control levels of melatonin, the hormone that regulates your sleep/wake cycle, resulting in better kip. Keep phones and laptops out of the bedroom as the blue light from screens tricks the body into thinking it’s daytime. Many experts recommend a low red light, as it replicates the embers of fires used for light before electricity was invented. PILLOW TALK A recent study found that participants who used supportive pillows had better sleep. But how do you choose the right one? “People who sleep on their side benefit from a firmer pillow, whereas those who lie on their front are suited to a softer one,” says Nanu’s Jamie Moryoussef. Kip on your back? Harley Street sleep coach Max Kirsten advises going for a pillow that allows your head to tilt back slightly, such as a memory foam one, which conforms to your head shape. HOLY SHEET Research by the National Sleep Foundation showed that 86% of people rated comfortable sheets as crucial to a good night’s kip. Sleep expert Donna Burley recommends buying 100% cotton sheets from a bed shop. “Cotton is naturally hypoallergenic, so won’t cause any irritation or itchiness, which may improve your quality of sleep,” she says. If you struggle with feeling sweaty at night, bamboo or microfibre might be the way to go. “Or try moisture-wicking sheets made with smart fabric,” adds Donna. “They absorb sweat fast so you don’t feel sticky.” OH, SO QUIET Although total silence is the optimum, it’s difficult for many of us living in urban areas to achieve. Even if you can, research shows you’re then more likely to be disturbed by sudden noises than if you already have a level of noise in the room. Psychologist Dr David Holmes advises sleeping with ear plugs or playing sounds of the sea or white noise. LAY PERSON 93% of people surveyed by the National Sleep Foundation said their mattress quality was key to a good sleep
When it comes to mattresses, choosing between hard or soft is a personal choice, but 93% of people surveyed by the National Sleep Foundation said their mattress quality was key to a good sleep. Max advises bearing in mind the way you lie, your weight and any back issues. “You need the right amount of support to keep your spine in alignment,” he says. “Visit bed shops and talk to experts to try before you buy, plus read reviews. Independent springing is usually better than joined together as the support is more effective, but we are all different.” For couples who get disturbed by each other, Max suggests: “Either buy separate single mattresses placed on one base or choose memory foam that is able to absorb another person’s movement. Remember to turn the mattress if instructions advise this, and replace it at least every eight years.” DARK MATTER We sleep soundest in an environment with no light, as darkness increases the production of melatonin. The presence of light reduces melatonin and tells the body that it’s daytime. “Blackout blinds can help achieve total darkness,” advises Max. “Bright lights in bathrooms shouldn’t be switched on during the night as this will reduce melatonin, making it harder to fall back to sleep,” says Max. Instead, try a lamp or torch. ICE DREAM Remember lying awake during last summer’s heatwave? Feeling too hot can cause night sweats that may result in disrupted sleep. “The optimal bedroom temperature is between 16°C and 19°C,” explains Max. “A cooler room also increases melatonin, the hormone that tells your body that it’s time to sleep.” Keep window blinds and doors shut during the day to prevent it from heating up. . . . . Article from: https://www.thesun.co.uk/fabulous/9023921/sleep-tips-hacks-bedroom-products/ Nearly two-thirds of adults in developed nations fail to meet the nightly eight hours of sleep recommended by the World Health Organization.
According to Matthew Walker, sleep expert, neuroscientist, and Berkeley professor, driving while drowsy is more dangerous than drunk driving. Sleep deprivation may also affect male and female fertility. Walker notes that men who sleep for just five hours a night tend to have levels of testosterone similar to a man ten years their senior. Sleep deprivation also increases the risk of cancer, memory loss, depression, anxiety, obesity, cancer, heart failure, and Alzheimer’s disease. In his New York Times bestselling book, Why We Sleep, Walker notes that: “After being awake for 19 hours, people who were sleep-deprived were as cognitively impaired as those who were legally drunk… After 16 hours of being awake, the brain begins to fail. Humans need more than seven hours of sleep each night to maintain cognitive performance. After ten days of just seven hours of sleep, the brain is as dysfunctional as it would be after going without sleep for 24 hours.” Here are five scientific tricks to help you fall asleep fast and regain those lost hours of sleep. 1. Maintain a consistent sleep scheduleWalker notes that one of the best ways to train your body to fall asleep quicker is to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even if you don’t have a good night of sleep. He recommends that you set a bedtime reminder on your phone an hour before you plan to fall asleep. Another effective trick is to develop a pre-sleep routine that will help you build the habit of falling asleep quicker. For example, during my pre-sleep routine, I spend five minutes stretching and practicing breathing exercises. Then I read a book in bed and usually fall asleep within ten minutes of reading. Experiment with different pre-sleep routines to find what works best for you. 2. Create a dark sleep environmentWe live in a society that deprives us of complete darkness, but we need it to aid the release of melatonin, a hormone that determines the healthy timing of our sleep. The blue light from your laptop or smartphone can fool your brain into thinking it’s still day time, even though it’s almost time to go to sleep. According to Walker: “Even a hint of dim light—8 to 10 lux—has been shown to delay the release of nighttime melatonin in humans… A subtly lit living room, where most people reside in the hours before bed, will hum at around 200 lux. Despite being just 1-2% of the strength of daylight, this ambient level of incandescent home lighting can have 50% of the melatonin-suppressing influence within the brain.” Walker’s advice is to dim half the lights in your home and shut down all electronics about an hour before you go to bed. 3. Keep your body coolAccording to Walker, our bodies require a drop in temperature—which affects our melatonin levels—to fall asleep quicker. If you’ve ever woken up, only to find your arms and legs sticking out of your covers, it’s a sign that your body attempted to reduce its core temperature low enough for you to fall asleep. The ideal bedroom temperature lies between 65-68F, taking into account standard bedding and clothing. Another trick to reduce your core temperature and fall asleep quicker is to take a hot bath before bed. Walker suggests that: “When you get out of the bath, those dilated blood vessels on the surface quickly help radiate out inner heat, and your core body temperature plummets. Consequently, you fall asleep more quickly because your core is colder. Hot baths prior to bed can also induce 10-15% more deep NREM sleep in healthy adults.” 4. Avoid caffeine and alcohol after 2pmWhen we wake up in the morning, a chemical, adenosine, builds up in our brain to create sleep pressure and make us feel sleepier the longer we stay awake. After about 16 hours of staying awake, the sleep pressure created by adenosine causes us to feel tired enough to fall asleep. But, caffeine creates the opposite effect. Your brain is fooled into thinking that it hasn’t been awake for 16 hours, despite how sleepy and tired you feel. This is because caffeine is blocking the brain signals of adenosine, as well as the sleep pressure instructions to the brain. The longer caffeine blocks adenosine, the greater the quantity of adenosine build up in your system. When your body rids itself of the caffeine from its system, not only do you revert back to the same level of sleepiness prior to consuming the caffeine, you’re also hit with an additional dose of sleepiness from the adenosine build up. This is the “caffeine crash” you may have experienced before. And just like any bad habit, you’ll crave another dose of caffeine to boost your energy, reinforcing the vicious cycle. The average half-life of caffeine is approximately five to seven hours, and that’s why Walker recommends that we avoid caffeine consumption after 2pm. In Why We Sleep, Walker also suggests that consuming alcohol in the evenings is detrimental for quality sleep: “…those who had their sleep laced with alcohol on the first night after learning suffered what can conservatively be described as partial amnesia seven days later, forgetting more than 50% of all that original knowledge.” Alcohol causes multiple sleep interruptions in the middle of the night, most of which we won’t remember. Plus, it blocks our REM and dream sleep, which is critical for mental health. 5. Don’t stay in bed after you wake upHere’s a common scenario: You suddenly wake up an hour or two before the alarm to wake up rings. The clock is ticking. You know that time is running out and if you don’t fall asleep now, you’d miss out on the extra sleep. But for some reason, you’re filled with anxiety because you can’t sleep and you’re not sure whether to stay in bed or get up and start your day. Our brains are extremely adaptive so if we spend enough mornings in bed after we wake up, the brain learns to associate beds with staying awake, instead of falling asleep. Walker suggests that the best way to avoid this problem is to go to another dimly lit room and read a book until you’re about to fall asleep, then return to bed. If you still can’t fall asleep, that’s okay. By restricting time spent in bed, you can build up sleep pressure to fall asleep faster over time: “One of the more paradoxical CBT-I methods used to help insomniacs sleep is to restrict their time spent in bed, perhaps even to just six hours of sleep or less to begin with. By keeping patients awake for longer, we build up a strong sleep pressure—a greater abundance of adenosine. Under this heavier weight of sleep pressure, patients fall asleep faster, and achieve a more stable, solid form of sleep across the night. In this way, a patient can regain their psychological confidence in being able to self-generate and sustain healthy, rapid, and sound sleep, night after night: something that has eluded them for months if not years. Upon reestablishing a patient’s confidence in this regard, time in bed is gradually increased.” Walker also suggests meditation as a solution to fall asleep faster, especially after a long flight and build up of jet lag. In particular, breathing exercises quiet the mind and weaken the fight-or-flight branch of the nervous system, a key feature of insomnia. Master the art of falling asleep“Sleep that knits up the ravell’d sleeve of care, The death of each day’s life, sore labour’s bath, Balm of hurt minds, great nature’s second course, Chief nourisher in life’s feast.” —William Shakespeare, Macbeth Falling asleep is as much an art as it is a science. While these scientific tricks can help you fall asleep faster, they aren’t rules set in stone. As with everything, you can always experiment and find what works best for you based on your lifestyle and circumstances. The main takeaway is that sleep is crucial for a healthy, productive, and fulfilling life. Make sleep a priority in your life today. Article source: https://qz.com/quartzy/1647041/how-to-fall-asleep-faster/ Weighing whether buying a mattress online might be a mistake? More used to going in-store to test out mattresses? We think it's much better to buy a mattress online... here's why. Buying a mattress online, if you're doing it for the first time, might not seem like it makes good sense.
So, let us debunk the myth that going in-store to buy a mattress is your best option. It really isn't. Read on to be persuaded... 1. YOU GET A 100-DAY FREE TRIALMost modern mattress and bed companies now offer a free trial period when you order your mattress online – some up to 100 days long. That means, for up to three months, you get to sleep on your mattress in your own bedroom, wearing whatever you wear when you're in bed. Contrast that to going in-store on a Saturday, lying self-consciously on an undressed mattress in a hot store full of other shoppers for, oh, five minutes, wearing your clothes, possibly your coat and almost certainly your shoes. Doesn't really compare, does it? Each mattress company's trial length differs, but some also offer free trials on other products you might like to trial at the same time. 2. YOU GET A NO QUIBBLES RETURN If, at any time within your free trial, you're unhappy with the mattress you've bought online, you can return it for free, without its packaging, as long as you haven't damaged it. Each mattress company's trial period and returns policy is slightly different, so do check before you buy. However, once the return is sorted they’ll send a courier over to remove the mattress from your home and donate it to a local charity or recycling centre. They will then refund you the full value of your mattress and if you paid using instalments, you'll be refunded whatever you had paid up until that time and the agreement would be cancelled. Returns are free, but any premium delivery charges will not be refunded. Not bad, eh? 3. UNBIASED MATTRESS REVIEWS GIVE YOU THE LOW-DOWNIt's pretty tricky to research the mattress you've just hopped on and off of in-store. If you're hunting down the best mattress for your needs online, you can do all the metaphorical legwork from your own home. RealHomes have carried out tons of unbiased mattress reviews – an experienced member of their team has inflicted thorough mattress testing on herself, her husband and family. You can read all their mattress reviews on their dedicated page. But do bear in mind that what you need to choose a mattress suited to your sleep position (more on that in a minute). 4. MATTRESS BUYING GUIDES HELP YOU DEFINE YOUR SLEEP POSITIONYou might not know that you should choose a mattress to suit your sleep position, be it side, back, front or fidgety... Each sleep position requires a different mattress firmness and filling to be really comfortable. So, have a think about your most usual sleep position, and whether you suffer from backache or allergies, too, and pick your mattress accordingly. 5. DOUBLE MATTRESSES CAN COME IN AN EASY-TO-HANDLE BOXThought buying a mattress online would mean that a great big slab of mattress appears in your hallway, only to languish there until such a time as a couple of burly friends are available to help you carry it upstairs. Think again, some mattresses can be delivered in a box that's about the size of a small child (although somewhat heavier). And don't worry, these mattresses are designed so that they can be folded small, so the boxing doesn't affect quality. You simply have to unfurl and leave them to return to their intended size. 6. YOU CAN USE PRICE COMPARISONS TO GET THE BEST DEALIf you're looking for a mattress deal, the best place to find one is online. Okay, there might be a store sale you can take advantage of if you buy on the high street, but can you be sure that the particular mattress on sale isn't cheaper elsewhere? Plus if you buy online, you can use price comparison buttons to ensure you get the best deal that very minute... 7. SOME MATTRESS RETAILERS WILL DISPOSE OF YOUR OLD ONEHaving a new mattress delivered is all very exciting but what do you do with the old one? That's a whole lot of furniture to dispose of. Many mattress companies will dispose of your old mattress when you buy a new one. They simply pick up your old bed or mattress directly from your home when they deliver your new one, and recycle your item at their own specialised bed and mattress recycling centre or donate it to a charity. 8. YOU CAN BUY A PILLOW TO MATCH YOUR MATTRESS CHOICEYou should know that a new pillow should ideally be bought at the same time as a new mattress – or at least with the mattress' fillings and firmness rating in mind. So, if you've got a hard mattress, a soft pillow will be your best bet; with a soft mattress, a firmer pillow will be the best choice. That said, like mattresses, pillows are very much an individual choice. 9. YOU CAN ORDER MATTRESS TOPPERS ONLINE, TOO. Same principles apply. In fact, mattress toppers are a better online buy because how they feel is very much dictated by what's underneath them. Just check out those T&Cs so you know what you're signing up for. 10. YOU DON'T HAVE TO GET OUT OF BED TO ORDER A MATTRESS ONLINE Laptop on, a cup of your favourite brew to hand, the latest ep of Game of Thrones on. Enough said. Article from https://www.realhomes.com/advice/buying-a-mattress-online |
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