Beds and Mattresses

Do you wonder why sometimes you wake up with a sprain in the back or a stiffer body even after an uninterrupted sleep whole night? While sleeping well is important for a healthy mind, sleeping on a comfortable mattress matters for an altogether recharged body.

Spending on your comfort and luxury is not just about spending on the expensive home equipment or going on far off vacations. It begins with your bed where you spend about one third of your life and grow elder every day!

Now, since it is established that you must buy a good mattress for yourself, how do you decide which mattress is the best for you?

Well, different individuals have different demands. Some find it comfortable to lie down on a soft bed and other like it hard. Though soft mattresses appear cushioned and cosy, they are not really ideal for your body for night long support. You must go for a mattress that offers your body maximum support, from head, neck, back to your hips and whole of your legs. And there spills out another clue – the right size. You may find mattresses in different sizes including king size, queen size, twin or full size. You can choose the one that suits your requirement the best.

It was probably the Arabs who invented the concept of Mattresses. The word mattress means a place where something is thrown. The “something” here would probably mean a mat, pillow and or a cushion. During trade with the Arabs, the concept of mattresses caught on to the French & Italians and then fast spread throughout Europe. Similar was the case with Asia.

Traditional or ancient methods usually had a mattress which was not too thick thrown on the floor with pillows on it. In the homes of the rich, the mattress was always placed on a raised platform. Pillows and cushions were thrown on the mattress in abundance and varied in shapes and sizes.

Mattresses, just like pillows, have been made of various elements which changed through time and growth of science. The concept of beds came much later. The fillers were mostly natural materials like feathers, straw with animal skin used as the cover on the straw mattresses.

The Neolithic Period saw the invention of mattresses made of natural materials. Raised platforms were introduced in the same period to keep away pests and dirt.

Persian society went a step ahead, around 3500 BC – 3700 BC with mattresses made of goat skin filled with water for a cooling effect. While in Egypt heaps of dried palm boughs were used to make mattresses.

With Rome as the most powerful empire, mattresses were now being made of piles of clothes stuffed & tied together. Reed and hay were used as stuffing material by the poor and the rich had their mattresses stuffed with wool and feather.

15th century saw the style change in Renaissance Europe with mattresses covered with expensive fabrics like Silk and Velvet etc stuffed with soft straw and feathers. 16th & 17th century saw beds being made with timber and other hard wood with feather & straw mattresses being made with lattice work of rope and leather.

It was only around the 18th century that mattresses were covered with cotton and linen. As the demand for hard mattresses was seen, coconut shell fiber, cotton, rough wool and horsehair were used for stuffing. Jute at the same time was introduced to stuff mattresses for those who couldn’t afford good cotton or wool.

The box-spring technique was invented in the 19th century and has been the longest running concept still used for making mattresses. Mattresses became less lumpy and more long-lasting with better comfort. Few years down, natural fibers were replaced with artificial fillers with encased coil springs.

Foam rubber mattresses and pillows came around the 1950s which would take shape of the person’s body giving better comfort and not loosing their shape or elasticity.

Next invention was waterbeds and adjustable beds in the 1960s which gained considerable popularity. 1970s and 1980s came with air mattresses and mattresses made of memory foam which now is the most popular concept used to make mattresses.

Various companies now have their own customized concepts to make mattresses which obviously turn into their USP.

A popular concept these few years is using “Upholstery” on a mattress which adds extra comfort and softness. The upholstery layer consists of an insulator, the middle upholstery and finally the quilt.

The insulator is made of fiber or mesh which ensures the middle upholstery keeps in place. The middle upholstery is designed to provide comfort and is made of polyester fiber, foam and fiber pads. The quilt is made of light foam or fiber ensuring to give a soft texture to the mattress.

Recent scientific research reveals that uncovered mattresses make perfect host for various allergens and irritants. Dust mites, dead skin like dandruff, mold and bed bugs are common examples for such concerns. This is where Mattress Protectors give benefit. Also known as mattress pad or underpad, it is basically removable bedding that is laid on top of your mattress for providing protection.

Summers are relentless and sweat is a common concern with all, sweat stains not go through the bed cover however they form stains on the mattress which can help infest germs to multiply. Not convinced, notice during summers that after a few weeks of use, a yellow patch of stain will develop on your mattress and pillow. Neglect makes the stain grow into brown color as well.

Infants, while sleeping often secret saliva or urinate. Such concerns will obviously help germs and allergies grow. A mattress with such stains will obviously be unfit for use. Many people actually put the mattress out to dry under the sun, however that only dries the upper crust of the mattress.

As we cannot wash our mattresses, mattress protectors are excellent to use as they are easily washable. Though the upper area of a bed mattress can be easily cleaned with a vacuum cleaner, however stains can’t be washed & removed from the mattress. So obviously, mattress protectors help in such cases.

A simple mattress protector would be like a quilt which is fitted as per the size of your mattress/bed. However such a mattress protector is of no benefit as after regular use, it easily crunches and turns unleveled. The basic purpose of buying a mattress protector is defeated.

Waterproof mattress protectors are the best choice. They have a layer of rubberized flannel pads which have a sponge like character. Any sweat, liquid or secretion is immediately absorbed leaving the least or no stain on your bed mattress.

As a user, you have to ensure that the mattress protector is washed regularly. Don’t differentiate between winter and summer seasons. It’s equally important to wash the mattress protector during winters as thanks to moisture, allergens can spread easily.

Letting it dry a few extra hours under the sun is always a good idea as that’s the best and natural way of killing germs.

Mattress protectors are compulsory to use if you have infants or very old people in your house. Old people are often prone to allergy and many suffer from arthritis or breathing related concerns. Dust mites combining with the thin “invisible” fabric lint dust create allergy and breathing problems for everyone. People waking up in the middle of the night coughing, is a clear sign of that.

Many companies now sell mattress protector which comes with an enclosed case in which you can spray anti-allergens. This helps tremendously as it levels the spray fumes all over the mattress ensuring such germs are killed before they spread through the mattress.

Furthermore, companies now have zippered cases all over the mattress. The traditional sowing technique of sealing a mattress is unsafe. With weathering, the sowing snaps open and dust particles, allergens find an easy way inside the mattress. Zippered cases ensure no openings ensure this doesn’t happen and the mattress remains bug free.

This is Comfort Sleep’s flagship collection. With Award winning dual spring technology, Sensor Flex ™ is the pinnacle of no – turn technology.

Whilst the Sensor Flex ™ spring system remains constant throughout this range, every model is unique. Different feels and comfort levels are achieved using a variety of premium materials, such as high-density foams, natural latex and visco-elastic foam. One of the mains benefits of the spring system is the “no part disturbance” feature. It is ideal for those who are constantly woken up at night with their partner is tossing and turning.

With nearly 1300 springs in a queen size mattress the Sensor Flex Royal Indulgence boasts one of the highest spring counts available on the market today. The Dual Spring allows for an even distribution of weight through both springs. This in effect, prolongs the life of the mattress as two spring work together. All Sensor Flex ™ models carry a 10 year Guarantee.

With a blend of plush comfort layers and an ultra durable and supportive spring system, the Sensor Flex Royal Indulgence is a premium mattress for those who love a luxurious feel.

Sensor Flex Royal Indulgence is truly the Ultimate in Comfort.

You can extend the lifespan of your mattress through proper care.

• Don’t bend (as in around corners, etc.) your innerspring mattress because its innards can be permanently damaged

• Rotate and flip your mattress according to the manufacturers specifications.

• Use a foundation designed for your mattress. A solid base lengthens the life span of your mattress and ensures your new mattress is giving you the support it was designed to give.

• Do not exert great force on the mattress handles. This may not seem logical, but those handles are not there to tie rope to and haul to the second floor…

• Always use mattress protector to keep the mattress free of stains. If stained, use mild soap and cold water – rub lightly. Never soak a mattress or a foundation.

• Use a vacuum cleaner for regular cleaning. This is a great way to remove dust mites and keep your mattress fresh.

Mattress Rotation
Most manufacturers offer suggestions for care. If not adhered to, the mattress may fail prematurely. Be sure to follow the manufacturers instructions to stay within warranty requirements. Recently, manufacturers have produced one-sided mattresses that do not need to be flipped and in some cases, do not need to be turned. Even though your mattress may not need to be flipped or turned it is important to rotate your mattress regularly, your torso is heavier than your legs and important to use your mattress evenly.

If you want an insight into somebody’s true personality, then try to catch a glimpse of the way they sleep. Scientists believe the position in which a person goes to sleep provides an important clue about the kind of person they are.

Professor Chris Idzikowski, director of the Sleep Assessment and Advisory Service in the UK, has analysed six common sleeping positions – and found that each is linked to a particular personality type.

“We are all aware of our body language when we are awake but this is the first time we have been able to see what our subconscious posture says about us.

“What’s interesting is that the profile behind the posture is often very different from what we would expect.”

• The Foetus: Those who curl up in the foetus position are described as tough on the outside but sensitive at heart. They may be shy when they first meet somebody, but soon relax. This is the most common sleeping position, adopted by 41% of the 1,000 people who took part in the survey. More than twice as many women as men tend to adopt this position.

• Log (15%): Lying on your side with both arms down by your side. These sleepers are easy going, social people who like being part of the in-crowd, and who are trusting of strangers. However, they may be gullible.

• The yearner (13%): People who sleep on their side with both arms out in front are said to have an open nature, but can be suspicious, cynical. They are slow to make up their minds, but once they have taken a decision, they are unlikely ever to change it.

• Soldier (8%): Lying on your back with both arms pinned to your sides. People who sleep in this position are generally quiet and reserved. They don’t like a fuss, but set themselves and others high standards.

• Freefall (7%): Lying on your front with your hands around the pillow, and your head turned to one side. Often gregarious and brash people, but can be nervy and thin-skinned underneath, and don’t like criticism, or extreme situations.

• Starfish (5%): Lying on your back with both arms up around the pillow. These sleepers make good friends because they are always ready to listen to others, and offer help when needed. They generally don’t like to be the centre of attention. The remainder of those in the poll said the position they fell asleep varied or did not know.

How do you sleep in bed?

Do you remember the last time you got a really great night’s sleep? Was it a year or more ago? Perhaps it wasn’t even in your own bed. Where were you? A hotel? Your favorite easy chair?

All too often, the answer is somewhere other than your own bed. But, you should be getting your best night’s sleep on your own mattress.
If you find you’re not sleeping as well as you should in your own bed, you may want to consider that your mattress and foundation could be robbing you of sleep. It may be time for a new mattress if:

• You wake up with pain, stiffness, or soreness
• You are not sleeping as well as you were a year ago
• You had your best night’s sleep somewhere other than your own bed
• Your mattress shows visible signs of wear and tear

Too often, people are unaware that their mattress is no longer meeting their needs. You can avoid sleepless nights by carefully evaluating the comfort and support of your sleep set twice a year to make sure your personal comfort preferences are still being met.

If you’re still not sure whether your mattress is stealing your sleep, visit our store and compare the different mattress choices we have available.

Mattress Life Span

Your mattress won’t last forever. A combination of factors works together to determine how long your mattress will provide optimum comfort and support.

It’s All About You

• Lifestyle. Changes in lifestyle, such as moving into a new home or getting married, may call for a change in your mattress.
• Your Body. As we age, our bodies change. What was comfortable and supportive when you were 25 may not meet your needs when you’re 35 or 45. Likewise, the amount of space that’s right for a six-year-old may not be enough for a 16-year-old. Make sure that every mattress in your home meets the sleeper’s current needs for comfort, support, and space.

It’s Also About Your Mattress

• Age. Don’t look to the age of your mattress or the warranty to determine whether it’s time for a new mattress. Neither are indicators of how long your mattress will maintain optimum comfort and support.
• Quality. A poor-quality mattress set can deteriorate quickly, while top-quality sets can provide comfort and support for a number of years.
• Use. A mattress set that is used nightly or that gets more of a workout (e.g., you watch television or read in bed) will lose its comfort and support more quickly than a set that is used less often, such as a guest room bed.

How did you sleep last night? You spend more time with your PILLOW than you probably realize. The correct pillow can make a big difference in getting a good night’s sleep, so be sure to select the one that is perfect for you.

All pillows are not created equal. Almost 1/3 of our life is spent sleeping; choosing the right pillow is important to ensure you always get a good night’s rest.

When purchasing your new pillow here are a few things you should consider:

1. FILL/PILLOW TYPE

• Natural Fill Pillow: Natural fill is feather, down, or a combination of both. Down is not a feather. It’s the fluffy insulation under the feathers that keep ducks and geese warm and protected from outdoor elements. These natural fills are best for conforming to your head and neck. The higher the grams of fill, the more loft the pillow will have, and the more durable the pillow will be. Note: Natural fill pillows labeled “allergy free” have been sanitized of all impurities that typically affect allergy sufferers.

• Synthetic Fill Pillow: This is a man-made fill, usually polyester. Synthetic pillows typically have a shorter life span and will not conform to the head and neck as well as a natural fill pillow. They are hypo-allergenic and, overall, the most affordable type of bed pillows.

• Microfibere Fill Pillow: This is a type of synthetic fill in which polyester clusters are coated with silicone to feel and move like down. It gives the softness and appeal of a true down pillow without the cost. Great for allergy sufferers who prefer synthetic fill but want down-like comfort.

• Memory Foam Pillow: These are dense, sponge-like pillows that mold around the head and neck for extra support. Best for sleepers who prefer a firm pillow. Memory foam contour pillows are also good for people with neck and spine issues.

2. SUPPORT

• Back Sleeper: Back sleepers need a medium support pillow that will support the natural curvature of the upper spine, providing support under the head, neck and shoulders.

• Side Sleeper: Side sleepers need something that contours and cradles the neck, providing an even sleeping surface.

• Stomach Sleeper: Stomach sleepers need a soft pillow so that the head and neck aren’t turned unnaturally to either side.

3. COVER

Better pillows will have a quality fabric cover with a high thread count. Thread count represents the number of threads per square inch of fabric. Higher thread count covers will be softer, but more importantly, will keep the fill from getting out and impurities from getting in. Some pillow covers are additionally treated with fabric protection that makes them stain and water repellent as well as anti-microbial.

Some pillows may be dry clean only, but most pillows are machine washable, even down. Check the tag for directions before you rip it off your pillow. The most important factor is that they are dried completely. Any dampness left in the pillow will cause mold to form. If your pillow is fluffy without clumps, it’s dry.

It is advised to wash your pillows on the gentle cycle with a gentle detergent. Run it through a second time without detergent, or use your extra rinse cycle to get it all out. Dry it on a low setting until completely dry (three to four hours), and throw a tennis ball in with it. It may make for a noisier ride, but it helps to produce a fluffier pillow. An added treat is to spritz the tennis ball with your favorite scent.

Even though you will use a pillowcase, every pillow should have a pillow protector. This will act as a barrier against impurities and help prolong the life of your pillow. Look for a high thread count in the protector as well.

Mattress Protectors are an often overlooked, yet essential element on your bed. When you purchase a new bed it’s important to protect it, as you’ll have the bed for a number of years. They serve many purposes, from protecting your mattress to keeping the sheets on the bed.
It is definitely a necessity, not a luxury item.

The most effective type of mattress protector is 100% cotton and fits the mattress like a fitted sheet. A fitted mattress protector covers both the top and sides of the mattress and resembles a fitted sheet with elastic around the sides of the protector. It will be quilted only on the top of the pad and will provide a good fit for most standard-sized mattresses.

Cotton mattress protectors are the most desirable as being made of a natural fibre. Also available are waterproof and miteguard mattress protectors. Miteguard mattress protectors fit over the entire mattress with a zip enclosure at one end. They are especially designed for those with extreme allergies or asthma and will protect your mattress from dustmites. They are also machine washable.

All mattress protectors are machine washable and can be washed less frequently than your sheets.

Below are some commonly asked questions, which may help choosing your mattress protector.

• If my mattress is extra deep, which mattress protector should I buy?

The majority of mattress protectors especially those like fitted sheets have a generous sidewall which will fit all mattresses.

• My mattress isn’t comfortable. Will a mattress protector help?

A mattress protector won’t fix an uncomfortable mattress. You may consider purchasing a mattress topper which may help a little however if the mattress is no longer giving you support it may be best to purchase a new mattress.

• Can I wash my mattress protector?

Yes, you can wash your mattress protector. Check the washing instructions on the packaging or on the protector before you wash.

You can purchase our mattress protectors online or visit us instore. At bed we have a great range of mattress protectors.

There are essentially two main mattress constructions – those with springs and those without springs.

Mattresses with springs – Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring mattresses are the most popular and familiar type of mattress today. The coils and wires called the innerspring unit provide support while, the upholstery or comfort layers made up of foam, padding and fibres provide cushioning. There are two types of innerspring mattresses:

Open Spring
This is the most common type of spring system used in mattresses, particularly in the lower to middle price ranges. The unit is made up of traditional coil springs. The spring coils are all wired together so that they all move when pressure is applied.

Pocket Spring
These are used in higher quality mattresses. Each spring is ‘cocooned” in its own pocket of material and packed closely together a bit like a honeycomb. The springs work independently of each other to reduce the ‘roll together’ effect and give maximum support to your body shape. The higher the number of springs the greater support.

Mattresses without springs
Full latex, foam and visco elastic memory foam mattresses have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their comfort and overall body support. Latex is a natural body-conforming material often used to increase softness and relieve pressure points while visco elastic memory foam is a synthetic material that responds to body temperature and weight which has evolved out of recent space technology.

Latex Mattresses
Latex is a natural, biodegradable foam derived from rubber trees. Latex foam contours to the body’s curves, and moves with the sleeper as they move, providing continuous orthopedic support. Body weight is spread over the entire sleeping surface, minimizing “pressure points” and creating a more comfortable sleep.
Latex foam has an “open cell” structure that enables the mattress to “breath”. This allows the release of body heat and moisture keeping the sleeping surface comfortable.

A latex mattress may be a good option for allergy sufferers because they’re less likely to harbour mould and dust mites.

Visco Elastic Memory Foam Mattresses
Visco Elastic or Memory Foam was developed by NASA about 30 years ago. It is made from polyurethane, but has a different cell structure to other foams, which makes it less ‘springy’ and slower to recover — it ‘remembers’ your shape even after you’ve moved.

Memory foam reacts to body temperature and weight, conforming and moulding the mattress to the shape of the body. Body weight is spread over the entire sleeping surface, minimizing “pressure points at the shoulders, hips and feet.

Like latex foam, memory foam is highly resistant to bacteria, mould, mildew and mites and may be a good option for allergy sufferers.