Archive for September, 2006

A Look at Foam Mattresses

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We’ve all been there. First, we spend a sleepless night, tossing and turning. Then we spend the next two days with body aches, sore from head to toe. The effects of a bad mattress can be serious. Then we face the daunting prospect of shopping for a new mattress. This task can be a bit intimidating. There are so many different prices, sizes, styles, and firmness to choose from. They come in drastically different materials, as well. Mattresses can be filled with air, water, fabric, feathers, springs or foam. One of the most popular — especially for people suffering body pain — is the foam mattress.

Foam mattresses are popular because of their body-contouring nature. The foam literally reshapes to mold to the user’s body. This is designed to strategically place pressure where needed, while relieving the strain on other points. It is believed that this relieves pressure from the neck, spine, and lower back, eliminating much of the soreness and pain associated with regular mattresses.

The foam mattress is not entirely without drawbacks, though. Some people complain about the body-contouring nature that it’s famous for. If, for some reason, you are not happy with the newly molded shape, you cannot change it. Some reports also say that the foam loses resiliency quickly. Others complain that the foam gets extremely hot, causing sweating and clamminess. Despite these complaints, many people do prefer foam mattresses.

If, after doing research, you decide to buy a foam mattress, they are available from most bedding stores. Some of the more popular foam mattresses are the Sealy Reflexion, the Tempur-Pedic, and the Isoform.

A-Bed offers a memory foam bed by Dormia. The Versailles by Dormia is offered for $447, including shipping.

Foam Order offers foam mattress pads. These fit on top of your existing mattress to create a body-contouring surface. They start at $248 for a Queen sized 3-inch pad. Foam Order also offers a selection of foam mattresses.

About the Author

Mattresses Info provides detailed information about air, foam, memory foam, futon, and waterbed mattresses and mattress pads, plus advice about mattress stores. Mattresses Info is the sister site of Memory Foam Web.

Written By: Eric Morris

An Explanation on Murphy Bed Mechanism

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The Murphy bed mechanism is a patented, special use device that allows the bed to be effortlessly lifted up into its recess or easily pulled down into a sleeping position. The basic concept of the mechanism is over one hundred years old. It was invented and patented by William L. Murphy in the early 1900s.

Mr. Murphys design was constructed of steel bolted to the door jamb of a closet. The lifting mechanism consisted of two steel springs that were strong enough to do most of the work of lifting and tight enough to keep the bed in a vertical position when out of use. The unit was counter-balanced to also keep it in the horizontal, open position when needed. Early improvements allowed the mattress to pivot so it would glide from one position to another. Many of these beds are still in use, especially in the older apartments of San Francisco and New York City.

During World War II, steel was in short supply. Consequently, fewer beds were constructed, even though replacement parts continued to be made. After the war, people moved from their small apartments in the cities to roomier houses in the suburbs. Interest in the Murphy bed waned until the movement back to city living in the 1980s.

Meanwhile, the mechanism itself was gradually improved as new patents were granted. The basic Murphy bed mechanism, two springs that needed periodic adjustments, was modified until the unit can now function well without any adjustments for years, and can be guaranteed for ten years or more. Many units are no longer attached to the floor or to the back of a closet, but are part of custom cabinetry. The unit now locks in place in both the vertical and horizontal position. There are even mechanisms that are gas-piston driven or electric, especially useful for the handicapped and elderly.

The Murphy bed mechanism can be purchased and installed separately in preexisting or custom cabinetry, or will be delivered fully assembled with a purchased Murphy bed. Murphy Beds provides detailed information on murphy beds, murphy bed plans, wall beds, bed libraries, and antique beds. Murphy Beds is the sister site of Bunk Beds Web.

Written By: Dave Lavinsky

Where to Find a Cheap Adjustable Bed

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Adjustable beds are no doubt very expensive. But the benefits procured from adjustable beds make them seem very affordable and worthwhile. Adjustable beds are available in many varieties and ranges. They have several advantages and health benefits. Cheap adjustable beds are generally used or second-hand models. Information about cheap adjustable beds is available in classified ads in the newspaper. It is also available in websites like e-bay, Amazon, Tigerdirect, Argos or in specific websites related to furniture/medical equipment. Though they are used, cheap adjustable beds can be in pretty good condition.

Cheap adjustable beds can have style while also serving a purpose. A cheap adjustable bed is always better and more economical alternative to using a normal bed. Since sleeping on the adjustable beds gives several comforts, it is always ideal to go for a cheap adjustable bed, especially for temporary problems.

There are some points to be considered while choosing cheap adjustable beds. They are: ensure the base is in working condition; ensure that it serves the exact purpose (permanent medical use or comfortable sleep); find out if the accessories and options are sufficient etc.

Adjustable beds come in two models — standard or heavy-duty. Adjustable beds are comprised of two main components: the base and the mattress. There are several features to be considered while buying a cheap adjustable bed — the size of the mattress (twin, queen, king or full) and the type of mattress (foam, latex, coil spring or air). Ordinary mattresses cannot be used on adjustable beds. Hence, the cost of the mattress should also be considered. The mattresses for adjustable beds are also specially designed to suit the body. This helps to relieve strain on certain areas of the body and in proper spinal alignment. They are also provided with adjustable rails on either side of the bed.

About the Author

Adjustable Beds Info provides detailed information on electric, medical, cheap, and used adjustable beds, as well as adjustable air beds and adjustable bed reviews. Adjustable Beds Info is the sister site of Massage Chairs Web.

Written By: Jimmy Sturo

The Basics of the Murphy Bed Plan

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As living space becomes more efficient, two social trends have converged to foster the Murphy beds regained popularity. First, because housing is more expensive, every available area needs to be used in as many ways as possible. Multi-use rooms are an extremely effective way to expand that space. Second, the do-it-yourself boom is still in full swing, as people choose to economize where they can by providing their own labor. Thus, turning a bedroom or study into a multipurpose guest room/work room by building ones own Murphy bed is an increasingly popular project.

Murphy bed plans and kits are available at a variety of sources. Manufacturers and retailers of Murphy beds often offer suggestions and technical support for this project. Many of these manufactures also sell a Murphy bed Plan. Other resources are the fashionable home improvement shows and home make-over shows. Often, a video of one of these instructional programs will be available to guide the home carpenter. Carpentry books are also a good resource.

The project itself is fairly simple, involving a box that fits within another box, and that has legs that rotate in or out, depending on the position of the bed. The cabinetry that surrounds the bed can be as simple or ornate as the homeowner would like.

A place to start looking for a Murphy bed plan is the manufacturer of the special mechanism that the homeowner will need to purchase. These patented mechanisms are what allow the Murphy bed to be opened out or shut away with a minimum of effort. These businesses are also a source of technical support. It is in their interests for your project to be successful.

Simple shop tools and an intermediate level of comfort with wood-working projects will allow the home carpenter to build a custom Murphy bed for his home. Building ones own bed will allow choosing the exact woods and trims to compliment the home and match existing woodwork, for a truly built-in look. Murphy Beds Info provides detailed information on murphy beds, murphy bed plans, wall beds, bed libraries, and antique beds. Murphy Beds Info is the sister site of Bunk Beds Web.

Written By: Eddie Tobey

Discount Bedding

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Dreaming of luxury bedding, but your budget doesn\’t allow this? There can be a way out. Go to one of the several websites offering bedding at a heavy discount. The images of these bedding options, along with detailed explanations of the material used in them, are also given on these websites. This makes it easy to decide which ones you want to buy. Pay with your credit card or other means as mentioned, on the website and within a week you will be enjoying the luxury of designer bedding made of luxury materials like silk. The best thing is that these products are usually sold under warranty. If you want to get a better bargain, try to buy one such bedding one of those auction websites where one can find some great deals.

If you want to touch and feel your bedding before you purchase it, go to one of the retail stores selling luxury bedding. Quite often, during certain times of the year (especially when seasons change), there might be heavy discounts to clear out the previous stock and make room for new products arriving on the market. Then there are certain bedding merchants which always sell bedding at a discount. They are commonly known as discount merchants. Luxury bedding set from any of these sources could cost you only $50 to $60.

If you want to go for average beddings being sold on discount, the cost could come down by a third. Nowadays there are lots of designer bedding showrooms which offer discounts regularly. If you are not in the mood to change all of your bedding you can change a part of it, such as pillows. Taking advantage of discounts offered on such items, you could give a new look to your old bedroom and be more comfortable also, by just spending a few more dollars.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Baby Bedding provides detailed information on Bedding, Baby Bedding, Discount Bedding, Luxury Bedding and more. Baby Bedding is affiliated with Air Beds.

Written By: Ross Bainbridge

A Look at Murphy Bed Libraries

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Homeowners and apartment dwellers alike have a need for functional living space that is attractive and economical. As housing becomes more expensive, and more people choose to telecommute, choices have to be made to use the space available in an efficient, flexible manner. One solution for this problem is a Murphy bed library.

The Murphy bed library unit is an elegant piece of furniture that allows multiple uses of a room. An apartment dweller can sleep, exercise, entertain, and work in the same small space, while her books, entertainment system, computer, and bed share the same wall. .

With the bed in its closed position, the unit looks like an entertainment center or library shelving. These units can be made of any modern material used for fine furniture, and can be found in any furniture style, from traditional to avant garde. The unit is a piece of quality furniture, while the bed and mechanism are strong and long-lasting. The Murphy bed library is an investment that puts a premium on comfort and elegant efficiency.

When the bed is needed, units differ. Some units have sliding shelf units that move on tracks to expose the bed, which then drops down. Others have cabinet doors that open to expose the bed. Some clever designers have hidden the drop-down bed behind a fake wall decorated with a permanently-attached, framed painting. The wall drops with the bed, becoming part of the support for the mattress.

The Murphy bed library unit is also useful for homeowners who need to turn that spare bedroom into a study or work space most of the time, and a guest area some of the time. The room is furnished as an office, but the guest bed is always available for that unexpected guest.

A third use for this furniture is as a wall-unit in an actual executive office. Bookshelves and cabinets are available for attractive display and storage, but the bed is available if the tired executive is working late and cant make it home. Murphy Beds provides detailed information on murphy beds, murphy bed plans, wall beds, bed libraries, and antique beds. Murphy Beds is the sister site of Bunk Beds Web.

Written By: Dave Lavinsky

The Benefits of Electric Adjustable Beds

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Electric adjustable beds are adjustable beds that can be automatically adjusted at the touch of a button. The user himself can operate them without assistance. They are available in various models, as per the user’s requirements, and these beds can be adjusted electronically to suit personal requirements. For people who cannot move out of bed frequently, these electronically adjustable beds are a boon.

Adjustable beds can be electronically controlled through a remote control. The head, neck, shoulders, upper and lower back, hips, thighs, legs and feet can be comfortably positioned by adjusting the different parts of the bed. Fully electric beds have an attractive residential design. They are supported by three separate motors to adjust the head elevation, height and foot elevation. They are very strong and durable, built with sturdy tubular steel. Coupled with the right kind of mattress, they can be customized to suit the condition of the sleeper.

Adjustable beds have two main components — the base and the mattress. The main features to be taken into consideration while buying an adjustable bed are the type of mattress (foam, latex, coil spring or air) and the size of the mattress (twin, queen, king or full).

Electrical adjustable bed frames provide utmost comfort to the sleeper. They can also be programmed in the memory controller for coming back to the same position after sometime. Even auxiliary functions like the massage system can be monitored electronically. Electronic adjustable beds help to relieve the pressure that falls on some parts of the body while in the sleeping position. Without getting up from bed or without depending on an attendant, the bed and mattress can be adjusted to a comfortable position. Even functions like reading a book or watching TV in bed, can be comfortably done now at the click of a button.

About the Author

Adjustable Beds Info provides detailed information on electric, medical, cheap, and used adjustable beds, as well as adjustable air beds and adjustable bed reviews. Adjustable Beds Info is the sister site of Massage Chairs Web.

Written By: Jimmy Sturo

The Beauty of an Antique Murphy Bed

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Murphy beds have been in existence since about 1900, when William L. Murphy invented the patented mechanism to hide his bed away in the closet of his one room apartment while he entertained. The beds have been in use ever since, always appreciated by city apartment dwellers and homeowners who needed an extra bed in a multipurpose room.

During World War II and directly afterwards, the beds dropped in popularity, first because of the scarcity of steel, and then because people were moving out of the city to larger, suburban homes, and space was not at such a premium. In the decades of the fifties and sixties, the beds were mainly remembered as props in slap-stick comedy, or the place to hide the body in a mystery story.

Now, Murphy beds are experiencing resurgence, as professional people move back into the cities and make their smaller living spaces more functional. Many apartment dwellers are finding these beds already existing in older buildings, especially in places like San Francisco, where the Murphy bed was invented, and where many Murphy beds were sold for the apartments built between the 1906 earthquake and World War II. Antique Murphy beds are now much sought after conversation pieces and design focal points, as well as practical, still-functioning pieces of furniture.

Antique Murphy beds are also being sold in fine antique stores all over the country. Many of the original mechanisms still function and the cabinetry used to create the units can be quite beautiful. Buyers should remember, however, that a true Murphy bed is not going to be older than the invention, patented in 1900. The piece may be housed in a cabinet that is older than the patent, but the mechanism cannot be older than that. The buyer should be knowledgeable about the furniture of the period as a whole, and about the mechanism itself. Intelligently purchased, these beds can be an investment and a functioning piece of furniture. Murphy Beds Info provides detailed information on murphy beds, murphy bed plans, wall beds, bed libraries, and antique beds. Murphy Beds Info is the sister site of Bunk Beds Web.

Written By: Eddie Tobey

The Recent Phenomenon of Futon Bunk Beds

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Futon bunk beds are a recent phenomenon, and have their roots in the natural evolution of futons. In recent years, futons have significantly improved in style, quality and comfort. In fact, futons have evolved from the tri-fold frame designed for college dormitories to more appealing, sofa-style sleepers with custom pillows and covers.

In addition, futon mattresses have improved in quality, and are now nearly as comfortable as traditional mattress. These factors, along with their versatility and space-saving functionality, have made futons and futon bunk beds more appealing.

Futon bunk beds are two futon beds stacked one on top of the other. The only real difference between futon bunk beds and traditional bunk beds is that the former has the dual functionality of serving as a couch. As such futon bunk beds represent the ultimate in space savings. They allow you to have two beds and a couch all within just a few square feet of floor space.

These benefits are obviously appealing to certain demographics. For instance, college dormitories are a natural fit for futon bunk beds. Likewise, in areas such as New York City and San Francisco, where apartment sizes are small and expensive, there is a great impetus for futon bunk beds to be purchased.

In addition to differing from traditional bunk beds due to their added functionality, futon bunk beds typically appeal to an older demographic, rather than kids. Futon bunk beds are also appealing to older individuals since they often have modern styling and offer a wide array of customization options such as covers and pillows.

Many futon bunk beds are built with a wooden finish which can easily match accompanying furniture such as dressers, desks, etc. Be sure that the guard rail extends to all sides of the upper bunk. This is a critical safety feature which must not be overlooked.

About the Author

E Bunk Beds is dedicated to providing comprehensive background and product information on various types of bunk beds. E-BunkBeds.com presents an accessible interface where users can determine what bunk bed products are best for them.

Written By: Dani Martin

The Convenience of Futon Bunk Beds

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Futon bunk beds are a recent phenomenon, and have their roots in the natural evolution of futons. In recent years, futons have significantly improved in style, quality and comfort. In fact, futons have evolved from the tri-fold frame designed for college dormitories to more appealing, sofa-style sleepers with custom pillows and covers.

In addition, futon mattresses have improved in quality, and are now nearly as comfortable as traditional mattress. These factors, along with their versatility and space-saving functionality, have made futons and futon bunk beds more appealing.

Futon bunk beds are two futon beds stacked one on top of the other. The only real difference between futon bunk beds and traditional bunk beds is that the former has the dual functionality of serving as a couch. As such futon bunk beds represent the ultimate in space savings. They allow you to have two beds and a couch all within just a few square feet of floor space.

These benefits are obviously appealing to certain demographics. For instance, college dormitories are a natural fit for futon bunk beds. Likewise, in areas such as New York City and San Francisco, where apartment sizes are small and expensive, there is a great impetus for futon bunk beds to be purchased.

In addition to differing from traditional bunk beds due to their added functionality, futon bunk beds typically appeal to an older demographic, rather than kids. Futon bunk beds are also appealing to older individuals since they often have modern styling and offer a wide array of customization options such as covers and pillows.

Many futon bunk beds are built with a wooden finish which can easily match accompanying furniture such as dressers, desks, etc. Be sure that the guard rail extends to all sides of the upper bunk. This is a critical safety feature which must not be overlooked.

About the Author

Bunk Beds Info provides information on the types of bunk beds that are available, and how and where to buy a bunk bed. Bunk Beds Info is the sister site of Murphy Beds Web.

Written By: Seth Miller