Mattresses

Traditionally, a bed consists of a bed frame, a mattress and box spring, and maybe head and foot boards. But that time-tested definition is starting to change in a fairly significant way as more and more people turn to platform beds instead. These sit lower to the ground and have a more contemporary look and feel, and they don't require you to buy a box spring to go along with your mattress. But since the bed buying market is pretty slow (most people hang on to their beds for a least a decade) there are a few things you might not know about this relatively new alternative. [caption id="attachment_11295" align="aligncenter" width="480"] Oaktown Eastern King Bed 98193 From Zuo Modern[/caption] Shop Zuo Modern Beds: The job of a box spring is to support the mattress; in theory, box springs have a little give to them that helps the mattress better conform to the shape of the body. But over the last few decades, all but the highest end box springs have gotten a lot less springy, to the point that most should actually be called foundations, because instead of springs, they contain a fairly rigid surface made of either wood or metal. That means platform beds, which allow you to set the mattress right on top of the flat platform in the center of the frame, offer a similar if not outright identical amount of support, without you having to buy a box spring, too. [caption id="attachment_12710" align="aligncenter" width="480"] Nelly Bed BK1096-WHT from Whiteline Imports[/caption] This isn't always less expensive than buying a traditional bed setup, since the cost of the platform bed vs the cost of a traditional bed frame, head boards, and box spring can vary widely depending on the quality and design, but at the very least it'll save you the hassle of having to coordinate all those parts and pieces, since platform beds are sold as a single unit. [caption id="attachment_11296" align="aligncenter" width="480"] Win Floating Contemporary Platform Bed T2666BBD53206 from Rossetto[/caption] Shop Rossetto Beds: The lack of a box spring also gives platform beds a sleeker, more streamlined appearance. Obviously, the exclusion of the box spring means that platform beds sit lower to the ground, but the bed frames themselves are often designed to emphasize this difference, with bases that rise only a few inches up off the ground (if at all) and lower, more understated headboards, rather than the large, grand affairs you typically find on very traditional bed frames. [caption id="attachment_12523" align="aligncenter" width="480"] Win Wenge King Sized Bed T2666BBA83206 from Rossetto[/caption] In fact, many modern platform beds can look downright space agey, with a very low profile, striking geometric designs, and shapes and materials that range from sleek sci-fi to grown-up versions of that racecar bed you always wanted as a kid. More assertively modern platform beds frequently come with high tech features, too, like built in LED lights to help you see at night (and give your bed a nice dramatic flair). [caption id="attachment_12714" align="aligncenter" width="480"] Portland King Bed 800311 in Walnut from Zuo Modern[/caption] Shop Nuevo Living Beds: That said, not all platform beds are excessively modern in style; the lower profile and less traditional look ad feel can also simply be used to make a bedroom feel more relaxed and casual. While very modern platform beds tend to be upholstered (leather is particularly popular), more contemporary ones are often made of rustic or even reclaimed wood that has a beautiful texture without all the posh and polish of an ornately carved, antique style bed. [caption id="attachment_11294" align="aligncenter" width="426"] The City King Size Bed in Dark Brown 98206 From Zuo Modern[/caption] Platform beds can also be a straight practical alternative to the traditional mattress and box spring. Not all platform beds are strictly modern or contemporary in design, and some even attempt to mimic the height of more traditional designs, either by raising the height of the platform and the headboard, or by adding drawer-style storage underneath the platform, again to help elevate the height of the bed. You might have to do a little looking, but you can find platform beds that are very traditional in design, but that will simply save you having to buy a box spring. Are you considering making the switch from a traditional bed frame to a platform bed? If so, what size and style are you looking for? Let me know in the comments!...

Just like many other big ticket items around the house, your mattress is something you want to milk as much life out of as you can. But unlike most major appliances that always ultimately obviously (and oftentimes dramatically!) break down, it isn't quite so obvious when your mattress needs to be replaced. Fortunately, there are a few simple rules to know when it's time to toss it, and some simple steps you can take to help push back that expiration date. Know When To Quit [caption id="attachment_5158" align="aligncenter" width="400" caption="Sealy Bonita Falls Latex Firm Mattress Set"][/caption] The single easiest guideline for when to replace your mattress is this: if you're having trouble sleeping, or waking up with back or neck pain you didn't have before, it's probably time to get a new mattress. Whether you have a traditional Spring Mattress or a foam or memory foam one, they're designed to support your body while you rest and give the maximum comfort. But over time, wear on the springs and the gradual compaction of the foam leave the mattress uneven (even if not visually so) and increasingly uncomfortable. The problem is, this can be a change so gradual you might not notice it, and a year later that crick in your neck seems normal - but it isn't, or at least it doesn't have to be! Mattress Care 101 Use A Mattress Pad Or Mattress Cover [caption id="attachment_5160" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Chattam & Wells 400ct Wide Stripe Mattress Pad"][/caption] This is probably the easiest thing you can do to help prolong the life of your mattress. A good mattress pad, like this one from Chattam & Wells, or a dust mite proof Mattress Encasement acts as an extra barrier between your mattress and spills, stains, sweat, dead skin, and little buggies that like to eat them. If you use an Egg Crate, it will catch most of the gunk that normally builds up in your mattress, so replacing it every year or two can keep your mattress cleaner. Don't Eat On Your Mattress [caption id="attachment_5163" align="aligncenter" width="517" caption="Reversable Bed or Serving Tray"][/caption] I mostly cut this habit when I moved my TV out of my bedroom, but I know it can be tempting to much a late night snack between the sheets or indulge in the occasional breakfast in bed. But inviting food into your bed is like begging for spills and stains, and leftover crumbs can attract insects. If you're tempted to do it anyway, at least use a Serving Tray. Don't Leave Damp Towels On The Bed [caption id="attachment_5154" align="aligncenter" width="308" caption="Ahh, The Post-Shower Lounge. But Is It Making Your Bed Grow Mold?"][/caption] As the largest piece of furniture in most bedrooms, it can be easy to use the foot of your bed as a dumping ground. But moisture from damp towels, clothing, or bodies can seep down into your mattress and stain it, or even cause it to mold or mildew. Keep Pets Off The Bed This one can be tough if you have willful animals, but even the cleanest of pets are smelly and can shed hair and dander on your mattress, which can stain it and leave lasting odors. Compromise with a Pet Bed - on the other side of a closed door! No Jumping! [caption id="attachment_5162" align="aligncenter" width="399" caption="I'll Admit, It's Just About The Most Fun You Can Have, But Not So Fun For Your Mattress"][/caption] I know, what a stick-in-the-mud rule. But jumping or falling dramatically into your bed, fun though it might be, can damage your mattress and causes unnecessary wear. Might I suggest an indoor Trampoline instead? Monthly Maintenance There's not a whole lot of agreement on how often you should change your sheets. Even polling people I knew, answers ranged anywhere from once a week to once a month and everywhere in between. You need to do it at least once a month, though, to prevent built up sweat and dead skin from seeping into your mattress, and to keep it smelling fresh. However often you change your sheets, though, there are a few bits of extra maintenance that you should do once a month, every month, to extend the life of your mattress. Strip And Spot Clean Your Bed [caption id="attachment_5159" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Woolite Fabric & Upholstery Foam Cleaner"][/caption] The first part of your monthly maintenance is to completely strip your bed, ideally while you're changing your sheets anyway. While your bedding is in the wash, visually inspect the mattress and spot clean any stains with a damp sponge and Upholstery Cleaner, and let it dry completely. Vacuum Your Mattress [caption id="attachment_5156" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Even If You Have A Mattress Pad, It's Important To Give Your Bed A Monthly Deep Clean"][/caption] Once the mattress is completely dry, use the Upholstery Attachment on your vacuum to clean away any accumulated dirt, food crumbs, and other buildup. Make sure to get into all the crevices for a good, deep clean. Flip And Rotate [caption id="attachment_5155" align="aligncenter" width="332" caption="Credit Where Credit's Due - The Numbering Idea Came From Chris Inch"][/caption] This one is maybe the most important. Remember how I said the ultimate reason to replace your mattress is comfort? Well, to reduce the wear and tear that makes mattresses uncomfortable, especially if you sleep with a partner, you need to flip your mattress once a month, to keep the wear as even as possible. Flipping and rotating it regularly spreads out wear and tear from two different sized and shaped bodies more evenly, keeping your mattress sturdier, longer. To help keep track of your rotations, number the corners of your mattress 1-4 in black ink, and mark one corner of your bed frame. When you go to flip your mattress, just move the next number in line to that corner, and you're sure to turn it all the right ways every time. What About Dust Mites? Bed Bugs? [caption id="attachment_5157" align="aligncenter" width="512" caption="In Lieu Of A Picture Of A Dust Mite, I'm Showing You This Adorable Sleeping Puppy - Trust Me, It's Better Not To Think About The Dust Mites"][/caption] There are a lot of scary statistics about there when it comes to mattresses. One that's commonly thrown around is: your mattress doubles in weight in anywhere from five to ten years, depending on who you ask. This is because microscopic baddies - dust mites - that eat dead skin live and multiply inside the mattress. Gross - really, extremely gross - to think about, but unless you have severe allergies, these dust mites are totally harmless and basically inevitable. That said, a lot of the maintenance tips above (especially the Mattress Cover) make your bed less hospitable to dust mites, and if your mattress is still comfortable, I wouldn't let the creepy statistics get to you. [caption id="attachment_5164" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Sorry, But These Ones You Should Be Able To Identify - If You See One, Call An Exterminator ASAP"][/caption] Bedbugs, on the other hand, are not a normal problem, though outbreaks are becoming more commonplace. The good news is, they don't just show up on their own - their larvae travels on clothing or luggage that's been stored in an infested place (like a hotel room) or used furniture, so make sure to thoroughly inspect any used furniture before you bring it into your home. In a hotel (no matter how nice the hotel), put your stuff in the bathroom on the tile floor and check under the corners of the bedspreads for reddish brown stains (or live insects) so you can catch an infestation and change rooms before the hard-surface-hating bugs can make it into your luggage. The best way to keep your own bed bug free is to make sure they never make it into your home, but if you DO wake up in your home with mosquito-like bites, especially lots of them all over your body, call an exterminator IMMEDIATELY to deal with the problem. They're almost impossible to get rid of on your own, but an experienced professional might be able to save your stuff and give the bugs the boot. All that said, a good, quality mattress should last you a long time. They're built well, and with the proper care hold up for many years. When you do have to replace it, though, make sure to buy it as a pair with the box spring, as they're designed to work together, and the right mate can go a long way to keeping your mattress structurally sound. How long have you had your mattress? What steps do you take to keep it in good shape? And, I'm really curious - how often do YOU change your sheets? Let me know in the comments!...