Spare bedrooms are a good thing. But, let’s admit that, for most of us, spare bedrooms are rarely, if ever, used. To address the “once-in-awhile” occurrence of having overnight guests, consider adopting a type of bed that simply folds up into a cabinet when not being used. I grew up in a four bedroom house, and, once my brother and I got older and began to enjoy our own rooms, our parents lost their ability to have a spare bedroom that was separate from the study/media room. Being crafty people, they looked into all their options. They found that Murphy beds offer a sleep experience comparable to sleeping in a real bed (rather than a trundle or futon) but only takes up approximately 6 square feet of wall space (give or take a few feet depending on the mattress size).

These beds can be purchased or built in all sizes. Our house had a queen-sized Murphy bed that we were able to purchase for about $200.00. Typically, you buy the plans and hardware in a kit, but the lumber is purchased separately, so you can choose the look of the finished product (painted or stained). I chose to stain the wood so a higher grade of wood was purchased for this project. Assembly is easy as can be! Once the bed is built and attached to a wall in the room, it can be dressed up by adding trim and handles. When the bed is not being used and is in its upright position it can have the appearance of a set of cabinets or an armoire. As I mentioned before, it takes up very little floor space when not in use.

All you need now is a quality mattress of whatever size you prefer. Our Queen size slept like a dream! Box springs are not necessary, as depth of the cabinet is sufficient for the mattress alone. Consider investing in a Murphy bed in order to save space and turn your only space room into an everyday functional space!

Author Bio: Ethan S. writes on behalf of Design55, a UK-based designer furniture shop that specializes in modern homewares.

To prevent the hassle of ever having a bed bug infestation, or to keep bed bugs from returning to your home, a great option is to purchase a bed bug mattress cover. These allergen-blocking encasements protect against bed bugs, dust mites, and bacteria alike, and can be found at a very reasonable price.

Finding a mattress cover that will keep the bed bugs out can seem like an overwhelming task if you don’t know where to look. There are several vendors that sell bed bug mattress covers, some that are more effective than others. Here are some of the top recommended bed bug mattress covers as rated by users:

1. Protect-A-Bed Aller-Zip Bed Bug Mattress Covers, sold at DoMyOwnPestControl.com, are the number one recommended bed bug mattress covers by professional pest control specialists, and are used by most hotels around the world.

2. Luna Premium Hypoallergenic Zippered Bed Bug Proof Mattress Encasement. The number 1 name and seller on Amazon, this mattress protector scored the highest on consumer reviews and bed expert surveys. It is highly rated amongst its owners and very effective in keeping out bed bugs, dust mites, bacteria, and liquids. The encasement covers the entire mattress and has a 10-year warranty. They are priced between $50 and $60.

3. AllerZip Waterproof Bed Bug Proof Zippered Bedding Encasement. The features 3-sided zipper lock is proven to keep bed bugs, dust mites, and other allergens out. Recommended by allergists as the most effective bed bug mattress cover, this encasement is priced around $100. Find it online at Amazon.com.

4. SecureSleep Mattress Protector. This mattress cover received a 5 star rating from its users. It’s priced at $69.99

5. Allerease Mattress Cover. Sold at your local Target store, contains an allergen barrier to keep bed bugs out. Consumers rated it as effective in keeping bed bugs out. It’s priced at $29.99.

6. Bed Bug Blocker Mattress Protector. Sold at JCPenney, this zippered mattress protector is priced at $34.99 and contains a barrier to prevent the entrance of bed bugs and other allergens.

Save yourself the hassle of getting rid of bed bugs and prevent the problem BEFORE it starts. Purchase a bed bug mattress cover and save yourself from hours of tedious vacuuming, washing, heating, and spraying later. These covers are guaranteed to keep your mattress free of bed bugs and keep your nights peaceful and restful.

John S. has been teaching people about pest control for years. He specializes in helping people save money on pest control by teaching them how to do their own pest control. If you would like to learn more about do-it-yourself pest control, please visit Do My Own Pest Control.

Little did anyone know back in the 1970′s that the first simple tri-fold futon frame designs would lead to so much more. Over the decades the futon industry has grown from unfinished basic slatted wood frames resting on the ground into actual furniture groupings consisting of anything from sofas, loveseats or matching chairs. In this article we’ll examine what makes futons practical for the home and some of the basics of shopping for the futon that’s right for you.

The first futons were referred to as tri-fold. Tri-fold means that three sections make up the frame of the futon and as such the futon operates using these three sections to create the sleep surface and seating. Early models required locking pins but more modern designs were developed that did away with this by incorporating an improved design that folded up under itself. The only thing not going for these frames is that they would sit very low to the ground making them a great choice only for those who get in and out of them easily. Today you’ll find these frames offered in more specialty futon stores as they are typically made from pine and are left unfinished. Tri-fold futons are still sold today and usually offered at much lower price points.

Next, bi-fold futons would make it onto the scene in the early 1980′s. These frames while not as simple and inexpensive as the tri-fold designs allowed for greater creativity and design and looked more like conventional furniture. Bi-fold futon frames as their name suggests are made with two sections a seat and back rack. The design of these futon frames allowed for easier conversion from a sofa to a bed and back again and offered seating at the same height as most other furniture making them perfect for anyone. Arms at each end of the futon would be made in various designs and styles allowing for easy integration into almost any room. Bi-Fold futon frames are made in sofa, loveseat and chair sizes and are often available with matching tables and ottomans.

The advantage that futons have over conventional furniture is in the assembly of these frames. Because they come flat in about six primary parts they are easy to get around tough corners in a home or into tight spaces where most furniture can’t go. Why is this important? Most upholstered furniture can’t be easily disassembled to fit through tight spaces. Futons can, and can easily. In most cases you simply take each part in one at a time and then assemble it in the room. What could be easier?

Futon mattresses are the next component you’ll need. The early futon mattresses consisted of a duck twill covering and were often filled with straight cotton batting. While soft and pretty comfortable, the issue with straight batting is that it would mat down quickly. Manufacturers developed a better design in adding convoluted and straight higher density foam cores into the mattress designs and this much improved the longevity of the futon mattresses. Innerspring mattresses were introduced later and added a feel that was more closely associated with conventional furniture for consumers who liked the idea of futons but desired the feeling and support of springs.

The last component to choose is a futon cover. Much like shopping for bedding, instead of sheets and blankets you’ll want to pick out a futon cover. Today’s covers are available in a wide variety of designs and colors to choose from. Some are made with upholstery grade fabric while others can be thin like sheeting. Pricing will of course reflect the materials used as well as construction or custom options selected.

Futons are a great alternative when you need furniture that must double as both a sofa and bed. Many improvements in designs and construction have taken place since futons first came onto the scene in the 70′s. The core makeup of futons has stayed the same however. When shopping for a futon choose three components which include a frame, mattress and cover. These are available in a variety of options. You’re sure to find the one that’s just right for your own unique space.

Phil Pendleton invites you to visit http://www.futonsnow.com for more information about futon frames, mattresses and futon covers. Futons Now! is an internet retailer established in 1999 that offers shipping of futon furniture products throughout the continental United States.

© Copyright Phil Pendleton. All rights reserved worldwide.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Phil_Pendleton
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Nothing is worse than coming home after a very tiring day only to find out that you are going to sleep on a mattress that smells moldy. The smell is not the only issue but also the thought that you could be sleeping together with molds that took up residence in your mattress.

You can get rid of this problem and avoid it completely if you regularly clean your mattress. To get you started, here are a few simple cleaning steps you can try:

Step 1: Ask someone to help you carry your mattress outdoors, preferably in front of your garage, where you can clean it properly. Put it on top of a clean platform. After doing so, prepare your cleaning materials such as white vinegar, baking soda, soft-bristled brush, clean towel, water, vacuum cleaner and a spray bottle.

Step 2: Vacuum the mattress first to remove dust mites and small debris that has collected on the surface of your mattress. Make sure you vacuum all sides of the mattress carefully.

Step 3: Mix one cup of white vinegar with two cups of warm water and then put the solution in a spray bottle. If you dislike the smell of white vinegar, you can always substitute it with lemon juice. Both work well in disinfecting your mattress. The acid smell also helps scare dust mites away. White vinegar also works in removing or dissolving molds. Let it dry for at least one hour.

Step 4: After an hour, soak the clean towel in water. Wring out the excess water. Use it to wipe the surface of the mattress. Do not soak the mattress through because you are going to have a hard time drying it completely. Just wipe the surface to remove vinegar residues.

Step 5: Sprinkle baking soda on the mattress. Rub it a little using the soft-bristled brush. Leave it there for another hour. Baking soda works well in diffusing moldy smell from the mattress.

Step 6: Vacuum the mattress once again and make sure there are no baking soda residues left. Allow it to dry completely under the sun. The sun will also help remove any bad odor from your mattress.

Now put clean sheets on your mattress, clean pillows, comforters and bolsters and you can sleep peacefully once again. Remind yourself to clean your mattress at least once every six months. This way, you won’t have a problem with a smelly mattress.

Choose only the best brand of mattresses when you are looking for a new one. For more mattress buying tips, visit our website at http://www.bestmattressreviews.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Zach_Smith
http://EzineArticles.com/?Tips-on-How-to-Get-Rid-of-Mattress-Moldy-Smell&id=4190721

By Grubb Young

Anyone who has had to move recently will remember how challenging it was to move the mattress. Depending on the type of mattress you probably felt like you were moving a very large, awkward, limp noodle. Many modern mattresses lack internal structures to hold them rigid. This helps a great deal when negotiating corners, but does not help when moving in a straight line.

The box spring, on the other hand, with its rigid structure was probably at its most difficult when it came to doorways and stairs. The very strong structure that supports your bed was keeping it from turning and moving perhaps even that one inch more. People who move regularly, such as young adults and military families, are well advised to consider buying two smaller mattresses and putting them together to create a larger bed. Smaller mattresses and box springs are easier to move.

Today, with comfort zones targeted at various positions along the mattress, this rotation is no longer suggested, and the handles which would often break when holding the weight of the entire mattress were removed.

It is very important when moving a mattress from one home to another to cover it somehow. Don’t rely on a sheet either. Many stores that stock boxes and other packing material will have plastic bags large enough to enclose the mattress and box spring. This is essential for keeping dirt and water from damaging the set. These bags may come complete with handles, or one can also use a very long piece of rope to create a handle. It is just like trussing up a turkey. Be sure to draw the rope all around the mattress and distribute the weight of the mattress as evenly as possible.

Some moving suppliers will have boxes specially designed for standard bed sizes. This can be a big help for keeping the mattress stable during transport. Padding around the box spring is also recommended to keep the harder lower corners from putting little dents in the wall. There can never be enough padding on furniture while it moves in and out of the home. There most damage done to the wall and floors occur because large heavy objects are dropped or swung around too fast. Caution and a good blanket for cushion can prevent a lot of heart ache later.

Last but not least be sure to life with the legs when moving mattresses. When hoisted improperly, the mattress can really cause some damage. A new homeowner wants to enjoy the whole home and not just the bedroom recovering from injury.

Ortho Mattress
Quality sleep slows the signs of aging, helps keep the mind sharp, and reduces stress. The purchase of a quality mattress is a vital investment in personal health. Ortho Mattress specializes in high quality, affordable, orthopedic mattresses and client education to ensure all customers a good night’s rest. Find a store at:
http://www.orthomattress.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Grubb_Young
http://EzineArticles.com/?Moving-With-a-Mattress-and-Box-Spring&id=4478131

Not sure if you’ve seen all of the recent television commercials alerting people that they must run out and get a new mattress if the one they have is over 8 years old. You know – it doubles in weight by that amount due to dust mites, dead skin, sweat, etc… in about 8 years. At least that’s what they say to gross you out.

But, seriously if you have been sleeping on the same mattress for the past 8 -10 years it is time to go shopping. Most mattress manufacturers will state that recommendation on their websites. So, I know it is indeed time for me to see what the market has to offer after 10 years.

Since I love writing reviews, I decided I might as well document what I found out. I really was surprised to find out that there is more to buying a memory foam mattress than the price and a quick lay down in the store. My research came to a complete halt when I came across the King Deluxe 10-Inch Memory Foam Mattress. I think I may have come across one of the best memory foam mattresses out there. Stick with me and see if you agree.

What to Look for When Buying a Visco Elastic Foam Mattress

It didn’t take me long to realize that there are a few important things to keep in mind when buying a memory foam mattress. They are:

• How many inches

• How many pounds

• Warranty

10 Inches of What Exactly

This visco elastic memory foam mattress is made of 3″ 5.5LB Memory Foam and 7″ High Resilience Polyurethane Base Foam. Now, that sounded like some meaningless blather. Let’s try again.

Think of the mattress as a big piece of lasagna. Six layers to be exact. The top layer is your cover. The one below that is your fire barrier. Then we get to the meat. Sorry, bad pun. The next layer is the 3 inches of 100% memory foam, followed by two more layers of 2 inches (each) airflow foam (imagine egg crates) all on the base of a 3 inch high density foam bottom. There are your 10 inches.

So, if you were looking at an 8, 12, or 14 inch memory foam mattress you can be sure the makeup will be similar with adjustments to the number of inches for each layer. They may also include additional layers for quilt tops or other plush features.

Is 5.5lbs a Lot?

Yes, since we are actually referring to density. The higher the density (pounds) the firmer the mattress. There are some out there as low as 2lb or so. At 5.5lbs, you can expect a pretty firm mattress.

Warranty

Whether you buy a mattress in the store or online you really need to take a look at the warranty and return policy. I did not come across one that did not pass on the cost of returning the mattress to the buyer. I did find however that this one had a generous return policy as stated on Amazon:

Return Policy (No Restocking Fee)

Dynasty Mattress offers a 120 day money back guarantee. Customers have 120 days from the date of receiving the item to ask for a return and a refund. The 120 day trial period applies to mattresses only. Mattresses must be in good clean condition, you must have a receipt, and customer is responsible for freight and shipping costs. All refunds will be issued upon receiving the shipment and the warehouse inspects the returned item. The customer is responsible for the packaging, shipping costs and freighting it back to our warehouse. Customer is at liberty to use any means to ship back to us. All returns must be delivered to us before the 120 days, if it exceeds your time limit, your return will be refused. There will be “No” Restocking Fee on all Returned or Cancelled Order. Please return it back to: Dynasty Mattress

How Much Should You Expect to Pay?

According to the manufacturer, this mattress is said to retail for $1800 and up. The King Deluxe 10-Inch Memory Foam Mattress is available on Amazon for under $600.

What’s Included

King Mattress Only – Box Foundation is not included.

Does it include a Warranty?

Yes, the King Deluxe Memory Foam Mattress includes a 10 year warranty and a 90 day in home guarantee.

What Others Are Saying

This king size memory foam has received rave reviews from most Amazon reviewers with an overall average of 5 out of a possible 5 stars.

Here are some of the comments to date:

“ Great Bed, Great Price”

“ just perfect”

“ Best bed I’ve ever bought”

“ HUGE COMFOFTABLE & AFFORDABLE”

“ perfect mattress”

“ Fantastic Bed”

“ Worth Every Penny”

Any complaints?

To date, this visco elastic foam mattress is currently ranking 5 out of 5 possible stars on Amazon. The worst comments (if you can call them that) related to the adjustment the users had to make from sleeping on a standard mattress to a memory foam mattress. Also, there is a chemical smell to the mattress that appears to go away after a couple of days. Even those who gave it 5 stars mentioned this annoyance. They let the mattress air out for several days and went on to love it.

Where Can You Buy the King Deluxe 10-Inch Memory Foam Mattress?

You can buy this king size memory foam mattress from Amazon. At the moment they include free shipping. I’d say Amazon has the best deal going especially with the free shipping option. Click here to view on Amazon.

Where Can You Read More Reviews for the King Deluxe 10-Inch Memory Foam Mattress?

The best place for reviews from people who actually use the product is Amazon. Click here to read more.

Quick! What one piece of furniture in your house gets the most use over its lifetime? If you guessed “mattress” then you’ve earned a gold star. Actually, make that two gold stars. Think about it. We spend almost a third of our lives in bed.

Or at least if you calculate the recommended hours of sleep we should be getting each day with our average life span – that’s what the calculation works out to be.

But, then there are those of us who don’t get enough rest. You have undoubtedly heard it all before. Sleep deprivation has been linked to a whole host of physical and psychological ailments.

Some include diabetes, memory problems, weakened immune system, and general fatigue.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that 56,000 motor vehicle accidents and 1,500 deaths each year are linked to driver fatigue. Needless to say, the importance of a good quality mattress isn’t just about buying the cheapest mattress available.

Maybe you’re clocking the recommended number of hours sleep each night but you toss and turn so you wind up only getting a few hours of restful sleep even though you are in bed for eight or more hours. Not a good situation.

Mattresses can be one of the most difficult items to shop for. The information provided on this site is intended to make it easier to make your decision based on your specific needs. Take a look around this site and you will find information on the various types of mattresses and mattress accessories in the market today without the hype.  Let’s get started so you can have a restful sleep  – tonight.

*TIP* Consider replacing your mattress every eight years as opposed to the standard ten years.

*ANOTHER QUICK TIP* Turn your mattress over every month to balance out its use. Flip and turn to assist with an even wear on the mattress.