Beginner's Guide to Beds http://beginnersguide.com/beds/ Beds en Copyright 2007 Thu, 20 Jul 2006 16:16:30 +0000 http://www.sixapart.com/movabletype/?v=3.35 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss What is a Sleigh Bed? The sleigh bed will never go out of style. These beds usually offer a large headboard and a more pronounced footboard than a regular bed. Many sleigh beds are reproductions of European antique beds. Headboards are often curved and curl at the top and are finished with cherry finishes to reflect European furniture. Beds are also available with high gloss finishes and a more contemporary style. Again, the sleigh bed is characterized by a higher than normal headboard and footboard. Headboards can be as tall as 98” and footboards 68” tall. Low wood side rails connect the headboards and footboards. These side rails were similar to the sides of a sleigh. The rails came in handy to hold the rope mattresses that were laced in the 19th century.

Considerations: Before purchasing a sleigh bed, take a look around your room and visualize the impact this piece of furniture will have on your room. Is your room large enough to accommodate a large bed with a tall headboard and footboard? If the answer is yes, then a sleigh bed can pull your room together and make a statement. The decision to buy a wood or iron (metal) bed should also be based on your existing décor. Dark finishes and light finishes make two different statements in your room. If your room is small, then choose a sleigh bed with shorter ends. The taller the head and footboards the more prominent place the bed takes in the bedroom. Beds are available in twin that measures about 39” across. Full beds (double) are 54” wide. Double beds are a good size for larger children or an adult. Queen and king beds are 60” to 76” across. The bedroom that will comfortably accommodate a queen or king bed should be rather large. Obviously, there is more sleeping room but also these beds take up much more floor space and seem larger due to the features that are unique to the sleigh bed.

Wood: These sleigh beds are usually beautiful in design and come in traditional, antique, country and contemporary styles. Wood sleigh beds can be purchased in a variety of woods such as cherry, pine and oak. Heirloom style beds are often adorned with carvings on the large head and footboards. Truly, the choices are limitless. If you have a shaker style house or décor, there are sleigh beds that feature this traditional style. Wood sleigh beds are an American tradition and that finds it roots in the Victorian style. The curves of the bed offer a distinctive element to your bedroom.

Iron or Metal: Sleigh beds are not just constructed of wood they can also be made of metal and iron. One advantage of the iron bed is its durability. A quality iron bed is made of heavy gauge iron with pieces that are welded together. The metal sleigh bed offers the sleek look of metal but the fact that they have the alluring curves of the more traditional sleigh bed you still achieve the warm and inviting environment in your bedroom. Before deciding on a metal bed, careful consideration of the décor in your bedroom is needed. Many metal beds have a traditional look and feel, but the tendency towards contemporary is also there. Decide on your basic look before purchasing the metal bed. Finish on the metal will also influence the look you wish to achieve. Also, the type of metal and welding quality will affect the durability of your bed.

Upholstered: Sleigh beds are also available with upholstered head and footboards. These beds offer a soft and luxurious look in a bedroom. There are interesting combinations of wood with upholstered panels. The covering may be upholstery fabrics, faux leather or leather. If you decide on an upholstered sleigh bed, it is wise to remember that the upholstered head and footboard will take on a more prominent position in your room. The darker color of fabrics or leather will provide a calming and rich feel to the room. If you choose a brighter color, interest will immediately be drawn to the bed.

]]> http://beginnersguide.com/beds/sleigh-beds/what-is-a-sleigh-bed.php http://beginnersguide.com/beds/sleigh-beds/what-is-a-sleigh-bed.php Sleigh Beds Fri, 10 Mar 2006 21:47:32 +0000 Purchasing Tips Thankfully for the consumer sleigh beds are offered in many styles, for any décor and at any price. Depending on construction materials, sleigh beds begin as low as $250 and can go as high as $4,000. The sky is the limit. Hardwood construction will cost more. Wood materials and veneers will bring the price down to a more affordable budget.

High End: Many reproduction sleigh beds are available in hardwoods such as oak and the beautiful mahogany. These beds are constructed to replicate the look and feel of antiques. The carving is detailed and distressed in a way that mimics the worn and aged look of heirloom furniture. These beds can cost the consumer from $3,000 and up depending on detail and wood. Some high end beds are adorned with inlays, leather and are upholstered. The leather bed will cost the consumer around $1,000 and up. Beds that combine intricate engravings and soft leather make a beautiful statement in a bedroom and begin around $1500. Antique stores, high-end furniture stores and the Internet are wonderful places to begin your search for a sleigh bed.

Beautiful but Affordable: Sleigh beds that are affordable are available in any style to fit any décor. Traditional beds are available starting as low as $250.00. Beds are available in twin, full, queen and king sizes. Affordable metal beds that are simple yet elegant go with and enhance any décor. Beds that appeal to the consumer on a budget can be found on the Internet and local furniture and retail stores. Durable full and queen size wood sleigh beds that are constructed of solids and veneers are available for around $700. Quality beds can be purchased for under $1,000.

Style is the first thing to consider when thinking about a sleigh bed. The right look can pull a bedroom together or even define a certain look depending on the style you choose. Sleigh beds are elegant and inspire old-world appeal to any bedroom. Their high headboards and sloping footboards offer the consumer the option to have a comfortable bed and at the same time add superior design and beauty to any bedroom. The sleigh bed is so much more than just your average bed!

]]> http://beginnersguide.com/beds/sleigh-beds/purchasing-tips.php http://beginnersguide.com/beds/sleigh-beds/purchasing-tips.php Sleigh Beds Fri, 10 Mar 2006 21:48:36 +0000 Wood Beds Overview You may be considering a wood bed to create a traditional décor for your bedroom. And with classics such as sleigh beds and mission-style beds, achieving that look is certainly possible. But wood beds are available in so many styles today that you can create any look – traditional or not – with them. Consider for instance a contemporary wood platform bed. Or create a sanctuary with a four poster or canopy wood bed. You can even create a country getaway décor with a pine or cedar bed.

]]> http://beginnersguide.com/beds/wood-beds/wood-beds-overview.php http://beginnersguide.com/beds/wood-beds/wood-beds-overview.php Wood Beds Fri, 10 Mar 2006 21:50:11 +0000 Types of wood beds The types of wood beds available today are as varied as the décor you would like to create in your bedroom. They include:
 
  • Platform beds: A platform bed is a bed whose base consists of a raised, flat surface meant to support a mattress. You place the mattress directly on the flat surface, or platform, without using a box spring. The platform is typically raised on legs or framework. Platform beds are a good choice for sleepers who prefer firm cushioning without the bounce of a box spring. They also nicely complement the new memory foam mattresses that have become popular among mattress buyers.
  • Four poster beds: A four poster bed is a bed with four tall posts at each corner. In some cases, the posts are connected with wooden slats in the shape of a rectangle and in other cases, with a canopy. In other styles, the posts remain unconnected. Four poster beds create a dramatic look in any bedroom.
  • Canopy beds: Canopy beds are a type of four poster bed in which each tall post supports a covering made of material or netting. While in some cases the material forms only a canopy above the bed, in other cases, it falls to the sides of the bed and creates a private enclosure when drawn together.
  • Sleigh beds: Sleigh beds are a popular choice among wooden beds today. A sleigh bed has a high scrolled headboard and a slightly lower footboard, creating the shape of a horse-drawn sleigh. They were developed in America in the early 19th century as an adaptation of a popular French Empire design.
  • Bunk beds: A popular choice for children, bunk beds are available as wood beds, as well as in other materials. They are twin beds arranged one on top of another, with space between, on a sturdy frame.
  • Loft beds: Loft beds are a form of platform beds, except they have been built on a much higher level so that the space beneath them can be used for storage or living space.
  • Daybeds: Daybeds offer not only a place for sleeping, but also a seating area. A daybed is a twin bed designed with two side panels and one back panel, creating a raised side on three sides of the bed. They can easily be used for seating space by lining the back panel with throw pillows. Sometimes, a daybed also includes a trundle bed, which stores underneath it and can be pulled out for additional sleeping space.
  • Futons: Futons, a traditional Japanese bed, serve as a couch during the day and flatten into a bed at night. They are built on wooden frames with an upholstered cushion on top.
  • Traditional headboard and footboard: Wooden beds are also available in thousands of styles with the traditional headboard and footboard. Some people even choose to use only a wooden headboard for their bed, leaving the end of their bed unobstructed. Styles include Mission, Shaker, and cottage.
]]> http://beginnersguide.com/beds/wood-beds/types-of-wood-beds.php http://beginnersguide.com/beds/wood-beds/types-of-wood-beds.php Wood Beds Fri, 10 Mar 2006 21:50:54 +0000 Types of wood used to make beds When shopping for a wood bed, you will find various types of wood used in their construction. The types of wood include:

• Cherry: Reddish-brown.
• Mahogany: Comes in many different varieties and has a reddish brown color
• Maple: One of the hardest commonly used woods and wears very well. Natural color is white to amber, but is often finished with other color stain.
• Oak: The most commonly used wood for furniture. Very tough and hard and has a pronounced grain.
• Pine: Soft wood that is white or pale yellow. Knotty pine is used to create rustic looking beds.
• Walnut: Light to darker brown. Suited well to carving.

While some beds will be made of solid wood, it is common to find veneers used in wooden bed construction. Wood veneers are used today in furniture of every price level. They can be used to create interesting designs.
]]> http://beginnersguide.com/beds/wood-beds/types-of-wood-used-to-make-beds.php http://beginnersguide.com/beds/wood-beds/types-of-wood-used-to-make-beds.php Wood Beds Fri, 10 Mar 2006 21:51:49 +0000 Wood bed purchasing tips The first factor in determining what type of wood bed to purchase is size. If you are using a mattress you currently own, simply buy a bed to match the size of that mattress. But many people consider the occasion of buying a new bed the perfect time to also invest in a new mattress. These are the mattress sizes currently available:

• Twin/Single 39" × 75"
• Double 54" × 75"
• Queen 60" × 80"
• Olympic Queen 66" x 80"
• California Queen 60" x 84"
• King 76" × 80"
• California King 72" x 84"

In considering size, take careful measurements of your bedroom before purchasing a bed. Also consider the size of the doors, stairwells and hallways that the bed is going to need to be transported through. While wooden beds can be broken down into smaller pieces and assembled in the bedroom, the same is not true for the mattress. Also remember that you will need space on each side of the bed for easy bed-making. If you are purchasing a four poster or canopy bed, measure the height of the ceiling and allow for space between the top of the bed and the ceiling. This will contribute to the dramatic look of the bed in the room.

A second important factor is decor. Consider the look that you would like to create in your bedroom and shop according to that decor. You might consider an antique wood bed to create a family heirloom that you would someday pass on to your children.

Also consider function. Think about the way you use your bed and what you do there on a daily basis. If you read in bed, you will want a sturdy headboard to prop against. If you like your feet to hang off the end of the bed, then consider a footboard that allows you to do that, or consider not using a footboard.
]]> http://beginnersguide.com/beds/wood-beds/wood-bed-purchasing-tips.php http://beginnersguide.com/beds/wood-beds/wood-bed-purchasing-tips.php Wood Beds Fri, 10 Mar 2006 21:52:41 +0000 Wood bed decorating tips Decorators suggest that each room in your home have a focal point, and in your bedroom, your wooden bed is an excellent choice as a focal point. While your wooden bed can be arranged along a wall for a traditional look, consider angling it in a corner for an unexpected look. If you would like the fill the space in the corner, consider a large floor plant.

Arrange nightstands next to your wooden bed for storage of those items you need to reach for while in bed, and place a trunk, cedar chest, or upholstered bench at the foot of the bed. This will add decorative interest as well as storage.

Choose a color scheme that complements your wooden bed. Traditional color schemes for bedrooms such as soft blues and greens or earth brown tones create a subdued, relaxing tone. Your more modern platform bed might blend better with a color scheme or bold colors with strong contrasts. And a country color scheme with green or yellow might blend well with your rustic pine bed.
]]> http://beginnersguide.com/beds/wood-beds/wood-bed-decorating-tips.php http://beginnersguide.com/beds/wood-beds/wood-bed-decorating-tips.php Wood Beds Fri, 10 Mar 2006 21:53:33 +0000 What is an Adjustable Bed? Did you know that the average person spends about one third of their life, sleeping? This is a significant amount of time spent in your bed, but how much emphasis do you actually put on the purchase of a new bed or mattress? Your place of rest is actually an extremely important piece of furniture that should carefully be considered. While the average amount of sleep needed largely depends on each individual, your body requires and deserves a comfortable place to rest. If your body does not receive the proper amount of rest during the night, it will definitely let you know the next morning. If you wake up in the morning and you do not feel rested and refreshed, you might want to consider investing in a new mattress or bed. Sleeping on a bed that meets your particular needs as far as support, comfort, and size, can help you sleep better through the night. Achieving your required amount of sleep will not only allow you to sleep better during the night but, ultimately enhance your performance during the day.

Do you often toss and turn during the night and feel uncomfortable in your current sleeping position? Are you interested in a bed that allows you to sit up and watch television when desired? Do you have a disability that makes it difficult for you to get in and out of bed? Are you currently experiencing back pain? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then an adjustable bed might be the perfect solution. An adjustable bed acts just like a conventional bed, only it can be adjusted to a number of different positions depending on the make and the model. An adjustable bed allows the user to change the incline of the bed to a position that is more comfortable which, in turn, encourages better sleeping habits. Adjustable beds are available in a variety of sizes, shapes, and styles. Adjustable beds no longer look like a simple hospital bed. In fact, adjustable beds are preferred by many homeowners and in the recent years have become pieces of furniture that are aesthetically pleasing as well as functional.

]]> http://beginnersguide.com/beds/adjustable-beds/what-is-an-adjustable-bed.php http://beginnersguide.com/beds/adjustable-beds/what-is-an-adjustable-bed.php Adjustable Beds Wed, 22 Mar 2006 19:17:06 +0000 How Does an Adjustable Bed Work? An adjustable bed is quite similar to a conventional bed only it is able to be adjusted into many different positions. These adjustments allow the user to find a comfortable position that will enable them to get a good night’s rest. A typical adjustable bed can be moved to a variety of positions and some do so with the simple touch of a button. A slight incline of the upper body is beneficial for many individuals that suffer with back pain. Other consumers would favor a bed that allows them to raise their knees to take some stress off of their lower back. Some consumers simply enjoy being able to relax in a seated position while in bed. This allows them to watch television, eat meals, or visit with friends while also remaining comfortable. An adjustable bed is a piece of furniture that is able to please each of the desired sleeping preferences. Adjustable beds are typically built with an adjustable frame. This frame should be coupled with a mattress specifically designed to be placed on an adjustable frame. These two products are constructed to be used together and pairing the two will ensure maximum durability and comfort.

]]> http://beginnersguide.com/beds/adjustable-beds/how-does-an-adjustable-bed-work.php http://beginnersguide.com/beds/adjustable-beds/how-does-an-adjustable-bed-work.php Adjustable Beds Wed, 22 Mar 2006 19:17:46 +0000 Why Should I Choose an Adjustable Bed? ·        Comfort
Comfort is an extremely important factor to consider as far as sleep is concerned. Sleeping on the appropriate bed for your particular body can result in a good night’s sleep and a productive day.   An adjustable bed allows the user to sleep and relax in a variety of different positions of their choice. Ideal comfort is ultimately determined by each individual and an adjustable bed is not always the best choice. However they are an excellent option worth considering when searching for the perfect bed.   
·        Disabilities
An “at home” adjustable bed might be a product of interest for those that have some type of disability. Individuals that have limited mobility, or require assistance to move from place to place might find it difficult to get in and out of a traditional bed. Adjustable beds can be arranged in different positions, depending on the user, which allows easy access to the bed at all times. Adjustable beds are also beneficial to those that suffer from nasal congestion, breathing problems, sleep related heartburn, and other medical conditions. It is important to consult with your doctor before purchasing a new bed. Each individual case is unique and it is a good idea to visit with a professional about your particular situation.     
·        Back Pain
Those individuals that suffer from back problems or experience back pain should be extremely particular when selecting a bed. An adjustable bed can be extremely helpful to consumers that have back pain. It allows them to easily rearrange themselves to a more comfortable sleeping position that limits the amount of pressure and stress on the back. This can ultimately result in a better nights rest. True comfort is determined by each individual person and it is important for you to find a bed that meets your specific needs and desires.     
·        Bedridden
Flexible settings allow the user to lounge, sit, sleep, recline, and relax in a comfortable position. The great thing is that an adjustable bed allows you to do so without a great deal of effort, unwanted strain, or even the need to readjust your pillows.   This feature is extremely helpful for those individuals that are confined to the bed. An adjustable bed can allow an individual that is required to remain in bed, the ability to rearrange and adjust their body to a more comfortable position when so desired.  
]]> http://beginnersguide.com/beds/adjustable-beds/why-should-i-choose-an-adjustable-bed.php http://beginnersguide.com/beds/adjustable-beds/why-should-i-choose-an-adjustable-bed.php Adjustable Beds Wed, 22 Mar 2006 19:18:27 +0000 Other Things to Consider ·        Aesthetics
Adjustable beds no longer simply look like a hospital bed and, in fact, many are often constructed into beautiful pieces of furniture that look great in the home. Manufacturers have realized the need for an adjustable bed that offers mobility and comfort and is also pleasing to the eye. They have begun to design a variety of adjustable beds in different sizes, styles, and shapes.  They can be built to look just like a traditional bed with all of the special features of an adjustable bed. Whether you enjoy a modern or a more traditional look, there is an adjustable bed to meet a variety of your specific needs and desires. This allows homeowners to fit an extremely functional bed into their current décor. Adjustable beds are growing in popularity for consumers of different ages from young to old.    
·        Size
Adjustable beds can be found in a multitude of different sizes. They are typically available in twin, double, queen, and king. This allows each individual to purchase an adjustable bed that is the proper size for the room in which it will be placed. This also allows consumers to select a bed that will provide adequate sleeping space. 
·        Features
Some adjustable beds offer additional features that are unique and often times extremely beneficial. There are many features to consider when searching for an adjustable bed. For example many models offer a massaging feature. This feature allows the user to press a button which activates the built in massaging device. The massaging feature can help relax and rejuvenate the body which is quite beneficial for those that experience a great amount of stress during the day. Another feature to consider is a double adjustable bed. The adjustments work separately for each side of the bed and for each individual. This is a bonus for couples that enjoy different sleeping positions. There are many choices of adjustable beds available and it is a good idea for you to become familiar with the different types, styles, and added features that are offered before making your investment. 
]]> http://beginnersguide.com/beds/adjustable-beds/other-things-to-consider.php http://beginnersguide.com/beds/adjustable-beds/other-things-to-consider.php Adjustable Beds Wed, 22 Mar 2006 19:19:12 +0000 Twin Beds twinbeds.jpg

Twin Beds Overview

Twin Bed vs. Full Bed

Pros & Cons of Twin Beds

Finding the right Twin Mattress

]]> http://beginnersguide.com/beds/newbies-picks/twin-beds.php http://beginnersguide.com/beds/newbies-picks/twin-beds.php Newbie's Picks Thu, 20 Jul 2006 15:49:32 +0000 Featherbeds featherbed.jpg

Introduction to Featherbeds

What is a featherbed?

What are the contents in a featherbed?

What should be taken into consideration when looking for a featherbed?

]]> http://beginnersguide.com/beds/newbies-picks/featherbeds.php http://beginnersguide.com/beds/newbies-picks/featherbeds.php Newbie's Picks Thu, 20 Jul 2006 16:02:30 +0000 Bunk Beds bunkbeds.jpg

Introduction to Bunk Beds

Purchasing a Bunk Bed

Bunk Bed Types

Bunk Bed Safety

]]> http://beginnersguide.com/beds/newbies-picks/bunk-beds.php http://beginnersguide.com/beds/newbies-picks/bunk-beds.php Newbie's Picks Thu, 20 Jul 2006 16:12:57 +0000 California King Beds calikingbed.jpg

An Overview of California King Beds

Western/California King vs. Eastern/Standard King

Pros & Cons of California King Beds

California King vs. Queen

]]> http://beginnersguide.com/beds/newbies-picks/california-king-beds.php http://beginnersguide.com/beds/newbies-picks/california-king-beds.php Newbie's Picks Thu, 20 Jul 2006 16:16:30 +0000