Introduction
The first sign of a positive and enviable life is a good night’s sleep. At least that’s the belief of many of Britain’s wealthy, and it’s hard to argue with them when you think of the daily grind most individuals put themselves through. The opportunity to end the day in a comfortable, warm bed is something many of us take for granted, but it’s a small, simple luxury that is not lost on everyone. According to the Sleep Council, who surveyed 500 people, getting adequate sleep was the second most important factor contributing to living a healthy lifestyle, coming only after a healthy diet. This demonstrates how seriously people take the value of a good night’s sleep, and as a result are willing to make lifestyle changes to embrace it. Adults, who were more likely to purchase new bed products, rated a supportive and comfortable bed as important to getting a good night’s sleep. With this in mind, investing in luxury mattresses and divans may just prove to be the smart choice in the long run for those looking to enhance the quality of their nocturnal rest.
Why Invest in a Luxury Mattress
The reason for this is that a luxury mattress is more comfortable, and comfort is one of the key factors in getting good quality sleep. As your body is supported in a comfortable position, your muscles are able to relax and rest during sleep. An uncomfortable mattress can cause you to wake up during the night as you shift into a more comfortable position. With restful sleep, your body will feel more rested and the restorative effects of sleep will be higher. This means you will be more alert and productive during the day. A good quality mattress is also more durable and will last longer than a cheaper mattress. In the long run, buying an expensive mattress can actually save you money, as you won’t need to replace it as often.
Considering an investment in a luxury mattress and bed? You would be surprised by what a difference it can make to sleep comfort and quality. When comparing an expensive mattress to a cheaper model, it is obvious that you will get the best comfort from the more expensive one. But when you consider sleep quality, a quality expensive mattress could mean the difference between a sound, restful sleep and a night full of tossing and turning.
Benefits of Sleeping on a Divan
Divans can also be ideal for those who have allergies. Many divans come with castors and options of bedsteads, which can be ideal for keeping the area under the bed clean. Those with asthma or dust mite allergies are advised by doctors to have a clean sleeping environment with the absence of dust mites and fungal spores. Divans can also be specified with certain materials that can help allergy sufferers.
Let’s examine in-depth the advantages of sleeping on a divan. Divans will give you additional support and a more solid surface to sleep on. This, in turn, can assist in aligning your spine correctly, providing better support to your whole body, and preventing back pains. The solid surface is also ideal for storage as divans often come with drawers or space underneath, which is ideal for those with limited space. This storage can help you keep your room clutter-free and promote a sense of relaxation and calm.
Choosing the Perfect Luxury Mattress
When faced with the decision of choosing a luxury mattress, there are several factors of equal importance to take into consideration. First and foremost is the issue of price; an individual must have an exact figure in mind as to what they wish to spend. This is due to the luxury mattress market having a very large range of prices that can sometimes be quite drastic between a cheaper and more expensive model. An individual should factor in how much time they spend in bed and see it as an investment, as spending a bit more can result in a quality mattress which will last a long time. Another clear factor is the comfort of the mattress. The whole idea of trying out a mattress in a store can sometimes seem a little awkward, but it is essential before purchasing a luxury mattress. The support that the mattress provides should be clear while testing it, and the pressure points of different areas of the body should feel relaxed. A mattress should provide a feeling of weightlessness without sinking, and there are plenty of materials which provide different feels and different levels of comfort. The latter will lead onto the issue of types of mattresses, which will be discussed in another heading. Finally, the aesthetics of the mattress may be of importance to people who wish to have a bedroom looking elegant and matching in colour. This can be a smaller or larger issue but it is good to keep it in mind before making a purchase.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Luxury Mattress
Considering how much time you will be spending in bed is an important thing to factor. Is it an every night bed? Or is it a bed for when guests come? If it is a bed for every night, pick a durable mattress that will last a long time. If it will only be used on occasion, a mattress at the lower end of the price point will save money.
The most important thing to consider is the amount of money you are willing to spend. This chiefly depends on the price of the mattress. These mattresses can cost anywhere from $300 to even $7,000, so it is vital to have a budget in mind, so you can avoid getting something you will regret. An important thing to remember is that just because you have a large budget does not mean that the mattress will be the best in comfort. Consider it as a house; a $400,000 house will not necessarily be twice as comfortable as a $200,000 house, it is all about what is inside.
Choosing a luxury mattress is not a very simple process and certainly not the same as buying a regular bed mattress. This is because of the fact that along with getting good and comfortable sleep, the main motivation is the luxury that these mattresses offer. Since they are available in a large variety, from different brands to different types, it can be a daunting task to find the perfect luxury mattress. There are a few things to always keep in mind when choosing a mattress.
Types of Luxury Mattresses
The most traditional type of mattress is what’s known as a pocket sprung mattress. These are the result of generations of innovation on the part of bed manufacturers and first became popular in the best hotels. They consist of a variety of different pocket springs, which are all housed in their own fabric pocket. This construction allows each spring to move independently and to better respond to changes in weight distribution. The ability to customize the spring formations to accommodate different body shapes gives excellent spine support, and these mattresses are the best at providing an even weight distribution. This better weight distribution can also improve blood circulation and reduce the occurrence of bed sores.
There are four main types of luxury mattresses available, and finding the one to best suit your needs will involve considering the fundamental differences between these options. It should be emphasized that the ultimate choice in the right product will come down to personal preference. However, there are clear differences between these types in terms of the weight distribution and body contouring. This will greatly affect the way each type of mattress “feels” and can help determine whether it will provide the best sleep experience for you.
Finding the Right Firmness Level
When customers approach our showroom and ask for advice on purchasing a luxury bed, one of the issues which I have always found to be shrouded in a great deal of opinion-based advice is the choice of firmness. Of fundamental importance to the body’s general well-being and the health of the spine, it really is as simple as choosing the correct tension level can make the difference between many years of good, undisturbed sleep and years of discomfort and aches and pains. Unfortunately, the hospitality industry has, for many years, prescribed to the notion that ‘more firm is good for you’ and pushing out one tension of mattress. This notion could not be further from the truth. The correct support is a balance between enough support to the heaviest parts of your body, typically the hips and shoulders, to prevent the spine from setting in unnatural positions and not too much that it will cause discomfort in the lighter areas of your body. It is for this reason that we always stress that the correct and easiest way to purchase a new mattress is to match the tension level to the one which you already have and are comfortable with.
Exploring Different Divan Options
There are various types of divan beds ranging from basic to ornamental. These include the open type divan; which simply provides a platform for the mattress with no storage space or drawers. This is a beneficial choice if it comes to selecting a bed that does not take up a great deal of space and suits consumers who are not greatly in need of storage space under the bed. The second type of bed is the sliding door storage divan; which is similar to the open type divan but has the added bonus of having the storage space underneath the bed sealed off by doors which are flush with the edge of the bed. This is an ideal choice for those looking for storage space and who may be looking for a bed in a room where there is limited space between the bed and an opposing wall or object. This is because it allows easy access to the storage space when items are needed and does not get in the way of any nearby doors or other furniture.
Translation from the Persian word for ‘sofa’; a divan is a sofa or couch usually used in Arabic countries and surrounding Middle Eastern countries including Iran. Since furniture was invented, people have been finding special places to sit and relax and at various times high backed throne-like chairs for lords, chaises for ladies, the bed for sleeping, reclining chairs, couches, sofas, parlour benches or long quiet comfortable divans have been used. A standard item of furniture consisting of a flat, raised, horizontal surface or ‘platform’ often used as a seating area or a raised seating area backed by a railing often designed to hold cushions. It is often made of wood in the shape of a box with a mattress and a multiplicity of accessories can be added to produce a more decorative and comfortable item.
Understanding the Structure of a Divan
The most popular option is a sprung edge base which has a complete open coil spring unit mounted on a timber frame, providing a layer of comfortable support for the mattress. This type of base usually has a mix of drawer options i.e. big and small. An alternative to drawers is a slide storage, which is a large storage area with access from the side of the base. This is a good solution if you have limited space in the room, or if there isn’t much room between the base and the wall to pull out drawers.
There are many different types of divan bed bases on offer, with the main differences being in the number of drawers and the type of drawer. The cheapest option is a platform top base, which has no drawers but does provide a firm support for the mattress. The base can also be made up of one or two sections, depending on the size of the bed.
Divan bed bases have two main components – the frame which is usually made of wood, and the upholstery which covers the frame. The function of the frame is to provide support for the mattress, and the level of comfort of the bed is usually determined by the quality of the frame. The upholstery can be made from a variety of materials, but the best type for a mattress base is pocket sprung with natural materials. Using the right mattress will ensure that you won’t disturb the pocket springs in the upholstery, and will therefore maintain the comfort and support of the bed.
Types of Divans Available
There are many different types of divans that cater to different needs and situations. The divan that will suit you best depends on the space available, the amount of storage you require, and your budget. The first choice is between a solid or platform top divan, which offers a firmer feel, or a sprung edge divan that has a layer of springs on top of a wooden frame, giving a softer, more luxurious feel. If you are going to choose a sprung edge divan, it is important to make sure the mattress you choose is also suitable. It is generally not advised to use a mattress with less than 1000 springs on a sprung edge divan, as it is likely to cause uneven wear and reduce the lifespan of the mattress. Other types include guest beds, which are perfect for when you have visitors; they have a second bed that rolls out from underneath the main bed. Finally, there are specially designed divans for adjustable mattresses. These have mechanisms that allow the mattress to be positioned at different angles to aid medical problems, or simply to allow a more comfortable position for reading or watching television.
Customizing Your Divan for Optimal Comfort
A divan may be customized to provide the best possible relaxation and rest for that individual. This may be accomplished through use of different mattresses and adjusting the firmness of the divan. Most of the customization options for divans center around the type of mattress used, of which there are many kinds. The most basic differentiation is the size of mattress; divans come in the same standard sizes as mattresses, and it is simply a case of finding the correct size. Next is the spring type. Most mattresses now use a coil spring construction, but some people prefer the comfort of pocket sprung mattresses, which tend to be softer and form more closely to the body. Those looking for even more comfort may choose to use a memory foam mattress, which again forms closely to the body and is effective at relieving pressure on joints. For those with allergies or asthma, it may be a good idea to try a hypo-allergenic mattress. These are generally no different in feel from a standard mattress, although some people may find natural mattresses – made from materials such as cotton or wool – to be beneficial for skin conditions. Other types of mattress include those specifically designed for orthopedic use, which provide a much firmer support to the body, and zip and link mattresses which allow two single mattresses to be joined together to form a double. The best way to find out which mattress is the most comfortable is to try them out. Many mattress companies will allow the customer to test a mattress and if it is found to be unsuitable, it can usually be returned or exchanged for a different one.
Maintenance and Care Tips for Divans
Dust is the number one enemy of mattresses and can seriously wear them out. Fortunately, most divans now come with drawers in which to store linen or clothes, and this is very handy for creating a storage space that will reduce the amount of dust getting under your mattress. A divan with a sprung edge is even more effective because it creates a natural ‘dust trap’. Your mattress will also benefit by being aired regularly. Every time you change the bed linen, give your mattress a good airing. This will help prevent moisture build up, which can encourage the growth of bacteria and mould, and will also help reduce dust mites. Avoid standing or sitting on the edge of your mattress and regularly rotate or turn it over (unless it is a no turn mattress). If you follow these guidelines, your divan can be one of the best furniture investments you ever make. With a good quality mattress it should provide comfort and support for many years, and maintaining that high level of comfort needn’t be difficult.
Creating a Luxurious Sleep Environment
One of the first steps to creating a luxurious sleep environment is to enhance the look and comfort of your bedroom. While many people focus on the look of their bedroom, it is the feel and atmosphere of the room that will help promote a healthy sleep pattern. The more inviting and relaxing, the better. The use of color is important. Dark, rich hues can create a dramatic look but can often close in a space. A better choice is using neutral tones that can be accented with color. This will give more opportunity to express individual style and can be changed seasonally. This year, chocolate brown is a popular color as it calls to mind a feeling of luxury. In one to two generations, it will slide easily into an heirloom piece suitable for younger generations. It also works well with both traditional and contemporary interiors.
Enhancing Your Mattress with Luxury Bedding
Add the finishing touches to your luxurious new mattress by fitting it out with luxury bedding. You have created the ultimate in comfort, now extend it throughout all the mood of your bedroom. Construct your perfect sleep haven by adding in layers of textures, giving it an inviting and warm feel. This is the time where you are only restricted by your imagination. Take into consideration contemporary French linen, with its clear and crisp cool feel, or possibly woven sateen giving a tender warm feel against your skin, or for the ultimate indulgence, delicate silk and smooth high-thread count cotton, the choices are endless. The visual effects from luxury bedding can bring life to a room, making a bold or subtle statement. If you are looking to make a powerful impact there is a vast array of pattern and colours available, at the other end of the scale, quality white bedding can give a fresh, clean and tranquil atmosphere. It can be readily noted that the use of luxury bedding can certainly enhance the quality of sleep. The saying “slept like a baby” could never be more appropriate than when used in conjunction with the comfort of a fully fitted out bedding with an infant’s favourite all-time item, the soft and cuddly baby blanket. The only problem you will encounter here is finding the motivation to get up in the mornings. Retiring to bed each evening will be something you look forward to and getting out of bed in the mornings will likely be something you despise!
Choosing the Right Pillows for Ultimate Comfort
Sleeping position determines the height and firmness/softness required in a pillow. A person who sleeps on their stomach usually requires the least support, preferring a softer pillow, while those who sleep on their back will prefer something in between. People who sleep on their side will prefer a firmer pillow for extra support. The difference in the amount of support derives from the distance between the mattress and the person’s neck. A firmer pillow would mean there is less of a gap, and vice versa (a softer pillow).
An important part of creating a luxurious sleep environment revolves around selecting the right kind of pillow. A pillow should ideally support your head at the right height, whether you are sleeping on your back or on your side. There should be a level of conformity for the pillow to your head and neck so that it is comfortable. In purchasing a new mattress, you should also think about purchasing a new pillow. They go hand in hand, and if you’ve chosen a mattress for perfect comfort and support, you wouldn’t want an old lumpy pillow to ruin that. The ultimate aim is to provide enhanced support and prolonged comfort to the higher priced mattress bought.
Creating a Relaxing Atmosphere in Your Bedroom
A bedroom used strictly for sleep and rest is a far cry from the norm today. Few people have the luxury of a room devoted only to sleep, and as a multipurpose room, the bedroom often becomes a place to watch television, work, or exercise. Create the best sleep environment for yourself that you can. This means making the room as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. The more comfortable and welcoming your bedroom, the more conducive it is to a good night’s sleep. Consider the following tips: Keep the bedroom clean and clear of clutter to make it a more calming environment. A peaceful, neat and tidy room is more inviting and relaxing. In contrast to the harmful effects of watching television in the living or family room, a bedtime story or favorite television show or movie can be a relaxing way to end the day. But avoid watching television right up to bedtime as the light emitted from the screen on the television may be disruptive to melatonin production and the programs may be too stimulating and cause difficulty falling asleep. If you are accustomed to falling asleep with the TV on, consider using a sleep timer. The noise from the television may also serve as a distracter from outside noises. In this case, the television, set to turn off automatically, may be used as an “auditory sleep cue” to assist in falling asleep.
