FURNITURE
Rest easy with new mattress technology
Published: November 20, 2009, 12:30 am
Story tools:
Share this story:
If you’ve tossed all night because you were hot, restless or uncomfortable, read on.
Manufacturers are developing new ways to combat insomnia, including some technologies introduced at this fall’s Las Vegas Furniture Market and High Point Market, two of the country’s largest trade shows.
The hottest trends:
• Anti-sweat mattresses use new 3-D fabrics that circulate air so you sleep cooler. Dormia and Hollandia International’s versions are priced in the $1,500-$2,800 range for queen size.
• Homeopathic mattresses impregnated with essential oils like lavender, chamomile, rose and calendula have long been popular in Europe; now it’s our turn. The scents are natural relaxants, and some even have anti-bacterial properties. Nanotechnology infuses millions of lavender microcapsules into the mattress’ cover; when you lie down, some of the capsules break, releasing the fragrance. Magniflex’s Lavender Comfort queen is $1,899.
• Organic bedding can help people with allergies and those susceptible to chemicals emitted by synthetic materials. Ecofriendly wool, cotton, solid wood and natural rubber latex are produced by companies like Northern California’s OMI, which was co-founded by author Walter Bader, who suffers from chemical sensitivity himself. Their OrganicPedic Sierra is $1,995, while Ecomfort’s plant-based foam mattress and Aireloom’s certified organic cotton version are in the $1,000 to $3,000 range.
• Lightweight futons are also new, replacing the bulky traditional standby. Futons are finding favor with those unwilling to spend on pricey, space-gobbling sofa beds. The new versions use refined foam engineering to make a plush, versatile, durable sleep surface.
According to Michael Nermon, vice president of the Specialty Sleep Association, other trends include customized mattresses with one firm side and one soft one. Advancements in the American bedding industry in recent years mean consumers can shop for more domestic products, too.
And personal technology demands have led manufacturers to design command central beds, complete with iPod docking stations and TVs. Just remember, multitaskers: Use that command post as a comfy “office” during the day, but turn it all off at night. Experts say you need to calm your brain with a book, conversation or solitary reverie to get a good sleep.
Newsletters
Sign up now for daily and weekly newsletters from BuffaloNews.com and get quick links to the info you want delivered directly to your inbox.Reader comments
Log into MyBuffalo to post a comment
MyBuffalo is the new social network from Buffalo.com. Your MyBuffalo account lets you comment on and rate stories at buffalonews.com. You can also head over to mybuffalo.com to share your blog posts, stories, photos, and videos with the community. Join now or learn more.
Comments have been disabled.
Due to a high volume of submissions that violate The News’ guidelines, commenting is no longer available on this story. If you’d like to share your thoughts on this story, click here to get information on contributing to The News’ opinion pages.