The Many Choices in Buying Beds

Buying a new bed is an important decision requiring as much information as one can get. Understanding that the bed you choose will be a piece of furniture you'll live with for the next ten to twenty years, you want to make sure you make the right purchase. When searching for the right bed there is a few things to consider, including:

Type of mattress
Mattress size
Bed frame type

Type of Mattress

The type of mattress you purchase is probably the single most important decision in buying a new bed. Sleep experts agree that the wrong mattress can interrupt your sleep to the degree that you don't get all the rest you need. There are several different mattress types to choose from, all of which need careful consideration.

Inner Spring Mattresses

The inner spring mattress is perhaps the most common mattress on the market. It is manufactured by using dozens of coiled springs, which have been tempered, attached at various intervals around a frame and encased in a fabric casing. Inner spring mattresses tend to last twenty years or more and provide good firmness and support.

Foam Mattresses

Foam mattresses can be made from latex foam or memory foam, both of which are different from the other. Needless to say, one of the advantages of foam mattresses is that they adjust to the natural shape of the human body. Owners of foam mattresses tend to have fewer problems with pressure points and fitful sleep. There are some significant differences between latex and memory foam, so make sure you know the details of each before choosing one over the other.

Adjustable Air Mattresses

Believe it or not, adjustable air mattresses are very similar to temporary air mattresses, except for the fact that their construction is of higher quality and the mattress itself is enclosed in a fabric casing. Adjustable air mattresses come with electric pumps to allow air pressure changes on the fly. Air mattresses, like their foam counterparts, tend to provide a more comfortable sleep experience without the pressure points of coil spring mattresses. Manufacturers of adjustable air mattresses claim a twenty-year life span, and many offer a guarantee.

Waterbed Mattresses

You may remember from the 1970s that waterbed mattresses used to be all the rage. They faded away for a time due to the problems of temperature control and waves, but they're now making a comeback due to waveless technology and dual-zone mattresses that have largely solved the waterbed issues of the past. If you were a fan of water beds in the '70s, you'll probably love them even more today.

Mattress Sizes

Mattress size is an important component in deciding the right bed. Unfortunately, many of us are limited in our size choices because of the dimensions of our bedrooms. Where couples are concerned, a queen or king size mattress is the best option; a twin or full will be better suited to an individual. If you're unaware of common mattress sizes, we list them as follows:

Twin (Single): 39" x 75"
Full (Double): 54" x 75"
Long Twin: 36" x 80"
Queen: 60" x 80"
King: 76" x 80"
California King: 72" x 84"

Bed Frame Type

The type of frame you choose for your bed tends to be more of an aesthetic question rather than one of function. Exceptions to this rule may be in the case of bunk beds or trundle beds, but for the most part, you'll probably choose a bed frame based on what it looks like and how it fits in with the overall room design. You can choose wood, metal, or composite materials in a variety of styles and looks.

Fixed-Size Frame

A fixed-size bed frame is one that cannot be adjusted once assembled. It generally consists of two side rails, head and foot boards, and slats that run between the rails. They can be purchased with optional storage underneath and shelving on the head and foot boards.

Adjustable-Size Frame

An adjustable-size frame is one designed to be widened or narrowed depending on the mattress that will be placed on it. They are normally constructed with steel rails that can be adjusted to accommodate mattress sizes from twin to queen, or queen to California king. Due to the fact that these bed frames are adjustable, they usually come without head and foot boards.

Pedestal Frame

The pedestal bed frame is more or less a flat platform which sits on a box. Pedestal frames are generally used for waterbed mattresses or adjustable air mattresses. The advantage of using a pedestal frame for air and waterbeds is the flat surface which is required for the mattress to function properly. These mattresses do not function well on top of a box spring, so using them on a standard bed frame with slats is not possible. Pedestal bed frames often come with built-in storage underneath.

Bunk Beds

Bunk beds are a parent's best friend, especially when two or more children must share a bedroom. The best bunk beds can be used in a stacked arrangement, or separated, depending on the preferences of the users. Bunk beds tend to utilize twin size mattresses, although full mattress bunk beds are not unheard of. In some cases, modular desk and shelf units can be purchased for use underneath the top bunk when the bottom bunk is no longer needed.

Trundle Beds

A trundle bed, also known as a roll-away bed, is one that's built on a collapsible metal frame that slides underneath a standard bed frame. Trundle beds were very popular a few decades ago when the square footage of homes left little room to expand bedroom space. With a trundle bed, a bedroom that would normally accommodate one or two children could accommodate an additional child easily. Trundle beds are also ideal for guests.

There are certainly many other options in terms of mattresses and bed frames. In fact, there are so many options it's not possible to list them all here.

Searching for a new bed can be an exciting experience if you know what you're looking for. Take the time to research your options and consider them in conjunction with your own tastes and preferences. Once you find a bed you're satisfied with, then you can start shopping for linens, mattress covers, and comforters. Happy hunting!