Insomnia, the inability to fall or stay asleep, can significantly impact our overall well-being and quality of life in general. A lack of sufficient rest can lead to daytime fatigue, reduced cognitive function, and even contribute to long-term health problems.

While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for insomnia, implementing various strategies and routines can significantly improve sleep quality and daytime alertness.

Here we’ll explore some effective coping strategies for managing insomnia:

Establish a Consistent Sleep Routine: Maintaining a regular sleep schedule is essential for training your body to recognise when it’s time to go to sleep. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, including weekends. Consistency helps regulate your body’s internal clock and helps to promote better sleep quality.

Control intrusive Thoughts: Often, what gets in the way of sleep are intrusive thoughts – worrying, planning, anticipating or rehearsing. Instead, give yourself positive mental coaching: “Everything is as it should be now. There is no need to lie awake thinking. Now is the time for delicious rest. I can easily go to sleep.”

Create a Relaxing Bedtime Ritual: Engage in activities that promote relaxation before bed to signal your body that it’s time to unwind. This may include taking a warm bath, reading a book, practising meditation, doing deep breathing exercises, or listening to calming music. Avoid stimulating activities such as watching television or using electronic devices, as they have been proven to interfere with sleep significantly.

Optimise Your Sleep Environment: Your sleep environment plays a crucial role in promoting quality sleep. Consider the following factors:

1. Choose the Right Mattress and Bed: A comfortable and supportive mattress and bed set are essential for promoting healthy sleep. Different individuals have varying preferences, so finding the right mattress that suits your needs is important. Consider factors like firmness, material type, and support to ensure optimal comfort.
2. Control Light and Noise: Create a dark and quiet sleep environment by using blackout curtains, earplugs or eye masks, a fan or a white noise machine to minimise disruptions. Turn any illuminated objects, such as a clock, away from you to avoid the light.
3. Temperature and Humidity: Maintain a comfortable room temperature and humidity level to avoid discomfort during sleep. Experiment with different settings to find what works best for you.

As a parent, establishing a healthy sleep routine for your kids from an early age can set the foundation for lifelong healthy sleep habits. It can also allow them to function at their best, both at home and in school. 

Remember that sleep is a time for restoration and for children’s bodies to recharge and retain the information learnt during the day. During deep non-REM sleep, the body’s energy is restored, growth and repair occur, and vital brain development hormones are released.

Understanding their sleep needs is the first step towards providing better sleep for your children. Through a combination of sleep hygiene, age-appropriate routines, and paying attention to any potential sleep disorders, you can help your child get the rest they need to grow up mentally and physically strong and healthy.

Here are some tips and advice for parents on how to establish healthy sleep routines for their children.

Stick to a consistent bedtime routine.

One of the most important things parents can do is establish a consistent bedtime routine for their child. A good bedtime routine can help signal to the child that it is time to wind down and prepare for sleep. Routines can include activities such as a warm bath, brushing teeth, reading a story, or singing a lullaby. It is important to stick to the chosen routine every night to help establish a consistent sleep schedule.

Create a comfortable sleep environment.

An optimum sleep environment is essential for children to get a good night’s sleep. This includes making sure that the child’s room is cool, quiet, and dark. Investing in blackout curtains or a white noise machine, such as a fan, can help create a conducive sleep environment. Additionally, make sure that your child has a comfortable mattress and bedding that provides firm support for their growing body but is soft and comfy at the same time.

Limit screen time before bed.

Screen time before bed can interfere with a child’s ability to fall asleep. The blue light emitted by electronic devices can suppress the production of the sleep hormone melatonin, making it more difficult for children to fall asleep. Therefore, it is recommended to limit screen time before bed. Ideally, electronic devices should be turned off at least an hour before bedtime.

Encourage physical activity during the day.

Engaging in sports and physical activities during the day can help children get a better night’s sleep. Encouraging your child to engage in physical activities such as playing outside, riding a bike, running or swimming can help them burn off excess energy and promote good, sleep.

Be mindful of caffeine intake.

Caffeine can be found in many foods and drinks, including soda, chocolate, and some tea and can interfere with a child’s ability to fall asleep. Therefore, limiting your child’s caffeine intake is important, particularly in the afternoon and evening.

Set clear sleep expectations and boundaries.

Setting clear sleep expectations and boundaries can go a long way towards helping establish healthy sleep habits for your children. These ‘bedtime rules’ can include setting regular sleeping and waking times, sticking to a bedtime routine, and establishing bedtime behaviours such as not getting out of bed or asking for extra snacks or drinks.

Keep older children’s naps early and short.

The majority of children stop napping at around 3-5 years of age. If your child over five years is still napping during the day, try shorten the nap to about 20 minutes and no later than in the early afternoon. Longer and later naps can make it difficult for children to fall asleep at night.

Make sure your child feels safe at night.

If your child is perhaps scared of the dark, then try to praise and reward them whenever they’re brave and willing to go to bed on time and without great fuss. Avoiding scary TV shows, movies, and computer games can help tremendously too. Some children with bedtime fears also feel better when they have a night light or can hear some activity within the house.

Be patient and consistent.

Of course, establishing healthy sleep habits takes time and patience. It is important to be consistent with your child’s bedtime routine and to reinforce the importance of good sleep habits. Try to be as patient and understanding as possible as your child adjusts to their new sleep routine; this will help to alleviate any anxiety or frustration as bedtime draws near.

The reason many people “sleep hot” has a lot to do with design. Our core temperature drops by a couple of degrees during the night, shedding heat into the surrounding areas, and certain sheets and mattresses trap the heat and moisture around us.

There are several things you can do to make your sleeping environment more comfortable.

These tips can help you achieve a better night’s sleep:

The first step to cooling down your sleeping environment is to make sure you are using the right mattress and bedding. Look for a mattress designed to be cool and breathable. Memory foam mattresses are great for keeping you cool, as they are more breathable than traditional mattresses.

If you already have a memory foam mattress, you should consider investing in a cooling mattress pad or mattress topper to provide extra cooling and ventilation. Bed accessories such as these are designed to help regulate your temperature by absorbing heat and dissipating it away from your body.

You can also find cooling pillows and comforters, which can help keep you cool while you sleep. The Sealy Coolsmart Gel pillow is a great option. Its 2-in-1 Pillow Cool Gel layer reduces heat build-up for a cool comfortable sleep while the other side is all memory for a more gentle comfort.

Additionally, use lightweight, breathable bedding such as cotton or bamboo sheets, since heavier materials can trap heat within the bed. Synthetic fibres are generally not breathable, and this includes polyester and poly/cotton blends. If you are already a ‘hot’ sleeper, polyester will make you even hotter as it can’t release heat. This applies to your sleepwear, too, so check the fabric of your pj’s.

Remember to always assess the temperature of your sleeping environment. If your room is too warm, try opening a window to create a cool breeze or running a fan to help cool it down. If you have air conditioning, set the temperature to a cool but comfortable.

Finally, avoid activities that can raise your body temperature before bed, including eating a large meal, drinking caffeine, or exercising. Staying hydrated throughout the day is important, as dehydration can make it harder to stay cool. Limiting your alcohol intake prior to sleep can help with overheating issues too.

With a few adjustments, you can make it easier to cool your bed down, stay comfortable in bed and get the restful sleep you need.

As the leaves turn and the days become shorter, it’s time to ready your bedroom for the colder months ahead. The perfect way to ensure you stay warm and snug, as the weather turns chillier is by making your bed cosier.

Here’s how you can do it:

• Investing in new bedding can make a big difference in how inviting your bedroom feels. Keeping warm doesn’t mean ending up covered in sweat, though – and this is where linen comes in. An extremely breathable fabric, linen is great for top and bottom sheets. However, if you prefer something warmer, try opting for brushed cotton winter sheets and pillowcases.
• If your mattress feels too firm, add a luxury mattress topper that can double as a mattress protector, if needed. This can make the world of difference to your comfort level, and you’ll be thankful for it during the colder months.
• A lofty down duvet will fold around your body and keep in the warmth, but make sure you choose just the right one so you don’t overheat. Options are endless and cater to all preferences, budgets and desires.
• Add extra blankets, throws or comforters. Soft, plush blankets are great for keeping you warm during the winter. Choose from a range of materials, such as wool, cotton, or even synthetic fleece. If you want to go the extra mile, consider buying a comforter. Incredibly light and fluffy, these can provide the perfect warmth for winter.
• Add some pillows. A good quality pillow is essential for keeping your neck and head comfortable while you sleep. It’s best to choose a pillow that is not too firm, but also not too soft. A pillow protector will protect against stains, dust mites, bacteria and allergies and extend the life of your pillow. It can also allow you to sleep and breathe easier.
• As we often move to darker, textured clothing in cooler months, so can our bedding. Consider bringing in a warmer, darker palette. Sheets, duvet covers and pillowcases needn’t be the same colour. Instead, layer darker, dustier autumnal shades and lighter neutrals on top of one another to create a sense of depth, comfort and interest.
• Add some extra comfort to your bedroom by changing up the lighting. Soft lighting like table lamps or string lights can help create a relaxed atmosphere and make your bedroom more inviting. Introduce extra texture with rugs, curtains, and cushions to make the room feel even cosier. These elements can add warmth to your bedroom, make it feel more inviting, and keep out the winter chill winter air.
• Don’t forget about the temperature. Investing in a good quality heater for your bedroom can make all the difference to how satisfying and pleasurable it feels. Just make sure it’s not too warm but rather a comfortable level throughout the cooler months, and you’ll be sure to enjoy your cosy winter retreat.

Follow these steps and you’ll make your bed cosier and more inviting, as the weather turns colder. It will be the perfect place to curl up and stay warm and snug on chilly winter nights.

When buying a new mattress, it’s important to purchase one that will sustain wear and tear, remain supportive of your preferred sleeping position, and give you a restful night’s sleep.

A comfortable mattress and a well-made bed make all the difference in getting good quality sleep. But, unfortunately, mattresses and beds don’t last forever.

So, to make sure you get the most out of your mattress and bed and to enable them to last longer, here are a few simple steps you can take:

1. Rotate and Flip Your Mattress Regularly
   Rotating and flipping your mattress every month can help to ensure it wears out evenly and to extend its life. Start by rotating your mattress 180 degrees, then flip it (if a turnable mattress) so the foot of the bed is now at the head. If you do this regularly, it can help to prevent sagging and stop any body impressions from forming.
2. Use a Quality Waterproof Mattress Protector
   A mattress topper or protector is another easy way to help your mattress last longer. It will protect it from dirt, dust, and spills, which can damage the mattress over time. A good mattress protector will also help to regulate the temperature and provide a comfortable sleeping surface.
3. Keep Pets Off the Mattress
   Pets can cause a lot of wear and tear to a mattress over time. Not only do they shed fur and potentially expose the bed to bacteria or allergens, but they can also cause indentations and tears. It’s, therefore, important to keep your animals off your bed and away from your mattress to ensure it lasts as long as possible.
4. Avoid Eating and Drinking in Bed
   Eating and drinking in bed can be a recipe for disaster. Food and drinks can spill, and crumbs can get caught in the mattress, attracting bugs and pests. It’s a good idea to avoid eating and drinking in bed to keep your mattress in good condition,
5. Avoid Jumping and Rough Games
   Jumping and roughhousing on your mattress can cause it to become misshapen and worn. To keep your mattress in good condition, stay away from activities like jumping on the bed or playing games in it.
6. Ensure a Solid Foundation
   Make sure you use a supportive foundation for your mattress. If the foundation or the bed set isn’t supportive enough, it can cause the mattress to sag and give you a less comfortable sleep.

With sufficient care and maintenance, your bed can be a long-lasting, comfortable place to rest and relax.

The full moon has long been associated with mysterious phenomena, including affecting our sleep patterns.

Studies have shown that people tend to get less sleep, and sleep of poorer quality, during a full moon. The full moon can also cause increased restlessness and difficulty in concentrating, as well as an increase in dreaming. People may also experience more vivid dreams during this time.

The full moon effects on sleep are typically pronounced in the days leading up to and during the full moon and, in many cases, can be felt for up to three days before and after the full moon.

During, or close to, a full moon, many of us are more likely to experience insomnia, restlessness, and an overall decrease in sleep quality. Studies have also shown that the moon can affect our hormones. During the full moon, hormones such as cortisol and melatonin can be disrupted, resulting in greater interference with our sleep cycle.

But why does it have this effect on our sleeping patterns? Well, scientists believe that the moon affects our sleep in this way due to the amount of light it reflects and the gravitational pull it exerts on the Earth, which can disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm and interfere with melatonin production in the brain, making it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep.

The light aspect of the above reasoning can be confusing because the moon emits only 7% of the light intensity of sunlight. However, research indicates that the gravitational pull cycles associated with the lunar month can predispose humans to be particularly sensitive to the effects of ALL light, moonlight, or artificial, on the nights close to the full moon.

Because the body’s internal 24-hour clock is calibrated by rising and falling levels of hormones in response to light perception, light levels are one of the most significant influences on sleep onset and quality.

The lunar impact on sleep may be particularly significant for people with mental health disorders, as many of these conditions have a relationship with sleep. In fact, the word ‘lunacy’ is derived from ‘Luna,’ the Roman moon goddess.

At the same time, the lunar cycle can also have a positive effect on our sleep. During a new moon, there is less light, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. A new moon can also be a time for more restful, restorative sleep.

Scientists are consistently investigating potential connections between the moon and a broad mix of human experiences, such as conceptions, births, hospital or ER visits, cardiac events, psychiatric episodes, sports injuries, aggression and crime. Much of the evidence is inconclusive or even contradictory. For each study that finds that people lose sleep during a full moon, there’s another that states there’s no connection between the two. One thing that does seem clear: It’s not just a coincidence that the average length of a menstrual cycle, 28 days, nearly matches the 29.5-day lunar cycle.

Whilst there is striking research indicating the moon’s phase may affect sleep, a great deal of this research is only suggestive. There is much we do not understand on this topic. Fortunately, there are evidence-based strategies that you can use to sleep well tonight, regardless of celestial influence:

Tips for Sleeping Better

It’s important to remember that the lunar cycle is only one of the factors that can affect our sleep. Sleep hygiene and a good sleep schedule are some of the most helpful ways to get a good night’s sleep. Adjusting your bedroom environment, ensuring you have just the right bed and mattress, and practising certain positive behaviours set you up for a successful slumber. Simple things like ensuring your bedroom is dark, limiting caffeine, avoiding blue light, and keeping a sleep schedule can go a long way.

Like most people, you might think hard work and dedication are the keys to success. But what if there is an even more powerful force at work? That’s right – it’s sleep!

Yes, getting a good, quality sleep at night is one of the critical keys to success. After all, world-famous entrepreneur, Elon Musk once said, “Sleep is your superpower.” He’s not wrong. Studies have shown that a lack of sleep can lead to decreased productivity, increased stress, and a weakened immune system.

It might sound counterintuitive, but getting enough sleep can make you more productive during the day. When you are well-rested, your brain is better able to focus and think clearly. You are also better able to make decisions and solve problems.

For students especially, it is very important to get enough sleep as it can help improve memory and cognition and lead to better academic performance. Sleep also helps to boost creativity, making you more open to new ideas and better able to devise creative solutions to intricate problems, store memories and make them easier to recall.

During sleep, our brains can process and consolidate and retain memories and information, allowing us to recall this later. This is especially beneficial for students, as it helps them to learn new information material and remember it for extended periods  – essential for success in any field. By getting enough sleep, learners and students can improve their ability to think critically, plan properly, and make better decisions.

Students can maximise their academic performance and reach their full potential by enjoying adequate sleep each night. Not only can it help store and recall memories, but it can also help improve mental processes and reduce stress and anxiety in learners, helping them to stay focused and motivated during their studies.

In other words, quality sleep can give you the edge you need to get ahead. When we get enough sleep, our cognitive functioning improves, allowing us to concentrate and make decisions more effectively. We also have more energy and motivation, which makes it easier to take the steps necessary to reach our goals.

So if you are looking to take your success to the next level, make sure you are getting enough sleep and maintaining a regular, healthy sleep schedule!

If you suffer from back pain, then you know how important it is to get a good night’s rest. It’s also interesting that most back pain isn’t caused by serious medical conditions, but is often brought on by stress, bad posture or sleeping positions, and other lifestyle habits.

Investing in the best mattress and bed for your back can make all the difference in reducing any pain or discomfort you feel and improving your quality of sleep. An old mattress or one that is too soft can significantly worsen your back pain since it is not providing the proper support for your body.

Testing out Beds for Back Pain Relief

It is important to remember though that no two people are the same and everyone experiences back pain differently. As a back pain sufferer, the best way to find the right mattress and bed for your back is to test out several different types until you find the one that works best for you.

Good adjustable Orthopedic Bed

Ideally, you want to look for a mattress that is supportive, ergonomic and provides firm support so that your spine is kept in alignment while you sleep. A good bed should be adjusted to suitable orthopaedic settings for head and foot positions, as well as provide lumbar support.

Good Beds that Support Sleep Posture and provide Lower Back Support

A good tip is to look for a mattress that has memory foam, coils, or a combination of both. The Cloud Nine Air-Gel bed set is a great option as the Blue Gel memory foam helps to support good sleep posture by hugging the contours of your body and promoting good blood circulation. Cloud Nine’s advanced support structure offers zero movement transfer meaning your movements won’t disturb your sleeping partner.

The Sealy Lannister Extra Firm Bed Set is another option that offers incredible support. Sealy’s Body Sense Pocket coil system provides deep down push-back support to align your spine. The reinforced centre third of the mattress has a power-backed middle to give better lower back support and increase durability.

A Good Pillow to provide optimum Neck Alignment and Back Support

In addition to the mattress and bed, you also want to look for a supportive pillow. A good pillow should provide the correct support for your head and neck while you sleep. It should also be adjustable so that you can find the best position for your body. Look for a pillow that is made of memory foam, latex, or a combination of both. A pillow such as the Cloud Nine Aerosoft is contoured for optimum neck alignment and back support whilst the premium Sealy Ultra Luxury Latex pillow offers soft comfort and ultimate spine alignment.

With the right mattress and bed, you can find the relief you need from your back pain and get a better night’s sleep.

Best Sleeping Positions to further reduce Back Pain

To help minimise back pain, here are some of the best sleeping positions to try.

1. Sleeping on your back. When lying on your back, place a pillow beneath your knees and keep your spine in a neutral position. This helps to reduce strain on the lower back and spine, making it a great choice for those dealing with chronic back pain.
2. Sleeping on your side. To reduce pressure on the lower back, place a pillow between your legs and keep your spine in a neutral position. You can also use a “spinal cushion” to provide additional support and comfort to your lower back.
3. Sleeping in the fetal position. Curling up into a tight ball can help to reduce pressure on the spine and alleviate back pain. Make sure to keep your spine in a neutral position and place a pillow between your legs for added support.
4. Sleeping on your stomach. While this position can be comfortable for some, it can cause more back pain for others. If you choose to sleep on your stomach, place a flat pillow under your hips for added support.

By ensuring that your mattress and pillow are providing adequate support, finding a comfortable sleeping position, stretching or foam rolling before bed, using a heating pad or hot water bottle on sore muscles, and practising relaxation techniques, you can help improve your sleep quality and reduce your back pain.

If you regularly wake up with joint or muscle stiffness, it could be sign that your mattress is old or damaged and needs replacing.

Continue reading

When it comes to sleep, our bodies enjoy routine and consistency.

If you’re getting the amount of sleep you need, you’ll feel awake and alert all day long. While it’s quite natural to experience a slight dip in energy in the afternoon, you should not be struggling to stay awake

Of course, everyone has different natural rhythms when it comes to their sleep. This is partly hereditary. However, behavioural habits and lifestyle factors also come into play. Light and stimulation, what foods or drinks you are consuming, physical activity and stress, are other key factors that influence our sleep.

Here’s our advice on how to figure out what sleep schedule works best for you and how to stick to it:

1. Use your age to determine how long you should be sleeping. 

Babies and children to two years old require between 11 – 17 hours of sleep, including nights and naps.

• School-aged children up to age 17 require eight to 13 hours of sleep.
• Young adults and adults require seven to nine hours of sleep.
• Adults over 65 require seven to eight hours of sleep.

Also, pay attention to body cues. Some people are night owls and prefer a later bedtime. There are those who feel more energised waking up before or with the sunrise, and therefore tend to go to bed earlier.

2. Set Your Bedtime by Your WakeTime

A good first rule is to look at what time you need to get up. This time should allow you enough time in the morning to get ready for your day without feeling. From there, count backward eight hours, and boom, that’s your ideal bedtime!

Remember that electronic devices tend to keep you awake for other reasons (work or the content you’re consuming may be alerting), so it’s still preferable to work on a screen-reducing strategy.

3. Start by using an alarm

Set an alarm on your phone or fitness tracker to cue the start of your bedtime routine. Set a light alarm for the morning.

If you follow your bedtime routine strictly, you can eventually stop using an alarm. Your body will wake when you feel rested.

4. But also… Beat the Clock

Try to ensure that social or work events fit around your sleep schedule – not the other way around. This will help you stick to a sleep schedule commitment while not feeling you are missing out on anything.

When out with friends or busy at a function, for example, leave at a reasonable time. Use this tactic to challenge yourself to stay focused and work with efficiency to finish up before bedtime.

5. Establish a bedtime routine

Start to get ready for bed an hour beforehand. Turn off all machines that emit blue light and keep them out of the bedroom.

Other successful bedtime routines can include a warm bath or shower, stretching, yoga, personal hygiene, meditation, deep breathing, reading or writing. Choose the habits that work best for you.

6. Set a wakeup routine

Ban the snooze button so that you can sleep until you must get up and enjoy more uninterrupted sleep.

Once you get up, ensure your morning includes rituals like a good coffee, a shower, breakfast and some form of movement in order to get the blood flowing and your brain working optimally.

7. Keep Your Routine Intact on the Weekends

Saturday and Sunday are not always the days to sleep in two or three hours. This can throw off your sleep schedule. Come Sunday night, you won’t be tired for your normally appointed bedtime.

Of course, life can’t always be that rigid, so about 30 mins of extra sleep-in time on days off is reasonable.

8. Apply the ‘15 minute’ rule

Go to sleep approximately 15 mins earlier (or later) every night, until you hit your ideal bedtime. Plan to wake up 15 minutes earlier (or later) as well. This gradual change gives your body time to adjust to lights and develop a new sleep schedule

Remember, sticking to this gradual adjustment is important even on the weekends. Staying up too late or sleeping in will make it harder for your body to set a new schedule

9. Cultivate an inviting sleep environment

You want your bedroom to be quiet and dark to avoid disruptions. A cool yet comfortable temperature and soothing smells, like lavender, may promote relaxation and provide cues for sleep.

Finding the best mattress, best pillow, and bedding can make your bedroom a haven for comfort and rest. Speak to a bed expert at The Bed Centre for the best option for you.

10. Cut out Caffeine from Midday

Heard this unofficial rule before? Caffeine has a “half-life” of four to six hours. That’s how much time it takes for most people to metabolise half the caffeine.

So, whilst many people can drink coffee at night and have no problem, for most of us, having coffee in the later afternoon will cut into our sleep — and throw off this all-important sleep routine

11. Brush Your Teeth Early in the Evening

Consider this one a small hack that helps you avoid late-night snacking.

Not only can certain foods cause heartburn or contain caffeine that keeps you awake (like chocolate), but eating before bed can affect your digestive system, which diminishes sleep quality too.

12. Open the curtains as you wake up. 

Try to get outside and into the sun for even better results. If you live in a place that isn’t sunny or you get up before the sun rises, try using a sunlight lamp to tell your body it’s time to get up.

Our preferred sleeping position generally dictates the type of mattress and pillow we find most comfortable. Of course, the proper support and level of firmness from both your mattress and pillows can also help to alleviate a multitude of common sleep problems ranging from snoring to sore or painful joints and sleep apnea.

Making the correct bed or mattress choice can also effectively assist in distributing your weight evenly across the bed and helping to achieve the optimum body and spine alignment.

By visiting the nearest The Bed Centre to discuss your individual sleep needs and concerns you can get just the rest you need with the right choice of mattresses, pillows, bedding and mattress protectors available in multiple brand names. Below, however, are some of our basic guidelines on mattress types and firmness, depending on the sleep position you most enjoy:

Back Sleeping

Although it’s not the most popular sleep position, sleeping on your back is really one of the best positions for the head, back and neck alignment. Back sleeping or sleeping face up allows your spine to rest in a neutral position and takes that extra pressure off the other areas of your body.

However, for those who suffer from acid reflux and snoring or apnea, sleeping face up can worsen those issues.

Memory foam or hybrid (a combination of coil and foam) mattresses are generally best for conforming to your spine, neck and head if you are prone to sleeping on your back. Latex and spring mattresses are also good choices and help to provide the right orthopaedic support. Mattress Toppers can also help to provide pressure relief and improve comfort.

Side Sleeping

The majority of sleepers prefer to sleep on their side. However, side sleeping can often lead to shoulder, hip and back pain if your spine, neck and hips aren’t properly aligned or if you potentially have the incorrect mattress or bed option.

For anyone who experiences discomfort from their side sleeping preference, the solution to improved cushioning and better night’s sleep lies in choosing the best mattress for sleeping on your side and the best side sleeper pillow. These options are generally medium-firm in terms of support.

When you sleep on your side, you should ensure your body remains aligned so that pressure is taken off your upper body (including neck and shoulders) and hips. Any mattresses for side sleepers should also provide sufficient comfort; meaning ultra-plush and plush mattresses and latex and memory foam are often the best options.

If you’re an edge sleeper as well as a side sleeper, you may benefit from a mattress that has a reinforced perimeter. This means that the edge of the bed offers the same comfort and support as the middle of the mattress.

Certain pillows are designed specifically for sleepers who seek relief from neck and back pain. Mattress toppers can also provide similar benefits to acquiring a brand-new mattress and can ensure that your spine is properly aligned whilst you sleep.

Stomach Sleeping

Stomach sleepers have probably heard much about the general consensus that it’s not the most beneficial position for sleeping, this is because of the extra strain it can place on your neck and spine.

Healthcare providers generally recommend those who sleep face down switch to a sleeping position that offers better health benefits, though this is often easier said than done.

The best mattress type for stomach sleepers is one that gives you optimal  support and comfort. Stomach sleepers should typically try to avoid plush mattresses. If your chosen mattress is soft enough to sink into, this may cause a problem with aches or stiffness. A firm, high-quality mattress is best for stomach sleepers. By providing your muscles with resistance, the best firm mattress for back pain will help prevent misalignment of your spine.

Multiple Sleeping

Couples often have differing sleep needs and sleeping positions. This naturally means that one person may have to sacrifice their individual sleeping preferences in order to prioritise their partner’s physical needs. However, it is still possible to find a mattress that fulfils both your requirements for sleep!

In this case, it’s important to select a new mattress or bed set as a couple vs. shopping separately and comparing findings. If one of you is a side sleeper and the other is a back sleeper or stomach sleeper, we’d encourage you to  test out all the mattresses you’re interested in at your nearest The Bed Centre, together as a couple, and to seek our expert advice in-store.

Whilst selecting the right mattress as a couple can seem like a challenge, it’s important to be open-minded and to test different-size mattresses. Try out a variety of sizes — like queen mattresses and king mattresses — to make sure both partners have plenty of room to sleep peacefully.

Getting a good night’s sleep is incredibly important for your health. In fact, it’s just as important as eating a balanced, nutritious diet and exercising regularly.

Of course, sleep doesn’t have just one biological purpose but, in fact, is an important contributor to the proper functioning of nearly all of the systems of the body. Here are 10 reasons sleep is so essential to us:

1. It’s Great for Your Brain

Good sleep has been proven to maximise problem-solving skills and enhance memory and brain function. In contrast, poor sleep has been shown to impair brain function and decision-making skills. Cognition, concentration, productivity, and performance are all negatively affected by sleep deprivation

When you’re running low on sleep, you’ll probably have trouble holding onto and recalling details. Without enough sleep, it’s tough to focus and take in new information. Your brain also doesn’t have enough time to properly store memories so you can pull them up later.

2. ZZZs Keep You Positive

Mental health issues, such as depression, are strongly linked to poor sleep quality and or lack of sufficient sleep. People with sleeping disorders such as insomnia or obstructive sleep apnea also report higher rates of depression than those without.

A refreshing slumber can help you hit the reset button on a bad day, improve your outlook on life, and be better prepared to meet everyday challenges.

3. Supports a Healthy Immune System

It is believed that deep sleep plays an important role in the recuperation of the body and germ fighting, as well as aiding effective thinking and memory.

Lack of sleep has been shown to impair immune function. Some data also suggests that proper sleep may improve your body’s antibody responses to certain vaccines.

4. Balances your Emotions

Prioritising sleep may be a key way to improve your outlook on life, and your relationships with others and help you become more social. This is especially true because sleep-deprived people are more likely to withdraw from social events and experience loneliness.

When we’re tired, we have a harder time controlling emotional outbursts and our behaviours in front of others. Tiredness may also affect our ability to respond to humour and show empathy. Getting a good night’s sleep regularly can help to regulate and balance our emotional state.

5. Can Boost Athletic Performance

Getting enough sleep may be just the thing you need to take your fitness training to the next level. That’s another very good reason why we should ensure we get enough quality sleep time.

Studies have shown that adequate sleep can enhance fine motor skills, reaction time, muscular power and muscular endurance. On the other hand, a lack of sleep may increase your risk of injury and lower your motivation to exercise.

6. May Reduce Inflammation

Sleep plays a vital role in the regulation of our central nervous system. In particular, it’s involved in the stress-response systems known as the sympathetic nervous system and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.

Sleep loss, especially from disturbed sleep, can activate inflammatory signalling pathways and lead to higher levels of undesirable markers of inflammation. Over time, chronic inflammation can cause the development of many chronic conditions, including obesity, heart disease and cancer. 

7. Helps you Maintain or Lose Weight

Prioritising sleep may support a healthy body weight. Numerous studies have associated short sleep  (defined as sleeping fewer than 7 hours per night) with a greater risk of weight gain and a higher body mass index (BMI).

The effect of sleep on weight gain is believed to be affected by numerous factors, including hormones and motivation to exercise.

Various studies have revealed that sleep-deprived individuals have a bigger appetite and tend to eat more calories.  What’s more, to compensate for lack of energy, sleep deprivation may make you crave foods higher in sugar and fat, due to their higher calorie content.

8. Promotes a Healthier Heart

While you sleep, your blood pressure goes down, giving your heart and blood vessels a rest. Research shows that lack of sleep increases the risk for obesity, heart disease and infections. Throughout the night, your heart rate, breathing rate and blood pressure rise and fall, a process that may be important for cardiovascular health.

Adults who sleep less than 7 hours each night are more likely to say they have had health problems, including heart attack, asthma, type 2 diabetes and depression. Some of these health problems raise the risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. (www.cdc.gov) Good nightly rest has a great impact and long-term payoff on your heart health

9. Steadier Blood Sugar

During the deep, slow-wave part of your sleep cycle, the amount of glucose in your blood drops. Not enough time in this deepest stage means you don’t get that break to allow a reset and your body has a harder time responding to your cells’ needs and blood sugar levels.

Allow yourself to reach and remain in ‘deep sleep’ and you’re less likely to get type 2 diabetes.

10. Keeps you Balanced

Sleep helps you maintain your physical abilities and also keeps your body correctly balanced. Studies show sleep deprivation leads to short-term balance problems.

That’s called postural instability and can lead to injuries and falls. Even mild instability can cause problems during sports or exercise.

 

The Bottom Line:

Taking care of your sleep is one of the pillars of health. Just like you prioritise your diet and physical activity, it’s time to give sleep the attention it deserves. At The Bed Centre we stock the best beds and mattresses from all the top brands in South Africa. We care about your health and our knowledgeable staff will help you find the correct product that suits your needs.

Browse our mattresses and discover the best products for achieving deep and restorative sleep.

The back-to-school transition can prove challenging for many children and teenagers after a long holiday or school break. It’s important at these times (as well as generally), that children appropriately adjust to the school schedule to ensure they’re not overtired, cranky, or simply finding it difficult to engage in academic or everyday activities.

Sleep-deprived teenagers are more likely to achieve poorly in school, fall asleep during class or be consistently late for or even absent from school. Teens who do not enjoy sufficient sleep are also more likely to underperform in sports activities due to decreased motivation and slower reaction times.

Fortunately, teens and their families can take key steps to increase both the quantity and quality of their sleep:

1. Encourage daytime exercise and activity

Have you noticed that most little children who run around endlessly generally tend to fall asleep quickly and sleep soundly? That’s because physical activity helps to greatly improve mood, ease stress and promote good, sound sleeping patterns.

It’s a good idea to encourage your teen’s ‘inner-toddler’ by ensuring they achieve at least 60 minutes of exercise per day. Urge them not to work out or physically exert themselves too close to bedtime, however, because exercise can wake us up before it slows us down to sleep.

2. Avoid caffeine and stimulants near bedtime

We generally associate caffeine with coffee and tea but, of course, it’s in energy drinks, carbonated soft drinks, and more. It’s a stimulant, which means it can help keep teenagers awake and alert. Whilst that’s something teenagers might want for other reasons, at night, it can leave them tossing and turning in bed.

To help your teenager sleep, encourage them to consume limited caffeine during the day, and switch to decaf or caffeine-free beverages at night. A good decaffeinated hot drink or glass of milk can provide a soothing alternative.

3. Say ‘night, ‘night to screens and electronics

Texting, social media and the Internet are essentially the enemies of a good night’s sleep. Not only do texting, gaming and social media activities keep us awake and alert. If we do fall asleep, receiving texts and notifications can awaken us.

It’s a good idea to make your adolescent’s bedroom a tech-free, screen-free zone. The light from electronic devices tricks the brain into thinking it’s still daytime, so it’s advisable to switch devices off at least an hour before bedtime and leave them outside the bedroom where they can’t be distracting. Some devices also have a “night shift” setting where screens emit less blue light in the evening hours, which might help.

4. Put an end to worry

It may seem easier said than done, but you can help to encourage your teen to relax their mind before bed and to keep a pen and paper nearby to write down any assignments or tasks or to be addressed in the morning.

Help them to notice when they are worrying and to shift their focus to a calming, distracting activity or ritual such as deep breathing, stretching, body scanning or visualising calming imagery.

5. Keep to a healthy sleep routine

Going to bed at the same time every night helps the body expect sleep. Creating a set bedtime routine can enhance this relaxation effect for adolescents. After puberty, a teen’s internal clock generally shifts about 2 hours. Whilst this means they tend to go to sleep later, it also means they will naturally want to sleep 2 hours later the following day.

Changes to teens’ bodies and brains, including melatonin production, can shift their natural circadian rhythm, making it more difficult to fall asleep. Encourage your teenager to unwind at night by reading a book, listening to music or meditating, spending time with a pet, writing in a journal or engaging in anything that relaxes them and promotes a calm, soothing environment.

6. Expect a good night’s sleep.

Anxiety and stress can trigger insomnia, so the more your child agonises about not sleeping, the more likely they are likely to lie awake staring at the ceiling. Instead of worrying that they won’t sleep, remind them to repeat positive statements such as “tonight, I will sleep well” several times throughout the day.

It can also help to practice breathing exercises or gentle yoga poses before bed. The bedroom is for sleeping. If you can, avoid doing stressful activities in bed or your bedroom. This keeps the stress of daily activities out of your sleeping space.

7. Create optimal sleeping conditions.

Most of us sleep better in cool, quiet and dark environments. If your teen needs them, consider curtains, window blinds or eye masks that will help keep their bedroom sufficiently dark, and ear plugs or “white noise” to help address any sound issues. The correct bed and mattress are also of great importance for a comfortable night’s sleep.

Taking a cool shower can also work as a trigger for sleep, but it doesn’t last long if the bedroom is too warm. Devices such as ceiling, desk or standing fans are a good source of both “white noise” and provide a cool and comfortable environment.

8. Make Light of it

We know that most types of light at night are bad for sleep, but in the morning light can be a great aid in wakefulness. Recent studies have revealed that teenagers camping out without electronic devices rapidly reset their body clock by going outdoors and drenching their eyes in the morning sunlight.

9. Avoid oversleeping on weekends.

Although catching up on lost sleep on the weekends can be helpful, sleeping until midday on Sunday might make it harder for your teenager to get back into a school schedule that night.

Researchers have proven that varying sleep schedules on the weekend (also known as “social jetlag”) can worsen sleep and not restore sleep deficits.

10. Enlist your teen’s support

Whilst it’s important to recognize when your teenager is not getting enough rest, Any best-laid plans are doomed to fail if your child or teenager is not on board. Discuss any noticeable sleep-related concerns with your child in terms they easily understand.

As you set out to help ensure your child gets the rest so essential for their physical and mental growth, it will be important to manage their – and your – expectations about what they can and can’t accomplish in a single day.

Wanting to optimise your bedroom and create a true sleep oasis?

Cool, dark, restful, cosy and device-free are the key concepts to keep in mind when looking to design the ultimate bedroom environment.

Here are 6 top tips to enhance your sleeping space:

1. Banish Clutter

A disorganised, messy or cluttered space can distract you from falling asleep or feeling relaxed. Spending just a few minutes a day decluttering and ensuring belongings have a proper “home” can positively impact your mindset and help to promote a restful environment.

Attempt to keep work-related items or bills and other papers in a separate office space or out of sight. Keep clothes in the cupboard or a laundry basket, dishes in the kitchen and rubbish in a bin. A bedside table, storage organiser or attractive containers and baskets can hold odds and ends, keep your space neat and also allow any essentials to remain within reach. Cupboards provide the space to keep clothes and necessary items out of the way.

2. Create a Cool, Fresh Room

Research states that the ideal sleeping temperature of 18.3°C and the temperature of a cooler bedroom is vital in achieving good-quality slumber. We also associate fresh air with relaxation and a soothing environment. A drop in body temperature also tends to encourage tiredness, meaning better sleep is more likely.

Even in a room set to the ideal sleeping climate, you may still need to open your window to let fresh air circulate through your sleeping space. If you’re a light sleeper or disturbed by outside noises, you could keep the window shut and use a fan to keep the air circulating, but make sure it’s not pointing directly at your body since this could result in sore muscles and headaches.

3. Ensure your Mattress is Comfortable

It’s generally recommended to replace your mattress every seven years, however, this really depends on the quality of your mattress. You should essentially look to replace this whenever the bed is no longer comfortable or feels as if it is lacking in support. Remember that changes in age, weight, and health can also change comfort needs, even if the mattress is still in decent shape.

If your mattress shows heavy impressions or causes sore joints or pain at pressure points, it may be past its prime or affecting the alignment of your spine. Generally, latex and memory foam mattresses will last longer than beds with springs, as springs tend to wear out faster than foams.

4. Choose Colours Conducive to Sleep

Lighter, more neutral colours such as light blue, green, silver, grey, rose-pink and lavender are generally ideal hues for the bedroom. Cool colours such as these are considered stress relieving and have also proven to help lower blood pressure and the heart rate to help ensure a proper night’s sleep.

As a rule, it’s best for most of us to avoid painting bedroom walls a dark colour (look to use a matte paint finish as opposed to glossy because it keeps colours softer) or using very bright colours in our linen and décor choices.

5. Keep Pillows Fresh

Pillows are very important to sleeping comfortably. Down alternative and poly-fill pillows may need to be replaced more frequently than latex, down, buckwheat, and memory foam pillows, which last a few more years with good care. Pillows and linen should be washed regularly to reduce bacteria and allergens that can make sleep less comfortable.

If a pillow feels too flat, too thick or no longer provides adequate cushioning and comfort, it can lead to neck pain, back pain, or pressure on muscles and joints. Back sleepers should probably select a thinner pillow with neck support in the lower third, side sleepers should go for a firmer pillow that supports the natural distance between the ear and shoulder, and stomach sleepers should either opt for no pillow or a very thin one.

6. Check your Furniture Arrangement

Certain furniture arrangements, particularly the placement of your bed, may lead to better sleep. Placing your bed against the wall makes perfect sense and it is recommended not to set the bed against the same wall as the door. Every time the door opens or closes, you are likely to be alerted and want to investigate.

It is also best to avoid placing your bed under a beam or low ceiling, as your instincts may remain switched on and keep you awake. Also, avoid any large hanging light fittings above your bed for the same reason. Ideally, all activities related to your job or work should remain out of the bedroom because these may affect your mind and cause you to subconsciously think about work.

 

 

Looking to buy the ultimate double bed but have a few questions? This Definitive Guide To Buying a Double Bed will help you effectively tackle the bed-buying issues that matter most when you’re looking to invest in sound sleep and sweet dreams.

After all, at The Bed Centre, we understand that picking out the perfect mattress is one of the most important factors in ensuring a good, restorative night’s rest. That’s why we’re here to make sure you’re set up to get the very best sleep possible.

When it comes to purchasing the best double bed mattress for you, it helps to know a few ‘bed basic’s in order to find the option best suited to your both your bedtime needs and budget:

Double Bed Basics

Double Bed Size

The dimensions of a double bed mattress in South Africa are 188 X 137cm.

For comparative purposes, a queen mattress is 188 X 152cm, whilst a single bed is 188 X 92cm in size.

A double bed, therefore, does not equate to two single beds. As mentioned, a double mattress measures 188 x 137cm. A single bed measures 188 x 92cm. This means two single beds placed together would equate to around 188 x 184cm in dimension.

Double Bed Suitability 

A double bed is a spacious and suitable option for an individual, however, it can also be used by two people. It is often a practical, convenient and comfortable option that will allow couples with a small to average room to sleep comfortably. Double beds also don’t take up as much space as their larger queen or king-size mattress counterparts, and most couples don’t mind sleeping snuggled up for a night or two when visiting.

Double beds are therefore ideally suited for modern-age living, with apartment buildings and townhouse complexes becoming more and more popular. Double beds are also great for couples who are starting out in life with a limited bedroom space and budget.

With the above in mind, a double bed is often the ideal sleep solution for a guest or spare room, smaller main bedrooms and for young couples, guest houses and hotels.

Naturally, some couples may find a double their ideal sleep option whilst others may find that a larger queen or king-size mattress is their perfect fit.

Keep in mind that most people do not sleep fully stretched out, so the length of a double bed should be sufficient for a taller person. Of course, certain double mattresses are available in an extra length (200cm) option if required.

It is always best to measure the size of your room and make a list of your sleep needs. Our knowledgeable staff at The Bed Centre can then ably assist you with your double bed requirements.

Types of Double Mattresses

Today’s mattress technology is now so advanced that there is a wide choice to choose from. Unfortunately, this can also be a bit overwhelming. Everyone is different and there is a mattress to suit your individual needs.

The five main mattress types typically seen include:

• Innerspring mattresses
• Memory foam mattresses
• Latex mattresses
• Hybrid mattresses
• Adjustable mattresses

Head to the nearest The Bed Centre where our expert staff will assist you in establishing the pros and cons of each type. As leading independent stockists of all big brands, including Sealy, Simmons, Edblo, Cloud Nine, Rest Assured, Strand Mattress and Truform Mattresses (in the Western Cape) amongst others, we’ll help you choose the mattress for you.

Remember that these requirements can include things such as your sleeping positions, your body temperature, your weight and shape and the behaviour of the person sleeping next to you.

When to Replace Your Mattress

Fortunately, these days, quality mattresses have a fairly long lifespan. Generally, a mattress should be expected to last between 7 and 10 years (about 2,500 -3,500 sleeps).

There are, however, many factors that can influence a bed’s longevity. These include the build quality of the mattress, the materials used and the strength and quality of the bed base. The thing is, even the best mattress will deteriorate over time.

The biggest factors that will determine your mattress’s lifespan are what type of mattress you have and the quality of the mattress materials.

The weight and sleeping styles of the sleepers can also influence a mattress’ lifespan.

Having a quality mattress is essential for a good night’s sleep.  A mattress that doesn’t provide adequate support could cause you to wake up with body aches and pains or simply leave you feeling tired and unrested.

Mattress longevity all depends on the following factors:

• Type of mattress:

The type of mattress you select makes a huge difference to its lifespan. Latex mattresses usually last the longest, followed by high-density memory foam mattresses, then innerspring mattresses and low-density memory foam.

• Mattress quality

Mattresses made of higher-quality materials such as high-density foam, natural latex and organic cotton will typically last longer than mattresses comprised of cheaper materials, e.g., low-density memory foam or synthetic latex.

• Frequency of use: 

How often you sleep on your mattress plays a big role in its lifespan. Naturally, a guest or spare room mattress used only occasionally will last longer than a mattress slept on every night.

• Body weight and sleep position: 

Heavier bodies may find their mattress sag more quickly. Mattresses made with stronger, more durable materials can prevent premature sagging and your sleep position may also affect how quickly your mattress wears out. Side sleepers put a lot of weight on the areas of hips and shoulders, for example.

• Care for the mattress: 

The more your mattress is taken care of the longer it will last. Using a mattress protector, rotating the mattress every few months, and following the manufacturer’s care guidelines all offer the opportunity for a longer lifespan.

Double Bed vs Queen Bed

As you might guess, a queen size bed does not count as a double bed. Yes, a queen-size mattress fits two people, but a double bed refers to a smaller mattress that can still accommodate two people but is less spacious than a queen.

A queen size bed is 15 cm wider than a double bed but is the same length at 188cm.

Queen mattresses are popular for a reason, of course, as most people enjoy a little extra space. A queen bed is therefore suitable for couples or adults who enjoy having added room to move around. However, queen mattresses are generally more costly, and some might worry that the extra space can make a queen mattress difficult to move.

Double Beds for children?

Double mattresses can make ideal transitional mattresses for older kids, teens and young adults. These beds provide more space to play or lie and read books with friends. In fact, a double bed is fine for almost any child and will provide plenty of room to keep them comfortable as they age and grow.

Of course, every kid is different, but this will maximise the lifespan of the product and not leave your children in an unsuitable bed for a lengthy period of time. When considering which bed size is best, at The Bed Centre we advise choosing a mattress size and bed frame that leaves enough room for your child to grow.

All About that Bed Base

The strong foundation of a bed base provides essential support to the mattress as well as providing ventilation to increase the comfort and longevity of the mattress itself.

You should ideally replace your bed frame or base at least every ten years, but most people are more likely to buy one every 15 to 20 years. The frame can deteriorate by as much as 70% from its ‘as new’ state after 10 years, simply as a result of general wear and tear.

Pairing your new mattress with a good bed base ensures you get the maximum benefits in terms of comfort, sound sleep and durability out of your mattress.

Although most mattresses will sit on any stable and level base, including the floor if necessary, some bases are better than others. If you’re looking for a bed frame that is heavy, strong, durable and stable there are a variety of options.

It’s important to speak to a professional when it comes to selecting just the right mattress and bed base set for you. Speak to The Bed Centre about your weight requirements and our staff will gladly help you choose the best option for your needs.

Health Matters

Generally speaking, foam mattresses provide the best pressure relief and body contouring. If you are seeking pain relief at key pressure points, select a mattress that gently conforms to your body when you lie down. This allows for your hips and shoulders to sink in slightly.

If you prefer to sleep on your back, you’ll probably want a medium-firm mattress to align your spine and keep your shoulders, hips, and lower back comfortable.

If you’re looking for the overall best health option, latex foam mattresses are generally most suitable for your respiratory system, skin, and your overall health. Being a natural and long-lasting material, a latex foam mattress is also an excellent option for nature and is super eco-friendly. Several mattresses offer long-term protection against dust mites, mould and other allergens.

Like any big purchase, finding a trusted brand is of great importance, especially when it comes to something that has such a huge effect on your health and well-being. Check with your local The Bed Centre team for brands that have won awards, are backed by reputable associations, and have credible certifications and great warranties.

Ideal Bed Height and Weight

Your bed height should correlate with your height. For example, the taller you are, the taller your bed should be.

To work out the ideal bed height specifically for you, sit at the edge of the bed. Preferably your feet should be flat against the floor and your knees in line with your hips. If your knees are above your hips, the bed may be too low. If your knees are below your hips, or your feet can’t reach the floor, the bed is too high.

If you sleep in the same bed as your partner, you’ll need to think about each other when choosing the perfect bed height. You need to find something that suits you both.

Generally, the best thing to do is to find a bed height that is in the middle of the ideal height for you both. However, if you or your partner has reoccurring joint pain, the bed height should be what’s best for the person with the health issues.

Bed weight varies according to size. An average mattress can weigh anywhere between 17kg and 70kg, with size, materials and even age impacting how much a mattress could potentially weigh.

Ultimately, of course, the weight of a double bed mattress and base depends on the option you’ve selected to purchase, the materials used and the required weight capacity for your bed. However, you can generally rely on an average weight of around 37kgs for a double bed.

Mattress Toppers

What is a mattress topper? A mattress topper is simply an added layer of cushioning that rests on top of your old mattress and provides an added layer of support and sometimes a greater level of comfort. A mattress topper can also significantly adjust mattress firmness and the quality of your rest.

Unpacking the Storage Bed

Depending on space availability in the room, a bed with storage space can prove a beneficial investment. Practical and stylish, beds that offer storage space are multifunctional items that can be useful in smaller or micro-apartment-type spaces too.

Generally, storage beds are designed and manufactured in a similar way to conventional beds, with the added advantage of a robust lower frame to house your drawers or storage area. They’re strong, long-lasting, and robust enough to provide you with years of blissful sleep. 

Storage beds can be heavier and bulkier to move than conventional beds, particularly when full of belongings. This can make it harder to move around when cleaning or redesigning a room’s layout, but the storage advantages can outweigh these issues.

What is a sleeper couch?

A sleeper couch (or sofa) is a couch with a mattress that pulls out and converts into a bed. The mattress is generally hidden and can either pop out or fold out. The Bed Centre offers a range of attractive sleeper couches of different sizes and price points.

Common types of sleeper couches

• Pull-out couches with a mattress stored inside.
• ‘Sofa’ beds feature a couch that folds down, creating a bed without an additional mattress or having to remove couch cushions.
• Futons that fold flat to make a bed, but lack couch cushions altogether.

A sleeper couch is a great space saver. It saves with its dual function by offering a great place to sit and giving the room valuable floor space. Functional and versatile, sleeper couches are also cost-effective as they are a two-in-one item of furniture. The sleeper couch not only provides seats for the guest but also benefits as an extra bed if the guest needs to rest or stay overnight.

Some sleeper couches are made for nightly use, but not all are sustainable in the long term. Check with The Bed Centre when looking to purchase one of these sleeping options. Ordinarily, as comfortable as they are, it is not recommended to sleep on them often or every day. But if that’s a preference, it will be advisable to get a memory foam mattress topper.

Double Beds for Sale 

Looking for a quality double bed to buy at an affordable price?  Your search ends right at your nearest The Bed Centre.

Visit one of our branches today where our friendly and knowledgeable staff will offer you the best and most efficient during and after-sales service.

Whilst we will gladly assist with any of your queries regarding achieving your sleep goals, do remember the following when selecting your perfect mattress or bed set:

• Decide on a budget and stick to it!
• Focus on comfort and quality.
• Find the correct bed size for your sleep (and room) requirements.
• Consider all your options.
• Look for a good warranty.
• Always test a bed properly
• Firmer or softer – neither means better.
• Different bodies = different requirements.
• Brands have value.

Rely on The Bed Centre to deliver a wide range of different comfort and pricing options in a double bed ideally suited to the standard and quality and price you require.

Beds For Sale For A Good Night’s Sleep

Knowing the value of a good night’s sleep equates to buying a bed that will provide just that. There is so much said today about comfort levels and buying the right bed or mattress, it’s hard to know which beds for sale, is the right one for you. Being Sleep Specialists, when it comes to bed sales, we offer all the necessary information to assist you when buying a bed.

Rest assured that you will enjoy a comfortable sleep on a mattress that is suitable for your needs. There is good reason why we are the market leaders in bed sales.

As an all-in-one, one-stop-bed-shop, The Bed Centre provides ease of convenience in obtaining everything necessary for healthy and sound sleep practices.

Buy beds online when visiting our online bed store, https://thebedcentre.co.za, to see our beds for sale as well as our current bed sales/specials. We offer massive mattress savings and deliver nationwide. Get FREE delivery on your mattress when spending R3000 or more when you are within 30km of your nearest Bed Centre store.

Our beds for sale are at unbeatable prices. You’ll think you’re dreaming. We even set up your new mattress and remove your old one at no extra charge.

We offer our customers the added benefit of buying now and paying later with Mobicred.

As with everything in life, one must consider the practicality of one’s budget. buying a bed is an asset to one’s health and skeletal system. One pays for quality and comfort, and the quality of one’s sleep will differ vastly from Economy Foam Mattresses, which we sell, to an Edblo, Sealy, or Simmons mattresses.

We offer 20% discounts to Pensioners and, of course, discounts to the Hospitality Industry on bulk bed sales.

Bed Sales – How to choose?

 

When buying a bed, we assist you with the various aspects that need to be considered. Our bed sales are broken down into the following categories:

The Size of The Bed:

We have beds for sale come in the following sizes:

• Single
• 3/4
• Double
• Queen
• King
• Super King

The Mattress Brand:

We carry the following mattress brands:

• Sealy
• Simmons
• Cloud Nine
• Rest Assured
• Edblo
• Truform (Western Cape Only)
• Strandmattress

The Price of our Mattresses for sale range from:

• R0 – R3,000
• R3,000 – R4,500
• R4,500 – R6,000
• R6,000 – R7,500
• R7,500.00+

Comfort

Another essential aspect to consider when buying a bed is the firmness or softness of the mattress. Besides the vital factor of comfort, one must consider one’s skeletal needs.

Memory foam and latex mattresses are often considered the best options for back pain, as they conform to your body, cradling pressure points while supporting your spine and keeping it aligned.

Medium-firm mattresses, rated 7 to 8, are typically recommended for lower back pain. Keep in mind that the firmness of a mattress will depend on a few factors, including your preferred sleeping position, your body size and weight, and whether you share your bed with a partner or pet.

If you sleep on your side or your back, a medium-firm memory foam mattress may provide enough support to keep your spine straight through the night and help relieve hip pain. But if you sleep on your stomach, a pillow-top mattress or hybrid with an innerspring might fit your needs better. A firm or extra firm mattress is beneficial to the health of your back by providing a level surface to the whole of your body while you sleep. This additional support helps your body maintain good posture and prevents your back from curving, which can happen on softer mattresses.

Our consultants will assist you and guide you on our range of beds for sale.

The Bed Centre Covers all your bedroom needs – well, almost!

Buying a bed takes time and knowledge. Besides the factors mentioned above, namely size, brand, and price of a bed, you may require various other needs to be considered:

You may require a complete bed set which we sell. This includes the base of the bed as well as the mattress. Alternatively, you may merely need the base or the mattress individually. You may consider bases that provide storage space too when buying a bed. This is a significant convenience factor, especially if one is limited for space.

Besides bed sales, The Bed Centre also sells Sleeper Couches in various sizes. These offer the multipurpose of acting as a chair or couch once folded or a bed once pulled out. These are great space savers and ideal for holiday homes or guests staying for a few nights.

Over and above our beds, mattresses, and sleeper couches that we have on offer, we provide an range of bed accessories, including the following:

• Mattress Protectors
• Mattress Toppers
• Pillow Protectors

Choose Your Pillow Talk Wisely.

The value of a good pillow is as important as a good mattress. When you lay your head down at the end of a long exhausting day, your pillow needs to be clean and comfortable, and it also needs to support your neck.

Buying a pillow is a personal choice according to one’s preferences. However, people with neck and spinal injuries need to consider such factors. A soft pillow does not always offer the support that a firm, contoured pillow will offer.

The Bed Centre offers a broad range of pillows varying in price from R 129 to R 1689. Not only do the prices vary, but so does the firmness. The pads are manufactured differently; some are made from chip latex, others from memory variances, some from cotton casing, and others from pocket coils. These all constitute the firmness, quality, and luxury of the pillows. Our well-informed sales consultants can offer you the best advice considering your personal needs. Our pillows are also star-rated.

While so much emphasis is placed on sleep hygiene today, one must realize the value of a good night’s sleep and how it affects our mood, health, and performance. Thus, a quality mattress and pillow’s role cannot be underestimated. Therefore, it is prudent to see purchasing such home products as an investment in your health and well-being.

We have launched the first-ever PILLOW STORE, “The Pillow Company” which can be found online and inside every Bed Centre store nationwide.

Twenty Night Comfort Exchange Policy

Our policy is designed to ensure fairness and clarity for all concerned.

VALID FOR ONLINE PURCHASES ONLY.

The following is important to note:

1. You must have slept on the mattress for a minimum of ten (10) nights before requesting an exchange. We encourage this since adjusting to your new mattress can take a while.
2. You are required to purchase a new Mattress Protector with your mattress from The Bed Centre, which must always be used on the mattress.
3. The mattress must be in good condition (not marked, damaged, or soiled in any way)
4. We will arrange a replacement mattress of equivalent size and value with the option of a different feel or a chance to upgrade by simply paying in the difference on the Standard Selling Price. No refunds are possible.
5. The Comfort Guarantee is valid for the mattress only and does not extend to the bed base.
6. The Guarantee is only valid for one mattress exchange per customer.
7. The Guarantee is not valid on clearance stock, display models, or custom orders (e.g., special sizes, which include extra length & super king).
8. Should you elect to make an exchange, you will be liable for the Delivery Charges incurred for both the collection and the delivery of the new mattress.
9. Valid within our Standard Delivery Areas only for Cape Town, Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Port Elizabeth.

Find a Bed Centre store near you.

We are proud to say that The Bed Centre has grown from eight stores to fourteen stores in the last three years and more to come! This includes two Mega store expansions and a record- breaking online store.

This should tell you that we are never caught sleeping on the job! Our eyes are wide open and alert so that we stay ahead of our game and provide all the knowledge that the customer requires when buying our quality products..

Our Sleep Specialist and staff our well trained and ready to advise you, our customers, with the service that you deserve and that you have become accustomed to with The Bed Centre.

 

Bed Sales Gauteng

• Fourways Shop 8, Forest Road Design & Décor Centre, Forest Road, Fourways, 2191 / Tel: 010 822 1822
• Hyde Park Shop 33, Dunkeld West Centre, Corner of Bompass Road and Jan Smuts Avenue, Dunkeld West / Tel: 010 822 1919
• Kyalami Shop 105, Kyalami Corner Shopping Centre Corner of Main Road and R55, Kyalami, JHB / Tel: 010 823 8513
• Strubens Valley, Roodepoort Shop 1, Retail Crossing Shopping Centre. Cnr Nic Diederichs & Hendrik Potgieter Rd, Strubens Valley, Roodepoort / Tel: 010 001 8366
• Silver Lakes Pretoria, Shop No. 1A Six Fountains Lifestyle Centre c/o Solomon Mahlangu Drive & Bendeman Boulevard Silver Lakes / 012 001 0187
• Woodlands Pretoria Shop 312, Woodlands Boulevard Shopping Centre, Garsfontein Road, Pretoriuspark, Pretoria / Tel: 0108238806

Beds Sales Western Cape

• Claremont 214 Main Road Claremont / 021 202 7217
• Willowbridge Shop G54 Willowbridge Mall, 39 Carl Cronje Drive, Tygervalley / 021 202 7220
• Green Point 55 Somerset Road, Green Point / 021 202 7218
• Montague Gardens Topaz Boulevard, Montague Park, Montague Gardens / 021 202 7216
• Paarl Shop 18, Laborie Centre, 43 Main Road, Paarl / 021 200 8245
• Somerset West Interchange Lifestyle Centre, Somerset West / 021 202 7219
• Stellenbosch 76 Dorp Street, Stellenbosch / 021 202 7221

Bed Sales Eastern Cape

• Shop 2, William Moffett Retail Park, William Moffett Expressway, Port Elizabeth / Tel: 041 450 9139

Beds For Sale Online

• Call: 0860 55 66 55 | devona@thebedcentre.co.za

5 Benefits of owning a Sleeper Couch. What is a Sleeper Couch? How to use one? Types, and Frequently Asked Questions.

Continue reading