Monthly Archive for January, 2008

How Long Does It Take To Buy A Mattress?

So Many Options

The number of choices and manufacturers in mattresses available today is overwhelming. There are new constructions and materials: natural latex foam (like the Royal-Pedic we carry at the Scheuer Linens store), air chamber mattresses (such as Select Comfort), and visco-elastic foam (commonly called memory foam). Add to that the various thicknesses and pillow tops that are available and it’s no wonder it’s so tough to decide.

Try Before you Buy

There really is no substitute for actually physically trying a mattress. Most sleep experts say that you should test a mattress for 15-20 minutes each. If you experience any uncomfortable pressure points, consider another mattress.

Keep in mind that older bodies tolerate less pressure as they age. Try to use the same position that you normally sleep in and use a pillow that is similar to the one you use. You might even consider bringing your own pillow. If you are a side sleeper, like most of us are, be sure to spend time on each side. We might also recommend testing mattresses when the store opens so you won’t feel as self-conscious about testing a bed in a store for 15-20 minutes. Continue reading ‘How Long Does It Take To Buy A Mattress?’

Why Do They Call It A White Sale?

In 1878, John Wanamaker of Philadelphia department store fame decreed January to be the time for a white sale where bed linen, which were available in white only, were sold at a discount. It is believed he might have done so to keep linen makers in business during a slow time of the year.

Today, white sales usually revolve around household items. However, they no longer only involve items that are white in color and they are not restricted to take place in the month of January.

Most linen stores and department stores have many white sales during the year. The best way to comparison shop is by paying attention to the actual final sale price and not worry about the percentage off, or the amount saved. One store may sell something at 25% off and another may not have the same item on sale at all, yet the prices may be exactly the same.

So compare by checking the final price and also by making sure that the items being compared are the same.

I have tested various brands of high thread count sheets and there are big differences in quality and cost for items with the same thread count. For more on thread count, see The Truth About Thread Count.

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