Blog - Inspiration — bed
This or That: Mattress in a Box vs. Traditional Mattress
Buying a new mattress? If so, you may not yet be familiar with how many options there are. One of the main choices to make is whether to get a mattress in a box or a traditional mattress. Because they differ slightly, it can be a tough decision.
We’re here to help make the choice easier! Keep reading to learn the differences between these two mattress types and which one will best suit your needs.
Traditional Mattress
A tried-and-true classic, the traditional mattress is a go-to for many people. Let’s break it down:
Traditional Mattress Material
Because traditional mattresses don’t need to be put into a box, they are designed in a wide range of materials, such as foam, pocket coil and more. A wider material range = more choice! Specific preferences can almost always be met since you have more options to choose from.
Purchasing & Delivery
Most traditional mattresses can be viewed in store, which is a big selling feature for many. This makes it easy to physically see and test out a variety of models.
Once purchased, they are delivered (often with a plastic covering for cleanliness) via a delivery truck and carried into your home. Delivery is popular because the heavy lifting is done for you, allowing for quicker enjoyment of your new mattress.
Keep in mind that if you reside in an apartment or condo, the delivery may take longer due to navigating elevators, stairwells and hallways. If picking up the mattress yourself, you will need a roomy vehicle for transportation and possible assistance getting it into your home.
Both are good options, however, personally picking up your new purchase may prove more challenging for those with limited mobility or lack of assistance.
Using a Traditional Mattress
Arguably the biggest positive of a traditional mattress is how it can be used immediately once placed in your home. Just take off the plastic covering, lay it onto your bedframe, and you’re ready for relaxation!
The Mattress in a Box
This style of mattress is a relative newcomer to the mattress market but has quickly gained popularity due to its convenience and, depending on the brand and model, cost-effectiveness. Let’s break it down:
Mattress in a Box Materials
These mattresses need to be rolled up, condensed, and fit into a box, so most manufacturers opt to make them out of foam or hybrid materials. If you prefer a traditional pocket coil or innerspring, you may have a more difficult time finding that in a mattress in a box.
Purchasing & Delivery
The ability to test a mattress in a box before buying it depends on the brand and retailer. Some offer display models in-store, while others do not.
Most are displayed online-only and are supplemented with tons of information to help you make an informed decision. With online shopping becoming the norm, this option is appealing for a variety of buyers such as those who don’t have the time or desire to shop in-store.
The best part of a mattress in a box is how convenient it is to bring home. Once delivered, the compact size of the box makes it a breeze to move through doorways and hallways – a huge plus, especially for those who live in apartments, condos or dorm rooms. This removes the hassle of awkwardly navigating your mattress through narrow areas.
Plus, picking up a mattress in a box from your retailer is incredibly easy. They will fit in most vehicles for simple and quick transport to your home – you may not even need another person there to help you with it!
Using a Mattress in a Box
After your mattress in a box is removed from its packaging, it will need to be rolled onto your boxspring or bedframe and given time to expand. Each manufacturer will have different recommendations as to how long your new mattress should sit before use – be sure to follow any guidelines for optimal results.
Because of the recommended wait time before laying on your new mattress, this may be a downside to those who would prefer to get right to relaxing.
If you don’t need your mattress right away, its compact size will allow you to keep the box sealed and stored in your home until it’s needed.
Which to Choose & Where to Buy
Each mattress type has its own unique set of pros and cons, and when it comes down to it, purchasing a mattress is a personal decision. We hope this breakdown helps guide you to a choice that provides a wonderful snooze night after night.
The great news for both mattress types is that they are readily available and, in most cases, can be returned or exchanged without hassle. If you find your mattress isn’t the right fit for you, most retailers and brands have exceptional return policies that make it easy to return or exchange.
The Brick proudly offers both traditional mattresses and mattresses in a box from an array of quality brands. With many locations across Canada and a website available to shop online 24/7, you can find your perfect mattress with ease. To streamline your decision, take advantage of our handy Mattress Selector tool!
Our mattress experts are here to help – contact us today to start your mattress shopping journey.
- Kailey Friedrich
- Tags: bed bedroom mattress-in-a-box
Styling Your Bed Frames
The bed is the focal point of your bedroom, so the bed frame sets the tone for the room’s overall look and feel. A bed frame can also support a box spring, keep the mattress secure, and prevent a box spring from scratching the floor. If you’re in the market for a new bed frame, read on for bed frame ideas, learn about choosing the right style for your room, the different types of material to choose from and other details that go into selecting the perfect bed frame for you.
Different bed frame materials
With a wide range of bed frame materials to choose from, selecting the best bed frame for your lifestyle can be a significant decision. Below breaks down the different types of bed frame materials and why they may work for you.
Upholstered bed frames
An upholstered bed frame can be inviting, cozy and feel luxurious. The soft, cushioned headboard offers extra support and comfort. Upholstered headboards come in various fabric types and colours, tailored to any design style. An elegant, grey upholstered bed frame, such as the Portia Queen Bed is neutral enough to blend with any design style. If you have a large bedroom and you’re looking to make it feel softer and more inviting, an upholstered bed frame is a great choice.
Wood bed frames
Wood bed frames are traditional, elegant and can make a major design impact. Wood bed frames come in various styles. For example, a sleigh bed frame works well with a classic design scheme. A four-poster bed frame can blend in seamlessly with various design styles, ranging from classic to modern. A spindle bed frame, such as a Nashburg style, can help you achieve a modern farmhouse vibe. A wood bed frame such as the Kate King Bed is an Asian hardwood frame finished in a smoky grey-brown colour that can fade into the background or be the main focal point.
Metal bed frames
Due to its metal construction, wrought-iron bed frames are known for their longevity. Whether you have a rustic, boho or traditional bedroom, a wrought-iron bed frame will fit right in. A metal bed frame, such as the Nashburg King Bed is warm and understated yet offers an air of sophistication.
Your guide to picking the right bed frame material
Knowing the design aesthetic you want to achieve is one thing, but understanding how you use your bed is another factor. If you're debating between a wood or metal bed frame, there are several factors to consider.
- Comfort: Both wooden and metal bed frames require plenty of pillows if you like to lounge in bed to read or watch a show because the headboard is often hard and unforgiving.
- Maintenance: A metal bed frame can be lower maintenance than a wood bed frame, and both tend to be easier to maintain than upholstered bed frames. Metal bed frames requires a simple wipe down, where you may need to properly care for a wood bed frame to ensure it lasts long. As for upholstered beds, the upkeep often includes vacuuming and spot cleaning when necessary to avoid any potential staining or sun bleaching.
- Durability: Metal bed frames are known for their durability and can hold a lot of weight, making them long-lasting.
- Style: Wood bed frames offer more style flexibility, as it’s easier to update the look, depending on the bedding and accent furniture you select.
Is a headboard right for you?
While not everyone chooses to have a headboard, headboards to offer additional comfort if you like to lounge in bed to read, watch TV or work. They also create a more refined look and anchor the space. As an alternative to a headboard, you can hang curtains or a tapestry behind the bed frame to add softness or wallpaper the wall to add visual interest.
All about platform beds
A platform bed is a commonly used type of bed frame. They offer a sleek, streamlined look and are easily identifiable by its flat base. Platform beds don’t require a box spring; you can simply lay the mattress on the bed. In addition, some platform beds have hidden interior storage, which is great if you live in a smaller space.
Platform beds are an affordable option to more expensive bed frames that require box springs. They also fit well in smaller-sized bedrooms. Platform beds are lower to the ground than traditional beds, which some people may prefer.
If you’re looking to invest in a new bed frame, visit thebrick.com for the latest bedroom furniture trends. Then, kicking-off the new year inspired to refresh your bedroom.
What You Need to Know About Buying an Adjustable Bed Frame
Upgrading your standard bed frame to an adjustable bed frame or base can offer a host of lifestyle and health benefits. For example, adjustable bed frames and bases allow you to change position with the touch of a button, comfortably watch TV, elevate your head or feet or be in a different sleep or lounging position than your partner. Whether it’s the first time you’re going bed shopping, or you’re looking to upgrade your existing bed, learn more about the benefits of an adjustable base so you can be sure you’re making the most informed purchasing decision. Read on to find out more about the benefits of adjustable bed frames, the different types of adjustable bed frames and how you can style this type of bed.
Benefits of an Adjustable Base
While an adjustable base for your bed may come at a slightly higher price point, the benefits pay off in terms of your comfort and long-term health. Read on to learn more about these well-being perks.
Easier to Lounge
With an adjustable base, you can reposition the bed to provide maximum comfort for reading, watching TV or even working in bed. In addition, by adjusting the mattress to easily sit up or lay down, you don’t have to prop yourself up with stacks of pillows anymore.
Health Benefits
It’s no secret that your quality of sleep dramatically impacts your overall health, mood and well-being. If you’re prone to snoring or acid reflux, elevating your head can help alleviate these symptoms. If you have poor circulation in your legs, you can raise the foot of the bed to elevate your legs when you sleep.
Adjust to Your Sleep Position and Sleep Habits
Depending on your preferred sleep position, you can customize the base to accommodate your desired position. For example, if you favour sleeping on your back, you can adjust both your head and feet until you find a position in which you’re the most comfortable. Also, if your partner is ready to fall asleep but you still have a few more Netflix episodes to watch, you can sit up on your side of the bed while your partner lays down comfortably on the other side.
Types of Adjustable Bases
Because there are so many options to choose from, selecting a bed frame is more manageable after you hone in on the specific benefits you want. Understanding the features that are most important to you will ensure you invest in the best adjustable base for your lifestyle.
Adapts to Your Body Throughout the Night
The technology in the TEMPUR-PEDIC Mattresses with Reflexion® by Sealy Adjustable Base continually adapts to your body’s needs when you sleep to relieve pressure. The wireless remote helps you find your sweet spot, then save the position for consistent comfort.
Benefit from a Personal Masseuse
The Reflexion® by Sealy Arc Queen Adjustable Base forms to your mattress, creating an ergonomically curved space to sink into. The wireless remote’s massage setting is like having a personal masseuse on call. You can also select a range of sleep positions with a touch of a button.
Program Your Sleep Position
Get your best sleep yet, with all the bells and whistles on the Reflexion® by Sealy Arc Queen Adjustable Base. You can select your favourite lounging and sleep position with the wireless remote, then program it so personalized comfort is waiting for you every time you climb into bed. Use the head and foot massagers to erase any tension from the day. This base can stand on its own with adjustable legs, or you can use it inside your current bed frame.
How to Style an Adjustable Bed Frame
To complete your luxurious sleep setup, all you need is to add a fluffy comforter and selection of pillows and you will be ready to have countless nights of deep, restful sleep. But, do you need a boxspring for an adjustable bed frame? The answer is no, not typically. The foundation of the adjustable base serves the role of the boxspring in this type of bed.
If you want to create a peaceful environment, consider a solid white comforter and plenty of down-filled pillows in soothing blues or greens. This calming colour palette creates an atmosphere of rest and repose, and a haven to recharge for the next day.
With multiple lounging positions, health benefits and sleep memory features, adjustable bed frames offer a host of benefits. Whatever your reasoning for making the investment in an adjustable bed frame, your improved sleep quality will pay off.
Add a Touch of Dreamy Luxury with an Upholstered Bed
Ever wonder how to take your room’s style to the next level? Well, an upholstered bed may just be your answer. Click here to see how it can change your room!
What’s Under Your Mattress? The Best Options for Below Your Bed.
When it comes to choosing a new bed, many people focus exclusively on the mattress – and for good reason! Mattresses come in a wide variety of types, materials, and levels of firmness to plushness, platforms and bedframes.
However, it’s just as important to pay attention to what’s under your mattress to ensure good mattress support, comfort and longevity. This article will define and describe the main types of mattress support to choose from, including boxsprings, adjustable foundations, platforms and bed frames.
What Goes Under a Mattress?
There isn't a single right answer to this question because fortunately, you have a few different options available for mattress support. But no matter which option you choose, mattress support has many benefits, including reducing wear and tear on your mattress and lengthening its lifespan.
Having some kind of mattress support underneath your mattress will prevent sagging, absorb shock, keep the mattress clean, and raise the mattress height for greater ease while getting into and out of bed. Furthermore, majority of mattress warranties will only be valid if you have some kind of mattress support in place.
Do I Need a Boxspring?
You might be tempted to skip the boxspring to reduce costs when buying a new mattress. Many modern mattresses are designed to be comfortable enough to not require a boxspring for comfort. However, a boxspring offers many things that a mattress alone simply can’t – impact absorption, a strong and flat surface for your mattress, and elevated height for accessibility. Boxsprings are also great because they typically leave a little room under the bed for extra storage.
Although you do need to put your mattress on something, it doesn’t necessarily have to be a boxspring. There are other options, such as the ones described below.
What Is a Platform Bed?
A boxspring alternative is the platform bed, which is created when a bed comes with a platform surface that is solid or has several slats. Platform beds feel differently than boxsprings and can take some getting used to.
Platform foundations may not feel as comfortable initially because they are stationary and don’t “give” like boxsprings do. However, they are better for distributing weight on your mattress and work well aesthetically with contemporary decor. They can have low profiles for a minimalist look, flat surfaces for extra firmness, or slatted surfaces for flexibility and better airflow.
What Is an Adjustable Mattress Foundation?
To take your bed to the next level, consider getting a mattress foundation with an power adjustable base. These beds have high-tech features that allow you to raise your legs, raise your head and even offer massaging features.
Adjustable base beds are wonderful when you want to read a book or watch TV in bed, prop up tired feet or soothe sore muscles at the end of a long day. Simply use the included remote to program your optimal positions, and then charge your devices while you sleep with the USB ports on each side of the base.
Bed Frame without Boxspring
Using a bed frame for your mattress without a boxspring is not recommended. This is because a bed frame alone generally does not provide nearly enough support to prevent mattress sagging and distortion.
Mattress support is one of those things you rarely think about until you have a stiff back, hear squeaking, or feel yourself sinking down into your mattress. For those times, The Brick offers mattresses sets and accessories to help you create your own personalized sleeping space that feels amazing from the moment you get into bed until your alarm goes off in the morning. Stop by The Brick store nearest you or browse our selection of under-mattress options online!
