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Bed Furnishings comprises- the bed, mattress, bedding, duvets (Quilts), Blankets, Bed linen and pillows. I n brief, bed furnishings are explained as follows: Beds and Bedding
The best kind of bed is the one that feels right to the user. Whether firm or softer, it should give the user an adequate support. Beds that are too old, lumpy, too soft, or too rigid are bad for the spine, but also do not allow a restful sleep that is very much needed for the good health. Bed that is at least 150 mm or 6” longer than the taller person and wide enough to be able to link hands behind head without elbows hanging over the edge, is good enough for rest and sleep. Bedding
Theres a choice to be made between sheets, blankets, and easy, convenient duvets (quilts) depending on the weather. An individual should think about comfort, preference, cost looks and also consider the implications of time for maintenance. The traditional bed needs much more time to keep it looking good. The mattress
In a sprung mattress, price is determined by the quality and number of springs as well as the stuffing and covering. Foam mattresses also come in different grades- the more superior are being most expensive. The covering material should be made of natural fibers so that the mattress can breathe. Synthetic fibers tend to be slippery, so bed cloths have a tendency to slide off. Mattresses like bases come in three main types.
Pocket-sprung Each spring is set individually into a calico pocket and moves independently, most expensive of the mattress options. Open-sprung The most common type of sprung mattress has a system of continuously interlinked springs that operate as one unit allowing the pressure to be spread evenly through-out the mattress.
Foam is the top choice for people who suffer from dust-induced allergies although the synthetic foam can be hot to lie on in the summer.
Duvets (Quilts)
A duvet or quilt, is simply a lightweight filling caught in a bag, which is then enclosed in a removable cover. The duvet insulates light in weight and comforts the user by adequate warmth. The fillings used are down, wool and synthetics. Unlike blankets, duvets are virtually dust-free; some have non-allergenic fillings. The quilts sizes are 84”X127” and 104”X127”.
Down Pure down fillings are the best of all. Down is taken from the breast of the bird, is supremely light and warm, but very costly. Down and feather combination of filling are also available.
Wool: Combed wool fillings are very warm, but much heavier than feather or synthetic fillings. They can't be washed, but must be dry-cleaned
Synthetics: These are available in many varieties. These filings are very much cheaper than any natural ones. Synthetics are the most easily washable duvets and are good for people who are allergic to feathers and wool. They trap heat, but don’t breathe in the same way as that of natural fibers. Hence the user feels discomfort by over heat. Blankets
Convenient as duvets but for many they will never replace the traditional blankets which come in beautiful colors and patterns. Blankets are available in wool, cotton and Synthetics.
Standard Blanket sizes are: Twin size (66”x90”, 72”x90”), Double full size (80”x90”), Queen size (90”x90”, 95”x90”), King size (90”x110”). Wool
Wool At the luxury end of the range, there are merino wool, cashmere and long-pile mohair blankets. All are light, soft and warm. Cheaper, all-wool blankets tend to be heavier.
Cotton: Cotton blankets are usually cellular - that is woven into a honey comb design. They are very light and warm, but should be used in conjunction with a normal-weave top blanket.
Synthetics: These are easy to care for and are not expensive, branded synthetics are hard- wearing. They trap heat. But don't breathe in the same way as natural fibers, so they can make you over-heated. Bed-linen
These days, sheets, pillowcases and duvet covers come in all sorts of design and color combinations. It is usually recommended that duvets are not covered with a bedspread, so the design of the bed-linen makes an important contribution to the look of the room.
Linen: Linen is expensive, worth buying if one can afford it simply because it lasts practically forever, improves with age, and is actually stronger, which means that repeated washings won't weaken it. It must be ironed after washing.
Cotton: There are different qualities of cotton. All cottons are also good and hard-wearing. Like linen, it should be ironed
Cotton/synthetic blends: The feel and look of these sheets is very similar to cotton, but the synthetic content makes them easy to care for.
Synthetic: These are usually all nylon. Easy-care, but they feel off-putting: slippery but slightly rough, can be very hot to sleep in and produce static electricity, thereby a feeling of discomfort for the user. Pillows:
The type of filling affects the price- an expensive one will keep its shape longer. Sizes of pillows are:
Standard 20”X26”
Queen Size-20”X30”
King size-20”X30
Down Usually down from duck or goose is used. The most expensive pillows, they are exceptionally soft, light and resilient. Down and feather mixtures The feather content makes the pillow firmer.
Polyesters Much cheaper than the natural fillings, these also have the advantage of being germ-repellent, non-allergenic and washable. Some have the softness and resilience of natural filling.
Latex Also germ-resistant, non-allergenic and washable. But pillows are very springy, which can be unpleasant. Summary
Furnishings are an integrated part of the interiors as they contribute a lot to create aestheticaly pleasing environments and comfort for the inmates. A well furnished home depicts the taste, elegance, dignity and personality of the family members.
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