We spend approximately a third of our lives sleeping, that s 1/3 of our time in bed! A bed is a very personal thing - we all have our own needs and preferences. Buying a new bed is one of the most important purchases you will make. Therefore choosing the right one can become baffling because there are so many different types/styles on the market. The style to choose can be based on three things: your aesthetic, your needs and your lifestyle. How do you know what to buy and where to start? Read on and sleep soundly tonight!

If you have had your bed for more than 10 years it is time to buy a new one. Other signs that your bed is on the way out are: waking up with a neck or backache, feeling the springs beneath the surface, or a torn mattress cover. Think about the things you like and dislike about your present bed. Is the mattress too firm or soft? Is the bed the right size? How would you like it to fit with your decor?

Buying the right mattress is the most important factor when considering purchasing a new bed. This is your sleeping area and will affect the support and comfort of the bed. Always make sure that the mattress is suitable for the base and spend time trying them before making your purchase. There are several different types of mattresses: Open coil, pocket sprung, latex (conforms to the shape of your body for support and a good buy for people that suffer from allergies) and visco-elastic. Some mattresses, such as latex or visco-elastic do not need turning, but other mattresses need turning otherwise you will get dips where the filling has settled.

Manufacturers usually offer mattresses in firm, medium or soft. This is often a personal choice, although a bed that is too soft may lead to back and posture problems, and if the bed is too hard it can cause pain in your hips and shoulders. A mattress may also be described as ‘orthopedic’ but this does not mean it is designed especially for the back. This only means that it is the firmest mattress in the range so do not be deceived by this when you are choosing a bed.

If it’s chic you are looking for, Velvet, specializing in French style reproduction beds, is a great place to find a unique bed to fit your décor. Ranging from black French style beds, to antique white rococo beds, Velvet stock a range of king size beds at affordable prices. Have a look at the white ratten beds with carved detail on the side columns and side rails. Velvet also stock a variety of furniture that will look great with your bed of choice.

So here is a few more tips on choosing a new bed. Buy the biggest bed you can afford (as long as it comfortably fits in your room) especially if there are two of you sharing it, the bigger the bed, the better night’s sleep you will have. Buy the right type of mattress for your bed type – some mattresses are designed to work best with particular types of base. Always ask for help when buying a new bed and if you can test it first!