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Originally posted in thread: 1547

I've known a few folks who have bought one or another expensive system only to find they didn't care for it after a few months. The traditional mattresses in may cases cost less and are comfortable but don't seem to hold up as well as the latex and the systems sold by European Sleep Works and the like. ESW uses a slat system on the bottom, some springs in the latex mattress itself, and a thin layer on top of the latex. But some of those systems can range up to three thousand or so. I was told that most Europeans use simple latex foam, which in most cases at least does not contain the chemicals or the odor of polyurethane foam. Here at home we settled on a latex from Europe (cannot recall brand) in the firm model (the others were extra firm and regular). It's a bit hard but overall we're okay with it. I am looking into a mattress cover that will add a softer top layer.

Originally posted in thread: 1547

Consumer Reports reviewed mattresses several months ago. I forgot which issue.


gordon

Originally posted in thread: 1547

is Bob K.

If he's around he will answer you. However, do a seach for the conversations that Tom gave you. We have discuessed this at length.

Latex foam is the way to go. Bob gives a brand and he even tells you the cheapest place to buy.

Good luck,

LynnC

Originally posted in thread: 1547

Hi Mike.

Regarding Stearns & Foster, they are launching a new 2006 line-up shown recently at High Point. Wait for the new line-up which should be on showroom floors in December 2005 or January 2006 at the latest. I've seen it, and it is much improved.

Nature's Rest would also be a very good choice. Sealy's Reflexions Latex line is also a good choice. Sealy is launching a new Latex line called Spring Free which is 100% European latex made with a new patented process. Spring Free should be in stores by December 2005 or January 2006.

As for sleeping on a latex, My first latex bed was in 1996 which is now in my guest room. We are sleeping on a Nature's Rest from 1999 which we love. My son has a Sealy Reflexions latex.

If you find latex to be comfortable, then make the investment. Dollar for dollar, they are the best investment. But don't be fooled by many latex look-a-likes out there. Chek the "law label" sewn into the border of the mattress for the "percent content" of latex to other ingredients. The higher the better.

The new Sealy Spring Free Latex line-up will have latex percentages in the 90's. Nature's Rest also has high percentages of latex. Many other brands do not.

Let me know what State you live in and I may be able to help more.

Bob

Originally posted in thread: 1547

Mike, my guess is you live in Connecticut. If so I can help you get a really good price as I have strong connections throughout the Northeast.

Natural Response is made for King Koil. Check the law label for latex content. King Koil usually uses 40% to 60% latex. As such, the rest is polyurethane foam. Remember, the higher the latex content, the better. You want to see percentages near or above 90%.

Bob

Originally posted in thread: 1547

Bob K.

Never know when a mattress will need replacing.

Thanks,

LynnC

Originally posted in thread: 1547

I've read and needed more of your sage advice over the last several months.

Want to make a purchase soon but really, really need your input.

Puleeze don't go away. We all need you!

Originally posted in thread: 1547

I have read past many posts regarding mattresses. BobK you have really made this easy for all of us.

There has been lots of information about mattresses and I have few questions regarding foundations. I hope you will not mind answering.

Do one really need foundation? esp. if you have a complete wood (flat) base of the bed. I am interested either Seally reflection or memory form (Tempurpedic) matterss.

What exactly is the difference in high foundation (I think this is normally used and it is 9" high) or low foundation (like 4") which is recommended with the new very high mattresses (like 12" or higher).

I have a S&F which I bought it from a outlet 2 years ago. Label on the mattress says Rose Bouquet and I don't know if this is the same as current TripleCased technology. It was new but has some smudges on it so I got it at a very good price.

I am seeing canoeing effect in the center but can't change it beacue it has only one year warrntly by the store.

If the color mismatch is Not a concern then does it matter to use the old foundation/box spring?


If someone is sure which mattress to buy (lets say Vince Beach by Seally) then is there any harm to buy from online stores like C & C mattress store (I think you provided the link in one the former posts)? Or is there any warranty differences?

thanks

asi

Originally posted in thread: 1547

You can order from WalMart and if you don't like it they'll take it back with no extra shipping. Considering their money back policy, and the cheap (or free?) delivery, WalMart seems a good deal. We bought a Simmons from them. They were about half the price of others, and we liked the mattress. Check their mattress selection on line. Rob

Originally posted in thread: 1547

A Foundation can be made of wood or steel. It's purpose is to raise the height of the mattress to a preferable level. Foundations have no give, meaning no spring or weight absorption (like a solid platform or the floor).

The benefits of foundations are twofold: first, they cost less to produce, and second, they are ideal for non-innerspring mattresses (foam, air or water).

Boxsprings cost more to make and are ideal for innerspring mattresses. Depending on its design, boxsprings serve to absorb weight away from the mattress and distribute it across the boxspring. Innerspring mattresses, regardless of brand, will last longer on working boxsprings.

Mixing and matching foundations has little to no effect on the performance of the mattress. I believe that all foundations are created equal in that they provide a hard flat surface with no give. However, there can be a large difference in the quality, durabilty, and strength of the various foundations available in the market.

Mixing and matching Boxsprings will have an effect on the mattress performance as boxspring designs can vary significantly. I would advise against mixing and matching working boxsprings.

Regarding high profile vs. low profile foundations/boxsprings, this decision is purely personal preference. Be aware, there should be no cost difference between these two choices. Some dealers try to upcharge you for a low profile. There is no wholesale cost difference between a high profile and low profile foundation/boxspring.

Asi, If you want to buy another S&F, wait for the 2006 models to hit the floor (very soon). The new design addresses the "body indentation" issues of the current line-up. I would not replace the boxspring, just the mattress in your case.

Bob

Originally posted in thread: 1547