SLEEP INNOVATIONS
Have trouble settling down for the night, or waking up? Consider these options
We’ve all been told that unplugging — putting our phones away and turning off the television at least 30 minutes before going to bed — is better for our sleep, productivity and overall health, but many of us ignore the recommendation. We aren’t just sleeping in our beds; we are also working, eating, checking email and watching television. Companies have responded by creating innovative products for the bedroom that meet our need for comfort and convenience. Here are some of the top trends and newest products.
THE NATURAL MATTRESS
According to Technavio, an international market research company, there is growing demand for mattresses that are toxin-free, such as those made of natural latex.
Essentia makes memory-foam mattresses from natural ingredients such as natural latex, plant-based memory foam and unbleached cotton. The company — which has stores in Toronto, Ottawa, Calgary, Vancouver and Laval, Que. — has several models, with different firmness levels and core components (a queen ranges from $1,345 to $4,367). It also offers mattresses called ProCor targeted to athletes. Each mattress is custom fit to your spine, muscle makeup and weight, but it comes at a hefty price — a queen is over $6,000.
Zenhaven mattresses are made from natural latex, organic New Zealand wool and organic cotton. The mattresses are hypoallergenic and resistant to mould and dust mites. Another benefit is the Zenhaven offers two firmness options in one mattress: gentle firm on one side and luxury plush on the other (this is what most people prefer). Just flip the mattress over to decide which you like better. The company also offers a 120-day trial. If you don’t like the mattress, some- one will pick it up and you’ll get a full refund (US$1,899 for queen).
Saatva, a mattress maker that sells exclusively online, can ship to Ontario and parts of Western Canada.
THE NEED TO ADJUST
For those who have trouble getting comfortable in bed, the Lineal Adjustable Base from Saatva moves your mattress so you can get into the best position. Like a first-class seat on an airplane, the Lineal has a remote control that allows you to move the head or foot of the bed, or both, to get into the most comfortable position for watching television, reading or sleeping. There is even a massage function that can target your head, feet or full body. The base also has a night light feature: Press a button and subtle lights along the base will help you find your way. The Lineal works with most flexible mattresses and is best suited to more modern decor. The price starts at US$1,199.
THE NEED TO STAY CHARGED
Ikea’s wireless Selje nightstand ($49.99) has a built-in wireless charging pad to power your smartphone. If your phone does not have wireless- charging capabilities, you will need a wireless-charging phone case, but once you have one, just place your phone on the pad and charging begins. Similarly, you can charge your smartphone wirelessly with Ikea’s Riggad task lamp ($79.99). It has a USB port too, so you can charge a second device. The lamp’s adjustable arm allows you to easily direct the light where you want it, and the LED light source consumes up to 85 per cent less energy and lasts 20 times as long as incandescent bulbs.
The Nightingale Sleep System ($299 for a two-pack at Best Buy) was developed by acoustic experts to surround your bedroom with customized ambient sounds called sound blankets. Unlike single-unit machines, the Nightingale features two units that act like stereo speakers, filling your room more uniformly and masking disruptive noises. Choose from 15 sounds you control through your smartphone, tablet, PC or voice assistant. Each Nightingale pair provides sound coverage for one bedroom, and because the units just plug into outlets, the system is easy to take with you when you travel.
Have a hard time waking up? Philips’s Wake-up Light ($119.99, costco.ca) is inspired by nature’s sunrise. Light gradually increases over 30 minutes until your room is filled with bright yellow light. This process of increasing light gradually stimulates your body to wake up naturally as opposed to abruptly waking up to a traditional sound alarm.