Bedroom Decorating
With bunk beds you can squeeze two kids into a single tiny bedroom
Bunk beds are an economical way to have extra sleeping space while saving floor space, but they should be utilized with a certain amount of caution. A recent study discovered that almost 36,000 children and adolescents are treated for bunk bed-related accidents each year. Between 1990 and 2005 approximately 573,000 children from infants to age 21 suffered injuries serious enough to involve a trip to the emergency room. Nearly half of the injuries occurred in children under 6, but there also was a surprising jump in injuries among 18 to 21-year-olds, who were more than twice as likely to be hurt as children ages 14 to 17.
Almost three-quarters of the children were harmed by falls, with close to 30 percent suffering severe cuts, nearly a quarter reporting bruises and scrapes and about 20 percent suffering broken bones. More than 10 percent experienced concussions. The study revealed 50 percent of the children suffered injuries to the neck, face or head, and that children younger than 3 years old were about 40 percent more likely to sustain head injuries than older kids. Approximately 60 percent of the kids injured were boys (are we surprised?!)
There are voluntary safety procedures for bunk bed manufacturers which have been released by both the American Standards of Testing and Materials (ASTM) and the Consumer Product Safety Commission. You need to determine whether or not the bed you are thinking about buying meets these standards:
(1) Carefully check and test the frame of the bed for sturdiness. The best test is for the parent to climb onto the bed and move around; the bed should easily support a parent’s weight without feeling any movement of the frame or hearing any squeaking sounds. Better yet, have the salesperson climb on the top bunk to demonstrate its strength. (2) Look over the entire bed to make sure that there aren’t any potentially hazardous parts protruding, that there are no sharp edges, and that the entire assembly is smooth. Make certain the bedposts do not have knobs or finials that can snare clothing and other things. (3) The top bed should always have rails attached on both sides, even if one side is next to a wall. To stop a youngster from slipping between the rails or between the mattress and the bottom rail, no gap should exceed 3 inches, to prevent entrapment and strangulation. The top rail should be at least 5 inches higher than the top of the mattress to prevent the child from tumbling out of bed. (4) The space between the mattress and the bed frame must not exceed three inches anywhere around the bed. If there is a space greater than 3 inches, then you have the wrong-sized mattress. A child who falls into the gap between the bed and the mattress while they are sleeping could be strangled, which unfortunately has happened. (5) Make sure that the ladder is well constructed and well attached to the frame. A sturdy ladder should be able to hold a parent’s weight without moving around. As suggested above, have the salesman demonstrate the sturdiness of the ladder by standing on it and moving from side to side. The ladder must not slip at all. (6) There have been numerous reported injuries in which the mattress on the top bed is moved by a child on the lower bunk pushing up on the upper mattress supports. The mattress supports for the top bed must be firmly attached to the bed frame with bolts or screws. Unstable supports can cause injuries if anything is unfastened and this type of assembly should be avoided. (7) Occasionally check the bunk bed for any wobbly or missing hardware and replace them immediately. Immediately! During your inspection be sure to look at the horizontal rails holding the top mattress and the fasteners holding the bed together. (8) In no way should you allow a child under six years old to sleep (or play) on the top bed. As mentioned above, one half of the injuries happen to kids under six. (9) Situate the bed away from ceiling fans and light fixtures (that should be obvious!). Plus you should make certain there is plenty room between the top bunk and the ceiling.
An alternative type of elevated bed you might consider is the loft bed which has an open area where the bottom bed would normally be. This space could be used for a desk, chair, dresser, play area, or storage. The safety rules for bunk beds also pertain to loft beds and the same consideration ought to be taken when visiting a furniture retailer. If you obtain either type of bed from an Internet dealer, be certain it complies with the ASTM standards. Require additional help with your inquiries about kids bunk beds? Then visit Buying Bunk Beds.
Try the adjustable firmness of an air bed
When you try one you will find out that an air bed can provide you with a more restful sleep than a traditional mattress. Manipulating the softness of a mattress can help ease strain for the reason that the body’s weight is more equally distributed. Unlike the weak vinyl tubing that is employed in common air mattresses, the cavities of an air bed are strong and durable. The concept of sleeping on air originated for hospitals. Once patients became bed-ridden, an air mattress provided them with a more restful sleep, and they would also experience less bedsores. The sleeper can modify his or her half of the bed to the degree of support that is most comfortable since the air baffles or chambers contained in the air mattress are the main supports. Information to help you look for air beds is available at Buying Air Beds.
Air mattresses
The air mattress is a must-have piece of equipment for any camper who appreciates a comfortable night’s rest. Portability is one of the primary aspects you need to keep in mind when selecting one of these, as well as maintenance and durability. Portability is most critical if you will be backpacking but that will not be as big a concern when car camping. Any one you select will have to be durable enough to withstand the rugged terrain of a campsite in the wilderness. Because it is common for moisture to develop in your tent overnight you ought to look for a waterproof model. The smartest way to evaluate comfort, weight and portability is to visit a store that has many assorted models on display. Another important factor to think about is how simple the model is to set up and take down whether in the home or on the road. It will usually come with some sort of manual or battery-operated pump. Assistance to help you look for air mattresses is available at Air Mattress Guide.
Canopy bed curtains
You will be able to add elegance, grace, charm and the all important sense of romance to your bedroom when you put up fine canopy curtains around your bed. Canopy curtains for the bed create a sense of royalty and privacy, and can elevate the self-esteem of a young princess, or inspire the romantic moods of a king and queen. Consider the whole decor of your bedroom when you pick out canopy curtains, and remember that the curtains are the key ingredient in your bedroom decoration. There is no need to be concerned if you do not own the typical four post style bed frame, as you can hang the curtains from a wire frame secured to the ceiling or from an attachment to your headboard. You can determine the degree of privacy you feel by choosing heavier fabrics for a heightened sense of seclusion, or lighter fabrics for an open feeling. However you manage to drape these curtains, you will see the mood change right away, transforming your bed into an oasis at the center of your domain. Position the bed next to an open window and the romantic ambiance will be heightened even further by the flowing fabric which surrounds you. Assistance to help you search for canopy bed curtains is available at Fine Canopy Bed Curtains.
While bay windows can be a beautiful addition to your home they could also be difficult to cover. Given the fact that their size and dimensions are different than all the other forms of windows, getting curtain rods and other window treatments might be a challenge. Many people decide to get three sets of rods and curtains to separately cover each of the three windows. Another excellent option is to either apply unique stained glass paint or decals to cover the window in a fine-looking design. This special stained glass will still let in the sunlight you need, while at the same time offering you added privacy. Utilizing sheers on either all or some of the windows will be another approach to manage the delicate balance between privacy and having adequate light. A lot of folks like to embellish these windows with either flowering plants or smaller pieces of stained glass art. Another wonderful choice will be either sheer or opaque window shades which can be manufactured for the specific size and shape of these windows. Those who aren’t worried about privacy can choose to merely arrange a valance to go around the top of the window. Need help finding bay window treatments? Go to Best Bay Window Treatments.
Replacement windows save money and energy
One of the smartest moves that anyone can make is installing new replacement windows. Maximizing the overall value of your home is but one of the many benefits you will get from putting them in. Because new windows will often come with upgraded energy efficiency, the government frequently offers tax credits for peope who make this investment. You can look forward to spending less over the course of the year as they should do an excellent job of retaining the cool air during the summer and blocking the cold air in the winter. To figure out whether the models you are considering purchasing would be approved for a tax credit you will need to speak with your local retailer. If you are living in a particularly warm climate you may also want to consider applying a special tint to the glass to filter out the sun’s UV (ultraviolet) radiation. During the summer this often has a dramatic effect on how much you spend to cool your home, plus it will counteract the fading of your flooring, furniture and drapes. This site can be of help in finding the best replacement windows.
Window curtains
A cost-effective way of decorating the home is the use of window shades that filter the sunlight as opposed to simply blocking it. The purpose of light filtering window shades is to restrict the heat and harmful UV rays while still being able to enjoy the sunlight. These window shades can give you with a shade system which spreads the light by screening out the sun’s UV rays, as well as the penetrating heat. Once it becomes dark, the light filtering shades will give you the privacy which you desire, although you will want to add curtains to avoid your shadow from being seen from the yard.
Light filtering roller shades can be purchased with either the spring lift mechanism or with the standard continual loop control, as well as the motorized system. With either system, the light filtering shades will stop at a position which you have designated. Window shades like these come in a large assortment of materials, colors, and styles and are available in fabrics which are transparent, semi-transparent and translucent. However, neither the transparent nor the semi-transparent can match the translucent’s filtering ability. This Internet site can be of help in buying window treatment ideas.
Does the electric guitar prodigy in your neighborhood drive you nuts? Stay out of trouble by having soundproof windows installed!
If you are redesigning a residence, adding soundproof windows is going to provide you the highest return for a moderate financial commitment. Noise abatement, privacy, power savings, air infiltration abatement, as well as home marketability, may be attained by this relatively easy improvement. There are few improvement jobs that will produce as much benefit as soundproof windows. New windows, even dual pane windows, will not give you the sound and air infiltration abatement results, or the energy savings in greatly improved insulation found in soundproof windows. Additional benefits will most certainly be increased privacy as well as peace of mind, in addition to the added appeal of the building for anyone interested in placing the house or business on the real estate market.
Ceilings, floors and walls are generally not a noise problem in almost all well-constructed homes or businesses. Around 75% of the sound you hear comes in by way of the windows, with most of the rest coming in through the doors. These tend to be the ‘thinnest’ areas inside almost any building. No matter whether it’s a barking dog, highway noise, or even the little drummer boy across the street, you will benefit from outstanding noise abatement and better insulation. Replacement windows are an expensive non-solution when it involves sound pollution. Even double-pane replacement windows can’t come close to matching the noise reduction levels created by soundproof windows. Dual pane windows will achieve a noise reduction of about 15%, but soundproof windows easily decrease the noise by 75% to 95%.
Thermal curtains and drapes
Thermal curtains are among those home accessories we don’t think about until it is pointed out that the curtains we put up on our (drafty) windows could help a a great deal with insulation. A major part of your home decor, your curtains allow for privacy, and after you have thermal curtains you will save money on energy bills. A high quality thermal curtain blocks drafts from blowing into your home with a layer of non-shrink, durable cotton fabric with a layer of acrylic foam. Highly sturdy, thermal curtains need no special attention and can be readily washed in a machine. Other benefits people have noticed with thermal curtains is the reduction of bright sunshine, and even a reduction of noise. You will be able to buy the same designs, colors, and sizes in thermal curtains that you can find in standard curtains. Since thermal curtains provide such elegantly simple insulation, they will be good for the environment. The Internet will be able to provide you with a wide array of styles and designs of thermal curtains, and it is recommended that you start your search there before going out to the stores. Go to Best Thermal Curtains for further suggestions.
There are so many popular styles of antique dresser sets that almost everyone has at least seen reproductions, without realizing it. More than likely you have come across a actual antique sometime in your life either at the homes of grandparents or other relatives. The Rococo revival style has been one of the best recognized kinds of antique dresser sets and is easily identified by the round corners and imaginative drawer pulls. Often these are produced from mahogany, walnut or rosewood and feature curved faces. The Renaissance revival era should be a great style of antique dresser for those who are looking for something ornate and classical. These dressers demonstrate excellent workmanship with carved handles, intricate carvings and beautiful candle cups. If shopping for antiques you will need to spend your time researching the numerous styles to assure you are acquiring the genuine thing. While shopping for antiques, details such as fading and small imperfections are a good indication that they are the real thing and not modern reproductions. Continue reading and get help in locating antique dressers.
Bamboo sheet sets
Probably the biggest change in the production of bedding today is the utilization of bamboo fibers. These innovative bed sheets will be particularly fashionable among individuals who pride themselves on being thoughtful to the environment. Lots of times the bamboo fibers used in the manufacture of bedding are the byproduct of building different bamboo products, thus ensuring that nothing is wasted. A few of the various advantages of bamboo bedsheets include the fact that it is naturally moisture resistant and is cultivated without the use of pesticides because it is naturally pest resistant. These sheets have a natural gloss and will be manufactured in either dyed or natural styles. The primary drawback to employing this new and improved cloth will be the higher cost that is often along with it. The main two causes for the greater price of bamboo bedsheets are the smaller total production and the complex process which is employed to manufacture them. As bamboo bedsheets increase in popularity they are becoming much easier to obtain and might be bought at many shops which highlight ecologically friendly products. Continue reading and find assistance in obtaining bamboo sheets.
Memory foam neck pillow
Countless individuals learn that memory foam neck pillows offer just the right amount of support to provide a comfortable sleep throughout the entire night. Probably the primary purpose of a pillow is to keep your head in the appropriate position, and soft fluffy pillows frequently do not offer sufficient support for that. It is the firmness of a memory foam pillow that makes it possible for it to give your neck the appropriate support in all the correct spots. The primary idea is that the neck pillow you select works comfortably with the distinctive curve of your head and neck for optimal support. The good news is that there is a sizable selection of sizes, contours, and densities to meet the unique needs of every person’s size and sleep style. Foam neck pillows will generally be found in densities between 3.5 to 4.5 pounds. Undoubtedly the best one for you will depend on if you like a firmer or softer pillow. Go to Memory Foam Neck Pillow for more information.
Eliminating bedbugs
The recent surge in reported bedbug infestations has given new meaning to the words “domestic terrorism.” Even though bed bugs don’t spread diseases to humans, there will be two health concerns involving the increase in infestations of bed bugs globally. One is treating the rashes that come with bed bug attacks. The second concern is mental health. It is hard sleeping at night worrying if your body is a meal for a bug. Merely thinking about it makes people itchy. Interrupted sleep patterns invite different health risks. The first problem is easily addressed. There are many creams and ointments available that should sooth the rash. It’s important to cleanse the rash with anti-bacteria soap, and resist scratching, which simply makes the situation worse. Some people cut their fingernails to ensure they don’t inadvertently scratch while in bed asleep. Eliminating the bugs themselves will be a much more difficult task. The little blood-sucking beasts can live wherever the edge of a credit card will fit. Equipped with with a vacuum and a bright light you will be able to seek out and destroy the elusive bugs. Thoroughly vacuum box springs, mattresses, dresser drawers, couches, and under the edges of carpets and rugs. Vacuum behind baseboards, headboards, electrical socket and light switch wall plates, and wall hangings. Search for cracks in wall boards and around plumbing fixtures. In addition to finding bugs hiding or scurrying, be on the look-out for the minute brown specks of their fecal droppings, their pinhead sized whitish eggs, and drops of blood. Recommendations to help you look for bed bug treatments are located at Bedbugs Treatment Guide