The key to Feng Shui is finding a balance. Consider size, materials and elements used for the mattresses.

SIZE - Queen mattresses are seen as generally the best all around mattress size. For single people, the extra space draws energy in the hope that another person comes into your life.

ELEMENTS - If possible and even on a tight budget, never sleep on a mattress that has been pre-owned or used. It may cause sleeping problems as one can possibly draw the negative energy from the previous owners.

MATERIALS - Avoid mattresses made with too many metal or spring coils as metal is conductive to energy. Waterbeds also poses the same problem as it may disrupt the balance of the room. Water is also an electric conduit. Feng Shui experts suggest foam mattresses are best as it is more conducive to proper air flow, therefore, energy flows well.

From Candace Czarny, an interior designer and Feng Shui expert at Art Of Placement.

Mattress photo: Keetsa - The Green Mattress Store

I know these days mattress purchase is like buying a second hand car or a really expensive gadget. But it’s always wise to invest in a new mattress, rather than scrimp on a used one.

For one thing….you’d probably have to get another mattress not long after. Do used mattresses have warranties? Not always and not especially.

Used mattress come with nasty bed bugs….if you buy these, expect to pay more than their worth for treatments and cleaning. Not to mention the fact that you may have to also pay for doctors treatment as a result of this.

Used mattresses have body imprints. As someone has already slept on it for two-three years, their mattress may have their body built cushioned already. You might not get the best support from it.

So, investing in a new mattress is the better way to go. It’s a more practical choice, in the long run.

Photo from Keetsa Mattress Tea Leaf Select

Mattresses are investments, and like any investments you need to protect them so that they last long-term. Here are simple and easy ways:

• Avoid dumping used towels and other wet items on the mattress.
• Have a mattress pad. It prevents staining and other dangers to your mattress (like someone jabbing a pencil on to it, perhaps).
• As in the case above, mattress covers are therefore essential to a child’s bed.
• Stained mattress? Have them cleaned right away, don’t allow the stain to settle.
• Vacuum your mattress regularly.
• Relish in the spring sunshine. Air your mattress out regularly, too.
• Flip your futons every other week.
• Don’t allow kids to jump on the bed.

Mattress in photo: Keetsa’s Pillow Soft Mattress

Spring is here. In most homes, that means it’s time to bring out the vacuum cleaner and do the regular spring cleaning. A little bit of this helps freshen the house…and in the bedroom? It could improve sleeping conditions.

As you go over your bedroom and do your spring cleaning, don’t forgot to also focus on the mattress and bed frame. Have you checked your bed frame for cracks and balance? Have you tried tossing your mattresses? Airing it out? Is the mattress already sagging? Check for wear and tear, and repair them if needed. Buy new toppers, or if the budget allows, a completely new mattress. Change to a more absorbent cotton sheet, as the weather may tend to become a bit warmer already.

Spring…it signals new beginnings. With the bed as the first and last place you’ll be for everyday of your life…why not start making changes from there?

Watch the instructions via this video:

So that’s what those tiny slats on the sides are for!