Buying Guides

Best Mattresses For Hot Sleepers

Summer is here, and with long, hot days and even longer, hotter nights, it can be particularly difficult to sleep over the coming months. Certainly, you can swap your sheets, pillows and duvet for lightweight, breathable ones and allow cool air to circulate via a ceiling fan or an open window, but it can still prove uncomfortable and disruptive to even the most sound of sleepers. The good news is that Heal’s offers arguably the best mattress for hot sleepers – plus a collection of other styles conducive to quality shut-eye – thanks to expert construction and specialist materials known for their cooling properties. Reasons to have a cooler mattress 1: Whatever the season, your body's temperature changes at different stages of your sleep cycle, with increases interrupting the cycle and decreases sustaining it. Therefore, the aim is to keep your body temperature low throughout the duration of the night. 2: Some people are generally hotter – women are 50% more unlikely to control their temperature while sleeping than men, for example – while the likes of injury, pregnancy, menopause and illness can all have an impact on snoozing. So, a cool, breathable mattress is a solid investment, summer or otherwise, to avoid trapping heat and moisture that contribute to unwanted temperature changes. Types of mattresses that are good for hot sleepers With over two centuries of mattress craftsmanship, Heal's has been perfecting sleep comfort since 1810. Founder John Harris Heal introduced French-style mattresses to London, and we now offer a diverse collection of mattresses to suit every type of sleeper, from Orthopaedic and Premium to Organic and Natural. Among these are some of the best mattresses for hot sleepers available. Natural hybrid mattresses Hybrid mattresses combine various materials like coils, memory foam and latex. Look for hybrids with cooling features, such as gel-infused memory foam or coils with airflow channels. These provide a balance of comfort and breathability. Our Natural Hybrid Mattress stands out as the pinnacle of better sleep, expertly combining our signature pocket springs with sustainable natural latex. Unlike foam or memory foam, the latex in this mattress promotes superior air-circulation and breathability, ensuring a cooler sleep experience. Enjoy hypo-allergenic, anti-bacterial and anti-dust mite properties, all wrapped up in one unparalleled mattress. The deep layer of moisture-wicking cotton with temperature-regulating properties means you can sleep cool and comfortable even on warm nights. Investing in this mattress is a solid return for your sleep quality and overall well-being. Wool-infused mattresses Experience the embrace of luxury and temperature regulation with our wool-infused mattresses. The firm Premium Sleep Silk mattress, hand-filled, -tufted and -stitched, offers a sumptuous blend of merino, lambswool and cashmere, providing excellent breathability and unparalleled comfort. For those seeking support and entry-level cooling, the Classic Pocket 1400 mattress, elegantly tailored in a luxurious fabric, incorporates cooling cotton and lambswool. These mattresses not only promote effective airflow and reduce moisture build-up, making them the perfect mattresses for hot sleepers, but provide excellent body support and relief from aches and pains – a combination that ensures a well-rested and revitalised you. Innerspring and Vispring mattresses Traditional innerspring mattresses offer good airflow due to the open space between the coils. This design promotes ventilation and keeps the mattress from trapping heat. Case in point is Vispring, the esteemed sleep specialist, which combines the pocket-springs of its mattresses with the finest materials that nature has to offer for superior comfort. It’s the assurance of a good night’s sleep long after you’ve made your choice. Cotton mattresses Organic cotton mattresses are an excellent choice for hot sleepers due to their natural breathability and moisture-wicking properties. These mattresses are made with cotton fibres, which allow for excellent airflow and heat dissipation, keeping you cool and comfortable throughout the night. The soft and airy texture of cotton helps prevent heat from getting trapped, creating a more refreshing sleep surface. Additionally, cotton is hypoallergenic and tends to be more eco-friendly than synthetic materials, making it an appealing option for those with sensitive skin or environmental concerns. Look for mattresses that use high-quality organic cotton or blends with other natural materials to maximise the benefits. Cotton mattresses offer a cool and comfortable sleep environment and a cosy and supportive feel for a restful night's sleep. Nickel-infused mattresses For hot sleepers looking for innovative cooling solutions, nickel-infused mattresses like the Organic Sleep 3000 Mattress are worth considering. These mattresses incorporate nickel into the foam layers, which helps regulate temperature and prevent heat retention. Nickel is an excellent conductor of heat, and when infused into the mattress, it facilitates the efficient transfer of heat away from the body. As a result, these mattresses can keep you cool even in warmer climates or during hot summer nights. In addition to their cooling properties, nickel-infused mattresses offer other benefits, such as pressure-relief and support. They can be particularly beneficial for people with chronic pain issues, as the cooling effect can help alleviate discomfort. What to look for when choosing a mattress for hot sleepers 1. Breathability Opt for mattresses with materials that allow for good airflow, preventing heat from getting trapped. 2. Cooling features Look for mattresses with cooling gel, copper-infusion or other heat-dissipating technologies. 3. Firmness The right firmness level varies for each individual, but generally, a medium-firm mattress is recommended for hot sleepers. This firmness provides adequate support while still being comfortable and less likely to cause heat-retention. How to stay cool at night Once you’ve invested in the correct mattress, there are a few other tips and tricks to help keep you cool. 1. Choose a breathable mattress topper Enhance your sleep experience with a breathable mattress topper. Look for options like this one from premium Swedish brand Carpe Diem Beds, featuring a cotton-lined side that effectively transfers heat and moisture away from your body. This ensures a cooler and more comfortable rest throughout the night. 2. Choose temperature-regulating bed linen Create a cosy yet cool sleeping environment by opting for lightweight, temperature-regulating bed linen. Consider our own-brand Duck Down 9 duvet, designed to keep you comfortably cool. Additionally, explore quality sheets like our versatile washed linen, perfect for staying cool during summer and warm during winter. Available in various colours, our chic set from Portugal, including shades like slate blue, mustard and dusky pink, adds a touch of elegance to your space. 3. Choose a cooler pillow Experience the ultimate coolness with a pillow designed for comfort. The British Duck Down Surround pillow is a great choice, providing excellent cooling support. Enjoy a refreshing night's sleep and wake up feeling rejuvenated. 4. Keep your bedroom windows shut during the day Maintain a cooler ambience in your bedroom by keeping the windows shut during the day. This prevents hot air from circulating and heating your space. Limiting sunlight and warmth from radiating through the glass, you’ll ensure a refreshing and tranquil atmosphere. 5. Open your bedroom windows in the evening As the sun sets and temperatures drop, crack open your bedroom windows to allow fresh, cool air to circulate. This revitalises your room and ensures a pleasant environment when it's time to settle in for the night. 6. Switch to LED lights Optimise your bedroom's cooling efforts by swapping traditional bulbs for LED lights. Unlike traditional bulbs that emit a significant amount of heat, LED lights are energy-efficient and produce minimal heat. This not only keeps your room cooler but also helps to lower energy bills. By following these simple steps and choosing the right bedding and bedroom setup, you'll create a sleep sanctuary perfect for those warmer months. Enjoy restful nights and wake up feeling refreshed and revitalised.Browse and buy from our range of mattresses for hot sleepers.

Buying Guides

The Benefits Of Orthopaedic Mattresses

There’s nothing like waking up with aches and pains to get your day off on the wrong foot, whether a sore back, tight shoulders or a stiff neck, which is why an orthopaedic mattress could be one of the best investments you ever make for yourself. After all, now more than ever, we’re finally realising just how important quality shut-eye is to our physical health, mental wellbeing and overall performance. Success, it seems, is all wrapped up within sleep. But what is an orthopaedic mattress? Are orthopaedic mattresses any good? Are orthopaedic mattresses firm? And what are the benefits of an orthopaedic mattress? So many questions surround these specific types of mattresses. Luckily, we’ve compiled all the essential information you need to inform your decision in one convenient place, so all you need to do is peruse and choose. What does an orthopaedic mattress mean? Taking its name from the branch of medicine relating to bones, joints and muscles, an orthopaedic mattress – invented in the 1950s – is specially designed to support the body in all the right places during sleep, preventing discomfort and alleviating pain. Usually firmer than traditional mattresses (but not always), they distribute the weight of your body more evenly, removing unnecessary pressure on the neck, back and hips, while ensuring correct spinal alignment and healthy posture. What are the benefits of an orthopaedic mattress? As well as offering support along the length of your body as you sleep – keeping the spine in a neutral position to eliminate pressure points – orthopaedic mattresses are generally better ventilated than traditional styles because they’re usually constructed from a sturdy sprung core rather than soft memory foam. This makes for a sleep that’s as cooling as it is comfortable. Here’s a cheat-sheet to help you understand all the benefits before committing to choosing an orthopaedic mattress: Avoiding pressure points from building in the neck, shoulders, back and hips Alleviating aches and pains if they already exist or when they occur Keeping your spine aligned to eliminate back pain Stopping ‘roll-together’ and movement transference Preventing the spine from curving among those who sleep on their front How do I choose the correct orthopaedic mattress? Because we’ve been crafting mattresses since we were founded in 1810 – in fact, we were the first to introduce French-style designs to London – we know a thing or two about orthopaedic mattresses, and our Orthopaedic Pocket is a superior choice. No less than 1,500 springs are nested in hard-wearing fabric pockets that move independently from one another to respond to the body’s natural contours and movements during the night. This helps to enhance natural sleep patterns and offer orthopaedic pain relief while avoiding disruption to bedfellows (when you move, your partner doesn’t feel the movement, and vice versa). What’s more, each mattress is filled with a cotton blend and Superflex foam with a hypo-allergenic layer that help create a healthy sleeping environment, while everything is tailored in a luxurious Belgian damask fabric held together by side stitching and hand-tufting. Those who want the support of an orthopaedic mattress but the softness of a traditional style needn’t worry, either – simply add a pillow top to enjoy the best of both worlds with absolutely no compromise. Because we spend around 26 years of our lives in bed, it’s not hard to see why an orthopaedic mattress might be a sound investment, particularly for those who suffer from pain, senior sleepers, or simply those who are generally active or athletic. Do note, that if you struggle to sleep, but the reason for your tossing and turning isn’t physical – stress, anxiety or overthinking, for example – then an orthopaedic mattress might not always be the solution. Think about why your sleep may be disturbed before exploring orthopaedic options or talk to your doctor. While orthopaedic mattresses for back pain are one of the most popular reasons to buy one, it’s important to remember they’re not just for those who are experiencing pain, as some people simply love a firmer surface to sleep on. For many, it’s the secret to better sleep. Try and buy our Orthopaedic Pocket in-store to see if it’s right for you.

Buying Guides

6 Wonderful Gift Ideas For Wedding Season

Finding the perfect wedding gift is about choosing something that's both beautiful and meaningful. Whether they're furnishing their first home together or adding the finishing touches to a well-loved space, our edit brings together design-led tableware, statement lighting and thoughtfully crafted home accessories they'll enjoy for years to come. A table set to impress For couples who love to host, Bitossi brings personality to every place setting. Handcrafted in Italy, the brand's playful tableware combines bold colour, expressive patterns and artisanal craftsmanship, transforming everyday dining into something worth celebrating. From statement dinner plates to beautifully illustrated side plates, each piece is designed to be mixed and matched, making it an ideal wedding gift for couples building a collection that's as individual as they are. Whether used for everyday meals or special occasions, Bitossi's joyful designs are destined to become talking points around the table. Discover the Bitossi collection here. An everyday essential A beautifully crafted cutlery set is one of those wedding gifts that will be used every day, making it both thoughtful and practical. Designed in the heart of the Cotswolds, Charingworth's Planish Satin 24 Piece Cutlery Set combines timeless style with exceptional craftsmanship. Crafted from premium stainless steel, each piece features a distinctive dimpled handle inspired by traditional metalworking techniques, offering a comfortable, well-balanced feel in the hand.  Complete with a 25-year guarantee, it's a gift that's made to accompany everything from everyday dinners to special celebrations, becoming part of countless shared meals for years to come. Find the perfect wedding gift with Charingworth. A playful finishing touch For couples who appreciate design with a sense of humour, Alessi transforms everyday objects into conversation pieces. Renowned for collaborating with some of the world's most celebrated designers, the Italian brand combines exceptional craftsmanship with playful creativity.  The iconic Anna G Corkscrew, designed by Alessandro Mendini, has become a modern design classic, while the Big Love Ice Cream Spoons bring a touch of joy to everything from after-dinner desserts to summer entertaining. Thoughtful, distinctive and made to be enjoyed, these design-led gifts are perfect for couples who believe the little details make a home feel truly special. Find thoughtful gifts from Alessi here. A design icon for every desk Whether they're creating a home office or styling a quiet reading corner, the 90 Mini Mini Desk Lamp by Anglepoise is a thoughtful wedding gift that combines timeless design with everyday practicality.  Inspired by the brand's iconic Original 1227™ lamp, this compact version retains the signature spring-balanced mechanism and impeccable craftsmanship in a smaller, more versatile form. Ideal for desks, bedside tables or shelves, it provides focused light without taking up valuable space, making it perfect for modern living. Beautifully engineered and built to last, it's a design classic they'll enjoy every day. Gift an Anglepoise design icon here. The Lo Studio scented candle We all like a luxurious candle, but somehow, it’s one of those things you rarely buy for yourself. Which is why it’s the perfect opportunity to present one to friends for their wedding. Each Lo Studio candle reflects a harmonious blend of artistry and functionality, ensuring that your space exudes sophistication. Each candle is created with a conscience, free from animal testing, animal-derived ingredients, herbicides, pesticides, and GMOs. Discover Lo Studio here. The objet-d’art pitcher Pitcher, vase or objet d’art? All three, we think. Designed by Constantin Wortmann for Georg Jensen, the versatile Cobra Pitcher is a water jug first and foremost, but can easily be used as a vase or simply as a stunning piece of design as part of an Instagrammable shelving display. It’s handcrafted in Denmark from polished stainless steel and features a distinctive curved aesthetic. A thing of beauty. Find our carefully curated collection of wedding and engagement gifts here.

Buying Guides

Perfect Presents For Particular People

From grand gestures to little luxuries, we’ve got something covetable for everyone on your list this Christmas, no matter how discerning your friends or family. As ever, exquisite design is at the heart of our seasonal edit – combining showstopping aesthetics with superior craftsmanship – while we’ve curated gifts by personality type to help you get just the right present for exactly the right person. Meaning they’ll unwrap something they truly love this year. Expertly handpicked by Heal’s buyers, whether exquisite objects, gourmet treats or cutting-edge tech, these are just a few of our favourite things… Champagne Saucers Ovals Set of 2 by The Vintage List, Champagne Saucers Lens Set of 2 by The Vintage List, Red Marble Crackers Set of 6 by Undercover, Linen Napkin by Heal’s, Tank Decanter Black by Tom Dixon, Old Gold Resin Jungle Cats Decoration Set of 4 by Gisela Graham For hedonistic hosts From gorgeous glassware to tableware treasure, serious hosts require more than dazzling charisma to throw spectacular parties this Christmas, and we’ve got a jewel-box of twinkling, gleaming must-haves that rise to the occasion. Pop the cork on the Champagne and pour. Buyer’s pick: “These crackers by Undercover are a conversation-starter on any table: they’re exclusive to Heal’s, use beautiful paper that’s been hand-marbled in England in colours to reflect our new-season colour palette, and the gifts inside use recycled leather as small accessories you’ll want to keep forever…” Jane Murray, Home Accessories Buyer Vegan Sea Salted Fudge by Cartwright & Butler, Spiced Orange Honey in Jar by Cartwright & Butler, Timeless Treasures Gold Caramelised White Chocolate Bar by ARTHOUSE Unlimited, Dinosaurs Milk Chocolate with Smoky Malt Crunch Sea Salt and Cinnamon Bar by ARTHOUSE Unlimited, Swim with Whales Milk Chocolate with Caramel and Sea Salt Bar by ARTHOUSE Unlimited, Billionaires Shortbread Truffles Single Layer by Charbonnel et Walker, Whisky Truffles Single Layer by Charbonnel et Walker, Ottolenghi Feast Delicious Coffee Cup Pink Set of 4 by Serax, Ottolenghi Feast Delicious Plate Pink and Blue Medium Set of 2, Salted Caramel and Chocolate Stirrer by Cartwright & Butler, Marshmallow and Chocolate Stirrer by Cartwright & Butler, Milk Chocolate Stirrer by Cartwright & Butler, Afternoon Biscuit Selection in Tin by Cartwright & Butler For selective gourmands Whether truffles, chocolate or fudge, sweet treats don’t come much more sophisticated than the delectable spoils in this delicious collection, made from quality ingredients and sourced from artisanal makers. Oh, go on then… just the one. Buyer’s pick: “The chocolate bars by ARTHOUSE Unlimited are, as you’d expect, works of art. They come beautifully wrapped while being absolutely delicious. What’s more, the charity represents the artistic talents of adults living with neuro-diverse and physical support needs, with 100% of sales helping it to grow and evolve.” Sabina Miller, Head of Buying Brew Stove Top Coffee Maker Stainless Steel by Tom Dixon, Fog Scent Giftset Royalty by Tom Dixon, Girard Dolls No 9 Two Pointed Hat by Vitra, Cocoa Dusted Sea Salt Caramel Truffles by Coco Chocolatier, Orange Melt Biscuits by Coco Chocolatier, Cold Brew Coffee Dark Chocolate Bar by Coco Chocolatier, Christmas Spice Chocolate Bar by Coco Chocolatier, Type 75 Mini Desk Lamp Paul Smith Edition 1 by Anglepoise®, Vuelta Table Lamp White by ferm LIVING For design aficionados Combining form and function, our divine collection of covetable objects is crafted by both up-and-coming talent and big-name designers, enabling those lucky enough to receive one of these under their tree to enjoy a little bit of luxury at home. Friends will be green with envy… Buyer’s pick: “The stove-top coffee maker by Tom Dixon makes an everyday task feel so much more elegant. I love making my brew in this each morning and display it on the counter for all to see rather than stash it away in a cupboard.” Berengere Favraud, Brand & Concession Buyer Caramel and Orange Luggage Tag and Passport Set by Undercover, Canopy Pitcher by LSA International, Canopy Tumbler Set of 4 by LSA International, Fusion Recycled Glass Vase by Heal’s, Feel The Air Shampoo Bar by ARTHOUSE Unlimited, Duo Reversible Velvet Cushion by Heal’s For eco aesthetes Now, more than ever, sustainability and style go hand-in-hand. This luxe lot – made with people and planet firmly in mind – combine exquisite looks with ethical credentials to spectacular effect for a Christmas present with a conscience. Buyer’s pick: “This vase is by Lea Randebrock – a designer who was spotlighted as part of Heal’s Discovers, our platform for emerging up-and-coming talent – and is handblown from recycled glass here in the UK. I love how no two are the same, each with its own organic shape.” Georgia Fisher, Assistant Buyer aWAKE Alarm Clock Ivory Sand by Kreafunk, aGO II Bluetooth Portable Speaker Shady Green by Kreafunk, aGO II Bluetooth Portable Speaker Black by Kreafunk, aGO II Bluetooth Portable Speaker Ivory Sand by Kreafunk, toCHARGE Mini III Power Bank Black by Kreafunk, Mouro Portable LED Table Lamp by Case For technology obsessives Forward-thinking in technology and futuristic in design, our sleek gadgets and gizmos fuse the very best of both worlds, and are sure to dazzle your most discerning loved ones. Geek at its chicest. Buyer’s pick: “The Mouro by Case is at the top of my list this year: the table lamp is small enough to fit in the neatest of spaces, is portable so you can take it where it’s needed, and looks super-cool to boot – especially when you use it to wash a wall with light.” Claire Anstey, Lighting Buyer Leather Scented Candle by MALIN+GOETZ, Grapefruit Face Cleanser by MALIN+GOETZ, Cilantro Hair Conditioner by MALIN+GOETZ, Peppermint Shampoo by MALIN+GOETZ, Vitamin B5 Body Moisturiser by MALIN+GOETZ, Eucalyptus Deodorant by MALIN+GOETZ, Cannabis Perfume Oil by MALIN+GOETZ, Best Sellers Travel Kit by MALIN+GOETZ, Bloomsbury Bath Soak Gift Box by Soapsmith, Camden Town Handmade Soap by Soapsmith, Brick Lane Handmade Soap by Soapsmith, Essential Detox Kit by Norfolk Natural Living, Lady Muck Bath Milk Lavender and Bergamot by ARTHOUSE Unlimited For beauty gurus Those into pampering and preening – who isn’t? – will unwind in style with these magical lotions and potions. Enabling nearest and dearest to recreate all the splendour of a spa from the comfort of home, they’re curated from the best beauty brands in the world. Miracles, guaranteed. Buyer’s pick: “The MALIN+GOETZ eucalyptus deodorant is a beauty essential: I’ve used it for years and I’ve got one in every bag. As well as smelling amazing, it’s translucent, and made with all-natural ingredients.” Letisha Johnson, Buyer's Admin Assistant Cedarwood & Myrtle Dusk Candle by Heal’s, Bitter Orange & Cassis Dusk Infuser by Heal’s, Winter Spice Scented Glass Candle by Heal’s, Frankincense & Pine Short Pillar Candle, Winter Spice Tall Pillar Candle with Botanicals by Heal’s, Frankincense & Pine Natural Reed Diffuser by Heal’s, Black Rose & Walnut Scented Candle by Heal’s, Amber & Pink Pepper Natural Reed Diffuser by Heal’s, Botanicals Winter Spice Brick Candle by Heal’s For candle connoisseurs The flicker of a wick and the fragrance of a candle can transform a space and boost your mood. So, give those who appreciate the power of scent one of these wax wonders, sure to evoke the senses. Whether for the bedroom or bathroom – or simply on a console in the hallway – one can never have too many. Buyer’s pick: “Who doesn’t want to recreate the fragrant scent of an alpine retreat for the festive period? Hand-poured in Sussex with a hand-picked blend of luxury oils, the Frankincense & Pine candle does just that, and the green ribbon adds a finishing flourish as a gift.” Mousami Chanda, Buyer's Admin Assistant Neroli & Bergamot Dusk Diffuser by Heal’s, Fig & Petitgrain Dusk Candle by Heal’s,Ottolenghi Feast Swirl Coffee Cup Blue and White Set of 4 by Serax, Women’s Lambswool Ankle Socks Zebra Navy Yellow by Catherine Tough, Kids Lambswool Mittens Pink Stripe by Catherine Tough, Lambswool Scarf Wide Stripe Blue Rust by Catherine Tough, Kids Lambswool Bobble Hat Blue by Catherine Tough, Lambswool Hot Water Bottle Set Large Spot Soft Green by Catherine Tough, Kids Lambswool Gloves Blue Stripe For haute homebodies From pulling on a pair of woollen socks to slipping a snuggly hot water bottle between the sheets, there’s an art to cosy, and these creature comforts have got your homebody covered. Hygge, anyone? Buyer’s pick: “Socks are a classic present and I’m always happy to get another pair. The lambswool socks by Catherine Tough in a statement zebra print are beautifully-made in Portugal and I love the pop of yellow.” Hannah Thistlewaite, Senior Buyer Brew Stove Top Coffee Maker by Tom Dixon, Brew Espresso Cups Set of 4 by Tom Dixon,Caramel and Orange A5 Notebook by Undercover, Fir and Green A5 Notebook by Undercover, Sipsmith Gin Truffle Single Layer by Charbonnel et Walker, Eggnog Truffles Single Layer by Charbonnel et Walker, Raspberry and Amaretto Truffles Single Layer by Charbonnel et Walker, Milk Sea Salt Caramel Thins by Charbonnel et Walker For discerning hot-deskers Allow hybrid workers to adorn their spaces with a beautiful array of accessories. Stationery for taking notes in style. Carafes for pouring coffee with panache. Gourmet snacks for getting through the afternoon slump. Just call it ‘al desko’… Buyer’s pick: “Not only are these covetable notebooks from Undercover made from recycled leather and FSC paper, but they come in gorgeous colours and smell amazing, too.” Sabina Miller, Head of Buying Yoga Essentials Kit by Norfolk Natural Living, Chess Set by Printworks, Four in a Row Game by Printworks, Backgammon Board Game by Printworks, Tumbling Tower Game by Printworks, Rosebud and Lilac Luggage Tag and Passport Set by Undercover, Navy and Teal Luggage Tag and Passport Set by Undercover, Seafoam and Khaki Luggage Tag and Passport Set by Undercover, Fir and Green Pencil Case by Undercover, Seafoam and Khaki Pencil Case by Undercover For sophisticated stockings There are plenty of stockings to stuff over the season, so fill yours with fabulous, from gorgeous games to beauty buys, stylish stationery to travel accessories, plus more besides. Heal’s Gift Card For those who have everything When it come to those who have everything – we’ve all got them in our lives – a Heal’s Gift Card brings comfort and joy. Simply charge it with the desired amount, add a personal note and gift in a small but perfectly-formed envelope. From furniture to accessories and lighting, the recipient is free to spend it as they choose, limited only by their imagination. Assorted Top tip Table presents are this year’s secret Santa and are unwrapped before tucking into a festive feast. Why not bestow a bejewelled Christmas decoration on guests as a token they can treasure and hang on their tree for years to come? Everyone loves a beautifully-made decoration to add to an eclectic collection.

Buying Guides

How To Buy Ethical And Sustainable Furniture

The world is becoming more sustainable and environmentally conscious day by day. We’re switching to LED bulbs, cutting meat from our meals and carefully considering every piece of clothing we buy. So, why aren’t we applying the same thought process to buying ethical and sustainable furniture? This switch to more eco-friendly living isn’t a fleeting fad. Our 2021 survey showed that people are becoming more and more aware that what they do or don’t buy really matters. The material a piece of furniture is made from, the packaging it arrives in and the carbon it takes to deliver it to your home should all be important considerations. Read on to discover how you can make more ethical and sustainable choices when buying furniture. What is sustainable furniture? Ethical and sustainable furniture is made in an eco-friendly way and leaves little impact on the planet. Different factors come into this, including where it’s made, how it’s made, who made it and how it’s transported. When choosing a piece of furniture, ask yourself some key questions. How far has it travelled? What’s it made of and does it come from a sustainable source? Does the factory it’s made in treat its workers well? Is this just a trend? What chemicals are used to make the furniture? Will I be happy using this for the rest of my life? Considering points like these will help you to decide if the piece of furniture fits your criteria of ethical and sustainable furniture. But remember, ethics and sustainability don’t always come hand in hand when it comes to furniture. After all, a chair could be handcrafted by artisans using local materials, but if it’s shipped from the opposite side of the world it might not fit your criteria. For many people, if it’s a quality piece of furniture that’ll last a lifetime then it’s an easy call. What are the best ethical and sustainable materials? It can be hard to choose between materials whilst shopping sustainably. After all, so many materials claim to be eco-friendly and it can be hard to see through the greenwashing. To us, the key thing is that it leaves a minimal impact on the planet, and that it’s made well to last a lifetime. Here are some of the best ethical and sustainable materials around. Recycled materials Most of us recycle as much as possible in our day-to-day lives. Now, furniture brands are using our waste to create sustainable furniture from recycled materials. Materials like metal and wood are being reused to create brand new pieces of furniture. Even plastic bottles are being transformed into upholstery, sustainable garden furniture and rugs. Rather than chopping down trees or forging metals, furniture made from recycled materials turns yesterday’s waste into today’s raw material. Without these additional manufacturing steps, the carbon footprint of your new piece of furniture is reduced massively. Wood Wood can be one of the most sustainable materials to use when crafting furniture. After all, trees help to absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen, making them an essential part of our ecosystem. Plus, it’s a renewable resource, meaning we can continue growing more trees and replenishing our forests, within reason. However, just because a piece of furniture is made using wood, that doesn’t mean it’s ethical or sustainable. If the forest the wood comes from isn’t well managed or contributes to deforestation then it might be best to pass. Look out for the PEFC and FSC logos as a sign the wood comes from a sustainable source. To find out more information on choosing sustainable wood furniture check out this article. Organic cotton When shopping for upholstered furniture like a sofa, headboard or armchair, it’s also important to consider the fabric. Plenty of upholstery materials are made using synthetic fibres so that they can keep up with daily use. For many people that’s a fine choice, but for the most sustainable upholstery we suggest organic cotton. Cotton is a natural material that comes from plants, making it a renewable fibre. However, not all cotton is grown organically and unfortunately, non-organic cotton is often grown with help from pesticides. These pesticides can seep into the soil and wreak havoc on local ecosystems and water sources. That’s why we suggest organic cotton as the most sustainable and ethical upholstery choice. For the same reasons, organic linen also makes a great upholstery option and even uses less water. The source of the cotton is also important, as some countries are known to use forced labour to harvest it. The best thing you can do is ask the manufacturer what their policies are and where their cotton comes from. This should help you make an informed choice. Is quality furniture more sustainable? Yes, absolutely. Investing in a piece of furniture that you’ll love for a lifetime is far more sustainable than buying fast furniture that breaks in five years, only to be replaced. If a piece of furniture is handcrafted using the best materials, it’s bound to be a household favourite for years to come. Premium materials and long-lasting finishes are key to your furniture lasting a long time. Plus, maintaining your furniture with the right wax, detergent or varnish will help your furniture to last even longer. Does it matter where my furniture comes from? Yes, it’s incredibly important to check where your furniture has travelled. Even the most premium furniture often travels around the world. So, do your research to estimate the carbon footprint of your new furniture. For the lowest possible carbon footprint, look for local suppliers. If they craft their furniture using locally sourced materials, then even better. The most sustainable furniture is often the one closest to home, providing it’s well made using ethical materials and that you’re sure you’ll love it for years to come. Like what you see? Explore our collection of furniture made using recycled materials.

Buying Guides

How To Choose A Dining Table Colour

The dining table is central to every home. It’s the place you host family dinners, where you entertain friends and sit to enjoy an afternoon cuppa. Whether it’s a special occasion or a quiet evening in, your dining table caters to a whole assortment of occasions. So, it’s important to choose your dining table colour carefully to make sure it’s central to your design scheme as well as your home. We’ve created this handy article to show how to choose a dining table colour that suits your home. Read on to discover more. Decide on a style Sure, the dining table is central to your home, but it isn’t always the place to start designing. On your first step to choosing a dining table colour, decide on a style that your table should match, not the other way around. For example, if you decide on a more retro style for your dining room, perhaps a white Eero Saarinen dining table will be the perfect match. Or maybe your chosen style is a little more rustic. In that case, a light wood dining table may suit your room best. If you’d like to create an opulent and luxurious vibe, perhaps consider black marble. Deciding on a style first will help you to create a well-thought out and cohesive dining space. Consider materials When asking yourself how to choose a dining table colour, materials should always be an early consideration. Your dining table’s material can have a huge influence on your choice, in a similar way to your room’s style. That’s because materials can make a huge difference to your decision making. Since narrowing down materials tends to cut out some colour options, it can also be a great way to move one step closer to a decision. For example, choosing a wooden dining table means your colour selection is often limited to natural browns, white and black. A marble dining table offers a little more choice in terms of colour. The luxurious material comes in reds, greens, whites and blacks, so it’s perfect for injecting colour into your space. In contrast, man-made materials like linoleum mean you can choose any colour under the sun for your dining table. How will you use the room? When you’re thinking about how to choose a dining table colour, it’s important to consider how you’ll use the room. Will you mainly be enjoying low key family dinners in it or hosting opulent dinner parties? Answering this question will help you choose a colour. Wood is a great choice if you’re using the room for plenty of family meals and evenings in. That’s because it’s a warm and welcoming material. Colourful linoleum is another great choice as it brings character to the room and it’s easy to clean marks left behind from messy family dinners. Or perhaps the room will be a little more formal? Opulent materials like marble, brass and walnut make for a sophisticated dining space. Big celebrations and special occasions will feel even more monumental sat round a white marble table. How large is the room? The colour of your dining table can really impact your room as a whole. The right choice and a small dining room can suddenly feel sprawling. The wrong choice and you may find it feeling dark and gloomy. If your room is on the smaller side, we suggest choosing a brighter dining table. Think shades of grey and white, or lighter woods like ash. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t add a splash of colour to a more compact dining room. Bring in colour with accessories like placemats, curtains and dining chairs. For larger dining rooms you have a little more freedom. Rich, dark tones like black, blue and purple take advantage of the space and are a little bolder. Light colours will also work, but make sure to add a rug underneath to pull the design together. Like what you see? Discover our collection of modern dining tables.