Buying Guides

What To Consider When Buying A Mattress

Finding the right mattress can be a real challenge, especially at the moment when trying one out in person is near impossible. We asked Sara and Siria, members of our Sleep Team, to tell us what exactly makes a good mattress. Sara and Siria are real experts, so hopefully their detailed description of the perfect mattress will help you to make an informed decision. Mattress Size First and foremost what size are you after? We always recommend that if you’ve got the space then go as big as you can. This will guarantee a good night's sleep, especially when sharing the mattress with someone as it minimises any movement you may experience from the other person. With that being said, always make sure that you can get a large mattress through to your bedroom without bending or folding it. It’s vitally important to measure up for access as none of our mattresses come in a box and bending them would ruin the structure. Type of mattress You then might want to think about which type of mattress you would like to go for - i.e.: latex, memory foam, pocket sprung. If you’ve slept on a pocket sprung mattress your whole life and have been relatively comfortable with it then we would recommend sticking to what you know. We wouldn't usually recommend a memory foam mattress unless you’ve tried one overnight before. It can be a bit hit or miss with memory foam mattresses as they do feel quite different to pocket sprung ones. The memory foam conforms to your body’s contours throughout the night giving you quite a snug fit and reduces movement. It’s this characteristic which makes latex memory foam perfect for people with joint problems or mobility issues: moving during sleep might cause discomfort and wake you up. You don't want to buy a new type of mattress, try it at home for the first time and not like it. Purchasing a mattress is a long term commitment (8-10 years minimum!) that you must get right. If you are after a more natural or organic product then it's best to go for a pocket sprung mattress in our Organic or Natural Sleep range. Most of these mattresses use all natural fillings with no foam or latex present. Here’s a tip: if you are moving home, remember not to bend or roll your mattress as it can damage the springs. Keep your mattress well-wrapped and laid flat while in transit. Tension The next thing to consider would be the tension. We would recommend you go by the weight guidelines. If you weigh roughly between 11-16st/70-100kg then we would say to go for a medium tension. Anyone weighing under 11st/70kg would be a soft tension and anyone over 16st/100kg would be a firm. It’s a common misconception that we quite often get from customers that the firmer the better, or if you have any sort of back issue then you should go for a firm. This is quite the contrary and in some cases a firm mattress can do more damage than good. You're going to want a mattress that gives you support in all the right places. It's always good to go for the correct tension according to your weight and, if after 30 nights it still doesn't feel right, then you can think about taking advantage of Heal’s Comfort Promise. If a couple is varied in weight then you can go for a zip and link mattress with two different tensions. Try it out On a normal day the best advice we can give is for customers to come into store and spend as long as they can on the mattresses. Laying on them, jumping on them, napping on them. We can also help assess their spine alignment. It truly is the best way to get a real feel for them.

Buying Guides

Pros And Cons Of Integrated LED's

When something has integrated LED technology it means that the LEDs are fixed and cannot be easily removed. LEDs are largely considered to be the future of lighting so they’re often integrated into modern lights. However, many consumers are plagued by fears of longevity and their light becoming redundant once the LED module runs out. Here we lay out the pros and cons so you can decide if integrated LEDs are right for you. Pro: Creative freedom Integrated LEDs can allow for more creative designs. In recent years LEDs have advanced to the extent that they are flatter, smaller and more pliable than ever before. This technological leap has liberated designers and allowed them to explore lighting like never before. Designs such as the Ribbon Pendant Light and Michael Anastassiades’ Arrangement series are perfect examples. Con: An intergrated LED has an expiration date Integrated LEDs pendants will need to be replaced when the light stops working. However, with the increased use of LEDs, brands have begun offering replacement modules. For example, Tom Dixon’s LEDs are designed to be replaceable and Heal’s offers a five-year guarantee on all own-brand integrated LEDs. Pro: LED's last longer LEDs last longer than standard bulbs and make an excellent choice over incandescent bulbs. According to DM Lights, the average LED module can last for up to 30,000 hours. This means that if you use your light for five hours every day it can last for up to 16 years. It is only after this time that your LED module will need replacing, giving it a very long lifespan. Pro: LED's use less energy LEDs are renowned as a low-energy alternative to traditional halogen bulbs. Because they use less energy they are better for the planet and also more cost effective. As of 2018, the EU banned importing new energy-wasting halogen bulbs so it could be that in the coming years we see them less in our homes. Con: How sustainable is it really? Yes LEDs use less energy, but how sustainable is something that may need chucking away at the end of its lifecycle? With more and more brands offering replacement modules this is gradually becoming less of a concern. However, it’s always best to check with the supplier if replacements are available. Pro: A more versatile glow Lighting can really make or break a room and LED technology will definitely help. These state-of-the-art modules are often compatible with dimmer switches so you can change the room’s ambience to suit you. Convinced by integrated LEDs? Discover our collection here.

Buying Guides

Everything You Need To Know About Lead Times

Ordering a new piece of furniture often involves lots of research, preparation and organisation. To help you along the way, we’ll dissect one of the most commonly used terms. Lead times include the time taken to order, make and deliver something to your door and it can be a confusing term. Why is my lead time so long? When you buy a piece of luxury furniture it’s often made especially for you and won’t be available immediately. The timeframe is carefully calculated based on the speed of a suppliers’ workflow, material availability and shipping. Take our Designed By You sofas for example. On receiving your order, the frame is built, padded, the upholstery sewn on and sent to our warehouse before we can deliver it to you. It takes time to craft exquisite design, but it’s worth it. Why is a lead time important? If you are moving home or need your furniture by a specific date then you should time when you place your order. Use lead times as rough guides for when the furniture will be ready for delivery. If you’re under time pressure then you may be better opting for stocked furniture that is ready for delivery. Most design houses and furniture retailers will have a collection of pieces that are available for swift delivery. Can lead times change? Here at Heal’s, lead times are always quoted in good faith, however some things are beyond our control. If one of our suppliers falls behind schedule or traffic delays delivery to our warehouse then timings can vary. If your lead time changes, we’ll let you know as soon as we do. Can you speed it up? Unfortunately, once your order is with our suppliers there is very little we can do to hurry it along. Each lead time is fully optimised to show you the most realistic timeframe and avoid disappointment. Please make sure you take your time to do a comprehensive access check before placing your order. There’s nothing more disappointing than waiting two months for a sofa to discover it won’t fit through your front door. Check out this guide on how to complete an access check.

Buying Guides

Best Christmas Gift Shops In London

From particular parents to fussy friends, finding the perfect gift for that special someone can be a trying task. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of our top ten Christmas gift shops in London. The best part is that each one of the Christmas gift shops is also online, so you can master gifting from across the UK. V&A Gift Shop Cromwell Road, Knightsbridge Nearest Tube: South Kensington South Kensington’s Victoria and Albert Museum boasts four gift shops, with its main store located on the ground floor. It features jewellery, prints, toys and crafts, each inspired by pieces in the museum’s collection. So, if you’re shopping for an art lover or fashion follower, the V&A is the place to go.Shop Now Fortnum & Mason Piccadilly Street, St. James’s Nearest Tube: Piccadilly Circus If you’re looking to indulge this Christmas, Fortnum & Mason is the place to go. Head down to Piccadilly and you’ll find hampers packed with delicious nibbles and feast-worthy treats. Plus, Fortnum & Mason also has a store in St Pancras train station for last-minute gifting.Shop Now Heal’s Tottenham Court Road, Fitzrovia Nearest Tube: Goodge Street The Heal’s Christmas Circus is out in full force at our Tottenham Court Road store. Visit the Heal’s Christmas market on the ground floor and find luxurious gifts for all members of the family. Whilst you’re here, take a snap of the festive Cecil Brewer Stairs – London’s most photographed staircase.Shop Now Design Museum Shop Kensington High Street, Kensington Nearest Tube: High Street Kensington As a hub of contemporary design, it’s only right that the Design Museum’s shop is a must for creative gifts. From architecture books to covetable designs by some of the best-loved designers, you’re sure to find the right gift. Located on the museum’s ground floor, there is also a free permanent exhibition to enjoy whilst doing your Christmas shopping.Shop Now Present & Correct Arlington Way, Clerkenwell Nearest Tube: Angel Present & Correct’s collection of contemporary stationery makes the perfect stocking filler or gift. One of London’s most unique Christmas gift shops, Present & Correct also boasts stationary suited to gifting all year round. Select from notepads, pens, calendars and much more.Shop Now Benjamin Pollock's Toyshop The Market, Covent Garden Nearest Tube: Covent Garden Founded in the 1880s, Benjamin Pollock's Toyshop must be one of the most festive Christmas gift shops on our list. Its collection of toy theatres, shadow boxes and games serve nostalgic style without missing out on functionality. Plus, you can enjoy it all in the festive surroundings of Covent Garden.Shop Now Daunt Books Marylebone High Street, Marylebone Nearest Tube: Regent’s Park Take a trip back in time at Daunt Books’ Marylebone store and stroll through the original Edwardian building to find the perfect literary gift. With stores across London, you needn’t miss out if the Marylebone store is a little out of your way.Shop Now Native & Co. Kensington Park Rd, Notting Hill Nearest Tube: Notting Hill Gate Notting Hill-based home-ware shop Native & Co. boasts a spectacular selection of designs from Japan and Taiwan. As a champion of traditional crafts, Native & Co. the perfect places to find a unique gift. Its refined collection ranges from pared-back slippers to clay rice pots.Shop Now Circus Brixton Village, Brixton Nearest Tube: Brixton You’ll find Circus tucked away in the hustle and bustle of Brixton Village. The boutique is a colourful extravaganza of hand-picked vintage and contemporary pieces. From Picasso prints to vintage Fritz Nagel candleholders, the world is your oyster at Circus.Shop Now Kitchen Provisions Coal Drop’s Yard, King’s Cross Nearest Tube: King’s Cross Gifting white appliances is a thing of the past. This Christmas think Japanese hand-forged chef knives, bespoke gin sets and stylish leather aprons. Located in Coal Drop’s Yard, King’s Cross’ latest shopping destination, Kitchen Provisions is in good company.Shop Now

Buying Guides

Which Mattress Is Best For My Sleeping Position?

Whether you sleep on your back, stomach or side, the right mattress is essential to getting a good night’s sleep. Finding the best mattress for your sleeping position isn’t a speedy process. With thousands of different types out there, you’ll want to be sure of your decision before making a purchase. To help you decide, we’ve created a practical guide, showing which of our mattresses may be best for you. Whilst this guide represents most sleeping positions, it’s important to remember that everyone is different. So, if you suffer from difficulty sleeping or neck and back pain, we recommend seeking medical advice before purchasing. Back Sleeper Sleeping on your back is a great way to ensure your spine remains in a neutral position when sleeping. As all your weight is resting on one plane, your mattress should be especially supportive. A firm mattress, such as the Latex Pocket 3000 Mattress or the Memory Supreme Mattress, should do the trick. For added support, we recommend sleeping with a firm pillow beneath your knees to reduce tension on your lower back. Side Sleeper As the majority of adults in the UK sleep on their side, there is plenty of advice on finding the right mattresses. This sleeping position exposes more pressure points so it is better suited to medium soft mattress. Softer mattresses should provide more comfort to side sleepers by contouring to the body’s form. If you have already invested in a firmer mattress, a mattress topper will add a little softness. Top Tip: Consider your sleeping companion when choosing your mattress. If you or your partner are a restless sleeper, it might be wise to invest in a wider bed. This way you can stretch, move and turn without waking them. Stomach Sleeper A front sleeping position can lead to overarching the spine, so it’s important to choose a mattress that provides proper support. There is a fine line between a mattress so firm it restricts the natural curve of the spine and a soft mattress that offers little support. A medium firm mattress is often the right choice. For front sleepers, it is advised you visit one of our stores and try out the mattress in person. Restless Sleeper Many people don’t fall into one sleeping position category and finding a mattress to suit can be a challenge. Take time to consider which positions you sleep in most and err towards a mattress that suits them best collectively. Shop Mattresses

Buying Guides

The Perfect Christmas Gift For…

The festive period can be hectic enough without the stress of finding the perfect Christmas gift for that special someone. To make things easier, we’ve carefully curated a detailed guide to make gift buying easier. From boyfriends and girlfriends to parents and children, we have everything needed to make Christmas magical. Plus, as it’s always hard buying ‘Presents for Particular People', we’ve also created a gift edit for design lovers. Christmas Gift for Him Whether he’s your father, partner or son, it can be hard shopping for a man who has everything. We recommend erring on the side of quality rather than quantity to ensure a smile on Christmas Day. Think whisky connoisseur sets, luxurious soft furnishings and cutting-edge gadgets. For smaller budgets, culinary delights such as Cartwright & Butler biscuits or Charbonnel chocolates will always go down well. Christmas Gift for Her If you feel like you’ve exhausted traditional Christmas gifts, why not opt for something a little different? In the Heal’s edit you’ll find design objects, luxurious accessories and technology that are perfect for placing under the tree. Select from brands such as Ferm Living, Catherine Tough and Fornasetti to find a Christmas gift for your sister, mother or partner. Christmas Gift for Kids If you’re hunting for a unique Christmas gift for a stylish little one, look no further. The Heal’s collection boasts a collection of designs that are perfect for children. Select from game sets and small accessories for playful gifts. Or, if you’re working with a higher budget, opt for child-sized design classics like the Panton Junior Chair. Christmas Gift for Design Lovers Finding a gift for a design enthusiast can be a particularly troublesome task. However, there are some renowned brands that are bound to delight most design lovers. Select pieces from world-renowned designers such as Tom Dixon, Anglepoise and Vitra to master gift giving. From decorative accessories to desk lamps and prints, there’s something suit all tastes in the Heal’s collection. Secret Santa Gifts Shopping for a stocking filler or Secret Santa gift? We’ve got you covered. From sweet treats and games to alcoholic tipples, we have the finest selection of small gifts for children and adults. Discover a gift that is sure to delight colleagues, friends and family alike. Shop Christmas