Lamborghini bed? Lavender mattress? There’s more....
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The once recession-proof bedding industry has been forced to reevaluate itself. The International Sleep Products Assn., which measures sales of leading manufacturers, said 2008 was ‘the worst year in the modern history of the mattress industry.’ So far, 2009 hasn’t been better. First-quarter sales were down 17% compared with the year before, and mattress companies are counting on creativity and innovation to save them.
When the Las Vegas Furniture Market opens to interior designers and store buyers Sept. 14, bedding manufacturers will be hawking a slew of unusual features. Among the offerings (with photos after the jump): a temperature-regulating and anti-sweat bed, updates to the old futon and, last but certainly not least, a Lamborghini bed. Above, the aromatherapy Lavender Comfort mattress by Magniflex (queen size $1,899) promises to release calming scent while you sleep. Who knew the bland old mattress had so many possibilities?
Above: Vroom! Vroom! Anyone for a Lamborghini bed? This design by Magniflex is directed to the guy who likes his automobiles and his beds fast, I guess. You get the logo, the color and the name -- if not the car. (Queen-size mattress, $1,999.)
Above: A real hottie in bed? This 3-D bed by Hollandia International regulates temperature and reduces sweat, the manufacturer says. The fabric’s raised fibers allow air to circulate better, keeping you cooler -- or so the pitch goes.
Made from recycled wool, it’s also touted as eco-friendly. Better yet, the cover is machine washable. (Queen-size mattress, $2,000.)
Right: The futon has returned in many forms. The version pictured here is promoted as lighter, plusher and more durable.
Gold Bond Mattress’ FeatherTouch queen-size futon weighs in at a sleek 45 pounds as opposed to the 90 to 100 pounds of former incarnations. (Queen size, $299.)
-- Barbara Thornburg