When the hour strikes and a new bed is in the cards, it's not a good thing to delay. Other than the truly overworked, the bed is the place where we will spend the majority of our lives, so we should take the matter seriously. Disrupting your sleep habits will have a negative impact on your work and social life. Likewise, if you have been putting off the purchase of a bed to replace your no-longer viable old standby, get moving. Here are the five things to consider when you want to make the most of your solemn chambers:



1. Location. As with all real estate, this factor is huge. You don't have to get involved in feng shui or hire a guru, just imagine where in your room your bed will be most appealing. Leave an unobstructed view of the windows, so you can wake up to the sights and sounds of nature. Also, keeping your bed as far away as possible from the door will keep external noises away. Your bed is your sanctuary; make its space holy ground.

2. Size. If you are moving in with a spouse for the first time, try and come to terms on the size of the bed. Remember that arms and limbs are not insignificant. Although you may feel a little silly doing it, try out your bed in the furniture store. Stretch out and see how it feels. Don't think too big, however: you don't want to sacrifice intimacy while feeling like a king and queen.

3. The mattress. Perhaps no other piece of home furniture has such a big impact on your life as your bed's mattress. Go through all the options: it's worth it. Pillow-top and double-pillow top are extremely luxurious, but will they give you enough support? If you prefer a great deal of support, look into the micro-fiber materials that marry amazing comfort with form-holding resistance. Remember, the box spring or mattress foundation is the final point of shock absorption, so consider it a vital organ in your bed's system.

4. The frame. Finding the right frame will have a lot to do with the size and layout of your room. Remember that elaborate, antique frames will require a good deal of maintenance. Should you take on this chore with such a piece? Also, if your bed frame consists of metal materials, it may require polishing, or re-staining in the case of wooden frames. There is no point in worrying about maintenance if you absolutely are smitten with your bed; like a musician caring for a prized guitar, it will be a labor of love.

5. Design and aesthetic appeal. Remember that you will not only be sleeping in it, you will be seeing it multiple times every day. Be comfortable with the style and look of your bed, from the frame and bulk of it to the way it looks getting splashed with sunlight. Find a way to have it fit into your overall design. Bed linens and pillows play an important roles in this process, so craft a harmonious color scheme.