Spring Air Mattress Review

Question: How do memory-foam mattresses differ from innerspring mattresses?

Answer: Inner-spring mattresses account for more than 90 percent of wholesale mattress sales in the United States, according to the International Sleep Products Association. They contain a network of coils or springs, clad in layers of padding. Foam mattresses have no coils, although there are several types of foam, each with a different density.

Memory foam, or viscous polyurethane foam, is a heat- sensitive, man-made material that eases pressure points. It was developed for use in space, to protect astronauts from g-forces. Foam naturally molds to your shape because of your body's weight and heat.

With earlier memory-foam mattresses, this made for an uncomfortable, overheated night. More recently, manufacturers have introduced wicking fabrics and other temperature-regulating technologies to try to eliminate such issues. Some also offer hybrid mattresses, which combine spring cores with synthetic- or natural- foam pillow tops.

The only way to determine whether you'll like a mattress is to try several types, lying on each for at least 10 minutes before buying.

Question: What is black pudding?

Answer: Also referred to as blood sausage, black pudding is sausage that's made from animal blood, as well as oatmeal, bread crumbs or another binding ingredient. Some people like it and some people don't.

Black pudding is common in England and Ireland, although other countries produce it. For example, you'll find it on many Caribbean islands, and it's popular in New Orleans, where Cajun restaurants often feature "bounding noir" (the French term for black pudding).

Question: How should I clean the bottom of my iron?

Answer: Buildup will eventually occur on the soleplate (the bottom of the iron, which heats up).

Each time you iron, fabric softeners, spray starch, detergents and other products used on fabrics may stick to the plate. This can stain fabrics and cause your iron to drag across them.

To remove this residue, first unplug the iron. Dampen a soft, clean cloth or a plastic-scouring pad designed for nonstick surfaces with warm water and mild dishwashing liquid, and gently wipe the cooled soleplate. (Never use abrasive cleaners or scrubbers.) This should take care of all but the most stubborn buildup.

Check the instruction manual. Some manufacturers recommend a hot- iron cleaner, which is available at hardware stores and any store that sells irons.

Mineral deposits and product residue can also build up inside your iron. Most new models have a steam- or self-clean setting. If yours does not, consult the instructions; the manufacturer may suggest using an iron-decaling product (found at most home-supply stores).

If you have hard water or find that your iron needs frequent cleaning, try bottled distilled water instead of tap when you use the steam function. You may see improvement after a few uses. Also, consider buying an iron with a water filter.

Question: My wooden dining room chairs have protective pads on the bottom of the legs. What's the best way to get rid of the dust that accumulates around the felt?

Answer: Tilt the chair on its side, and then use a well-wrung damp cloth to wipe around each pad.

To prevent dust from collecting in the first place, pull the chairs out from the table when you vacuum. Never vacuum around or through the legs; this approach isn't efficient, and any lingering dirt is sure to stick to the felt.