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Tom's Guide
01-06-2025
- Health
- Tom's Guide
Bed bugs have ruined our sleep for 60,000 years, new research reveals — 5 ways to keep them out of your mattress
Sleep is the great unifier and while our ancient ancestors didn't have to worry about excess screen time and bed rot, we do have at least one sleep disruptor in common: bed bugs. New research suggests that bed bugs are the earliest human pests, following us out of the caves roughly 60,000 years ago and booming as our population expanded into cities. And we haven't been able to shake them since. Researchers from Virginia Tech have been tracing the history of bed bugs back to a subset of the species detaching itself from bats and choosing humanity as their favorite food source. While the Last Glacial Maximum around 20,000 years ago (the ice age) saw a decline in the general bed bug population, the human-associated bed bugs bounced back. Sadly — or, perhaps, happily — the bat-following bed bugs haven't fared quite so well. And it turns out our oldest pests have weathered a lot to continue bothering us, thriving as we established cities, rejoicing as the population expanded and even surviving the emergence of powerful pesticides. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. So is there anything we can do to actually get rid of bed bugs? On a global scale, it seems unlikely. They're incredibly hardy and we clearly taste incredible. In your own home? That's a different story and if the past 60,000 years have been good for anything it's developing new, effective ways to remove bed bugs. The best mattresses you can buy online are undoubtedly better for your sleep than a Neanderthal bed (cavemen didn't even have Phase Change Material) but they are still vulnerable to bed bugs. However, with these tips you can keep bed bugs from infesting your mattress. One of the most effective ways to get rid of bed bugs at home is with a hot wash — bed bugs are not a fan of excessive high temperatures. We recommend washing your bedding once a week to prevent stains and this regular cleaning schedule can also prevent an outbreak of bed bugs before it gets started. Use a 140°F wash for a minimum of 90 minutes and follow up with either a hot dry cycle or a few hours in direct sunlight to eradicate bed bugs and their eggs. And when your sheets are drying, leave your mattress bare to allow it to breathe. This air flow helps trapped moisture dissipate and clears the enticing scent of you that attracts bed bugs to your mattress. Bed bugs are consummate hiders: they're tiny, fast and love the dark. That means the seams and crevices of your mattress are perfect bed bug homes. But the piles of laundry lying around your bed are equally attractive hideouts. If you want to limit the areas for bed bugs to lurk, keep the space around your bed clean. Just think, if Grug had only tidied his mammoth skin tunic away, we might not have to think about bed bugs at all... It's a common misconception that bed bugs are attracted to mess. They're just as happy in a clean mattress as a dirty one. However, keeping your bed clean does help you avoid bed bugs. Vacuuming your mattress can remove visible bed bugs as well as other pests and allergens that might be lurking in your bed. A thorough vacuum also presents an opportunity to check for bed bugs. As mentioned, they're exceptionally good at hiding which means you might not be aware of a problem until it's a full blown infestation. So when vacuuming keep an eye out for common signs of bed bugs, such as red or brown stains, eggs or discarded shell cases in the seams. Bed bugs have followed humans as we've spread across the globe — they're one of our most reliable travel companions. If you've been subject to a bed bug outbreak at home, there's a good chance they're an unwelcome souvenir from a trip away. You can avoid bringing bed bugs home with you by being alert, checking new beds for signs of pests and washing your clothing as soon as you get home. Research suggests that the creation of chemical pest control DDT (dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane) contributed to a massive crash in bed bug population but it quickly bounced back (...yay.) However, there are chemical bed bug killers such as CrossFire that have proved effective at eradicating an outbreak, while diatomaceous earth is commonly used as pest control. Other preventative tools such as bed bug glue traps can help you stop bed bugs as they make their way to your mattress. But for a serious infestation, it might be time to call in the professionals. Otherwise, here's to another 60,000 years hand in hand with bed bugs.
Tom's Guide
21-05-2025
- Business
- Tom's Guide
This luxury cooling mattress from Brooklyn Bedding helped me sleep cool during a heatwave — and it's back down to its lowest price in the Memorial Day sales
The Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex collection is designed to bring hot sleepers cooling relief, and a taste of luxury, at a more affordable price to other luxury mattresses. (Think just under $1,000 for a queen, rather than $1,500-plus.) The flagship model in the range has just returned to its lowest price ever: with 30% off for Memorial Day, you can now get a queen CopperFlex Pro Hybrid for $932.40 (was $1,332) at Brooklyn Bedding. That's over $60 cheaper than its usual sale price in the Memorial Day mattress sales. I'm a huge big fan of this copper-infused mattress. I gave it 4.5 out of 5 stars in my Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Pro Hybrid mattress review: it's built with high-quality materials and supports most sleep styles well. And it's the new kid in our best cooling mattress guide, taking the spot for best cooling mattress under $1,000. (The bigger king size does cost just over $1,000, but the queen size and smaller are less than a grand.) Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Pro Hybrid mattress: twin from $932 now $652.40 at Brooklyn BeddingI slept on this mattress for over a month and I'm confident in saying it's a great option for hot sleepers — even more so now that it's back to its lowest price ever for Memorial Day. Packed with cooling technology like a cool-to-touch Phase Change Material (PCM) cover, copper foams and 760 individually encased coils, this breathable mattress helps you regulate your body temperature through the night by absorbing excess heat. For Memorial Day, the Brooklyn Bedding mattress sale has reached its peak, knocking 30% off everything on the site. This cuts a queen size to $932.40 (was $1,332), which is over $60 cheaper than its usual sale price and outstanding value for a quality cooling mattress. I slept on a full size 14-inch CopperFlex Pro Hybrid, which costs $839.30 in the Memorial Day sales (full price is $1,199, although it's always sold with some sort of discount) and I recommend it to hot sleepers, combination sleepers and anyone who sleeps on their side. All the options in our best mattress 2025 guide are built with reliable materials that are designed to help you get quality sleep. But few mid-range hybrids cost under $1,000 for a queen size. That's great value in itself, and it makes the Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Pro stand out as one of the best hybrid mattresses you can buy. Like its rivals, it comes with free shipping, plus a 120-night sleep trial and lifetime warranty.
Tom's Guide
08-05-2025
- Health
- Tom's Guide
What are Phase Change Material and GlacioTex cooling mattress fabrics and how do they work?
You're most likely to come across Phase Change Material (PCM) and GlacioTex when you're shopping for a cooling mattress, and in some instances luxury cooling bedding, toppers and pillows. On the surface both PCM and GlacioTex serve the same purpose: to keep you at an ideal temperature while you sleep by wicking away excess heat. But when you dig into the science behind these cooling material technologies, there are some differences that could affect your quality of sleep. Here's what you need to know about PCM vs GlacioTex, how each works, and what their benefits and drawbacks are for different types of sleeper. Phase Change Material (PCM) is a substance that helps regulate your sleep temperature by acting as an in-bed heat reservoir. In mattresses, PCM tends to be in wax or gel form. The particles are coated with a protective shell and embedded in foams and fabrics without leaking. PCM adsorbs and releases heat as its particles change from a solid to a liquid state. When the particles change from solid to liquid, they absorb heat and then they solidify when this stored heat is released. PCMs are often embedded in comfort foams or woven into mattress covers. These materials can be found in many of our top-rated cooling mattresses including the Bear Elite Hybrid mattress, the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe mattress, and the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Breeze mattress. PCM is a versatile material that can be incorporated into various components including foam layers and fabric covers without major manufacturing hassle. These materials offer active temperature balancing as they adjust state according to your body temperature changes through the night. This means they can both absorb heat (drawing it away from the body) and release heat (warming up the body). A study assessing mattresses with PCM using a thermal and perception test showed mattresses composed of PCMs better facilitate human heat dissipation and result in a cooler perception and greater thermal comfort compared to conventional mattresses after 20 minutes of use. A downfall of this material is it has a limited heat-absorbing capacity. This means, once it is fully liquefied, it cannot absorb excess heat, reducing its cooling effect. While there is some scientific data backing PCM in mattresses, as referenced above, research is limited at this point. ✅ Your body temperature fluctuates through the night: PCMs offer dynamic temperature regulation, meaning they actively adsorb and release heat to maintain a neutral sleeping temperature, which is useful for people who sleep hot or cold at different points of the night. ✅ You want dynamic climate control without tech: Temperature regulating smart beds digitally heat up and cool down, whereas PCM regulate temperature naturally, meaning you can keep your sleep space phone and subscription-free. ✅ You like a cushioning sleep surface: PCM are usually used in foams, adding pressure relief and cushioning for those with achy joints or side sleepers with a lighter built. GlacioTex is a fabric made of fibers with high thermal conductivity that quickly and effectively pull heat away from your body while you sleep, keeping you and your sleep surface cool through the night. These fibers are also hypoallergenic and waterproof, providing a stain and bug-resistant barrier over your mattress. Some of our favorite best mattresses of the year come with GlacioTex covers. These include the new-and-improved Helix Elite mattress collection and the Brooklyn Bedding CopperFlex Pro Hybrid mattress. GlacioTex has a lot going for it. It's designed to be cool to touch and hypoallergenic while adding pressure relief to mattresses. When woven into mattress covers, GlacioTex provides a cool sleep surface, helping your body temperature drop in line with your circadian rhythm when you get into bed. Thanks to its protective nature and contribution to pressure relief, you'll come across GlacioTex in top-rated mattress protectors and mattress toppers too as it repels allergens and makes your bed softer, providing more cushioning on joints. A commonly reported drawback of GlacioTex mattress covers is the fact they can have a slippery texture causing a fitted sheet to shift or pop off when you sleep on it, which can be irritating through the night disrupting quality sleep. GlacioTex covers don't tend to be removeable. Even though they provide a waterproof, hypoallergenic barrier, they cannot be removed and put through the washing machine. This means they lack points in terms of mattress cleaning practicality. While GlacioTex toppers offer a cooling sensation, they may not be firm enough for all sleeping positions. Some users who prefer a firmer mattress might find them too soft ✅ You're a seriously hot sleeper: GlacioTex continues to absorb heat through the night without a limit, which is better than PCM for significantly hot sleepers who struggle with night sweats. ✅ You suffer with allergies: GlacioTex covers add an allergen-repellent protective layer to your mattress which is particularly useful if you find yourself sneezing and coughing through the night. ✅ You bedshare with little ones: GlacioTex covers offer waterproof protection and spills and stains. Both PCM and GlacioTex are effective at wicking away heat at night. However, each has its own strengths. GlacioTex is arguably more effective for super hot sleepers as there is no limit to how much heat it can draw away from the body. Meanwhile, PCM is better suited to those whose temperature fluctuates as it can absorb heat, hold it and release it back to the body once cooled down. This helps you maintain a good temperature for sleeping which experts say lies between 65 to 70 F (18 to 21 °C). Either way, PCM and GlacioTex can't do all the heat balancing alone. You'll want to make sure they are paired with other cooling technologies and breathable, moisture-wicking materials like wool, individually-wrapped coils and copper-infused foam to help you sleep comfortably.
Yahoo
04-03-2025
- Yahoo
Transforming Rescue Operations High and Low: Dräger Unveils the ProAir
The Latest Long-Duration Closed-Circuit Breathing Apparatus for First Responders in High-Rise Buildings, Tunnels, and Subways Closed-circuit Breathing Apparatus CO2 Scrubbing Technology Prolonged Breathing Comfort for About Four Hours Customizable Cooling Options HOUSTON, March 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Dräger, a global leader in first responder technology, proudly introduces the NIOSH-approved ProAir, an innovative closed-circuit breathing apparatus (CCBA) delivering continuous oxygen supply for up to four hours. With over a century of expertise in breathing apparatus technology, Dräger designed the ProAir to help transform first responder respiratory safety in hazardous environments, including rescue operations in high-rise structures and underground spaces like tunnels and subways. "When an emergency happens, first responders need the right equipment for saving lives. The ProAir provides safe, breathable air, allowing a responder to spend more time focused on mission-critical efforts than worrying about the right amount of air left. It furthers Dräger's commitment to keeping rescuers safe and being able to do their job effectively," said Paul Tarter, Dräger Fire Specialist and Texas Firefighter. A Leap Forward in First Responder SafetyFirst responders face evolving urban landscapes with taller buildings and complex structures above and below ground. A breathing apparatus becomes a crucial support for life-saving efforts, but traditional self-contained breathing apparatuses (SCBA) provide a limited amount of breathable air dependent on the size of the cylinders. When every second matters, the need for an extended-duration solution becomes clear—ensuring responders have the time necessary to complete their mission without the constant concern of returning to refill their air supply. The ProAir bridges a vital gap by providing first responders with up to four hours of breathable oxygen, complementing traditional SCBA systems without replacing them. It extends operational time for rescues in hazardous and complex environments such as high-rise buildings, subways, and tunnels, ensuring responders have the additional time needed to manage challenging situations in urban settings. The ProAir is also suited for prolonged emergency operations where personnel must work in areas with hazardous pollutants for extended periods. Innovative Scrubbing and Cooling TechnologyThe ProAir incorporates a proprietary carbon dioxide scrubber embedded in a positive pressure breathing circuit, helping to prevent hazardous substances from entering while distributing safe breathing air. This technology efficiently removes carbon dioxide and enriches the air with oxygen, removing the reliance on bulky air cylinders. The new RFID chip on the canister enables the ProAir to track soda lime life. Expanding its versatility, the ProAir introduces two advanced cooling options: the Ice Cooler with durable ice packs and the groundbreaking Phase Change Material (PCM) system, making its debut in North America. The Ice Cooler offers an improved user experience containing the melted water inside the pack. Meanwhile, the PCM system utilizes paraffin wax sheets that require no freezing, offering enhanced readiness and reliability, marking a significant advancement in first responder CCBA technology. Tackling Extreme HeightsHigh-rise buildings present unique challenges, with more than 1,110 skyscrapers exceeding 490 feet across the United States [1]. In any structure of five stories or more, first responders often face the demanding task of climbing stairs during rescues. The ProAir extends their oxygen supply, providing the critical time needed for high-rise operations. With 1.4 million multi-unit housing completions recorded in 2024, the demand for long duration breathing solutions continues to grow [2]. Conquering Tunnel and Subway ChallengesUnderground environments, such as tunnels and subways, present significant challenges, including low visibility, poor air quality, limited access points, and complex layouts. Spanning over 1,000 miles, the U.S. subway system—along with additional commercial train tunnels and underground roadways—requires advanced respiratory solutions for those undertaking rescue operations [3]. With over a century of expertise in mining safety, Dräger engineered the ProAir to deliver extended air supply, allowing emergency personnel to operate effectively in hazardous underground conditions and execute rescues with about four hours of protection. Innovative Features for Enhanced Performance: Withstands Flames: The ProAir endures direct exposure to flames up to 1,742°F, meeting the highest safety and performance standards. Boosts Visibility: Enhances team awareness with Buddy Lights displaying cylinder pressure. Handles Extremes: Built to resist high temperatures, dust, debris, and sparks while ensuring agility with advanced ergonomic relief. Simplifies Maintenance: Easy, tool-free disassembly and servicing of the CCBA. Delivers Instant Updates: View critical supply status and alerts—such as cylinder pressure and time to whistle—on the palm-sized Electronic Control Unit (ECU). Enhances Communication: Stay connected with integrated radio features and voice amplification for clear communication in challenging environments. Tracks Usage: Leverage the built-in RFID chip to monitor soda lime life and streamline maintenance. To acquire the ProAir, U.S. fire departments serving towns with tall buildings, tunnels, or subways can apply for federal government funds through the annual Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program. This grant provides financial assistance to enhance the safety and effectiveness of first responders. For more information, please visit the Dräger BG ProAir webpage. You can find more information and pictures in our press center: References: Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat. (2024). Countries. The Skyscraper Center. U.S. Census Bureau. (2024). Monthly new residential construction, May 2024 (Report No. CB24-101). U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Federal Transit Administration. (2024). National Transit Database: Single summary transit report. U.S. Department of Transportation. Dräger. Technology for Life®Dräger is an international leader in the fields of medical and safety technology. Our products protect, support, and save lives. Founded in 1889, Dräger generated revenues of around EUR 3 billion in 2022. The Dräger Group is currently present in over 190 countries and has more than 16,000 employees worldwide. For more information, visit Note: Not all of the products named in this press release are available worldwide. Equipment packages can vary from country to country. We reserve the right to make changes to products. Up-to-date information is available on the Dräger website of your country or from your Dräger representative. ContactCommunications: Melanie Kamann, Tel. +49 451 882-3202, Contact North America: Melissa Ray, Tel. + 1 817 776 2155, Relations: Thomas Fischler, Tel. +49 451 882-2685, View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Draeger Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
04-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Dräger Unveils ProAir: Next-Gen Respiratory Protection for Government Operations
Advanced, Four-Hour Breathing Apparatus for Federal Government Operations in Extreme Conditions Closed-circuit breathing Apparatus CO2 Scrubbing Technology Prolonged Breathing Comfort Customizable Cooling Options HOUSTON, March 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Dräger, a global leader in safety technology, proudly unveils the NIOSH-certified ProAir, an advanced closed-circuit breathing apparatus (CCBA) designed to provide a continuous oxygen supply for up to four hours. Leveraging over a century of expertise in breathing apparatus technology, this innovative solution is set to transform Federal Government operations in hazardous environments, including below-deck ship incidents, confined spaces, subterranean operations, and HAZMAT operations. The ProAir can enhance operational readiness for federal agencies, including the armed forces, law enforcement, emergency responders, and environmental protection agencies. By providing an uninterrupted oxygen supply, the ProAir enables personnel to focus on high-risk situations, such as search and rescue missions, decontamination efforts, and HAZMAT response, alongside other critical tasks. David Warnacut, U.S. Marine and Dräger Product Manager, states, "In high-stakes operations, having dependable and effective equipment is essential. The ProAir provides access to safe, breathable oxygen for extended periods across various operations. This enduring commitment underscores Dräger's dedication to enhancing the safety and effectiveness of our Federal agents and armed forces in the field." Adding Time to Critical MissionsThe ProAir represents a significant advancement in personal safety gear, providing extended respiratory protection under some of the most challenging conditions. Designed to complement traditional SCBAs, the ProAir maximizes operational capabilities by eliminating the need for frequent cylinder changes during prolonged engagements. This additional time helps federal personnel to consolidate focus, complete intricate tasks without interruption, confidently navigate lengthy routes, and handle emergencies without worrying about the clock. By maximizing crucial operational time, the ProAir helps federal teams carry out their missions, increasing the safety and efficiency of high-stakes scenarios. Innovative Scrubbing and Cooling Technology The ProAir incorporates a proprietary carbon dioxide scrubber embedded in a positive pressure breathing circuit. This technology efficiently removes carbon dioxide and enriches the air with oxygen, removing the reliance on bulky air cylinders. The new RFID chip on the canister enables the ProAir to track the soda lime's life. Expanding its versatility, the ProAir introduces two advanced cooling options: the Ice Cooler with durable ice packs and the groundbreaking Phase Change Material (PCM) system, making its debut in North America. The Ice Cooler offers an improved user experience by containing the melted water inside the ice pack. Meanwhile, the PCM system utilizes paraffin wax sheets that require no freezing, offering enhanced readiness and reliability, marking a significant advancement in CCBA technology. Securing the Lower Decks The ProAir extends operational time for responders handling below-deck emergencies, where rapid response and sustained action are critical. Its advanced air management system helps service members handle long and hazardous tasks effectively, reducing risks from exposure to smoke and harmful fumes. This is crucial for maintaining crew safety and readiness during a maritime crisis, giving additional time to address hazards and navigate complex below-deck configurations. Confined Space and Sub-T OperationsThe ProAir excels in subterranean (Sub-T) environments, where confined spaces and hazardous air conditions can pose significant risks. This solution helps personnel breathe safely and in underground facilities, tunnels, and passageways, allowing teams to execute intricate maneuvers, navigate treacherous terrains, and respond to emergencies confidently. Its robust, extended air supply minimizes the need for frequent cylinder changes, offering continuous protection. HAZMAT ResilienceThe ProAir is purpose-built to help counter HAZMAT threats, providing critical breathing protection during attacks, rescue missions, decontamination, and containment operations. Unlike traditional SCBAs that are limited to 45-60 minutes, the ProAir extends operational time with up to four hours of breathable air, reducing cylinder changeovers and minimizing downtime. This added capacity allows responders to remain in hazardous environments for extended periods, supporting sustained containment, decontamination, and cleanup efforts while improving overall operational efficiency. Innovative Features for Enhanced Performance: Withstands Flames: The ProAir endures direct exposure to flames up to 1,742°F, meeting the highest safety and performance standards. Boosts Visibility: Enhances team awareness with Buddy Lights displaying cylinder pressure. Handles Extremes: Built to resist high temperatures, dust, debris, and sparks while ensuring agility with advanced ergonomic relief. Simplifies Maintenance: Easy, tool-free disassembly and servicing of the CCBA. Delivers Instant Updates: View critical supply status and alerts—such as cylinder pressure and time to whistle—on the palm-sized Electronic Control Unit (ECU). Enhances Communication: Stay connected with integrated radio features and voice amplification for clear communication in challenging environments. Tracks Usage: Leverage the built-in RFID chip to monitor soda lime life and streamline maintenance. For more information, please visit the Dräger BG ProAir webpage. You can find more information and pictures in our press center: Dräger. Technology for Life® Dräger is an international leader in the fields of medical and safety technology. Our products protect, support, and save lives. Founded in 1889, Dräger generated revenues of around EUR 3 billion in 2022. The Dräger Group is currently present in over 190 countries and has more than 16,000 employees worldwide. For more information, visit Note: Not all of the products named in this press release are available worldwide. Equipment packages can vary from country to country. We reserve the right to make changes to products. Up-to-date information is available on the Dräger website of your country or from your Dräger representative. ContactCommunications: Melanie Kamann, Tel. +49 451 882-3202, Contact North America: Melissa Ray, Tel. +1 817 964 8640, Relations: Thomas Fischler, Tel. +49 451 882-2685, View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Draeger Sign in to access your portfolio
