Sleeping Without a Headboard - The Trusty Hammock!

Thanks to film and television references the hammock has become firmly synonymous with the idea of summer, relaxation and all round lazy living. In terms of their portability they are beaten only by the sleeping bag, but they are also many times more comfortable. They also require no headboard or frame; all you need is a hammock and two trees.

Some of the first ever hammocks were used by Native Americans as a makeshift sleeping solution in the outdoors. Later they became a regular feature of naval vessels, offering a comfortable and compact sleeping arrangement for sailors regardless of how stormy the seas. Modern hammocks are now available in many styles, each with their own advantages and disadvantages and offering varying levels of practicality, aesthetic pleasure and comfort.

Hammocks are not really made to be a permanent sleeping arrangement, although in-door options are available. They are more often used for recreational use, such as sun bathing and reading. They can also be a little difficult to get used to. The swaying motion of the hammock can be disorienting for the first time user, but, given time, anyone can get used to the feel of a hammock.

Although falling out of a hammock is a notion that The Simpsons regularly pokes fun at, falling out of a hammock in reality can be very painful and happens more often than realized. For this reason you should always be responsible when using a hammock and make sure that children are supervised at all times. It is also important to make sure the hammock is installed correctly and all security instructions obeyed.

Price also makes a difference and a high quality hammock is likely to be more durable, stable and user-friendly than a cheaper variety. There is also no substitute for actually trying a hammock out before you buy as, just like a regular bed or headboard, a hammock needs to cater for the individual size and shape of your body.

The material, purpose and construction of a hammock can vary significantly depending on the type and style purchased, so it is worth being familiar with at least a few of them.

Some of the most recognizable hammocks are spreader-bar, which uses wooden or metal bars for easy setup, particularly in back yards that have no trees from which to suspend the hammock. However, this style is generally considered less stable and more uncomfortable for sleeping.

Mayan and Nicaraguan hammocks are constructed from interwoven pieces of cotton or nylon to form a supportive net. Mayan weaves are looser and the amount of support offered depends on the number of strings and quality of the weave.

Brazilian hammocks are by far the most durable, but the quality and comfort vary dramatically from manufacturer to manufacturer. Naval hammocks are formed from a strong cotton canvas and were designed specifically for shipboard use, so are generally quite durable as well.

Finally, travel or camping hammocks are a popular choice for campers who want to minimize their impact on the environment. They are very light weight and compact for easy transportation and use.

Remember, this summer is expected to be very hot, so whether or not you have a hammock, make sure the temperature in your bedroom is suitably regulated and your nights made as comfortable as possible with a brand new mattress and headboards.