Homes: TO THE TEST: Guest beds

Sunday Mirror, Dec 10, 2006 by Zena Alli

10/10 Double Premier Raised, pounds 139.99, Aerobed (0208 735 3561, www.aerobed.co.uk)

IMPRESS your guests with this very comfor table anti-roll mattress which looks and feels like a proper bed. The non- allergenic PVC mattress inflates in less than three minutes and the firmness is easily adjusted with the remote control. Easy to roll up and store in its carry bag. (188cmx137cmx61cm)

6/10 Double Adult Readybed, pounds 49.99, Argos (0870 600 2020, www.readybed.co.uk)

MAINLY designed for camping as the inf latable PVC air mattress has an integrated pillow and comes with a storage bag. Inflates in two minutes but valve didn't stop air escaping before putting the cap on. (180cmx175cm)

4/10 Double Self-Inflating Air Mattress, pounds 29.99, Argos (0870 600 20200, www.argos.co.uk)

NO good if your guest is a fussy sleeper. It was thin, didn't give much support and gave the feeling of being at sea. The PVC smell was very strong. It inflated and deflated quite rapidly with the AC 240V electric pump (included). Almost better to offer your guests the sofa. (191cmx140cm)

7/10 Single Foldaway Guest Bed, pounds 69, Muji (020 7323 2208, www.mujionline.co.uk)

MUJI is about simple products, reasonably priced - and they don't disappoint here. When folded up this makes a handy footstool or seat. Quickly transforms into a bed by removing the Velcro strap and unfolding the sections. The polyurethane foam gives good support. (189cmx67cmx27cm)

9/10 Single Instant Bed, pounds 199.95, Scotts of Stow (0870 600 4444, www.scottsofstow.co.uk)

SIMPLY unzip the wheeled storage case, plug it in and watch as the self-inflating system pumps up the mattress and guides the supporting frame into position. The mattress is PVC-backed 250- denier polyester and comes with a washable valance sheet. (193cmx131cmx50cm)

8/10 Urchin Adult Flip Bed, pounds 99, (0870 112 6006, www.urchin.co.uk)

MORE comfortable than the Muji when folded up, as it is designed like a proper chair. As a bed it 's just as supportive as Muji, but it is bigger and you could squeeze two small adults on to it. Covers are removable. (200cmx75cm)