Categories
Environment Miscellaneous Renewable Energy

We Generate our Own Renewable Energy

We had fun making this video and thought we’d start with a quick peek at our renewable energy system. The problem with the video is the footage we took is from “Phase One” – about one year ago….

You may notice when we show the solar roof panels there are only a few panels.  Now we have over fifty full size panels running side-by-side on almost the entire length of our roof building. Plus two wind turbines in our parking lot.

Our factory, offices, warehouse and retail showroom are energy-efficient meaning we don’t use any traditional incandescent light bulbs. We maintain a moderate yet comfortable temperature with our geo-thermal system.  Small on-demand tanks provide instant hot water.  We only use energy-efficient appliances, like our Vestfrost refrigerator – same goes for our washing and drying machines.

It’s critical that you reduce your energy consumption with more modern and efficient means before you attempt to generate your own energy!

We’re a business… and for that reason our electricity is “tied-in” to the grid. If for some unforeseen reason our system should have maintenance problems, our back-up would be conventional electricity. What’s really great is our meter goes backwards once we shut down for the day and power down our machines, lights, computers, etc. That’s when WE get to MAKE the power that we’re NOT using and send it back to the electric company. Cool, huh?

Since we’re “tied-in” we have to “pay” for the privilege of being a “customer” in both fees and taxes. Believe it or not, the customer fees and taxes cost more than the fuel that we use. When we have to use the heat or air conditioning, our energy fuel costs average an additional 10 KW  a month (we produce approx 6,000 KWH per month).

Keep in mind this is for a 7500 sq ft manufacturing factory plus our offices and storefront. What could be better than using 10 KW in the winter? How about this:  Moderate spring-time weather is ZERO $$ – ZERO KW.

That may be why, according to the US Department of Energy, our factory can be considered a “Zero-Energy Building“.

The US Department of Energy defines a zero-energy building as “a residential or commercial building with greatly reduced energy needs through efficiency gains such that the balance of energy needs can be supplied with renewable technologies.”

If we weren’t so busy designing and producing new organic bedding, we’d have time to showcase our renewable energy system a little more to you. It’s something we really love and believe in and it’s something that makes us come fully “true-circle” in our mission of “green bedding” made entirely with our own “green-energy”.

We promise to post more on our solar panels and wind turbines before the year is up! Until then… sleep well.


Cheryl Hahn is the President and Founder of Organic Comfort Zone, manufacturers of CozyPure® organic mattresses and bedding and Tomorrow’s World, one of America’s first green-living stores.

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Categories
Eco-Tips Green Living Miscellaneous

Countdown to Earth Day: Reduce Electricity

There are lots of ways we can reduce our electricity. Here’s a list of just a few easy steps to take in your everyday lifestyle:

  • USAGE. If you’re not using it, turn it off. Pretty easy!
  • LIGHTBULBS. If you haven’t “switched” to Compact Fluorescents then put this on your list. Not only do they reduce wattage dramatically, they also don’t need replacing as often so perfect for hard to reach places!
  • APPLIANCES. When you need to upgrade your appliances be sure to choose newer models that are energy efficient. The savings in electricity will quickly compensate any additional upfront costs for the purchase.
  • HVAC. Take advantage of the rebates and loans available through many state programs to upgrade your HVAC system. Newer units will save you on your monthly utility bill plus the added incentive of refunds makes this a no-brainer. If you want the very best in efficiency, consider geo-thermal. Remember you’re making an investment, so think long-term and ROI regarding the costs involved.
  • TEMPERATURE. Invest in a programmable thermostat and don’t set your temperature higher than you need. Also change or clean your HVAC filter at least once a month. And don’t forget to vacuum vents too.
  • HOT WATER. Take showers instead of baths. Don’t run the dishwasher for only a few dishes. Wrap your hot water tank with insulation or better yet replace that dinosaur with an on-demand hot water heater. Did we mention low-flow showerheads?

Now if you’re really really serious about claiming your energy independence, you should install solar panels and/or wind turbines which will greatly offset your electricity use –see photo below showing our utility bill to run our offices and factory.

But remember – you must make the simple changes before you generate you own power. If you’re not energy-efficient you would need an entire solar panel just to light one regular incandescent lightbulb. It’s about small steps. Start with the every day basic tips and you’ll find it gets easier and easier to take larger strides towards living green and saving money too!

Our solar panels and wind turbines were installed by our sister-company Sunrise Solar and Wind.
To purchase green-living products, visit our websites at Tomorrow’s World and CozyPure®.


Cheryl Hahn is the President and Founder of Organic Comfort Zone, manufacturers of CozyPure® organic mattresses and bedding and Tomorrow’s World, one of America’s first green-living stores.


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Categories
Environment Miscellaneous

Blissful Ignorance

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I had this crazy dream….

It was a warm day. Overcast and shady. I was swimming in a long canal. Very relaxed, serene and peaceful. I was unaware of anything except feeling free while I effortlessly enjoyed the water. It truly was magnificent.

Suddenly, the clouds departed and the sun shone brightly.

Down into the depths of the water I was seeing things I didn’t see before.

Broken bottles with sharp edges, ragged aluminum cans, dirty needles, unidentifiable slimy creatures and an assortment of other filthy debris floating all around me in every direction.

I panicked in the realization of this disgusting waste drifting around next to me, under me, smothering me. Fearful of the harm it would cause me. Cutting me open, skin bleeding, open wounds infected.

Now that I could truly see, now that it affected me, I was scared… All I wanted to do was get the hell out of the water.

In desperation, I frantically tried to find the water’s edge so I could climb out…

When I finally reached the safety of the ground, I couldn’t help realize a thought:  “Is ignorance indeed bliss?”


Cheryl Hahn is the President and Founder of Organic Comfort Zone, manufacturers of CozyPure® organic mattresses and bedding and Tomorrow’s World, one of America’s first green-living stores.


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Categories
Green Living Healthy Lifestyles Miscellaneous Natural Bedroom Natural Home

Is It Safe to Bring Bedding From Home to Hotels?

With hotel bedbug plagues making the news, people who travel often for business or pleasure have been forced to take extra caution when unpacking in rooms and at home. The notion that bedbugs only stay in bed is a myth, for it’s strongly recommended to take luggage directly to a safe place after your trip and make sure all clothes and the luggage are sanitized. That said, it’s not uncommon for people to bring their own bedding on trips. Is that safe to do?

Why bring your own pillow and blanket to a hotel? Certainly there is no shortage where you are staying, and major chains make no secret of how they work to bring guests quality sheets and pillows. For some of us, however, there are important reasons why it’s necessary:

  • There are health issues. If one suffers from orthopedic problems and has a pillow for better sleep support, it’s sometimes better just to bring that along.
  • Sometimes, a familiar pillow or blanket offers the comfort of home one doesn’t usually find in a hotel. Especially for small children who might have anxieties about leaving home, it is not unusual to take along a blanket or stuffed animal, or even a pillow with their favorite cartoon character on the case.

So we have explored the why’s, now let’s think about the what if’s. What if your home bedding should become infested with bedbugs while you are away. There is the risk, even in highest quality hotels. As with any other infestation, you want to deal with the issues quickly so there is no chance of bringing the critters to bed with you once you’re back from vacation.

It is important to note that whatever you bring home from your stay – pillows, blankets, coats, and clothing – should not be taken directly to your room on your return. If you have a garage, clear some space and unload everything there. What can be washed, bag in plastic and take to your laundry room immediately. With pillows that cannot be washed, you may wish to consider placing them in plastic and leaving in a sunny location for a few days. Bedbugs are known not to survive in extreme temperatures. After a few days, clean as you normally would.

If you are concerned about bugs when you travel, you may want to consider leaving the comforts at home where they are safe. An investment in a travel support pillow can help, just make sure you observe the same cleaning practices when you come home. It never hurts to be cautious, especially with the risk of home infestation.

Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on organic pillows and organic mattresses.

Categories
Green Living Healthy Lifestyles Miscellaneous

Should You Order a Mattress From an Online Store?

When it comes to good sleeping habits, owning the perfect mattress for your bed is critical. When it is time to buy a new bed set, your first instinct is naturally to head out to the nearest department store and test out a few mattresses to see how well they suit your body. While this is a good indication of what you can expect in a new bed, it may not necessarily mean that buying a mattress direct is the best deal.

That’s right, you can purchase bedding online just as you can with pretty much anything else under the sun. Depending on where you shop, your package will come delivered within days so you can sleep well at night.

Are there advantages to shopping online for a new bed? If you live in a remote area, you may find purchasing via the Internet is just as cost effective, if not more, than driving to a store. Buying direct from a manufacturer, too, may afford you a discounted price than if you go through a retailer. You may find some places offer perks like free shipping or free pillows to accompany your order if you buy at a certain date.

If you are not interested in endless financing, you will find online stores will accept one-time payments for your purchases. Consequently, if you are in need of alternative payment options, a reputable store will make them available to you.

Consider, too, you can test a mattress in a store, then check online for a comparable, cheaper model or price. Online bedding stores also offer models you may not find locally.

There are a number of advantages to buying your bed online, but ultimately you must determine for yourself which is best for you and your sleeping habits.

Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on organic mattresses and organic pillows.

Categories
Made in the USA Miscellaneous

What Part Do You Play in the American Economy?

flag.jpgWe all agree that the state of the American economy is not good – but really who is at fault? The Government? The War? Or could it be that a large part of the blame should be placed right in the hands of the American citizens?

Consider for a few minutes your purchases over the past couple of years – all of your purchases; from laundry detergent to appliances and automobiles. How many, (if any), were American made? My guess is if you are like most Americans; not many.

With the slightest bit of logic, it’s easy to predict and conclude the economic outlook and if you squint your eyes, you can see who is making the large profits; the folks at the top of companies that import cheap foreign products.

Granted, at one time or another, we have all bought into the hype of the discount merchandisers – more stuff for lower prices, but we lost sight of the long-term consequences which is financial devastation for our own economy.

Compound the financial decline, the lack of quality control and the environmental impact manufacturing and importing foreign goods has and the inexpensive imported products prove to be much less of a bargain than originally thought. In the long term; cheap imported merchandise is much more costly than quality American made products.

When buying American manufactured goods, a consumer can be assured a higher quality and that the dollars they spend are recycled back into the economy, thereby enriching American koffers. The money spent on American goods re-circulates, helping to empower the economy, thereby enriching all of us.

Commonly, people excuse themselves when asked why they did not consider purchasing American made by explaining the difficulties and effort involved in finding homegrown merchandise. Today, that excuse is voided thanks to the internet. With little energy, American made goods can be found online and delivered right to the customer’s door. Less stress and a wider selection is only a few key strokes away.

Granted, I work for an American company that sells American made products and it is in my best interest for customers to purchase from CozyPure®, but if you trace the origins of our merchandise, you will find that the chain extends well beyond the sales floor and how many people are reliant on your purchase.

A CozyPure® mattress begins with the milk of the rubber tree which is converted into natural latex rubber foam. The cotton used is American grown Certified Organic Cotton and is the absolute most pure form of cotton available today. No pesticides, herbicides or fertilizers are used during it’s cultivation and no chemicals or preservatives (such as formaldehyde) are added in the processing. It is premium cotton that’s pure and clean – soft and beautiful. The cotton is carefully milled in America in order to create a safe, beautiful finish.

Like our cotton, CozyPure® wool is also American farmed. In the natural surroundings of the northern coastal areas, there is always a fairly strong sea breeze and in the course of time, the high humidity combined with the cold wind has created an environment where the sheep have learned to protect themselves against these harsh weather conditions by developing a thick and long-crinkled fleece with an extremely high content of lanoline. The high crinkle factor of our pure wool provides a unique thermal system: while regulating air; it insulates warmth at the same time.

From growing the cotton, raising the sheep, carding the wool and milling the cotton to finally, building our mattresses and creating our fine line of bedding products; we are keeping Americans employed. The entire process from placing the cotton seed in the grown to the delivery driver who delivers yours beautiful organic mattress and bedding is all part of the chain that keeps your American dollar recycling and improving the economy while providing you with a healthy, safe, quality, organic and natural sleep system.

Categories
Miscellaneous Natural Bedroom

The key to living in any area that is storm prone is being prepared

The November 2009 Nor’ Easter is now history, but damage throughout Hampton Roads remains.

I faired well. My little house sustained no damage and with the exception of no electricity for nearly 30 hours, I was unharmed and maybe a bit wiser and more grateful as a result.

Without electricity, some of the luxuries we assume are basic in our life cease to function. Without electricity my computer was unable to operate and I found myself suffering from writer’s withdrawal. Finally, by candle light, with paper and pencil, I recorded my thoughts and inspirations; it was quite enjoyable.

On the downside, as each hour without power passed, my house became colder. The wind and rain pounded, which increased the psychological effects of the chill. As I sat in the living-room, using a coffee table with 3 illuminated candles as a writing desk, I realized our human vulnerability to the elements. With out fur or scales like most of the other inhabitants of this planet we need something to protect us from the elements.

Decidedly chilled, I grabbed my CozyPure® organic wool comforter from my bed and carried it to the living room. I wrapped myself in it’s warmth and continued to write. The weather was all the inspiration I needed as my comforter sheltered me from the cold. I felt warm, safe, secure and content.

Cuddling under my wool covering, I began to fantasize about days gone by; before there was electrically powered homes and modern heating systems. I thought about what life must have been like when people cared for themselves with what nature had provided for them. My CozyPure® organic wool comforter is much like what folks from long ago would have used for warmth, comfort and security. In truth, my CozyPure® wool comforter may be more elegantly crafted and durable than those from days gone by, but essentially, it is much the same; pure and natural.

The key to living in any area that is storm prone is being prepared. In addition to the obvious essentials such as food and water, I also keep candles, flashlights and my comforter handy just in case… and now is the perfect time for making preparations.

– Rex

Categories
Miscellaneous

A Payment Plan to Match Your Budget

As the Holiday Season approaches, more and more people are taking advantage of the Organic Comfort Zone’s simple Lay-A-Way program. It’s an easy way to purchase a beautiful new CozyPure® mattress with healthy organic bedding on a budget with a payment plan that matches your needs.

Every time that you make a payment towards your purchase, it brings you closer to a perfect night’s sleep. The simple Lay-A-Way plan allows our customers a goal and something to plan for and get excited about. In the interim, it’s a great time to clean and redesign your bedroom; make it green through and through!

If the Holiday Season is too busy for you to even think about re-doing your bedroom, instead, plan on starting the New Year healthy and organic! We can arrange delivery at the beginning of 2010. New, organic, CozyPure® sleep solutions will help you keep your New Years resolution to live healthy and eco-friendly the rest of the year.

For more information and details about our simple Lay-A-Way program, call 800-229-7571 today.

Categories
Miscellaneous

Simple, Eco-Smart Holiday Shopping

naked-spa.jpgMore eco-smart folks are shopping online than ever before. The savings in fuel, the frustrations of driving, parking and fighting the crowds can make the Holiday experience much more pleasant and to say the least; much better for the environment.

This year, do something wonderful for someone else and for the planet. By giving a gift that is both healthy and environmentally friendly, you show that you really care.

Here at Organic Comfort Zone, we have a large variety of organic and natural products for any price range; from organic soaps and body sprays to bedding and organic mattresses. As an added bonus; our merchandise is American made with the highest level of craftsmanship available.

This year – shop smart, shop early and give gifts that will bring joy and happiness without damaging the planet or more importantly; the recipient’s health.

Categories
Miscellaneous

Facebook Fan Contest – Cast your vote!

You choose the winner! We had a great response (almost 200 entries) and it was hard to narrow it down. Thanks to Organic Comfort Zone fans who sent in entries…. they were fun to read! The top five favorites, selected by OCZ staff, are featured below. Now it’s up to YOU to vote for your favorite (voting ends Oct 12th).

Winner will receive the following CozyPure® organic bedding:

  • One La’Noodle Natural Latex Mattress Topper
  • Two La’Noodle Pillows.
  • We asked our fans:

    “Why a good night sleep is important to me…”

    Entry # 1 –
    If over the counter sleep was sold,
    hour for hour in silver and gold,
    How many people would fret and weep?
    …because they could not afford to sleep.
    This a jingle my grandma used to sing to me to put me to sleep when I was a very little girl. Some of my most fond memories are the ones I have of her singing me this song and talking about why I should “let my eyelids get heavy and think happy thoughts.” As an extremely busy college student, I always make sure to place a strong emphasis on having good sleep and allowing by body to repair itself. I am always explaining to my sorority sisters that a good night’s sleep is the cure to everything!! Getting a good night’s sleep is a NECESSARY part of having a healthy and balanced life. Through a good night’s sleep, a person can have great achievements in the day… After a good night’s sleep, one is reborn.

    Entry # 2 –
    A morning person, I am not!
    Unless a good night’s sleep I got.
    Sleeping in comfort without a hitch
    Guarantees no morning bitch!

    Entry # 3 –
    I go to sleep to dream.
    Dreams are the things that change the world.

    Entry # 4 –
    I long to have the kind of slumber
    So peaceful and quiescent
    That one can awaken with a smile
    And feel magnificent
    With 3 kids, two jobs and my back so sore
    And a million things on my mind
    A good night’s sleep is imperative
    To ensure I’m feeling fine

    Entry # 5 –
    A good night’s sleep becomes extra important when you’re a mom like me. I spend my day tackling 3 wild & crazy boys, a husband AND a female cat named Jim Not-A-Him. The biggest thing on my mind after my long day with all these crazy creatures is being able to finally cuddle up to something plush, soft and fluffy – and I’m not talking about my hubby. Hitting the sack is splendid fun, piling into puffiness that feel oh so… good! I dream vividly, tossing & turning all the while so having bedding that contours and moves with me is super duper important. Cradle my head, even my neck – oh Organic Comfort, you’re my friend tonight. Thank you so much for that outrageous comfort… now I can finally rest that achy Fibro-riddled body of mine. To me, sleep really does feel like the best thing on Earth!

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    OK folks…. do you have your favorite?

  • Cast your vote below!
  • Note: Voting ends October 12, 2009 – 5:00pm EST

    Online Surveys & Market Research

    Become a FAN of Organic Comfort Zone and learn about our contests!