Has Layaway Been Laid Off? It wasn’t so long ago that Layaway Plans were used for purchasing items that we couldn’t afford to pay for all at once. In that day, however, creditors weren’t out prowling like an army of hungry sharks, in our faces at every turn wanting to get our business and finances on their snack menu. Nowadays, however, loan agency and credit card seems to want our business — and our money. And, if that weren’t enough, it really seems as if both merchants and creditors have been in such a feeding frenzy that the only thing they’re concerned with is how much debt every customer can be pushed, cajoled, and whipped into carrying through uncontrolled spending. Now, is that a recipie for economic stability? Personally, I also find it rather annoying that some major retail chains have recently dropped their Layaway Plans altogether. Not only is Layaway a great way to buy things, but it helps encourage better money management. Don’t get me wrong — credit cards are fine things and very convenient, particularly in an emergency. Nevertheless, wise financial advisors suggest that credit card balances should be paid in full every month, while each person needs to also learn to live realistically within their financial means. To be perfectly clear, “Layaway Plan” refers to making payments over time for an item(s), without any interest or added fees. No loopholes, no tricks, no gimmicks — once an item is paid for in full, it is delivered to the customer. The only exception would be if the payments stretch out over too long a time — beyond about 90 days — during which time the merchant’s actual costs may have changed. In such a case, a merchant may need to review the final purchase price. Don’t Settle for “No” For those who may be interested in Layaway options, make sure to ask your local retailers next time you have a need. Be pro-active about it, and don’t expect them to necessarily advertise the way it used to be done. And, if you’re interested in online purchases over the internet, there are definitely retailers who offer Layaway Plans. Let’s take a moment to review some of the fine bedding products that can be purchased online with a Layaway Plan Online Layaway An Adjustable Bed is a great way to add head and shoulder lift, foot lift, and even massage, to your bed — at the touch of a button. Leggett & Platt, the nation’s most renowned retailer of fine adjustable beds, offers a number of sturdy beds to choose from. All models offer lift features and a remote control, while higher-end models add a programmable Neurosage Massage and a cordless remote control. Certain mattress characteristics are recommended for the best adjustable experience. There are many fine mattresses available on the market today. Choose from traditional cotton innerspring, memory foam, synthetic (domestic) latex foam, or a combination of them; as well as 100% Natural Latex Foam. Mattresses come in nearly every height and comfort configuration, and a few companies offer customization at no special cost. Well-stocked retailers will also offer mattresses in Twin, TwinXL, Full, FullXL, Queen, East King, Cal King, Split Queen, and Split Cal King sizes (Split East King is (2) TwinXL’s) as well as custom cuts. Special Needs Mattresses are another important category to consider — mattresses that are totally customized to your needs, or that are specially built for heavy people. There is no reason for these types of mattresses to be especially expensive, unless you’re either looking at a company that has to outsource their production, or you’re requesting something that is expensive to build. A great way to upgrade an existing mattress that hasn’t worn out or become lumpy is to enhance it with a memory foam or latex topper. Toppers are most commonly available in thicknesses from 1″ to 4″, with greater thicknesses being custom orders. And some customers have even built their own mattresses from multiple layers of latex or memory foam. Generally, toppers are available in Twin, TwinXL, Full, Queen, East King, and Cal King sizes, with custom cuts being priced at the topper size that must be cut back to fulfill your order. For the family, friends, and guests, a Memory Foam Folding Guest Bed or Rollaway Guest Bed is an option that is comfortable, portable, and easily storable. There are numerous styles to choose from, each having its own unique characteristics. Other good performers may include Trundle Beds, Sofa and Futon Beds, and higher quality Inflatable Beds. Summary Layaway Plans are a great way to manage your money and yet get those things that your family needs to be healthy and happy. Managing your money wisely does not necessarily mean skimping — figure out what you need, do your research, and shop wisely — without interest or penalty. Paying over time in advance sure beats paying high credit card or loan interest rates month after month.