B&b supplies / bed and breakfast supplies

Introducing The Powder Coat Square Tube Metal Luggage Rack

Most upscale hotels include stationary luggage racks as part of the amenities for their guests. These ingenious engineering marvels can come in handy especially when a guest is only staying for a short time and prefers to live out of the suitcase, as opposed to utilizing the chest of drawers. Luggage racks are also used effectively to raise a suitcase from the ground while packing or unpacking a suitcase, thus eliminating the guest’s need to constantly bend down while gathering items, which can create discomfort and lead to potential injury.

Optimally, you will want your bed and breakfast’s luggage racks to be somewhat ornate, so as to project a more luxurious aesthetic. The luggage rack may be constructed with materials that blend into the general décor, such as wood or combinations of wood with metal elements.

InnStyle now carries a hotel luggage rack that is sure to help make any guest feel at home! Our “Powder Coat Square Tube Metal Luggage Rack” is built of 1” square tube steel construction, which adds strength and durability to its beauty. This rack measures 20.25″Wx20”Hx 17”D and has a powder coat finish. It is lightweight and folds easily for quick storage.

This compact beauty is not only for use in the bed and breakfast and may also be used in the home as well. Used as a closet insert, it makes it possible to store suitcases in an organized fashion and can be easily kept on hand for the benefit of overnight guests in the home. The folding luggage rack can easily be stored away when not in use, and set up quickly to allow overnight guests a simple means of setting up the suitcase for easy access during the stay.

View InnStyle’s Luggage Racks that can be used in many ways to enhance your guest’s comfort. Or contact us at 267-354-6020 or toll-free at 1-800-877-INNS (4667).

Savings On Essentials For Your Bed and Breakfast

InnStyle is the premier supplier of wholesale fine linens for bed, bath and dining for the inn keeping industry. We carry a wide product line in which you will find everything you need to make your inn comfortable, luxurious and unique for your guest’s − all at wholesale prices!

For innkeepers interested in even further cost savings, our clearance items are a great solution. Taking advantage of purchasing our high-quality merchandise at clearance prices is a cost-effect way to refresh tired inventory for an established business, or obtaining stock for a brand new bed and breakfast.

Examples of current clearance items include:

Windowpane Quilted Coverlet: Meticulously triple-stitched with 400-thread-count combed cotton. This coverlet is sateen, lofty and supple with a soft sheen. Generously filled for year-round use. Machine washable and dryer safe. Sample sale clearance is not returnable.
Comfort Allergy Free Eco Pillow: Comfort Allergy Free Eco Pillow made from recycled poly Fiber. Sample Sale. Clearance is not returnable.
Organic Terry Velour Robe: Plush terry organic cotton robe for men or woman. Shawl collar, Dropped shoulders and two pockets. Available in white. Vendor requires $310 minimum or 15% upcharge.
Denim Window Treatment Set: 100% Cotton. Two Blue Denim rod-pocket window panels 40″x63″ each & two rod-pocket valances 48″x20″ each with box pleat detail. Tie-backs are Velcro fasten. Clearance is not returnable.
Branston Tablecloth: 100% Polyester. Features a spillproof material fabric that beads liquids up for an easy clean. Machine wash and dry. Clearance is not returnable.

We have sales staff members who will personally assist you in finding the items you need for your particular property. We serve innkeepers throughout the United States and Canada to the Virgin Islands. Our customers vary from 2-room bed and breakfasts’ to 75 room properties. We are certain that we can service your property. Please contact us at 267-354-6020 or toll-free at 1-800-877-INNS (4667).

Flame Retardant and Room Darkening Curtains

InnStyle is proud to announce a new line of window treatments that are as decorative as they are room darkening and fire resistant. Firefend™ blends fire proofing with style and washing ease of care. The ignite-not™ thermal coating make these window treatments double as thermal blackout room darkening curtains that reduce outside light, noise and save you on your heating and cooling costs. Tested and certified by independent laboratories, Firefend™ meets standards set by the National Fire Protection Association.

Firefend™ Solid Color Panels – Back-Tab/Road-pocket is available in sizes including 44″x63″, 44″x84″ and 44″x95″.

Sound Asleep™ room-darkening curtains are the ultimate blend of fashion, function and design. The Thermaback technology applied to the curtain fabric blocks penetrating light, unwanted noise and helps to control heat and cooling loss. The draperies are made of a versatile, woven textured chenille fabric enhanced with light-blocking properties to help create the ultimate sleep environment.

Sound Asleep™ Window Panels is available in sizes including 42″x63″, 42”x84”, 42”x95” and 42”x108”. Backtab Window Valance and Rod Pocket Valance is 42”x18”. Panels and coordinating valances sold separately.

For questions, or to order these flame retardant curtains, please contact us or call us toll-free at 1-800-877-INNS (4667).

Table Runners to Enhance Decor

Using Table Runners is a Fast, Easy, and Inexpensive Way to Enhance Décor

As the days grow shorter, and colder weather drives people indoors, autumn is traditionally the time that thoughts turn to creating a warm, nurturing indoor environment. Our next few blog entries will focus on small ways to enhance your living space that make a big difference in your interior refuge from the harsh winter elements.

Table runners are one such way to not only compliment a table setting for mealtime, but to create an elegant “tablescape” that inexpensively transforms a room’s décor.

First, let’s define what a table runner is: a table runner is a strip of decorative cloth that varies in width, length and adornments, which “runs” the span of a table. Ways to use a table runner in a decorating scheme is limited only by one’s imagination. When used over a beautiful wood table, one may want to use a runner alone so as to enhance the natural elegance of the table. Additional drama can be introduced into a tablescape when a runner is used over a tablecloth, especially when fabrics of differing colors and textures are used.

Table runners are not limited to use on a traditional dining room table only. Runners can enhance the look and feel of end tables, side tables, buffets, teacarts, coffee tables, or almost any piece of furniture with a flat surface.

There is no hard and fast rule regarding the size of the table runner. It can have a drop and hang over the sides of the table or it can be shorter than the table and sit in the middle. But the runner should not hang down past the drop of the tablecloth.

Establishing a mood by the imaginative use of a table runner can result in a particularly dramatic decorative effect. Colors, textures and centerpieces can be mixed and matched in order to celebrate special occasions, observe a holiday, or simply change the “feel” of a room.

Quick tips for enhancing drama by simply using table runners:

Lay two table runners across a round table, creating four “sections”. If four people are dining, each diner can be centered on the length of a runner. Eight diners can be seated with two diners per “section”, thus creating an intimate effect.
For a less formal effect, use a shorter runner (one that is one-third the length of the table) and place a visually interesting, textural centerpiece on the runner.
For longer tables, place multiple shorter table runners across the width of the table, preferably with no more than a six-inch drop. Be careful not to place the runners closer than two feet apart, otherwise the table will appear too cluttered.

InnStyle stocks table runners at wholesale pricing in many styles, fabrics, sizes and colors. You will be pleased with our selection, prices and customer service. Call us Toll Free: 1-800-877-INNS (4667) or 1-800-877-4667.

SFERRA’s Easy-Care Table Linens: the Advantages of Ring-Spun Polyester Yarn

SFERRA, the preeminent supplier of fine Italian table linens, traces its roots back to the late 1800’s and the grand seaside resorts of the East Coast of the United States. Catering to the sophisticated tastes of a wealthy and discerning clientele, the very name SFERRA became synonymous with exquisite bedding, bath and table linens that reflect refinement and luxury– a deserving reputation which lasts to this day.

Sferra Orchard Tablecloth-Wholesale Fine Linens — Orchard Tablecloth

SFERRA continues its century-old tradition of excellence, capturing the elegance and beauty it is famous for in two styles of easy-care table linens, Orchard and Juliet. These styles grace table cloths, dinner and cocktail napkins, placemats and table runners.
Both styles are constructed of yarn-dyed woven jacquards using ring-spun polyester yarns (as opposed to open-end spun which is constructed more quickly and less expensively but yields a lesser-quality yarn). The ring-spun polyester yarns used to create both the Orchard and Juliet styles take five times longer to manufacture, and results in significantly stronger and softer fabric. Other benefits of ring-spun yarns over lesser quality open end yarns include:

Superior soil release properties
Greater resistance to fading and discoloration
Twice the tensile (i.e. capability of stretching) strength
Higher abrasion resistance and durability
Lower pilling propensity
Improved wrinkle resistance
Enhanced color retention
Lighter weight fabric with a more luxurious and natural drape

Sferra Fine Linens for the Hospitality Industry — Juliet Tablecloth

Ostensibly, the only difference between the Orchard and Juliet styles is aesthetics. The Juliet is comprised of elegant lattice pattern that comes in Fern, Ocean, Persimmon, Taupe and White.

The Orchard boasts graceful scroll work and comes in Butter, Cinnabar, Ivory and White.

Unlike the debonair sophisticates that first enjoyed the luxury of SFERRA linens over a century ago, today’s discriminating consumer has the capability to research for themselves, and make an informed decision, about the investment in quality that SFERRA represents.

View our large selection of fine table linens – many styles, fabrics, sizes and colors available. Or call us Toll Free: 1-800-877-INNS (4667).

Pinterest and the Innkeeper

Pinterest is the current “it” social media site. It empowers users to organize and share images that they find compelling and/or beautiful by posting them onto virtual “boards” that they create. It also enables users to browse images posted on the boards created by other users.

Saying that Pinterest is hot is an understatement. It’s downright nuclear. According to Experian, Pinterest has become the third most popular social network site in the US in terms of traffic, and became the fastest standalone website to exceed the 10 million visitors per month mark – ever. 80% of Pinterest users are females between the ages of 25 and 45. Daily Pinterest users have increased 145% alone since the beginning of 2012, according to Mashable.

The most impressive aspect of Pinterest is its capacity to enthrall its participants. On average, Pinterest users spend 89 minutes per session browsing, engaging, pinning and repinning. In comparison: YouTube visitors stay on average of 16.4 minutes, Facebook users stay 12.1 minutes and Twitter users stay a paltry 3.3 seconds per session.

It is projected that the site will account for 40% of all social media driven purchases in 2012. This statistic alone (if the other statistics weren’t inspiring enough) should be reason for innkeepers to take a dive off the vision board and take a swim in the Pinterest pool.

A quick search of “bed and breakfasts” on Pinterest.com yields hundreds of boards and thousands of inviting pictures of properties from around the world. Shouldn’t your property be represented on this popular, engaging, interactive, free website?

Are you ready to get started? Here’s how:

Apply for an account—although the site is “invitation only”, securing an invitation couldn’t be easier. Simply go to the site, submit your request and wait a day or two for your request to be granted. There is no benefit to log on using your Facebook or Twitter account since Pinterest doesn’t integrate with Facebook business pages (yet).
Create and name your multiple boards– consider what your guests and potential guests may search for and/or enjoy. Use descriptive, keyword-rich words to help users of the site to find you (and your Inn!!)
Feature stunning pictures of your property, and mouthwatering images of your breakfast food and inviting table arrangements. Capture the fun/relaxation/sight-seeing opportunities that await your guests.
Pin photos from your website or blog — By pinning new posts, you add links back to your blog—which creates traffic. Adding links from your Pinterest profile from your website and other social media sites adds further increases opportunities to be found by an interested targeted audience. It’s a two-fer bang for your marketing efforts! Don’t forget to add a pin to your website so web visitors can share your content on Pinterest as well. Ask customers to share photos of them enjoying their stay with you.
Spread the love—engage with other Pinterest users by visiting their boards and commenting on their pins. It’s amazing how quickly these positive vibes come back to you and spread virally (in a good way!). The more you participate, the better your results will be, as fellow users return the favor.
Most importantly: avoid making your Pinterest participation all about selling your business. Pinterest, like all other social media platforms, is intended to be a sharing devise, not a sales devise. As quickly as positive vibes spread, negative vibes can damper spirits as followers get the sneaking suspicion that they are being “sold” (no one likes to be sold).

Pinterest is a fun, appealing, practically addictive (you’ll see…) way to emphasize your brand, showcase the benefits of your establishment and make new friends from anywhere in the world…one picture at a time.

Care Tips for Fine SFERRA Bed Linens

Since 1891 SFERRA has been the purveyor of the world’s finest luxury sheets, distributing beautifully refined linen to the hospitality, private label, retail, and wholesale industries. Serving more than 1,000 of the finest luxury and home lifestyle stores worldwide who carry their premium Italian-woven sheeting and top-of-bed supplies, SFERRA is proud to count Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman, Horchow, and Bloomingdale’s among its stable of discerning customers. SFERRA fine linens are also sold internationally in Canada, Europe, South America and Asia.

As an educational service to its luxury boutique market, SFERRA provides SFERRA UNIVERSITY. “SU” readers are encourages to ask questions about the products and product care. Below is a question posed by a SU reader:

Q: What is the best way to care for your bed linens?

A: Caring for your bed linens can be easy if you follow some simple suggestions. In return, you will prolong the life of your bed linens and preserve their beautiful appearance. While SFERRA bed linens are made from natural fibers that generally can be machine-washed at home, please be sure to read the care label on each item for best results.
Washing – Pre-wash your linens before first use. Separate your linens from other items in the wash, especially those containing polyester, which tends to create pilling, and items with heavy zippers, which can damage the fabric. Separate light and dark colors. Avoid overloading the washing machine, which can cause fibers to break down from excessive abrasion and agitation. You can wash most linens in warm water on a gentle cycle with a cold-water rinse, but be sure to check the care label.
Detergent – Use a mild detergent without added bleach, whiteners, or fabric softeners. Do not pour detergent directly on textiles; rather, add it to the water as the wash tub fills or dilute detergent with water, then add linens. Unless linens are very soiled, you only need to use half the recommended amount of detergent.
Bleaching – Chlorine bleach will weaken fibers and cause the fabric to yellow. If white fabrics need bleaching, use only an oxygen-based bleach.
Drying – While line drying outdoors is gentle, safe, and imbues linens with the fresh scent of the outdoors and natural bleaching of the sun, it is not always practical. You can machine dry most linens on low heat, but be sure to check the care label. Shake out damp linens before placing in the dryer. Never use a high heat setting, which will weaken the fibers, damage the fabric, increase shrinkage, and shorten the life of your linens. Remove items from dryer promptly, while still damp, to minimize wrinkles. Smooth and fold, or press with an iron, if desired.
Ironing – Check to make sure your steam iron is clean – mineral deposits could cause brown spotting. Iron linens while still damp. To restore the lustrous face of sateen fabrics, iron on the reverse side. For embroidered linens, iron them on the reverse side atop a towel to preserve the three-dimensional effect of the embroidery. Use a press cloth to protect delicate lace and cutwork.
Shrinkage – All natural fibers will shrink to some extent, but in most instances we generously overcut our products to allow for shrinkage. Do not wash or, especially, dry linens on a hot setting, which is most likely to damage the fabric and intensify shrinkage. Always follow instructions on care label.
Storing Linens – Store bed linens in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Linens stored long-term should be wrapped in white cotton, muslin (old pillow cases work well) or acid-free paper. Avoid storing linens in plastic bags or boxes, which can cause permanent yellowing; natural fibers need to breathe. Cedar chests can also yellow or streak fabrics.

For more information on wholesale fine linens by Sferra call us at 1-800-877-4667 or visit our website. At InnStyle we will provide you with the correct product for your particular property – all at wholesale pricing—with the personal service that you deserve.

Considering Opening Your Own Bed and Breakfast? There are Many Things to Consider First

So you’re thinking about opening up your own bed and breakfast establishment? Congratulations!! You are among a growing number of entrepreneurs who have accepted this calling. So much so that the innkeeper industry, which only had approximately 1,000 properties and hosted a million guests in 1980 has grown to 28,000 properties hosting 50.5 million guests annually by the turn of the millennium, according to the Professional Association of Innkeepers International (PAII).

Certainly your imagination is filled with images of a perfectly restored historic home, romantic rooms that are tastefully appointed, lovingly rejuvenated and re-purposed antiques, the smell of fresh coffee and warm cinnamon buns made from your grandmother’s secret recipe wafting through the kitchen and up the stairs, gently waking your smiling guests…

But wait! The Lavender Room has a clogged toilet and the gentleman from the Queen Ann Cottage just spilled Pinot Noir on your homemade chintz pillow case!

The life of a bed and breakfast owner is undoubtedly a mixed bag of developing and nurturing positive visitor relationships and, well… dealing with flawed and often demanding human beings, known in the industry as “guests”.

Here are just a few of the many important considerations you must be clear on BEFORE you commit to making inn keeping your life’s work:

Look at your home objectively, as if you were a guest in your own home. Sleep in each room and be sensitive to annoyances such as street noise, barking dogs, squeaky bed frames, glare from outside security lights and signage, ticking clocks and other potential irritants. Is there adequate closet space, climate control, space to move around?
There is a growing demand among those who frequent B&B’s for private baths. Although this may not be a deal breaker for all potential guest/customers, adequate sharing arrangements must be made and the rules made clear to guests. Ultimately you may lose free bathroom access in your own home.
How will security be handled? Will you supply keys for the front door and individual rooms, or set times by which the front door will be locked. What if a guest loses a key? Will you require an upfront deposit or charge a lost key fee after the fact? There is not right or wrong answer; you must however have established policies regarding security.
Are there enough year-round activities available to your guests to keep the vacancy rate low and the profit flowing 365 days a year.
And speaking of 365 days a year… are your ready to forfeit your own privacy as many days?

Once you have made the decision to enter the hospitality industry, let the knowledgeable staff at InnStyle be your source for everything you will need for establishing your B&B or inn. Call us at 800-877-4667 and ask for our B&B or Inn start-up guide. Inquire about our wide variety of wholesale bed and breakfast and inn supplies and services. Let us assist you in selecting the perfect bedding and linens to suit your unique needs, saving you time and money. We will guide you about the items and quantities to make your opening day run smoothly. Of course we will send you samples to see, test and touch.

We are certain you will not find another company as accommodating as InnStyle in providing you with the personal service you need to provide the accommodations your guests expect.