Summary:
Beds are quite fascinating and one of the most important things in our lives. But have you ever thought about how our ancestors used to live without them? How did it come into being and evolve all these years? Find out more about this with us in our blog below.
Have you ever wondered how beds came into existence? What did people use to sleep on before beds even came? It is definitely something that comes into our minds because of the immense comfort and support it brings into our lives. That’s what makes us so ready to explore the history of beds.
Just like mattresses, beds are of utmost importance, and they have also evolved over the years. From metal beds to wooden to modern upholstered ottoman beds, we have come a long way. But as enthusiasts of beds, we definitely want to dig more into its rich history. So take a seat on your comfy bed and let’s explore everything about it through time.
Early Beginnings - The Dawn Of Beds
While we have so many options nowadays, our ancestors had to rely on leaves, grass, and animal skins left from their hunt for food. They used to make a surface out of these to sleep on. Over time, they moved from caves to small huts created by bamboo, plastic, or wood to keep themselves away from cold, rain, and draughts. The only bed they had at that time, and which is believed to be the first one, was made out of grass. This bed dates back to around 77,000 years ago, created in South Africa, which is now preserved as evidence.
On the other hand, Egyptians had a status to uphold, so they used to sleep on platforms made out of wood. They decorated their sleeping surface with gold and luxurious linens like silk as it was to show their royalty. Their people, however, used to sleep on straw mats and palm leaves.
Fun fact: The Egyptians used to sleep on a pillow made out of stone that was considered a symbol of royalty and a token that would keep the evil spirits away.
Greek & Roman Innovations
While Egyptians rulers relied on wooden platforms and citizens on straw and palm beds, Greeks invented “kline”. It was like a reclining couch + bed that could be used for sleeping and as a couch for guests. They started decorating these with decorations and historic tapestries. Romans were more into comfort rather than style, and they started making beds from wood with woven support. Their mattresses were made with different materials, like:
- Wool
- Hay
- Feathers
Credits: resoundingthefaith
They also liked to decorate their beds and mattresses for resting and sleeping, as having a bed and mattress like this was supposed to be a symbol of status.
Medieval Times
After the early period, the bed design and its use became more common. Even the lower classes had wooden beds and used wood-stuffed sacks as their mattress. Privacy became an important part for people, and they started using different fabrics as curtains around the bed. The noble families and upper class used four-poster and canopy beds that provided them with insulation and privacy. In the late 16th century, they created something called “the great bed of Ware”, which was created to accommodate more than eight people with durable manufacturing and fixtures.
Renaissance Period
In the Renaissance period, we saw a tremendous shift in the making of beds. They became the most important part of the rooms, often decorated with silk, velvet, and linens that were considered royal at that time.
In France, the bed became more than just a place to sleep. It became a part of the royal throne where the emperors used to conduct court. This assigned the bed and that specific room a lot of power and a place for political discussions.
Industrial Revolution
During the 18th and 19th centuries, the evolution took a fast-forward change as people designed cast iron beds. These beds were known for their strength and durability.
Beds became more accessible for people in different materials and designs. Now, people were more focused on making their beds more sanitary and free from pests. Soon, the concept of master bedrooms, headboards, and colour schemes was introduced.
20th Century: The Age Of Innovation
The 20th century marks the time when industry prioritised comfort and started designing beds in different themes. Latex foam emerged in the 1920s, and one of the highest-selling memory foam was developed in the 1960s. Adjustable beds for hospitals and the elderly were also made to give additional comfort and support to patients.
Brands changed their marketing strategies and started selling beds as an experience and for wellness. They created waterbeds and futons, and traditional beds. Buying a bed or having one became more accessible and affordable. People can get them customised based on their needs and preferences. Mass production increases, also leading to new types of mattresses as well to cater for the unique needs of sleepers.
21st Century: Smart Sleep & Sustainable Design
Today, beds have been revolutionised and have become an important part of our daily lives. From mass production to customised beds, we are now opting for smart sleep technologies and sustainable designs that help us sleep and protect nature. These new beds can help in adjusting positions and are fully customised and have plenty of benefits that make them so popular.
Upholstered beds, floor standing headboards, divan beds, and ottoman storage beds were also introduced in the minimalist Scandinavian style for the modern bedrooms.
From Early Beginnings To Today - What Has Changed?
We can surely see a significant change and difference from the older beds or the surfaces our ancestors used to sleep on. For them, this was their survival, and over the centuries, people understood that a bed is more than that. It is:
- A place of comfort
- A reflection of status
- Protects you
- Keeps you clean
- Aids in a healthy lifestyle
That’s what makes beds imperative for us and has also encouraged brands to become more creative and passionate about their making. Now you have beds that come in different shapes, sizes, customisable headboards and footboards, colours, fabrics, and materials.
As we move into the future, we are sure of one thing. The future of beds will be smarter, eco-friendly, and advanced, catering for the needs of its users. But regardless of how much further we step into the future, the importance of the bed can never be overemphasised. It will always be our haven where we can relax and sleep after a tiring day.
FAQs
Do sleep traditions differ around the world?
Yes, sleep traditions or the choice of bed and mattress differ around the world. Here are some common examples:
-
Japan: floor futons on tatami mats
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India: rope-woven charpai beds
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Morocco: concrete or brick platforms for dual use
- Scandinavia: layered bedding and minimalist wood frames
What are the different types of beds?
- Bunk beds
- Canopy beds
- Platform beds
- Day beds
- Divan beds
- Ottoman divan beds
- Upholstered beds
- Sofa beds
- Adjustable beds
- Trundle beds
- Murphy beds
- Sleigh beds
- Air beds
- Four-poster beds
- Futon beds
- Floor beds
What materials are used in bed making?
Commonly, beds are made of:
- Wood
- Metal
- Iron
- Upholstered frames
- Engineered wood/MDF
- Wicker or Rattan