If you were fortunate to be wealthy in medieval Europe, then you could use your bed to show off your status. Their impressive beds were carved out of wood, raised off the floor, and often encrusted with jewels. Four-poster beds were created during these times, with velvet drapes to keep out the bugs and cold air, and to further show off wealth. However, if you were poor, you slept either on the floor or a small raised platform with hay for a mattress and a scratchy wool blanket.

In the 18^th century, although usually made from wood, bedframes also started to be constructed using metal. Mattresses were stuffed with cotton and maids and personal valets no longer slept on trundles on the floor. The bed was not used for receiving visitors, but rather as a private space. In the 19^th century, the four-poster beds were less lavish, and metal bedsprings were invented. It was during the 20^th century when the water bed was created, as well as the air, innerspring, and memory foam mattresses, and now in the 20^th century, we are spoilt for choice!

Tencel Sheets