“Would you sleep inside this wooden box?” People in medieval Europe used it every night—but can you guess why? 🤔🛏️ See the photos and find out in the article 👇
Around 600 years ago, an unusual type of bed gained popularity in parts of Europe with harsh winters — from northern France and Belgium to Scotland and the Netherlands. These were enclosed beds, or bed cabinets — sturdy wooden boxes with doors or curtains, offering privacy, warmth, and a glimpse into the everyday life of medieval families.
Crafted for Warmth and Privacy
These beds were essentially large wooden enclosures that fully covered the sleeper inside. Made from durable woods like oak, beech, or chestnut, they were built to last and lined with straw, wool, or feather mattresses to ensure a comfortable rest.
In wealthier homes, these beds were often decorated with carvings, inlays, or family crests, showing off the family’s status. In contrast, beds in modest households were plain and purely functional, focused on warmth and practicality.
Why They Mattered
In poorly heated homes of the Middle Ages, an enclosed bed acted like a personal warming chamber. It trapped body heat, blocked cold drafts, and kept out insects. It also gave people a bit of much-needed privacy — an enclosed space of one’s own in households where entire families shared a single room.
More Than a Place to Sleep
During medieval times, a bed wasn’t just a place to rest — it was often considered a luxury item and a centerpiece of the home. In some houses, enclosed beds were placed right in the main living area, used for lounging, talking, or even entertaining guests.
Many were cleverly designed for dual use. During the day, the bed could be closed up and used as a bench or storage cabinet, making it ideal for small homes where space was limited.
Cleaning and Beliefs
Maintaining an enclosed bed meant regular cleaning and airing out the bedding — especially important in a time when hygiene was far from modern standards. The enclosed design helped protect the mattress from dust and dirt.
Interestingly, people in that era also believed the closed space helped shield the sleeper from evil spirits. That’s why doors or curtains were often shut tightly at night — it was as much about superstition as it was about comfort.
A Lasting Legacy
These cozy wooden bed-cabinets are the ancestors of modern-day sleeping pods and capsule hotels. The concept of a compact, enclosed, and private sleeping space continues to resonate — even centuries later.
Looking at enclosed beds today, it’s clear they were more than just furniture. They were a smart, multifunctional solution combining warmth, comfort, and ingenuity — a beautiful reminder that the past still shapes the way we live and rest.
Did you enjoy this glimpse into history? Leave a comment and let us know what surprised you most!
