A Brief History of the Mattress
- Developer
- July 26, 2023
- Edited 2 days ago
Table of Contents
A comfortable mattress is often an integral part of a healthy and happy daily life, because it provides support during a solid night of sleep. While many people know that mattresses are a key component in daily life, not as many people know the history of the mattress. Keep reading to take a look at a brief history of the mattress, from its origins to modern day versions and to learn how this incredibly versatile piece of furniture has grown to meet our sleeping needs throughout history!
Dating Back Thousands of Years
The oldest mattress dates back about 70,000 years, and originates from South Africa! Throughout history, there is evidence of humans using cushions and rudimentary mattresses to sleep on throughout the world, as well. Humans have been creating and using mattresses to help get a great night of sleep for so long, it’s no wonder we have so many options to choose from nowadays.
Natural Materials
Early mattresses were created using a variety of different natural materials, from straw to feathers to horsehair and more. These materials were chosen not just for comfort, but also for durability and for insulation to ensure better temperature regulation throughout cold nights.
From Homemade to Commercially Produced
Up until relatively recently, mattresses were handmade, and many people made their own if they were not wealthy enough to have servants make one. Tick mattresses, named for the cloth used to encase the filling (ticking) were a common type of mattresses and because they were relatively thin on their own, they were layered to create a comfortable and insulated bed.
Modern Materials & Construction
Since the 19th and 20th centuries, mattresses have evolved into what we now recognize as a mattress instead of a rudimentary cushion or bed mat. Coils were adapted from buggy seats in the 19th century, and since then coils, springs, and now foam are used to create the comfortable, insulated mattresses of modern day.
Shop For Your Mattress Today!
Shopping for a mattress to help you enjoy a great night’s sleep doesn’t have to be difficult, especially when you shop ATL Mattress Outlet! Browse our website today to find yours!
