Bed Warmer, 1750-1800

01

Artifact Overview

In the 18th and 19th centuries, people used bed warmers like this one during cold weather to heat bedding before going to sleep. A person would fill the pan with hot coals, then pass it between the sheet and covers. Long handles enabled the user to reach into far corners. Many bed warmers had lids embellished with incised decorations.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Bed warmer

Date Made

1750-1800

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

29.2843.1

Credit

From the Collections of the Henry Ford.

Material

Copper (Metal)
Wood (Plant Material)

Color

Copper (Color)
Brown

Dimensions

Height: 3.5 in
Width: 10.5 in
Length: 41.5 in

Bed Warmer, 1750-1800