A bed warmer is a device, traditionally a lidded metal pan for hot coals or embers, used to heat beds before modern heating, but today refers to modern electric pads, water-heated mattress pads, or air-blowing warmers that provide gentle, customizable warmth for comfort, circulation issues, or drying damp bedding, often featuring safety timers and multiple heat settings.

Traditional Bed Warmers (Historical)

Description: A metal pan (often brass or copper) with a long handle and a perforated lid, shaped like a shallow skillet.

How they worked: Filled with hot embers or coals from a fireplace, then waved under bed covers to warm sheets before bedtime.

Variations: Sometimes used hot stones or hot water instead of coals; some modern versions use soapstone for heat retention.