A folding bed is a simple bed designed using the principle of joints, allowing it to be folded and stored away. It is space-saving and easy to store. The earliest folding beds appeared in China during the late Warring States period, consisting of a bed frame, railings, and drawers, and were made of hardwood. Emperor Zhu Youxiao of the Ming Dynasty is considered the inventor of the first folding bed in history.
The materials used in folding beds have evolved. Early materials primarily included bamboo, wood, and metal, employing a bi-fold structure. Modern folding beds utilize soft materials such as Oxford cloth and Teslin fabric, combined with steel tubing frames to achieve diverse folding designs, resulting in forms such as recliners and cots. Contemporary products encompass various extended types, including three-fold beds and inflatable beds, and are categorized by use as home, medical, and outdoor. Their applications are wide-ranging, including home use, temporary hospital beds, disaster relief supplies, and outdoor activities. Cleaning and maintenance require different methods depending on the material, avoiding direct sunlight and humid environments.