The phrase possibly dates back to the 18th and early 19th centuries when beds were supported by ropes and in order for the ropes to hold the mattress, they needed to be pulled tight. If the ropes were pulled tight, then it would be more comfortable to sleep on. When your house guest had overstayed their welcome, the ropes would be loosened in the hopes that they would vacate your home.
Don’t let the bed bugs bite…
Another popular theory behind the meaning of the rhyme was that because people wore long pajamas, they should make sure pajamas and nightgowns were buttoned and tied tight so that bed bugs would not be able to get to your skin.
Good night, sleep tight
Don’t let the bedbugs bite.
But if they do, then take your shoe and
Hit them till they’re black and blue
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