An experimental micromorphological investigation of bedding construction in the Middle Stone Age of Sibudu, South Africa

► We conducted experiments reproducing burnt bedding found at the MSA site of Sibudu. ► Micromorphological samples were collected to compare to archaeological examples. ► Large quantities of plant material were needed to replicate the archaeological deposits. ► The experimental results generally support previous models of formation for the phytolith-rich layers at Sibudu.