If you’ve ever stayed in a hotel, you’ve probably noticed that decorative fabric strip draped across the foot of the bed. It’s colorful, it’s there—but what’s it actually for? Most guests think it’s simply for decoration and might toss it aside to get comfortable. But this fabric strip, known as a bed runner, serves some practical purposes that might surprise you.

What is a Bed Runner?

In almost every hotel room, you’ll find a bed with neatly arranged blankets, sheets, and pillows. Across the foot of this carefully made bed lies a dark-colored strip of fabric about half a meter wide—the bed runner. Although it might seem like just an accessory, it has some practical functions for guests, making it more than just an aesthetic feature.

Placing Food

Let’s face it—vacations are about relaxing, and for many of us, that means lounging in bed with some favorite snacks. To avoid getting crumbs or spills on those crisp white sheets, the bed runner comes in handy. Since it’s usually dark in color, it can easily hide small stains and is easier to clean than the white bedding. Whether you’re indulging in chips or enjoying a late-night treat, the bed runner is perfect for keeping food off the sheets while still allowing you to kick back in comfort.

Storing Personal Items

Another common use for the bed runner is as a surface for personal items. Need a place to set down your jacket, handbag, or even your backpack? The bed runner is right there for you. Placing your belongings on it can help catch any dirt or bacteria from your items, keeping the rest of the bed clean and comfortable. Its position at the foot of the bed makes it easy to place your items there without much thought—just toss your jacket down without worrying about dirtying the bed sheets.

Resting Your Feet

After a long day of exploring, shopping, or working, many people just want to flop down on their hotel bed. And sometimes, that means doing so without taking off shoes or even socks. Instead of putting potentially dirty feet directly on the white sheets, the bed runner serves as a convenient, protective surface. You can rest your feet on it without worrying about soiling the bedding. This way, the bed sheets stay fresh, and you can relax without any extra hassle.

A Mat for Intimate Moments

Although it’s not something people often discuss openly, the bed runner can also serve a more discreet purpose. For couples, it can be useful as a mat for intimate activities. If you’re worried about leaving stains on the hotel’s bedding, using the bed runner as an extra layer of protection can prevent awkward moments during your stay—and make life easier for the hotel’s cleaning staff.

More Than Just Decoration

The next time you walk into a hotel room, you might see that fabric strip across the bed in a different light. Beyond adding a pop of color and giving the room a polished look, the bed runner serves a number of practical purposes that make it a helpful accessory for guests. From keeping your snacks contained to acting as a protective barrier for your feet or personal items, it’s there to make your stay a little more comfortable and worry-free.

Instead of dismissing it as just another decorative element, you can use the bed runner to make the most of your time in a hotel—keeping things clean, organized, and relaxed.