When you first check into a hotel room, you might notice a colorful fabric strip laid across the bed. Often called a bed-runner, this decorative yet functional item is about half a meter wide and is typically placed at the foot of the bed. At first glance, it might seem purely ornamental, but it serves several practical purposes that many hotel guests find surprisingly useful.

Why Do Hotels Include a Bed-Runner?
Hotels around the world typically provide a full set of blankets, sheets, and pillows for their guests’ comfort. The addition of a bed-runner might appear superfluous, but its dark-colored design and placement are intentional. Here are the primary ways this versatile piece of fabric is used:

1. A Convenient Spot for Food and Snacks
Vacations often mean indulging in your favorite snacks while relaxing in bed. Instead of risking crumbs or spills on the pristine white bed linens, guests can use the bed-runner as a makeshift placemat. Its darker color not only hides stains more effectively but also makes cleanup easier compared to washing the entire set of bed sheets.

2. A Clean Surface for Personal Belongings
Need a place to temporarily set down your jacket, handbag, or even a backpack? The bed-runner acts as a buffer, protecting the clean bed linens from dirt and bacteria that might be clinging to your personal items. Its position at the foot of the bed makes it a natural, convenient spot to stash items without much thought.

3. A Resting Spot for Your Feet
After a long day of exploring, many guests enjoy collapsing onto their hotel beds. However, not everyone takes the time to remove their shoes or socks, let alone clean their feet. The bed-runner provides a protective layer that prevents dirt and debris from transferring to the white sheets, keeping the bedding fresh for a good night’s sleep.

4. A Practical Mat for Intimate Moments
For couples on vacation, the bed-runner serves an additional purpose. During intimate activities, it can act as a protective layer, minimizing the risk of leaving unsightly stains on the bed sheets or blankets. Its placement and easy-to-clean material make it an ideal option for such situations.

A Blend of Style and Functionality
While the bed-runner adds a decorative touch to hotel rooms, its usefulness goes beyond aesthetics. It’s a small but thoughtful inclusion that caters to the practical needs of guests, ensuring a more pleasant and hassle-free stay. Next time you’re in a hotel room, consider the bed-runner’s many uses before simply tossing it aside!