Why Do Hotels Always Have a Cloth Across the Bed? Many People Don’t Know Its Purpose

When staying at a hotel, you’ve probably noticed a decorative cloth laid across the foot of the bed. You’ve likely seen it hundreds of times, yet never stopped to wonder why it’s always there. This small detail is one of the most noticeable differences between hotel beds and beds at home.

So, why do hotels always place a cloth across the bed? Is it purely decorative—or does it have a more practical function? Let’s explore the surprising reasons behind this common hotel practice.

1. Decoration

As many people assume, the most obvious purpose is aesthetic. The cloth—often called a bed runner—typically features eye-catching patterns or rich colors that contrast with the hotel’s clean, white linens. This adds a touch of luxury and completes the room’s design, giving guests a visually pleasing first impression.

2. Protecting the Bed from Food and Drink

Many hotel guests enjoy the comfort of eating in bed—whether it’s room service, takeout, or snacks while watching TV. However, hotel linens are almost always white and can stain easily.

The bed runner, typically made of darker, stain-resistant material, serves as a protective layer. If crumbs fall or drinks spill, the runner helps prevent damage to the expensive bedding underneath. It’s easier to clean or replace than an entire duvet or bedsheet.

Tip for families with kids: If your child is snacking in bed, have them sit on the bed runner to contain the mess.

3. A Spot for Personal Belongings

When checking into a hotel, many people place their bags, laptops, purses, or cameras directly on the bed. These items may carry dust, dirt, or bacteria from public spaces, and placing them on the clean sheets can make the bed less sanitary.

The bed runner offers a dedicated space to safely place these items without compromising the cleanliness of the linens.

It’s a convenient “landing zone” for your belongings when you first enter the room.

4. A Place to Rest Your Feet

In some cultures—especially in parts of Europe—it’s not uncommon for people to sit or lie on the bed while still wearing shoes or socks. But bringing shoes or dirty socks onto a clean bed isn’t ideal.

The cloth at the foot of the bed acts as a barrier so guests can rest their feet without worrying about dirt or odor transferring to the linens.

5. Other Practical Uses

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