Is there anyone who has gone to a hotel and doesn’t know what that piece of cloth is for?

Most hotel beds around the world, in addition to providing a full set of blankets, sheets, and pillows, have a piece of dark fabric, usually about half a meter wide, placed at the bottom of the bed. This piece, known as a “bed runner” or “table runner,” often generates curiosity among guests, who don’t always know what exactly it is for.

As can be seen in the image, this decorative element frequently appears in various presentations and colors, always located on the bed and marked by arrows in both rooms of the example.

What is that piece of cloth in bed for?

The bed runner is not simply a meaningless ornament. Their presence in hotel rooms responds to several practical and aesthetic functions that enhance the guest experience and facilitate the work of the cleaning and decoration staff. Below, we detail its main uses:

1. Aesthetics and presentation

The bed runner brings a touch of elegance and symmetry to the arrangement of the room. Its contrasting colour with the white linens generates an attractive visual effect and conveys a sense of order and cleanliness, essential qualities in a good hotel service.

2. Protection of bedding

This fabric acts as a barrier between the guest’s luggage or personal belongings and clean bedding. Many visitors place suitcases, backpacks, or coats on the bed, so the bed path helps protect the sheets from external dirt.

3. Comfort for the guest

It can be used as a light blanket in case the guest feels cold in the legs or feet during the night. Although it is not its main use, many take advantage of it to cover themselves partially.

4. Brand identity

Hotels can customize the bed runner with colors, textures, or logos that reflect the identity of the establishment, making the décor consistent with the overall style of the hotel.

5. Ease of cleaning service

During daily service, it facilitates the folding of blankets or the replacement of bed linen, as it allows you to maintain a visual and functional reference to leave the bed perfectly presented.

Now that you know the usefulness of that mysterious piece of cloth, you’ll see with different eyes the next time you walk into a hotel room.

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