When you treat yourself to a stay in a nice hotel, you may find many pleasant details in your room. There are functional perks, like a stash of fluffy towels, shampoo bottles, and a mountain of pillows.

Then there’s the decor, like paintings and lampshades. What is less clear is the purpose of the strips of fabric covering the foot of the bed. They are known as bed runners or bed scarves, and they can be useful in all bedrooms, not just in hotels.

Why do hotels use bed scarves?

Bed scarves can improve the style and cleanliness of a room. They are common in hotels since these places tend to use white bedding they can bleach and wash over and over without ruining the color. However, a white bed looks boring, especially when it’s the largest piece of furniture in the space. So a bed runner adds some well-chosen color and contrast. Additionally, bed runners could add warmth since they are essentially an extra layer.

Keeping the sheets clean

Additionally, bed scarves can help maintain the cleanliness of the room. In hotels, they are strategically placed at the foot of the bed, perhaps to protect the sheets should someone lie down with their shoes on. Or people can place a suitcase on the runner to unpack, all the while keeping the sheets clean of dirt and bacteria.

At home, people who like to snack or drink in bed can eat over the runner so it’s easier to brush off crumbs. And if there’s a spill, there’s no need to strip the bed; you can just clean the runner without much hassle. The same goes if a pet decides to snooze on the bed with muddy paws.

Using bed runners as decor

Anyone can use a bed runner to decorate their bedrooms. Take for instance people who like redecorating but don’t want to keep buying new bedsheets. They can pick a white or a neutral shade for their blankets and pillows, and alternate different kinds of bed scarves depending on their mood or on the season. Plus, they can change how they style it. Bed runners are typically spread across the foot of the bed, but they can also be laid in the middle of the bed or from the head to the foot.

Choosing bed scarves

There are two main elements when it comes to picking bed scarves: function and appearance. When it comes to the latter, don’t only look at colors and patterns. Keep an eye out for textured fabrics, such as velvet, chunky knit, faux fur, satin, and so on. Pick a texture that contrasts and complements the bedspread. Additionally, you can match the pillowcases to the bed scarf for an added flair.

When it comes to function, look for fabrics that are durable and easy to clean. Additionally, decide if you want them to add warmth or if they should be lightweight. Consider what you want the scarves to protect the bed from, like dirty feet, muddy paws, late-night snacks, morning coffees, messes from romantic encounters, or anything that could ruin the sheets underneath.

The size guide

Remember to keep an eye on the measurements when shopping. Bed scarves offer different uses so they come in different shapes and sizes. So don’t limit them to just the bedroom. Drape them over chairs, sofas, and ottomans to breathe life into the furniture you already own. You can also hang them on the walls like tapestries or cover the top of scratched coffee tables. They are so versatile and less expensive than buying new pieces. Just measure the furniture beforehand to ensure you are choosing the right size.