The bed runner, a colorful fabric strip typically placed at the foot of hotel beds, might seem decorative but serves several practical purposes. Travelers often use it to place food, helping keep the main bedding clean, as it’s usually dark and easier to clean. It also acts as a barrier for personal items like bags or jackets, preventing dirt from transferring to the sheets. Additionally, it serves as a footrest for guests who lie down without removing shoes or washing up. In more private moments, it can also help protect linens during intimate activities