July 9, 2026, 1:50 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
A hotel bed is typically adorned with a bed scarf. However, it is often immediately set aside without much thought. Yet, the cover does serve a purpose.
In many hotels, a narrow coverlet, known as a bed scarf, is placed at the foot of the bed. It is often about a meter wide and made from a more durable fabric than the bed linens. At first glance, the cover may seem visually appealing but rather useless–it’s hardly suitable for snuggling. Those who want to slip under the covers often just toss it beside the bed. However, the bed scarf has a purpose, as Best Western Hotels & Resorts explains. It serves to maintain hygiene and protect the bed linens.
The Bed Scarf in Hotels Serves as a Base
“Guests often sit at the foot of the bed in their day clothes or place their jacket, handbag, keys, or other items there. A plaid at the foot of the bed prevents direct contact with the fresh bedding,” explains a spokesperson for the hotel group. Additionally, keys and smartphones are less likely to slip between the covers and mattress thanks to the bed scarf.
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According to the hotel group, the bed scarf is also the modern and more practical alternative to the large and cumbersome bedspread. It is intentionally used as a design element: “It enhances the room’s appearance and is designed and colored to match the overall design of the room and hotel,” says the spokesperson.
With material from dpa