🌍 2. A Tradition with European Roots

The practice became widespread in mid-20th century America, inspired by European inns and luxury hotels where formality and presentation were paramount. The cloth added a finishing touch, signaling that the room was “dressed” and ready for guests—like a ribbon on a gift.

It also helped hide the fold line of a bedspread that was tucked at the foot of the bed—a common style in the past.