What Is a Bed Skirt, and Do I Need One?
Some bedding essentials are meant to dress up the bed, some are for function rather than fashion—and others, like bed skirts, pull double duty and offer both performance and style. Explore this quick guide to learn how to measure for, choose, and use a bed skirt.
What Is a Bed Skirt?
A bed skirt is a decorative and functional bedding item used to cover the space below the mattress. It is placed beneath the mattress and drapes to cover the foot and sides of the frame, reaching—or nearly reaching—the floor. This creates a streamlined look while hiding the box spring, bed frame, and any under-bed storage.
Types of Bed Skirts
There are a few bed skirt styles to choose from, depending on your preferences and bed type.
- A split or split-corner bed skirt features two vertical slits that align with the corners at the foot of the bed. This construction allows the material to fit around the legs of a bed post, making it easier to put on a bed skirt.
- A regular bed skirt wraps around the sides and foot of the bed but does not have split corners—a perfect option for a bed without a footboard.
