What is a 15 Inch Drop? Queen Bed Skirts Explained
A queen bed skirt is a decorative fabric that conceals the bed's box spring or foundation. The key measurement when shopping for one is the "drop" - the length from the top of the foundation to the floor. Standard ready-made queen bed skirts typically have a 15-inch drop, but there can be some variation.
Choosing the right drop length is crucial for proper coverage and an attractive, tailored appearance. Since queen mattresses themselves can have slightly different heights, accurately measuring your setup is essential to get an ideal fit.
Understanding 15 Inch Queen Bed Skirt Drops
The drop of a bed skirt refers to the length from the top of the box spring or foundation to the lowest point near the floor. A standard ready-made queen size bed skirt has a drop of 15 inches.
This 15-inch drop works well for most queen sized mattress sets that stand approximately 16 to 18 inches tall with their foundations. But if your mattress height is greater than 18 inches, you may need a longer drop. Or if using a platform bed without a foundation, a shorter drop could work better.
Typical Queen Mattress Foundation Heights
Here are some typical heights for queen size mattress foundations that pair well with a standard 15-inch bed skirt:
- 6-inch foundation plus 10-12 inch mattress = 16-18 inches
- 18-inch foundation/box spring alone, without mattress
- Adjustable bed frames set at 16-18 inch height
When a 15-Inch Drop Won't Work
You may need a longer or shorter drop length if:
- Using a taller or shorter foundation than typical 6-18 inches
- Placing mattress directly on floor without any foundation
- Using a platform bed frame without foundations
- Combining bed risers under mattress for extra height
Customizing the 15-Inch Drop
To customize the drop, some bed skirt options include:
- Split corners with adjustable pleats to raise or lower
- Hidden elastic to stretch longer or scrunch shorter
- Detachable sides to accommodate corners and footboards
Or, have a seamstress sew a custom bed skirt made-to-measure for your exact mattress and bed frame height.
Shopping for 15 Inch Queen Bed Skirts
When browsing bed skirts with 15-inch drops, some tips include:
- Measure from top rail to floor for precise sizing info
- Select solid light colors if using for daybed or as dust cover
- Consider fabric thickness - line heavier opaque fabrics
- Match or contrast patterns with existing bedding theme
Measuring for a 15-Inch Fit
To ensure proper coverage, measure from the top of your box spring to the floor on all sides of the bed. Standard queen sizes have similar widths but mattress lengths can vary. And if using a footboard, factor that added height in as well.
Measure next to walls too in case floors slopes. Jot down the shortest and longest measurements - your bed skirt should match the longest length.
Fabric Considerations
Since bed skirts spread onto the floor around your bed, consider these fabric factors:
- Light colors - line with opaque fabric or may show box spring shadows
- Heavy fabrics - velvet, chenille stand up better to dust and debris
- Durable fabrics - canvas, cotton blends hold shape and launder better than delicates
Returns & Exchanges
Check return shipping costs and times before ordering. Trying a 15-inch bed skirt first can ensure proper coverage for your bed height before removing tags or packaging.
Some retailers may not accept used bed skirts. And make note of any restocking fees if you need to exchange a 15-inch drop for a different size.
Installing 15-Inch Queen Bed Skirts
Most 15-inch bed skirts use discreet elastic or small clamps to secure the fabric. Wrap-around skirts fully encase the corners and sides of the box spring.
Step-by-step installation tips help you get that perfect 15-inch drop:
- Spread skirt out evenly aligned with edges of box spring
- Attach elastic loops or clamps over box spring edges
- For wrap styles, zip or Velcro closed at corners
- Smooth out any wrinkles and adjust pleats evenly
Platform Beds & Bed Skirts
On platform beds without a box spring, adapt bed skirts by:
- Attaching closure tabs under the mattress
- Using Velcro dots adhered onto bed legs and skirt corners
- Tucking pleats under top platform ledge if low enough
Bed Skirt Fit Challenges
Getting bed skirts to hang properly can be tricky with:
- Overflowing length - hem to exact height or fold up under box spring
- Uneven corners - adjust pleats individually to tailor fit
- Footboards - style with detached corners to accommodate rails
Caring for 15-Inch Bed Skirts
Proper cleaning and care makes bed skirts last longer looking crisp and full.
Laundering Tips
- Check fabric tag for washing temperatures first
- Zip up zippers, fasten Velcro closed before washing
- Use gentle cycle and air or line dry
- For delicate trims, wash bed skirt alone
Removing Stains
Catch spills quickly by dabbing the spot gently with a clean absorbent cloth. Avoid harsh rubbing and never use bleach.
Then surface wash by dipping a sponge into mild detergent mixed with cool water. Gently blot the stain, then rinse clean with plain water.
Loose Threads & Missing Grommets
Snip any loose hanging threads with sharp scissors to prevent further unraveling. For missing or broken grommets, hand stitch new ones in place or attach small safety pins temporarily.
Styling with 15-Inch Bed Skirts
The right bed skirt can elegantly accent your bedroom decor. Use length, color and fabrics creatively to enhance the room's theme.
Mix and Match Patterns
Layer prints and patterns with coordinating colors for lots of depth and interest. Play with contrasting and matching patterns like florals with paisleys or tone-on-tone woven textures.
Match or Contrast Colors
Pull out complementary hues from pillow shams into your bed skirt. Or intentionally clash colors for a lively, eclectic look.
Fabric Interest
Look for bed skirts that incorporate charming fabric details like lace edging, velvet panels or small embellishments for a touch of whimsy.
Concealing with Longer Drops
For a clean, hidden bed look, maximize longer 15-inch drops all around your whole bed, tucking them right under the mattress.
Kids Bed Skirts & 15-Inch Drops
Bed skirts help camouflage the messy underside of kids' beds. But they see plenty of wear and tear in a child's room.
Durable Fabrics
Choose skirts made of heavy cotton blends, canvas or microfiber. Or fully line delicate fabrics with a matching solid color.
Allowing for Growth
As children get older, their mattress height needs change too. Seek out bed skirts with adjustable features to adapt.
- Corner pleats to raise or lower length
- Velcro closures allowing fabric to gather or stretch
- Detachable split corners fitting multiple sizes
Chew-Proofing Skirts
Little teething toddlers may nibble bed skirt trims. Check for non-toxic dyes first. Or select metal bead or embroidered embellishments over tasty ribbons.
Hiding the Chaos
Over 15 inches of fabric can mask most sins like overflowing toy bins and clothing piles. Solid colors also help camouflage the debris.
Making DIY Queen Bed Skirts
Crafty types can create their very own custom bed skirts and save money. But sewing skills, patience and precision measurements are a must.
Sourcing Fabric
For solid colors, use opaque medium-weight cotton, canvas or polyester blends. Or splurge on decorator fabrics like crushed velvet or embroidered panels.
Tools & Materials
- Fabric shears for clean cuts
- Hem tape for crisp edges
- Sewing machine, thread and pins
- 1-3 yards of fabric depending on type used
Tackling the Sewing
Assembling all four sides evenly requires excellent stitching skills and patience. Box pleat designs hide flaws better while ruched styles need perfection.
Getting Precision Measurements
Wrapping fabric fully under the bed calls for very precise sizing calculations. Creating a mockup first is highly advised before cutting into expensive decorator fabrics.
15 Inch Bed Skirt Alternatives
For those seeking a streamlined, modern bed, a skirt may seem outdated. Try these contemporary options instead for disguising bed foundations.
Dust Ruffles
These abbreviated 14-16 inch ruffles attach directly onto the box spring or mattress. Less fabric to fuss over and launder while still concealing clutter.
Corner Caps
Individual side panels attach just to the corners of foundations or adjustable beds. Lets more of your pretty quilt show while hiding edges.
Bed Valances
Valances layer decorative interest while discreetly covering the space between mattress and floor. Arrange pillows in front to further distract the eye downwards.
Canopy Curtains
Transform your whole bedroom with curtain rods mounted high above the mattress. Dramatic ceiling-height panels encircle beds in lavish fabric.
Finding Queen Bed Skirts with 15-Inch Drops
With some handy measurement tricks and fabrication tips, uncovering the perfect 15-inch drop bed skirt to adorn your bedroom is simple. Taking notes of your exact sizing needs ensures a tailored fit.
Consider colors, patterns and materials that either complement or stand out from your existing linens and bedroom furnishings.
And don't be afraid to get creative styling your dreamy new hemline focal point - whether prim or playful. Amp up the overall impact even further by mixing in some beautiful accenting throw pillows on the bed to play off that flawless skirt length.
FAQs
What size bed skirt do I need for a queen bed?
For most queen size beds, a standard 15-inch drop bed skirt is recommended. But carefully measuring the height from the top of your box spring or foundation to the floor all around the bed will confirm the exact drop length needed.
Should my bed skirt touch the floor?
Yes, standard 15-inch bed skirts are designed to lightly graze along the floorboards. Not only does this properly conceal the bed's foundation, but it prevents dust bunnies from collecting underneath.
Most bed skirts today use elastic edging, small clamps, Velcro tabs or other discreet fasteners to secure the fabric in place atop the box spring. Adjust these evenly on all sides, smoothing out any wrinkles in the fabric for a wrinkle-free customized hold.