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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.

queen bed skirts 15 inch drop

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:

When a 15-Inch Drop Won't Work

You may need a longer or shorter drop length if:

Customizing the 15-Inch Drop

To customize the drop, some bed skirt options include:

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:

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:

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:

  1. Spread skirt out evenly aligned with edges of box spring
  2. Attach elastic loops or clamps over box spring edges
  3. For wrap styles, zip or Velcro closed at corners
  4. Smooth out any wrinkles and adjust pleats evenly

Platform Beds & Bed Skirts

On platform beds without a box spring, adapt bed skirts by:

Bed Skirt Fit Challenges

Getting bed skirts to hang properly can be tricky with:

Caring for 15-Inch Bed Skirts

Proper cleaning and care makes bed skirts last longer looking crisp and full.

Laundering Tips

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.

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

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.

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