Do Bed Skirts Go Underneath Your Mattress?

Tyler Jul 20, 2026
7 Bed Skirt Alternatives to Escape the Annoyance & Look Nicer
7 Bed Skirt Alternatives to Escape the Annoyance & Look Nicer

When it comes to decorating a bedroom, one of the often-overlooked elements is the bed skirt. While it may not be the most glamorous aspect of a bedroom, the bed skirt serves a practical purpose: it helps to conceal the space between the mattress and the bed frame, creating a clean and polished look. But one question remains: do bed skirts go under the mattress, or are they designed to be seen?

7 Bed Skirt Alternatives to Escape the Annoyance & Look Nicer
7 Bed Skirt Alternatives to Escape the Annoyance & Look Nicer

The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the type of bed skirt and the personal preference of the homeowner. Some bed skirts are designed to be seen and are intended to be a decorative element of the bedroom. In these cases, the bed skirt is typically placed on top of the mattress, creating a visually appealing border around the bed.

a person rolls up a roll of toilet paper on the floor next to a wall
a person rolls up a roll of toilet paper on the floor next to a wall

Bed Skirts and Mattress Placement

However, for those who prefer a more streamlined look, bed skirts can be placed under the mattress. This is often the case for bed skirts that are designed to be functional rather than decorative. In these cases, the bed skirt is typically designed to be a neutral color and is intended to blend in with the surrounding decor.

an image of a bed that is in the middle of wood flooring and has a sheet on it
an image of a bed that is in the middle of wood flooring and has a sheet on it

One thing to consider when deciding whether to place a bed skirt under the mattress is the type of bed skirt itself. Some bed skirts are designed with a weighted hem, which helps to keep the skirt in place and prevents it from riding up onto the mattress. In these cases, placing the bed skirt under the mattress may not be the best option, as the weighted hem may not be able to function properly.

Types of Bed Skirts

Lush Décor Twin/Twin-XL/Full Single Ruched Ruffle Elastic Easy Wrap Around Bedskirt Neutral: Polyester Microfiber, Machine Washable
Lush Décor Twin/Twin-XL/Full Single Ruched Ruffle Elastic Easy Wrap Around Bedskirt Neutral: Polyester Microfiber, Machine Washable

There are several types of bed skirts available, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. Some of the most common types of bed skirts include:

•Standard bed skirts: These are the most common type of bed skirt and are designed to be placed on top of the mattress. They typically have a neutral color and a plain design.

•Designer bed skirts: These bed skirts are designed to be decorative elements of the bedroom and are often made with luxurious fabrics and intricate designs.

Continuous Wrap Bed Skirt Diamond Cotton Quilted  Cotton Batting - 8" to 39" Drop Length 1 PIECE BED SKIRT 3 Sided 100% Cotton
Continuous Wrap Bed Skirt Diamond Cotton Quilted Cotton Batting - 8" to 39" Drop Length 1 PIECE BED SKIRT 3 Sided 100% Cotton

•Custom bed skirts: These bed skirts are designed to fit a specific bed or mattress and are often made with a variety of materials and designs.

Bed Skirt InstallationInstalling a Bed Skirt Under the Mattress

Installing a bed skirt under the mattress can be a bit more challenging than placing it on top of the mattress. However, with the right tools and a bit of patience, it can be done easily. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when installing a bed skirt under the mattress:

7 Bed Skirt Alternatives to Give your Bedroom an Updated Look - Homenish
7 Bed Skirt Alternatives to Give your Bedroom an Updated Look - Homenish

•Measure the mattress: Before installing the bed skirt, make sure to measure the mattress to ensure that the skirt will fit properly. This will help prevent the skirt from being too tight or too loose.

•Use a bed skirt with a weighted hem: As mentioned earlier, a weighted hem can help keep the bed skirt in place and prevent it from riding up onto the mattress. Look for a bed skirt with a weighted hem to make installation easier.

Elastic Wrap Around Bed Skirt Dust Ruffle Smooth Soft Bed Frame Cover 15-inch Drop (Full, Gray)
Elastic Wrap Around Bed Skirt Dust Ruffle Smooth Soft Bed Frame Cover 15-inch Drop (Full, Gray)
Faking a Bedroom- Part 2: DIY Bedskirt
Faking a Bedroom- Part 2: DIY Bedskirt
bed skirt ideas tailored to modern for all types of bedspreads and mattresses
bed skirt ideas tailored to modern for all types of bedspreads and mattresses
A Guide to Bed Skirt Height and Bed Skirt Length + Tips
A Guide to Bed Skirt Height and Bed Skirt Length + Tips
Are Bed Skirts Outdated? Here's What You Need to Know
Are Bed Skirts Outdated? Here's What You Need to Know
What To Do if a Bed Skirt Is Too Long – Tips and Tricks For the Perfect Fit
What To Do if a Bed Skirt Is Too Long – Tips and Tricks For the Perfect Fit
How to Fake a Flawless Bedskirt | Confessions of a Serial Do-it-Yourselfer
How to Fake a Flawless Bedskirt | Confessions of a Serial Do-it-Yourselfer

•Use a bed skirt with a removable hem: Some bed skirts have a removable hem that can be easily taken off and put back on. This can make installation easier and more convenient.

•Use a bed skirt with a adjustable hem: Some bed skirts have an adjustable hem that can be adjusted to fit the mattress perfectly. This can make installation easier and more convenient.

Benefits of Installing a Bed Skirt Under the Mattress

There are several benefits to installing a bed skirt under the mattress. Some of the most notable benefits include:

•A clean and polished look: Installing a bed skirt under the mattress can help create a clean and polished look in the bedroom. This is especially true for those who prefer a more streamlined look.

•A more functional bed skirt: Bed skirts that are designed to be functional rather than decorative can be placed under the mattress. This can make it easier to keep the bed skirt in place and prevent it from riding up onto the mattress.

•A more convenient installation process: Installing a bed skirt under the mattress can be a bit more challenging than placing it on top of the mattress. However, with the right tools and a bit of patience, it can be done easily.

When it comes to decorating a bedroom, one of the often-overlooked elements is the bed skirt. However, with the right tools and a bit of patience, installing a bed skirt under the mattress can be a bit more challenging than placing it on top of the mattress. By following these tips and considering the benefits of installing a bed skirt under the mattress, you can create a clean and polished look in the bedroom that is both functional and visually appealing.