Short answer: Measure from the top of your box spring (or the spot where the bed skirt will sit on your bed base) down to the floor. Choose the drop that is closest to that measurement, or slightly shorter. Most standard-height beds suit a 15" or 18" drop, and tall or raised beds need a longer drop like 32".
What "drop" means
The drop is the length of the fabric panel that hangs from the bed base to the floor. It is not the height of your whole bed. Because the bed skirt sits under the mattress, the mattress height does not change which drop you need.
How to measure your bed
- Remove the mattress, or lift one corner slightly so you can see the top of the box spring or bed base.
- Measure straight down from the top of the box spring to the floor. Use the side of the bed, not the corner.
- Measure two sides. Floors and frames are not always level, so use the shorter number.
- Write the number down in inches before you shop.
If you have a wrap-around bed skirt, measure from the point where the skirt will wrap around your bed base.
Which drop to choose
| Your measurement | Drop to choose | The look |
|---|---|---|
| About 14"โ16" | 15" | Clean edge that sits just above the floor |
| About 17"โ20" | 18" | Full coverage on a standard bed |
| Tall bed, raised frame or under-bed storage | 32" | Covers a high bed base to the floor |
Between two sizes? Choose the shorter drop. A bed skirt that stops just above the floor stays clean and looks tailored. A drop that is too long folds on the floor and collects dust.
Does the style change the drop you need?
Not the measurement, but it changes the look:
- Gathered bed skirts have soft folds, so a small gap above the floor is barely noticeable. Our Standard Bed Skirt comes in 15", 18" and 32" drops in Twin, Full, Queen and King.
- Tailored (flat) bed skirts hang in straight panels, so the hem line is easy to see. Our Linen Bed Skirt has an 18" drop in Queen and King.
Can I adjust the drop after it arrives?
Wrap-around bed skirts have adjustable elastic straps. Moving the straps a little higher or lower on the bed base can fine-tune where the hem sits. It works for small adjustments, not for a drop that is several inches off.
FAQ
What is the most common bed skirt drop?
For standard beds, 15" to 18" drops are the most common. Always measure your own bed first, because frames and box springs vary.
Do I measure from the mattress or the box spring?
From the top of the box spring or bed base. The bed skirt sits under the mattress, so the mattress height does not matter.
What if my bed is very tall?
Choose a longer drop, such as 32". It suits raised beds and frames with storage underneath.
Is a shorter drop or a longer drop better?
If you are between sizes, go shorter. It looks neater than fabric pooling on the floor.