Is Your Bed Skirt Too Long?

Introduction

If your bed skirt is too long, don’t worry—you don’t need to throw it out. There are simple, smart ways to fix it without replacing it.

A bed skirt that drags on the floor or bunches up around the corners doesn’t just look sloppy—it can also collect dust, create tripping hazards, and make cleaning harder. Many people run into this issue, especially when switching to a new mattress or bed frame.

But here’s the good news: you have more options than you think. From no-sew tricks to stylish alternatives, you can adjust or repurpose your bed skirt without a full redesign.

In this article, you’ll learn:

• Why your bed skirt might be too long
• How to measure the correct drop
• DIY solutions to fix the length
• Stylish alternatives if you want a different look
• Recommended tools and products to help

Best Tools and Products for Fixing a Bed Skirt That’s Too Long

If your bed skirt is too long, having the right tools can make adjusting it easier and more professional-looking. Here are three top products that help with trimming, securing, or styling your bed skirt:

1.Singer Heavy Duty Sewing Machine

Perfect for hemming or shortening your bed skirt fabric quickly and cleanly. Its robust build handles thick bedding materials without snagging, ideal for DIY fixes.

2.Scotch Fabric Tape (Double-Sided, Washable)

A no-sew, easy-to-use solution that temporarily or semi-permanently shortens your bed skirt by folding and taping. Great for renters or quick fixes.

3.Adjustable Bed Skirt Clips by Slipstick

These clips secure your bed skirt neatly to the mattress or frame, preventing bunching or dragging without altering the skirt itself. Perfect for a polished look.

Why Is Your Bed Skirt Too Long? Understanding the Common Causes

Many people find their bed skirt dragging on the floor or looking oversized — but why does this happen so often? Understanding the reasons can help you avoid the problem or fix it properly.

Here are the most common causes of a bed skirt being too long:

• Incorrect Measurement at Purchase
  Bed skirts come in standard drop lengths (typically 14, 15, or 18 inches), but your mattress height or bed frame might not match these sizes exactly.
• New Mattress or Box Spring Height
  If you’ve recently changed your mattress, box spring, or bed frame, the drop of your existing bed skirt might no longer fit properly.
• Wrong Bed Size
  Sometimes bed skirts designed for a different bed size (e.g., queen vs. king) are mistakenly used, causing excess length.
• Using Decorative Bed Skirts with Thick Mattresses
  Modern mattresses, especially memory foam or pillow tops, can be thicker than traditional beds, causing the skirt to hang longer than expected.
• Shrinkage or Fabric Stretching
  Washing and drying can shrink or stretch bed skirt fabric unevenly, altering the length.
• Improper Installation
  Bed skirts must be carefully positioned around the bed frame or box spring. If they’re bunched or not centered, the fabric may drag or look too long on one side.

How to Measure the Correct Length for Your Bed Skirt

Getting the right bed skirt length starts with measuring your bed accurately. This step is crucial to avoid buying a skirt that’s too long or too short. Here’s how to measure like a pro:

Follow these simple steps to measure your bed for the perfect bed skirt drop:

• Measure the Height from Floor to Mattress Top
  Use a measuring tape to measure from the floor to the top edge of your mattress (or box spring, if applicable). This measurement is your ideal bed skirt drop.
• Consider Mattress Thickness
  If you use a mattress topper or a pillow-top mattress, include its height in your measurement for an accurate total.
• Measure All Sides
  Beds aren’t always perfectly level, so measure the drop on all four sides to catch any variations. Choose the longest side as your guide.
• Check Bed Frame and Box Spring Height
  Sometimes bed skirts are designed to cover the box spring instead of the mattress. Measure the height to the top of the box spring if your skirt attaches there.
• Account for Flooring Type
  If your floor is uneven or you have carpet, add a small allowance (about ½ inch) so the skirt doesn’t drag excessively.

DIY Solutions to Fix a Too-Long Bed Skirt

If your bed skirt is dragging or looks too long, you don’t have to replace it right away. There are plenty of simple DIY fixes that can save time and money while giving your bed a fresh, tidy look.

Try these easy solutions to adjust your bed skirt at home:

• Fold and Pin the Excess Fabric
  Use safety pins or fabric clips to fold the extra length underneath the skirt. This is a quick, no-sew fix that works well if the length difference is minor.
• Use Fabric Tape for Temporary Hemming
  Double-sided fabric tape can hold a folded hem in place without sewing. It’s perfect for renters or those who want a damage-free fix.
• Sew a New Hem
  If you’re comfortable with a needle or sewing machine, fold the excess fabric up and sew a new hem for a polished, permanent solution.
• Add Velcro Strips for Adjustable Length
  Attach Velcro strips inside the skirt so you can fold and secure the fabric in place. This allows easy adjustments when needed.
• Tuck and Secure with Bed Skirt Clips
  Bed skirt clips or fasteners help hold the fabric taut and prevent bunching. They work great for heavier fabrics that resist folding.
• Try a Decorative Throw or Blanket
  If the skirt is too long and bulky, layer a lightweight throw or blanket at the foot of the bed to mask excess fabric creatively.

Stylish Alternatives to Traditional Bed Skirts

If your bed skirt is too long or you’re simply tired of the classic look, there are plenty of stylish options that can give your bedroom a modern and polished vibe—no hemming required.

Consider these creative alternatives to traditional bed skirts:

• Box Spring Covers
  These fabric wraps fit snugly around your box spring, offering a tailored look without excess fabric pooling on the floor.
• Bed Frame Skirts or Panels
  Decorative panels or fitted skirts that attach directly to the bed frame can eliminate dragging fabric and add a contemporary touch.
• Platform Beds with Built-in Skirting
  Opt for platform beds with solid bases or built-in skirts that cover the under-bed area cleanly and prevent fabric length issues.
• Bed Throws or Quilts Draped Over the Mattress
  Layering a throw or quilt over your mattress can visually replace a skirt while adding texture and color to your bedding.
• Under-Bed Storage Solutions with Covers
  Use storage boxes or drawers under the bed and cover them with a simple fabric panel or curtain that matches your decor for a tidy, functional solution.

Recommended Tools and Products to Adjust or Replace Your Bed Skirt

Having the right tools and products can make fixing or upgrading your bed skirt easier, faster, and more effective. Whether you want a no-sew fix or a professional look, these essentials are worth considering:

Top tools and products for bed skirt adjustments:

• Heavy Duty Sewing Machine (e.g., Singer Heavy Duty)
  Ideal for hemming thick fabrics quickly and creating durable seams for a permanent fix.
• Double-Sided Fabric Tape (e.g., Scotch Fabric Tape)
  Perfect for no-sew hemming and quick adjustments that hold well but remove cleanly.
• Fabric Scissors
  Sharp scissors designed for fabric ensure clean cuts without fraying.
• Measuring Tape with Level
  Accurate measuring prevents mistakes and helps you get the perfect skirt drop.
• Bed Skirt Clips or Fasteners
  These clips keep the skirt taut and secure to the mattress or box spring, preventing bunching and dragging.
• Velcro Strips
  Useful for adjustable hems and easy fabric folding without sewing.

Conclusion

A bed skirt that’s too long doesn’t have to ruin the look or feel of your bedroom. With the right approach, you can fix it quickly, save money, and keep your space looking polished.

To recap:

• Identify why your bed skirt is too long by measuring carefully.
• Use simple DIY fixes like folding, pinning, or fabric tape for easy adjustments.
• Consider stylish alternatives if you want a fresh new look without fuss.
• Equip yourself with handy tools like a sewing machine, fabric tape, and clips for a professional finish.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bed Skirts That Are Too Long

Why is my bed skirt dragging on the floor?

• Usually because the bed skirt’s drop length is longer than the distance from the floor to your mattress or box spring.
• It can also happen if the bed skirt is designed for a larger bed size or if your mattress height has changed.

Can I shorten a bed skirt without sewing?

• Yes! You can fold the excess fabric and secure it with fabric tape, safety pins, or bed skirt clips.
• No-sew options are great for renters or quick fixes but may need occasional adjustment.

What’s the best way to measure for a bed skirt?

• Measure from the floor to the top of your mattress or box spring, including any mattress toppers.
• Check all four sides of your bed and use the longest measurement to ensure full coverage.

Are there alternatives to traditional bed skirts?

• Absolutely! Consider box spring covers, bed frame skirts, platform beds with built-in skirts, or decorative throws as modern options.

How do I prevent my bed skirt from bunching or slipping?

• Use bed skirt clips or fasteners to secure the skirt to the mattress or frame.
• Proper installation and choosing the right size bed skirt also help maintain a smooth look.