How to Cover the Box Spring

When it comes to bedroom decor, covering the box spring is an often-overlooked detail that can make a big difference in the overall appearance of your bed. A bare box spring can detract from the cohesion of your room, while a properly covered one creates a polished and stylish look. Whether you’re aiming for a modern aesthetic or a cozy, traditional feel, there are simple and affordable ways to ensure your box spring blends seamlessly with your bedding and decor.

This document will provide a comprehensive guide on how to cover the box spring, covering essential tools, installation techniques, and tips for achieving the best result.

Importance of Covering a Box Spring

Covering a box spring is more than just an aesthetic choice—it plays a pivotal role in enhancing the overall functionality and appeal of your bedroom. A covered box spring protects the base from dust and wear, prolonging its lifespan and maintaining its structural integrity. Additionally, an exposed box spring can disrupt the harmony of your room’s decor, drawing attention away from your carefully chosen bedding and design elements.

By adding a cover, you create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere while also reducing the need for frequent cleaning or maintenance. It’s a small yet impactful step that ties your entire bed ensemble together, elevating the style and practicality of your space.

Types of Covers for a Box Spring

There are several types of box spring covers to choose from, depending on your style preferences, budget, and functional needs. Here are the most common options:

Box Spring Wraps 

  Box spring wraps are a popular, easy-to-use option designed to fit tightly around the box spring, like a fitted sheet. They are typically made of stretchy fabrics such as polyester or spandex and come in a range of colors and patterns. Box spring wraps are ideal for achieving a sleek and modern look and can be easily removed for washing.

Bed Skirts 

  A traditional choice, bed skirts not only cover the box spring but also extend to the floor, hiding under-the-bed storage or the bed frame. Available in various styles, from tailored to ruffled, bed skirts add texture and sophistication to your bedding ensemble and work particularly well for classic or cozy decor.

Custom Fabric Covers 

  For a truly personalized touch, custom fabric covers allow you to choose a material and pattern that complement your room’s design. These covers can be wrapped and secured around the box spring, offering a perfect fit and a unique aesthetic. This option is great for those looking to match the box spring cover precisely with their bedding or curtains.

Quilted or Padded Covers 

  Quilted or padded covers offer additional functionality, providing a soft barrier that protects the box spring from wear and tear. These covers are especially useful in high-traffic spaces, such as guest rooms, or for families with pets or children.

Elastic Belt Covers 

  Elastic belt covers feature adjustable elastic bands that hold the material snugly in place over the box spring. This budget-friendly option is quick to install and keeps the base neatly concealed without needing full coverage.

10 Methods How to Cover the Box Spring

Fitted Box Spring Cover

A fitted box spring cover is one of the easiest and most straightforward ways to cover a box spring. This cover is designed to fit snugly over the box spring, similar to how a fitted sheet fits over a mattress. The cover typically has an elastic edge that ensures a tight, secure fit, preventing it from shifting or bunching up. Available in various fabrics like cotton, polyester, or blends, fitted box spring covers are simple to put on and remove for washing.

Box Spring Skirt (Dust Ruffle)

A box spring skirt, also known as a dust ruffle, is a classic option for covering the sides of your box spring. These skirts hang down from the top of the box spring to the floor, hiding the box spring entirely and offering a polished finish to your bed. Box spring skirts come in various lengths, from floor-length to shorter options, and can be made from a range of materials like cotton, linen, or silk. They are generally easy to install, either by tucking them into place or attaching them with Velcro or hooks.

Pleated Box Spring Skirt

For a more formal and tailored look, you can use a pleated box spring skirt. This style incorporates pleats into the fabric, giving it a more structured and sophisticated appearance compared to a simple dust ruffle. Pleated skirts often look crisp and defined, contributing to a neat and orderly finish. Available in various colors and patterns, pleated skirts can be used to complement your bedroom décor or create a contrast for added style.

DIY Fabric Covering

If you enjoy crafting and want a custom solution, making your own box spring cover can be a rewarding project. To create a DIY fabric cover, you simply need to choose a fabric you love, cut it to the appropriate size, and secure it around the box spring. This can be done using fabric glue, staples, or even a staple gun. A DIY approach allows you to select your preferred fabric pattern, texture, and color, ensuring the cover fits perfectly with your bedroom’s overall style.

Slipcover

Slipcovers are another great option for covering a box spring. They are often more fitted than traditional dust ruffles and offer a more contemporary look. Slipcovers are made to slip over the box spring, and many feature tailored edges for a sleek and polished appearance. These covers come in a variety of fabrics, from soft cotton to durable canvas, so you can choose the material that best suits your needs and the look you want to achieve. The beauty of slipcovers is that they are easy to remove and wash, making them an ideal solution for maintaining cleanliness, especially in homes with children or pets.

Using a Bed Frame with a Built-In Cover

Some modern bed frames come with a built-in cover that completely conceals the box spring and creates a streamlined look. These frames are designed with a covering system integrated into the structure, so you don’t need to worry about adding any extra fabric or skirts. The built-in cover is often made from the same material as the frame and is designed to blend seamlessly with the rest of the bed.

Wrap-Around Fabric Cover

A wrap-around fabric cover is another option that involves draping fabric around the box spring. Unlike a dust ruffle, which hangs only from the top, a wrap-around cover encircles the entire box spring, creating a uniform appearance all the way around. You can use fabric that matches your bed linens or go for a contrasting color for a bolder look. This method offers versatility in style and is a great way to add texture or pattern to the base of your bed without resorting to a full dust ruffle.

Using a Wooden Box Spring Cover

For a more structured, architectural look, consider using a wooden box spring cover. This is a more involved approach that requires attaching wooden panels or boards around the box spring to conceal it. Wooden covers can add a sleek, modern touch and are ideal if you’re looking to create a minimalist or industrial style. While this method may take more time and effort to install, it offers a durable and permanent solution for covering the box spring.

Using a Fabric Curtain

If you’re after a more customizable and flexible option, consider using a fabric curtain to cover your box spring. This method works especially well in bedrooms with a more relaxed, eclectic vibe. You can hang a fabric curtain along the bottom of your bed frame to conceal the box spring and any items stored under the bed. The curtain can be tied back during the day to reveal the frame or left to drape down for a more formal, covered look.

Box Spring Covering with Upholstery

For a high-end look, you can upholster your box spring to create a luxurious, custom finish. Upholstering involves wrapping the box spring with fabric and securing it with staples or glue, much like how a piece of furniture is upholstered. This method allows you to choose from a wide variety of fabrics, from plush velvet to durable linen, and gives you the flexibility to add padding or foam for extra cushioning.

Conclusion

Covering a box spring not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your bed but also serves functional purposes such as hiding storage and protecting the box spring itself. With numerous options available, ranging from traditional dust ruffles to modern slipcovers and even DIY solutions, you can easily find a method that aligns with your style, budget, and requirements. Whether you prefer a minimalist look with a wooden cover or a luxurious upholstered finish, there is a solution to suit every taste and bedroom décor. Thanks for reading, and we hope this has given you some inspiration on how to cover the box spring!