11 Bed Skirt Alternatives That Won't Break The Bank

Tired of that bulky box spring peeking out from beneath your mattress? You want to hide it, but aren't a fan of those old-fashioned bed skirts. Who says you need one, anyway? Turns out, a box spring might not even be necessary for your mattress. But if you're still using one and want to hide that unsightly thing, don't worry — there are plenty of creative and budget-friendly bed skirt alternatives to give your bed a fresh, modern look.

Since many modern mattresses are designed to work perfectly well without a box spring, not having a bed skirt is actually quite normal. And let's be real, who wants to spend hundreds of dollars on buying a new bed frame when you might not even need it? From stylish end-of-bed benches to cleverly placed pillows and decor, there are tons of budget-friendly bed skirt alternatives out there. If you like DIY projects and clever design hacks, check out these 11 creative ways to cover that box spring.

If you enjoy a good DIY project, you're probably familiar with repurposing wood pallets for furniture around the house. These sturdy structures are built to handle heavy loads, so they're stronger than they look. Instead of building a whole new bed frame from scratch, why not use these sturdy pallets as your foundation? Simply stack them up to your desired height and place your mattress directly on top. No need for a box spring or wrinkly bed skirt. Best of all, many businesses and hardware stores are happy to give away their old pallets for free.

Ever considered using your comforter to cover your box spring? The hack is in the size. A long bedspread or an oversized comforter that pools on the floor can be a game-changer. Not only does it make your bed look extra comfy, but it also cleverly conceals that bulky box spring underneath. If your bed is a full-size, you can get a bedspread for a king-sized bed to achieve this look. You can also feign the length by placing the bedspread further down the bed and using pillows to cover the exposed upper area. It's literally as simple as that.

Another clever idea is to use a platform bed frame. These stylish and modern frames often have a low, built-in base that perfectly supports your mattress, completely eliminating the need for a box spring. Say goodbye to the bulky box under your mattress. Plus, platform beds can give your bedroom a more sophisticated and minimalist vibe. The best part? You can find some affordable platform frame options within your budget. The Lutown-Teen Steel Slat Platform Bed Frame from Amazon, for example, costs around $63.

You've probably seen those trendy floating bed makeovers going viral on social media. Floating bed frames are uniquely designed to appear as if they're "floating" above the ground while completely hiding the box spring. While some pre-made options can be pricey, it's one of many DIY bed frames you can build yourself if you're handy. Also, there are tons of free floating bed frame plans available online you can download and use as a guide. When you build a floating bed frame yourself, you can customize the size, style, and add personal touches.

Who doesn't love a dreamy and romantic canopy bed? It instantly creates that royal, "Game of Thrones" kind of setting for a bedroom (minus the gorey sword fights of course). Like a bed skirt, the drapes of a canopy bed add visual interest while also helping conceal your box spring. And no need to spend a fortune on a fancy pre-made canopy. You can get creative and DIY it instead. Simply install some hooks on the wall or ceiling above your bed and hang your own curtains or drapes from it.

Ever heard of a box spring cover? It's another cool and clever alternative to a boring bed skirt. As its name suggests, these are covers that completely enclose the box spring, giving it a clean and neat look like your mattress. Some encasement brands, like the Linenspa Box Spring Encasement from Amazon, are completely waterproof and act as a protective barrier against dust, and spills. If you want to add a touch of style, you can find decorative fabric box spring encasements that match or blend with your bed and bedroom decor. It's a win-win.

Ever considered ditching the bed frame altogether and placing your mattress directly on the floor? (Hear us out). Not only does this eliminate the need for a box spring and a bed skirt, but it also makes your bedroom feel more spacious and open. Redecorating and moving your bed around will be a breeze. Plus, floor beds are increasingly popular, as some people are even purchasing Japanese floor mattresses. It's a simple, minimalist approach that can actually be quite cozy and unique if you think about it.

Do you have an extra fitted sheet lying around and aren't sure what to do with it? Instead of tossing it out, consider it as a brilliant and budget-friendly way to give your box spring a fresh look. Simply measure your box spring and choose a fitted sheet that fits snugly over it. This not only hides any tears or imperfections on the box spring itself, but also lets you choose your own color and pattern for the box spring with your existing bedding. It's the perfect sustainable hack that allows you to recycle an old sheet while giving your bed a nice upgrade.

Sometimes the best decor is a good distraction. Instead of trying to hide the box spring itself, draw attention elsewhere in your bedroom. For example, you can place a few colorful pillows at the foot of the bed as well as a large, cozy area rug to take the focus off the box spring. A large houseplant or a group of smaller ones near the bed can do the same while adding a pop of greenery. Or, create a stunning focal point by hanging a piece of artwork above the bed, helping draw the gaze up.

Is your master bedroom pretty spacious? Placing a bench or ottoman at the foot of your bed is a fantastic way to conceal a box spring. Not only does it create a stylish focal point, but it's also a practical addition for extra seating and leisure. Benches are one of many savvy ways to decorate the foot of your bed, adding style to your space. You can choose a bench with storage to make it even more functional, and even a coffee table and television to make that area of the bedroom mimic a living space.

Ever heard of a bunkie board? It's essentially a super-thin platform that goes between your mattress and the bed frame. Think of it as a mini-foundation that provides excellent support for your mattress, especially if you have a foam or hybrid model. Bunkie boards are a budget-friendly alternative to a box spring and can even help your mattress last longer. While the cost of one typically ranges $50 to $150 (which is much cheaper than buying a completely new bed frame), you can save money by DIYing a bunkie board.