Bed Valance vs Valance Sheet: The Complete Buying Guide

Bed Valances vs Valance Sheets: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Choose?

When dressing your bed, it’s easy to get confused between a bed valance and a valance sheet. While both serve to hide the bed base and add a neat, decorative finish, they’re not the same — and each has its benefits.

In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between the two, explore the styles available, and help you decide which one is right for your bed.

Valance Comparison Guide

What is a Bed Valance?

A traditional bed valance, sometimes called a platform valance, is a decorative skirt that sits under your mattress. It drops down to cover the sides of your divan or bed base, giving a clean and tailored look to the bottom of the bed.

At Victoria Linen, we offer bed valances in a variety of styles including:

• Box pleat valance – a smart, structured look with crisp pleats at each centre and corner.
• Frilled valance – a softer, more traditional ruffled effect

Browse our full range of bed valances →

OK, But What if I have a Bedstead?

Some wooden and iron beds are made with exposed frames meaning a typical valance will not fit correctly,  Our bedstead valances are made specifically for these wooden and iron bed frames with a break in the bed skirting so it splits at each corner, meaning the bed skirt can drape neatly around the bed.

Browse our full range of bedstead valances →

What is a Valance Sheet?

A valance sheet combines a standard fitted sheet with a valance in one piece. It fits over your mattress just like a fitted sheet, but also features a fabric drop that hides the base of the bed.

This type of valance is ideal for anyone who regularly changes bedding or washes sheets often. Because it fits over the mattress, it’s much easier to remove than a traditional valance that sits underneath.

Shop valance sheets in a range of colours and sizes →

What Is An Easy Fit Velcro Valance?

If you love the appearance of a traditional bed valance but don't want to lift a heavy mattress, an Easy Fit Velcro Valance could be the perfect solution.

It attaches directly around the bed base using a supplied Velcro strip, making installation quick and straightforward.

• No heavy lifting
• Ideal for deep mattresses
• Perfect for adjustable beds
• Simple to remove when decorating

Browse Easy Fit Velcro Valances →

What Styles and Fabrics Are Available?

All our bed valances and valance sheets are made to order in your chosen size and fabric. We offer:

• Polycotton – easy-care and wrinkle-resistant
• 100% cotton – breathable and soft to the touch
• Heavier Fabric -  Panama 100% Cotton for a fuller, more luxurious look

You can also select your preferred drop length and colour to match your room perfectly.

How to Measure for a Valance

The measurements you need depend on how the valance fits:

• Base, platform or bedstead valance: measure the bed base width and length, then measure the skirt drop from the top of the base to just above the floor.
• Valance sheet: measure the mattress width, length and depth. Measure the skirt drop separately from the top of the mattress to just above the floor.
• Easy-fit Velcro valance: measure the bed base width and length, then measure from the planned attachment point to the floor.

Mattress depth and valance drop are different measurements. Only a fitted valance sheet needs to be made to the mattress depth.

If your bed base is unusually high, a standard skirt may finish too far above the floor. Our extra-deep base valances can be made with a longer drop to conceal tall divans, bed legs and under-bed storage. Measure from the top of the bed base to just above the floor to find the drop you need.

Which Should You Choose?

Here’s a quick summary to help you decide:

• Choose a bed valance if you want a traditional, tidy look that stays in place and you don’t mind lifting the mattress occasionally.
• Choose a valance sheet if you change sheets regularly or want something quick and easy to use.

Made-to-Measure Valances in the UK

Made To Order In Lancashire Since 1995

At Victoria Linen, every valance is manufactured to order in our Lancashire workshop.

Unlike mass-produced imported bedding, our valances are made specifically for your bed, allowing you to choose the exact size, mattress depth, fabric and style.

Whether you need a standard single bed or a bespoke Emperor, Caesar or adjustable bed, we'll manufacture a valance that fits beautifully.

✔ Made in Lancashire
✔ Made to any depth
✔ Standard & non-standard sizes
✔ Direct from the manufacturer

Explore our Bed Valances | Shop Valance Sheets

Need help choosing? Get in touch with our bedding experts and we’ll be happy to assist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a bed valance and a bed skirt?

They are actually the same thing. In the UK, it’s commonly called a bed valance, while in the US it’s often called a bed skirt or dust ruffle. Both refer to the fabric that drapes down from the mattress to cover the bed base.

Do valance sheets include a fitted sheet?

Yes. Valance sheets are a 2-in-1 solution that combine a fitted sheet with a decorative valance around the sides. They’re ideal for easy bedding changes.

How do I fit a bedstead valance?

A bedstead valance has a fabric platform that sits underneath the mattress. Split openings in the skirt are aligned with the bedposts and footboard so the fabric can hang neatly around the frame.

Can I get a custom-sized bed valance?

Absolutely. At Victoria Linen, all our valances are handmade in the UK and available in custom sizes, styles, and colours to perfectly fit your bed.

Are bed valances old fashioned?

Not at all. While frilled valances remain popular in traditional bedrooms, modern box pleat, tailored and Easy Fit Velcro valances are increasingly used to create clean, hotel-inspired interiors.

Is a bedstead valance the same as a Velcro valance?

No. A bedstead valance normally has split corners and sits underneath the mattress. An easy-fit Velcro valance attaches around the outside of the bed base without requiring the mattress to be lifted.

Can I order a valance for a deep mattress?

Yes. If you want a fitted sheet and valance in one, choose a deep valance sheet made to your mattress depth. If you need a longer skirt for a high divan base, choose an extra-deep base valance instead.

Can I order a non-standard size?

Yes. We make valances for standard and non-standard beds, including European, Emperor, Caesar, adjustable and bespoke sizes.

What colours are available?

Our valance range is available in a wide selection of colours, from crisp white and ivory to modern greys, stone and contemporary shades.

Can I order a non-standard size?

Yes. Because we manufacture in Lancashire, we can make valances for standard and non-standard beds including Emperor, Caesar, adjustable beds, European sizes and bespoke dimensions.

Who Should Choose A Bed Valance?

• Customers who prefer a traditional bedroom style.
• Anyone wanting to hide a divan base or under-bed storage.
• Those who don't change bedding every week.
• People wanting the most tailored appearance.

Which Valance Is Right For You?

• Want bedding and valance together?
  Choose a Valance Sheet.
• Prefer a traditional separate valance?
  Choose a Bed Valance.
• Have a wooden or metal bedstead?
  Choose a Bedstead Valance.
• Don't want to lift a heavy mattress?
  Choose an Easy Fit Velcro Valance.

Best suited to: Traditional bedrooms, hotels, guest rooms and luxury master bedrooms.