Valance Sheets – Fitted Sheets with a Valance Attached

What Is a Valance Sheet?

A valance sheet is a fitted sheet with a decorative frill or pleated skirt attached. It fits directly over the mattress like a normal fitted sheet, while the attached valance hangs down over the sides of the bed base.

You may also see this product described as:

• A fitted valance sheet
• A fitted sheet with a valance attached
• An over-the-mattress valance sheet
• A valance bed sheet
• A fitted sheet with an attached bed skirt

Unlike a base or platform valance, a valance sheet does not have a separate fabric platform that sits underneath the mattress.

Why Choose a Fitted Valance Sheet?

A fitted valance sheet combines two pieces of bedding in one. The fitted section covers the mattress for sleeping, while the attached skirt conceals the bed base, legs and under-bed storage.

The main benefits include:

• A fitted sheet and decorative valance in one
• Fits directly over the mattress
• No fabric platform underneath the mattress
• Easier to remove and wash than a base valance
• Made to your mattress depth and required skirt drop
• Available in standard and made-to-measure sizes
• Choice of fabrics, colours and valance styles

Valance Sheets by Bed Size

Our fitted valance sheets are available for standard UK beds as well as small, long, European and oversized mattresses. Because many are made to order, we can accommodate beds that are difficult to fit with standard shop-bought bedding.

We can also make valance sheets for Small Single, Large Single, European, Emperor and other unusual bed sizes. Please contact us if you cannot find the dimensions you need.

How Does a Valance Sheet Fit?

The fitted section stretches over the top and sides of the mattress. The attached valance then falls from the upper edge of the mattress down the sides and foot of the bed.

Most valance sheets have a decorative skirt on three sides:

• The left side of the bed
• The right side of the bed
• The foot of the bed

The head of the sheet does not normally require a skirt because it sits against the headboard or wall.

For the best fit, you will need to know the width, length and depth of your mattress, together with the required valance drop.

Mattress Depth and Valance Drop Explained

A made-to-measure valance sheet has two separate depth measurements:

• Mattress depth: this determines how deep the fitted sheet section needs to be.
• Valance drop: this determines how far the decorative skirt hangs down from the top of the mattress.

Measure the mattress depth from the top surface to the bottom edge of the mattress. If you regularly use a mattress topper underneath the sheet, include the topper when taking this measurement.

Next, measure from the top of the mattress down to where you want the skirt to finish. Most customers choose a drop that finishes approximately 1–2cm above the floor.

Keeping these measurements separate ensures that the fitted sheet stays securely around the mattress while the valance finishes at the correct height.

Valance Sheets for Deep Mattresses and Toppers

A deep mattress, pillow-top mattress or substantial topper requires a deeper fitted section. If this section is too shallow, the sheet may pull upwards at the corners and cause the attached skirt to hang unevenly.

Our deep and extra-deep valance sheets can be made for thicker mattresses while retaining the valance drop required for your bed.

For example, a deep mattress does not necessarily require a longer skirt. Mattress depth and valance drop are selected independently so that both parts of the sheet fit correctly.

Frilled and Pleated Valance Sheets

Depending on the product and fabric selected, your valance sheet may be available with a frilled or pleated skirt.

Frilled Valance Sheets

A frilled valance uses gathered fabric to create a soft, full appearance. This traditional style works particularly well in classic bedrooms, guest rooms and country-style interiors.

Single-Pleat Valance Sheets

A single-pleat valance creates a cleaner and more tailored appearance. Its straighter lines suit contemporary bedrooms, hotels and rooms with simpler styling.

Both designs use the same fitted-sheet construction. The difference is in the appearance and drape of the attached skirt.

Choose Your Valance Sheet Fabric

Our fitted valance sheets are available in a selection of practical and luxury fabrics:

• Easy Care polycotton: durable, easy to wash and quick to dry, with a choice of colours.
• 200 thread count cotton: breathable, crisp and comfortable for year-round use.
• 400 thread count cotton sateen: smooth, soft and finished with an elegant sheen.
• Bamboo and cotton: smooth, breathable and beautifully soft.
• 1000 thread count Egyptian cotton: a substantial luxury sateen with a smooth finish.

Available colours and skirt styles vary between fabrics. Please check the individual product page for the current options.

Valance Sheet or Platform Valance?

Although both products create a similar finished appearance, they fit the bed in different ways.

Choose a valance sheet if you want the fitted sheet and skirt combined in one washable item. Choose a base valance, platform valance or bed skirt if you want the decorative covering to remain underneath the mattress when the bedding is changed.

Made-to-Measure Valance Sheets

Mattresses can vary considerably in width, length and depth. Upholstered beds, imported mattresses, antique beds, oversized mattresses and beds fitted with toppers may all require non-standard measurements.

Our valance sheets are made to order in our Lancashire workshop. We can adjust the mattress size, fitted depth and valance drop independently to create a better fit for your bed.

If you require a bespoke size, provide us with:

• Mattress width
• Mattress length
• Mattress depth, including any topper
• Required valance drop
• Preferred fabric and skirt style

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a valance sheet?

A valance sheet is a fitted sheet with an attached decorative skirt. It fits directly over the mattress, while the skirt hangs down to cover the bed base and the space underneath.

Is a valance sheet the same as a fitted valance sheet?

Yes. Both terms describe a fitted sheet with an attached valance that fits over the mattress.

Is a platform valance the same as a valance sheet?

No. A platform valance, also called a base valance or bed skirt, sits over the bed base and underneath the mattress. A valance sheet fits directly over the mattress like a fitted sheet.

Does a valance sheet go over the mattress?

Yes. The fitted section goes directly over the mattress, while the attached skirt hangs down the sides and foot of the bed.

How do I measure for a fitted valance sheet?

Measure the width, length and depth of your mattress, including any regularly used topper. Measure the valance drop separately from the top of the mattress to where you want the skirt to finish.

Can I buy a valance sheet for a deep mattress?

Yes. Deep valance sheets are available for thick mattresses, pillow-top beds and mattresses fitted with toppers. The fitted depth and skirt drop can be specified separately.

Can valance sheets be made in bespoke sizes?

Yes. We make valance sheets for standard and non-standard mattresses, with custom widths, lengths, fitted depths and skirt drops available.