What Is a Daybed Cover?

Dimensions

• A daybed cover usually refers to a single cover that fits around the back of the mattress and hangs down to the floor on the front and sides. The cover creates a skirt around the bed to make it more closely resemble a sofa. They are designed to fit twin mattresses between 6 and 12 inches thick and sweep to the floor to conceal the area under the bed or trundle if the bed is so equipped. A thicker, matching comforter may also accompany the bottom cover, but the comforter usually only covers the mattress, leaving the skirting of the bottom cover exposed.

Fabric

• Sturdy, upholstery-type fabric is commonly used for daybed covers to add structure that more closely resembles sofa fabric, although they are also made in a wide variety of fabrics. Common daybed cover fabrics include cotton, polyester, cotton blends and eco-friendly options such as bamboo and hemp. You can choose from any color, including pastels and fluorescent colors. Choose a pattern to match any decor style, such as exotic leopard print, contemporary stripes or country-themed gingham or plaid fabric. Some daybed covers are not machine washable and may require professional dry cleaning.

Accessories

• Purchase a complete daybed cover set to achieve the look of a fully upholstered sofa. A complete set might include the bottom daybed cover, a comforter or coverlet and two or three pillow shams. A bed skirt may also be included if the set doesn't include the bottom piece that covers the mattress and three sides. These typically consist of matching pieces; the fabric may not be identical, but the pieces coordinate. The pillow shams are placed along the back of the bed to provide cushion when the daybed is used as a sofa. A set might also include two bolster pillows, which double as arm rests for the sofa function. Daybed comforters are slightly smaller than twin comforters, measuring 52-by-99-inches instead of 62-by-86-inches, the standard size for a twin bed.

Slip Covers

• The term "daybed cover" may also refer to a daybed slip cover, which is a piece of fabric cut and sewn together to fit over the entire daybed, including the back and sides. The mattress is usually left uncovered, so the slip cover doesn't require frequent washing. Unlike a regular daybed cover, a slipcover gives the entire bed the upholstered look of a sofa. Choose a slip cover that coordinates with the rest of the bedding, or make your own if a suitable match cannot be found.