Published on December 9th, 2022

Last updated on February 3rd, 2023

Tips & Tricks On How To Choose A Suitable Curtain Length 

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
white curtains2

Window decoration is a necessary thing in any home. And curtains are a part of the modern interior. They have beauty, comfort, practicality, and convenience. Curtains protect the room from direct sunlight and cold or hot air and prevent dust from entering the room. Thanks to curtains, you feel cozy and have such a sweet sleep in the morning when you close yourself from the daylight. But what about curtain length?

There is no standard and universal answer regarding the best length of curtains. But determining which sizes of curtains are best for your windows can take time and effort. What looks great in one home may not work in another. However, with some research and common sense, you can choose suitable curtains for your room.

In this guide, you’ll find tips and advice on choosing the most appropriate length of curtains for your home. From short to floor-length drapes, we can help you!

Short Curtains

short size curtains

The most popular and fashionable size these days are short curtains. They are also called cafe curtains, S-shaped curtains or tiered curtains. Short curtains are usually 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 inches) long. The advantage of these curtains is that they can be used in any room, regardless of window size. They are perfect for small windows in the kitchen or bathroom. Short curtains can also be used as a decorative element in a living room or bedroom, for example, to separate the sleeping area from the living space.

Short-length curtains will look good in combination with long curtains or blinds if you have a large window.

Pros:

  • You can use them in any room;
  • Perfect for small windows;
  • It can be used as a decorative element;
  • Easy to open and close;
  • Does not take up much space.

Cons: 

  • It may not provide enough privacy;
  • It may not protect furniture from sunlight.

Long Curtains

long size curtains

Long curtains are often a standard length. They are a great choice if you want to create a romantic or luxurious atmosphere in your home. They are also an excellent choice to block out the light or make more privacy. 

Long curtains are usually between 90 and 240 cm (3-8 feet) long. They are a good choice for tall windows and can also be used to make low ceilings seem higher. When hung properly, the size of these curtains creates the illusion of taller windows.

Pros: 

  • Make low ceilings seem higher; 
  • Create the illusion of tall windows;
  • You can use it to create a dramatic look; 
  • Provide more privacy than short curtains;
  • Protect furniture from sunlight better than short curtains.

Cons: 

  • It may be too formal for some rooms;
  • It may not be easy to open and close;
  • It may take up too much space in a small room.

Floor-Length Curtains

floor-length curtains

Floor-length curtains are a great choice to make a statement or create an elegant look in your home. They are also good if you have ample, tall, luxury windows or doors. Floor-length curtains can make a small room look more significant and a large room looks more spectacular. These curtains length from 2.1 to 3 meters (7 to 10 feet). 

Pros:

  • Make small rooms look more spacious;
  • Create the illusion of large and tall windows;
  • You can use it to create a dramatic look;
  • Provide more privacy;
  • Protect furniture from sunlight.

Cons:

  • It may be too formal for some rooms;
  • It may not be easy to open and close;
  • It may take up too much space in a small room.

How to Measure the Correct Size of Curtains: Tips

woman measure size of curtains

So, let’s say you’ve decided what type of curtain length you want. The next step is to measure your windows to ensure you get the right size. Here are some tips on how to measure for curtains:

  • Use a tape measure to determine the width of your window. The measurement from one side of the frame to the other.
  • For the length, measure from the top of the window frame to where you want the curtains to end. The most standard lengths of the curtain are floor-length, sill-length, and mid-window.
  • Remember that you will need to leave some extra fabric at the top of the curtains for a rod or track. Add 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) to your measurement.

Now that you know how to measure for curtains, it’s time to choose the suitable fabric and style for your home!

Fabric Choice

The next step is to choose the fabric for your curtains. The most common materials are cotton, linen, silk, and velvet. Cotton is a lightweight fabric that is perfect for summer months. It’s also easy to care for and can be washed in a machine.

Linen is a more heavyweight fabric than cotton and is perfect for winter months. It’s also easy to care for and can be washed in a machine. 

Silk is a luxurious fabric perfect for creating an elegant look in your home. However, it’s more challenging to care for than cotton or linen and should be dry-cleaned only.

Velvet is a luxurious fabric perfect for creating a warm and cosy atmosphere in your home. It’s also relatively easy to care for, although it should be dry-cleaned only.

Now that you know the different types of curtain lengths and how to measure curtains, it’s time to choose the perfect size and style for your home!

FAQ

What are the standard lengths of curtains?

The most common curtain lengths are floor-length, sill-length, and mid-window.

Does the material of the curtain affect the length?

No, the material of the curtain does not affect the length.

How do I know if my curtains are too long or too short?

If your curtains are too long, they will pool on the floor. If they are too short, they will not reach the bottom.

What is the best way to measure curtains?

The best way to measure curtains is to use a tape measure. Measure the width of your window from one side of the frame to the other. For the length, measure from the top of the window frame to where you want the curtains to end. Remember to leave some extra fabric at the top of the curtains for a rod or track.