How to Choose the Right Curtain Length for Your Specific Windows: A Practical Guide

Choosing the right curtain length is a crucial aspect of home design. Curtains are not just functional—they also have the power to elevate the aesthetic of a room, making it feel taller, more polished, and well-balanced. While there are standard curtain lengths available, experts recommend erring on the side of longer curtains to achieve a designer-quality finish. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose the perfect curtain length based on your specific windows, and offer expert advice on measuring, mounting, and when to go custom.

Standard Curtain Lengths

Curtains typically come in a few standard lengths: 63 inches, 84 inches, 95 inches, and 108 inches. While these sizes fit many windows, they may not work for every space.  If your windows don't fit these standard measurements exactly, always round to the next longer length. This ensures that the curtains don’t look too short, which could make your room feel cramped or unfinished. As a rule of thumb, longer curtains often create a more polished, elegant appearance.

How to Measure Your Windows for Curtains

Getting the right curtain length starts with accurate measurements. Follow these steps to measure your windows for curtains that fit perfectly:

1. Measure the Window Frame:
Start by measuring the width and height of your window opening. If you're installing an outside mount (curtains outside the window frame), add 4 to 6 inches to the width measurement on both sides to ensure full coverage and a more balanced look.

2. Determine Rod Height:
Next, decide how high you want to hang the curtain rod. "Mounting the rod 4 to 6 inches above the window frame is ideal for most spaces," says Kerrie Kelly, CEO of Kerrie Kelly Studio. This height helps create the illusion of taller windows and adds visual height to the room.

3. Measure Curtain Width:
For a fuller, more luxurious look, measure the width of the window and multiply it by 1.5 to 3 times. This ensures the curtains have enough fabric to look full, even when they are drawn. Don’t forget to factor in the width of the curtain rod when calculating.

4. Decide on Curtain Break:
Before you measure for length, decide how you want the curtains to "break." Here are the common options:

Above the Floor - Hangs just above the floor for a clean, crisp look. Easy to maintain — less likely to collect dust, fur, or debris. Ideal for high-traffic areas and busy households.

Kiss the Floor - The curtain gently touches the floor for a polished, tailored finish. Creates a smooth, streamlined effect without excess fabric.

Puddling - Extra 2–4 inches of fabric resting on the floor, creating a soft, draped effect. Not recommended for high-traffic areas as it can collect dust easily.

5. Measure for Curtain Length:
To measure the length, start from above the window frame (where the curtain rod will sit) to your desired endpoint. For floor-skimming curtains, measure to just touch the floor. For puddle curtains, add 3 to 6 inches to create the flowing, luxurious effect.

When to Choose Custom Curtains

Custom curtains provide the perfect solution for windows that don’t fit standard sizes or if you want a truly tailored look. Custom curtains offer flexibility in length, fabric, and pattern. "Custom window treatments allow you to achieve a polished, intentional design that perfectly complements the rest of your room," says Curtis.

For windows with unique dimensions, sloped ceilings, or tricky floor levels, custom curtains ensure a precise fit. You can also opt for a custom look by asking a tailor to hem ready-made curtains, which can be a more budget-friendly alternative to full custom treatments.

Expert Tips for Curtain Length Choices

• Don’t Skimp on Length - When in doubt, opt for longer curtains. "I never try to fake it by going for shorter curtains, even if they’re behind furniture," says Kati Curtis. Longer curtains create a more elegant, cohesive look.
• Mount Higher for Visual Impact - For a grander look, hang the curtain rod higher than the window frame. This not only draws attention to the windows but also makes the room feel taller and more spacious.
• Consider Functionality - Think about how often you'll use the curtains. If you plan to open and close them regularly, go for curtains that hover just above the floor for easy operation. On the other hand, if you prefer a more formal, luxurious look and don’t mind extra maintenance, puddle curtains are a great choice.

FAQ: Curtain Lengths

Q: What lengths do curtains come in?
A: Standard curtain lengths are typically 63 inches, 84 inches, 95 inches, and 108 inches. Custom options allow you to tailor the length to your needs.

Q: How far should a curtain rod extend past the window?
A: Curtain rods should extend about 4 to 6 inches beyond the window on both sides to ensure the curtains have ample coverage and create a more balanced look.

Q: Is it okay if curtains don’t touch the floor?
A: While curtains that kiss or puddle on the floor are ideal for a polished look, it's okay if curtains don’t touch the floor, depending on the style you're going for. Curtains that hover just above the floor can still look great, especially if you're aiming for a more functional, less formal appearance.