How Many Inches Are Standard Curtain Lengths? A Guide to Curtain Sizing

When it comes to decorating your home, the right curtains can transform a room. But finding the perfect curtain length can be a bit tricky if you're not sure where to start. Curtain length is crucial because it impacts the overall look and feel of the room, as well as how the curtains function in terms of light control and privacy.

If you're wondering what the standard curtain lengths are, you're not alone! In this blog post, we'll break down the typical curtain lengths for different window types and offer tips on choosing the right length for your space.

 

Common Standard Curtain Lengths

Curtain lengths typically range from 63 inches to 144 inches. The exact length you choose will depend on the size of your window, the type of look you're going for, and how formal or casual you want the room to feel. Below are the most common standard lengths for curtains:

 

1. 63 Inches (Short Curtains)

• Ideal for: Small windows, kitchens, bathrooms, and any room where you don’t need full window coverage.
• Best for: This is the shortest standard curtain length. Curtains that are 63 inches long typically fall just below the window sill or may even end at the sill. They work well in smaller rooms where you want to maintain a clean, practical look without overwhelming the space.

Tip: Short curtains are great for kitchens or bathrooms, where functionality (like easy cleaning) is important and you don't necessarily need to block light completely.

 

2. 84 Inches (Standard Length)

• Ideal for: Most standard windows in bedrooms, living rooms, and dining rooms.
• Best for: Curtains that are 84 inches long typically fall just above the floor or right at the floor level. This is a very common length for residential spaces and works well for most window sizes in average rooms.

Tip: If you want a versatile curtain length that looks good in a variety of rooms, 84-inch curtains are a great choice. They're the perfect balance between too short and too long.

 

3. 96 Inches (Floor-Length Curtains)

• Ideal for: Taller windows or rooms with higher ceilings, especially living rooms and bedrooms.
• Best for: Curtains that are 96 inches long will typically hit the floor but not "puddle" on it. They’re a good option for larger windows or for a more dramatic look in a room.

Tip: If your room has higher ceilings or large windows, 96-inch curtains create a more elongated and elegant appearance, making the room feel more spacious and refined.

 

4. 108 Inches (Long Curtains)

• Ideal for: Rooms with very high ceilings or larger windows, as well as formal living rooms and dining rooms.
• Best for: These curtains will generally fall about an inch or two onto the floor, creating a sophisticated, formal appearance. They’re a great choice for creating a sense of luxury and drama in a room.

Tip: If you love a more opulent look, or if your windows are particularly tall (such as in grand rooms or French doors), 108-inch curtains will give you that polished, elegant look.

 

5. 120 Inches (Extra-Long Curtains)

• Ideal for: Very tall windows or large, dramatic spaces with high ceilings.
• Best for: These extra-long curtains will extend well past the floor, usually by a couple of inches. This is often referred to as "puddling" when the fabric gathers slightly on the floor for a dramatic effect.

Tip: For rooms with soaring ceilings or extra-large windows, 120-inch curtains will make a statement. They are ideal if you want to create a luxury feel or emphasize the height of the space.

 

6. 144 Inches (Extra-Extra Long Curtains)

• Ideal for: Extremely tall windows or very high-ceilinged rooms.
• Best for: These curtains will cover the floor and then puddle quite a bit, creating an ultra-dramatic and luxurious effect. This is a statement length often used in grand spaces such as ballrooms or mansions.

Tip: 144-inch curtains are often reserved for custom, over-the-top window treatments, so be sure you have the space for them.

 

How to Choose the Right Curtain Length for Your Space

While the above are the standard curtain lengths, there are several factors to consider when selecting the best curtain length for your room:

 

1. Window Size

Your window size plays a big role in determining the appropriate curtain length. Measure both the height and width of your window, including where the curtain rod will sit. If your window is taller than average, you might need longer curtains to complement the size.

• For small windows: Short curtains (63 inches) are often a good choice.
• For standard windows: 84-inch curtains are the most common length.
• For large or tall windows: Opt for 96 inches, 108 inches, or even longer curtains for a more dramatic look.

 

2. Room Style

• Formal rooms (living rooms, dining rooms): Long curtains (96-108 inches) create a more refined, sophisticated atmosphere.
• Casual rooms (kitchens, bathrooms, guest rooms): Shorter curtains (63-84 inches) are more appropriate for a relaxed, comfortable vibe.

 

3. Ceiling Height

In rooms with high ceilings, you can go for longer curtains (96 inches or more) to emphasize the height of the room and create a grand, airy feel. In rooms with standard or lower ceilings, shorter curtains may make the space feel more proportional.

 

4. Curtain Rod Placement

When installing curtains, the placement of the curtain rod can impact the length of the curtain. For a more dramatic effect, hang the curtain rod closer to the ceiling (6-8 inches above the window frame) and choose longer curtains. This trick helps to make the room feel taller and more spacious.

 

5. Desired Look

• Floor-length curtains: These create a neat, tailored look that falls just to the floor or barely touches it.
• Puddling curtains: If you're aiming for a more luxurious, dramatic look, curtains that "puddle" on the floor are an option. In this case, choose curtains that are about 2-3 inches longer than the required length, and they’ll naturally pool at the base for a glamorous effect.

 

Measuring for Your Curtains

To ensure your curtains hang properly, accurate measurements are essential. Here’s how to measure for the perfect curtain length:

1. Measure the window height: From the top of the window frame (or where you want the curtain rod to be) down to where you want the curtain to end.
2. Consider the curtain rod: If the rod is already installed, measure from the top of the rod to the desired end point (sill, floor, or pooling).
3. Add extra length for puddling (optional): If you want your curtains to puddle, add an extra 2-3 inches to the length you measured.
4. Check for accuracy: Double-check your measurements to ensure your curtains will fit as expected.

 

Final Thoughts

Selecting the right curtain length is essential for achieving the desired look and feel in your room. While standard curtain lengths typically range from 63 to 144 inches, the best length for your space will depend on your window size, ceiling height, and personal design preferences.

Remember, 84-inch curtains are the most common and versatile, but longer lengths are perfect for creating an elegant, dramatic look in rooms with high ceilings or large windows. Don’t forget to take accurate measurements, and consider whether you want a formal, tailored look or a more relaxed, puddled effect.

By choosing the right curtain length, you can elevate the overall aesthetic of your space, while also achieving the privacy and light control you need.