How to Choose the Right Curtain Lengths (And What to Avoid)

Ahhhhh, window curtains. One of my favorite parts of the design process. Yes, designing a room from the paint colors and light fixtures to furniture and accessories is fun. But choosing your window treatments is like that sweet dollop of icing on the cake. 

There are so many types of window treatments to choose from: Valances, curtains, blinds, shutters—-you name it! But today, we’re talking about one of the most popular options, curtains. 

But choosing the wrong curtain length can seriously mess up your space. Like being told there’s a beautiful dessert bar at a party and finding out upon arrival it’s all veggies. So misleading!

So how can you be sure you’ve picked the right curtain lengths for your windows? Well, I’m here to break it down for you. 

Standard Curtain Lengths

You can find curtains in a few standard lengths:

• 63 inches
• 84 inches
• 94 inches
• 108 inches
• 120 inches

This doesn’t mean these are the only curtain lengths, it’s just what you’re likely to find online and in-stores ready-made. 

How to Measure for the Correct Curtain Length

Pro tip: To make your windows appear wider and higher (as you should) add a few inches to your measurements. You can go as high as a few inches to the ceiling for maximum height and drama. 

This might mean you’re crossing over into custom drapes territory, depending on your space. 

If your curtain rod is too low, it’ll shrink your window size and this is definitely something you do not want. 

Still unsure? A standard rule of thumb is about 4” up from the top of the window but you can definitely go up from there.

RELATED: 6 Ways to Trick Your Eyes to Create a “Larger” Space

Different Curtain Length Options

Here are a few different curtain lengths to consider and when you should use them. 

• Window Sill Curtains: These curtains end right at the window sill. This is appropriate in places like a kitchen where the window is elevated.
• Apron Curtains: Apron curtains come down about 4” from the window sill. They’re also best in casual places like a breakfast nook or if you have a radiator under the window. 

• • Floor-Length Curtains: Exactly how it sounds, this length hits the floor and doesn’t rise above it. (High-water curtains, just like pants, are a definite no-no). This is one of the most common choices, especially for living rooms. And they’re one of the easiest to maintain and to open and close. 

• Curtains that Puddle: Window treatments that “puddle” at the ground usually extend about 1-3 inches onto the floor. The result is a bit more of a dramatic look, often used in formal spaces like dining rooms.

Keep in mind, curtains that puddle are a bit more high-maintenance since they’ll collect dust and animal dander if you have fur babies. They’re also more difficult to open and close, so you’ll want to keep functionality in mind if considering these. 

Don’t Forget About Curtain Width

Now that you’ve chosen how you want your curtains to hang, it’s time to consider the width, which is just as important! 

Curtains that aren’t wide enough won’t make an impact. In general, fuller curtains equals a more dramatic look. Nobody wants wimpy curtains, right? 

Here’s how to calculate exactly how wide should your curtains be: Measure the width of the window and multiply this by 1.5 to 3 times.

Choosing Curtain Rod Styles

There are so many lovely curtain rods and styles to choose from! This will also make a difference in how the curtains feel in the room.

Grommet style curtains have rings in the curtains that are inserted through the rod.

Rod pocket curtains, which are a bit more traditional, slip through the rod without any rings or clips. You can use ring clips with these as well for a different look.

Curtain Dos and Don’ts

• Don’t hang the curtains too low
• Do hang your curtains at least a few inches above the windows
• Don’t choose curtains that are too narrow
• Do choose a curtain rod that’s wider than your window
• Don’t hang the curtain rod within the window frame
• Do pair your curtains with blinds if you want more coverage
• Do ensure your curtains are wide enough so they are full when open and closed.
• Don’t hang curtains that are too short; for floor-length they should skim the ground.

Where to Shop for Curtains

There are so many places where you can buy beautiful curtains online! We’ve found some great drapes at Pottery Barn, Serena & Lilly, Crate and Barrel and West Elm. Don’t discount Amazon, they have some beautiful window treatments as well.

Photo credits:  Keough Stearns Interiors, Luigi Rosselli Architects, West Elm, Millar Howard Workshop, Tobi Fairley Interior Design, Kate Jackson Design