I used to think curtains were just fabric hanging on windows, but I was wrong! The length of your curtains can make or break your entire room’s look.
It’s too short, and your space feels cramped. It’s too long, and it looks messy. I’ll show you exactly how to pick the perfect curtain length for any room.
We’ll look at a curtain lengths chart that breaks down standard sizes, plus I’ll share simple tricks to make your ceilings look taller, and your rooms feel bigger.
Ready to upgrade your space with the right curtain choice?
Understanding Standard Curtain Lengths
When I first started decorating, I had no clue about curtain sizes. I’d grab whatever looked nice at the store. Then I’d hang them up and wonder why my room looked off. That’s when I learned about the standard curtain lengths chart.
For my client, here’s what I wish someone had told me from the start: Most curtains come in five main lengths, and each one serves a specific purpose.
| Curtain Length | Best For | Placement & Use |
|---|---|---|
| 63-inch | Small windows, kitchens, bathrooms | Hits at or just below the windowsill; it is excellent for a light + privacy balance |
| 84-inch | Standard windows, bedrooms, living rooms | Reaches floor in 8-ft ceiling rooms; a clean and simple look |
| 96-inch | 9-ft ceilings or elongating 8-ft rooms | Floor-length and visually heightening, it adds grace |
| 108-inch | Formal dining or master bedrooms | Slight floor pooling adds a luxurious, dramatic touch |
| 120-inch | High ceilings (10 ft+), grand interiors | Pools generously; creates a rich, expansive aesthetic |
Curtain Style Options by Length
I’ve tried every curtain style you can think of, and let me tell you, the length you choose completely changes how a room feels. Each style has its sweet spot, and I’ve learned when to use each one through plenty of trial and error.
Sill-Length Curtains
I love these in my client’s kitchen because you can open the window without fighting with fabric. They also work great over kitchen sinks, where longer curtains would get splashed.
Sill-length, sometimes called café curtains, create a clean, crisp look, keeping things feeling fresh and uncluttered.
Perfect for:
- Bathrooms where moisture is a concern.
- Laundry rooms and utility spaces.
- Any room where function beats form.
Apron-Length Curtains
I use apron-length curtains in my client’s guest bedroom. They provide privacy without overwhelming the space, and they don’t compete with the headboard for attention. Apron-length curtains hang 4 to 6 inches below the windowsill.
Best uses:
- Bedrooms where you want privacy but not drama.
- Home offices that need a polished look.
- Guest rooms that should feel welcoming but not fussy.
- Windows near furniture where longer curtains might interfere.
Floor-Length Curtains
Floor-length curtains are incredibly versatile. I’ve found they work in almost every room except kitchens and bathrooms. They make windows look larger and ceilings appear higher without being overly dramatic.
My favorite applications:
- Living rooms where you want sophistication.
- Master bedrooms for that hotel-like feel.
- Dining rooms that aren’t super formal.
- Any room with standard 8 to 9-foot ceilings.
Puddle-Length Curtains
They collect dust and pet hair like nobody’s business. But when they work, they create this incredible romantic atmosphere that’s hard to achieve any other way.
I have them in my client’s formal dining room, and guests always comment on how elegant they look.
When I choose puddle length:
- Formal dining rooms where drama is welcome.
- Master bedrooms in traditional or romantic styles.
- Living rooms that rarely get heavy use.
- Rooms where cleaning isn’t a daily concern.
The Right Length for Every Room
| Room Type | Recommended Curtain Lengths | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Formal Living Room | 96-inch or 108-inch | Creates a revolutionary, classic look |
| Casual Family Room | 84-inch | Offers a relaxed, comfortable feel |
| Master Bedroom | 96-inch or 108-inch | Delivers a luxurious, hotel-like vibe |
| Guest Bedroom | 84-inch or 96-inch | Warm and welcoming without overpowering the space |
| Small Bedroom | 84-inch or 96-inch | 96-inch can visually enlarge the space |
| Nursery | 84-inch | Safe, functional, and visually neat |
| Home Office | 84-inch | Looks polished but avoids unnecessary drama |
Measuring Tips for Precision
After years of trial and error, I’ve found that the best way to determine the right length for your curtain is to use a curtain lengths chart. It is a foolproof system that saves time, money, and frustration.
- I measure from where I plan to install the rod (not the existing one), typically 4-6 inches above the window frame and 3-4 inches beyond each side, down to exactly where I want the curtains to end.
- Before anything else, I decide how much clearance I want from the floor, whether I want the curtains to hover just above, puddle, or end at the sill, and I measure accordingly.
- I never forget to factor in the thickness of the rod, especially if it’s decorative since it can add 1-2 inches to the total drop.
- I write down all my measurements and double-check them before ordering, sometimes even having someone else verify my math to be sure.
- Finally, I test the planned curtain length by hanging a string or tape from the rod position to the endpoint. This lets me see exactly how the finished curtains will look and catch any issues before I buy.
Conclusion
After trying both routes, I can tell you that standard curtain lengths work for 90% of situations. I’ve furnished entire homes with off-the-shelf 84-inch and 96-inch curtains and been thrilled with the results.
But sometimes you need custom options, and a curtain lengths chart. Bay windows, unusually tall ceilings, or when you’re layering sheers with panels – that’s when custom makes sense. Yes, it costs more, but the perfect fit makes a room perfect.
My advice? Start with standard lengths and see how they look. You might be surprised how well they work, and your wallet will thank you.
