Standard Curtain Size (Width & Length) (Size Chart illustration Included)

It is almost impossible to imagine a house without curtains, right? They are one of the important elements when it comes to home décor. The exact date for the invention of curtains is surely debatable but in Egypt, it dates back to 3000BC when animal hides were used as a cover to block the doorways. Handmade fabric drapes were hung as a divider during the middle ages or Renaissance era.

The curtains used nowadays are mostly made of velvet, faux silk, Linen or Silk. Some curtains are even made of parachute fabric which is water-resistant and quite durable in nature. Depending on the room size, type and decoration, the size of the curtain varies.

Let us find out the standard sizes of curtains for a practical approach to having an aesthetic room appearance.

What Are the Standard Curtain Sizes?

The standard curtain size is a relative term that largely depends on the window panel length. But still, 48″ is considered to be the base standard curtain wide (width) size and there are 4 variants when it comes to considering the standard curtain length; 63 inches, 84 inches, 96 inches, and 108 inches.

Though for customization purposes and depending on the window curtain panel size, the curtain length can even go beyond 120 inches or more.

If your window width is larger than 48″, then you can simply use one more curtains to cover the width.

Standard Curtain Width & Length Size Chart With RODS Length And Measurements

Standard Curtain Sizes & Charts:

Standard Curtain (Wide) Width

The Usual curtain length:

• 120 inches (305 cm)
• 108 inches (274 cm)
• 96 inches (244 cm)
• 84 inches (213 cm)
• 63 inches (160 cm)

Curtain length varies according to the curtain types:

Sill length curtains-

Windowsill is the narrow base just beneath the frame of the window. It can be inside or outside, depending upon the functionality of the window. Sill length curtains are half inches above the sill. This gives a shorter length and is easy to measure and remove. Sill length curtains can be bold in color depending upon the choice.

It is typically chosen for shorter windows, usually in kitchens and attics, and for those windows that have any type of furniture below, which might get blocked if a floor length curtain is used.

Apron length curtains-

A Window apron is basically the molding that attaches the window to the wall. It is mostly installed inside the house as a decorative frame made of wood.

Apron length curtains run an inch below the window apron bottom. It is crisp and unfussy, giving access to open and close as required. Due to its shorter length, it does not gather dust from the floor at all.

Floor length curtains-

Floor length curtains are meant for taller windows that cover most of the wall space. They usually end half inches above the floor. These curtains elongate the window and make the room feel taller. The hem also stays clean of dust and pet hair since it ends just above the floor.

Trouser length curtains-

These curtains fall 2″ below the floor-length. They look rich and sophisticated. They look exceptionally good with thicker fabrics and can enhance the richness of the room where these curtains are placed.

Puddle length curtains-

These are also known as romantic puddle curtains. They fall 6″ below the floor-length, which makes them extra dramatic. They look good on tall windows, usually encompassing the total length of the wall. Although due to their length they need extra care as they tend to pick up dust and animal hair easily.

The rod size measurement is necessary and it should be appropriate. It solely depends on how far the rods should reach on either side.

The most standard sizes found in stores are- 28″-48″, 48″-84″, 66″-120″ or 120″-170″. It is better to choose adjustable rods that can cover up multiple windows.

How to Measure for Curtain Rods?

In order to achieve the correct rod measurements, one must follow the steps given below:

Measure the window size-

It is important to measure the total window size from casing to casing or frame to frame. One needs to hold the tape, preferably a steel one, correctly, so that the measurement is straight and even throughout. Double-checking is also necessary.

Determine the curtain rod length:

One should add 6 inches or 20% to the acquired length of the window frame or casing to determine the correct rod length. This ensures that the curtains do not engulf one-third of the window space when drawn back or stacked back. If the rod length is bigger, the curtains accumulate at both ends, keeping the window ajar and accessible. It even makes the window look broader.

Mark the wall-

The wall should be marked with a pencil after the rod length is determined. It maintains accuracy and prevents errors.

Find the correct rod-

The rods should be durable and should carry the weight of the curtains. One should keep this in mind while choosing the correct rod. Heavier curtains may need thicker rods compared to the lighter ones.

What is a Curtain Sizes Chart and How Does it Actually Work?

Curtain sizes charts are just like any other charts available in the market. They provide the Length and width of a curtain, mostly in pairs or single panels. The measurement should be taken with the help of a steel tape to maintain accuracy and then the nearest measurement given in the chart should be referred.

Full gather curtains have a decent amount of pleats on them, whereas a relaxed gather has more room for pleats and looks stunning when drawn completely. The person should choose which gather is preferable for him and place the order accordingly.

If the Length of the curtain required does not match the chart, one should go for custom-made drapes to finish the look. So. the ideal approach to reading the chart is, to find out your window measurements and consult the size chart table to find the perfect curtain for your windows.

Why Choosing the Right and Perfect Fitting Curtain Size is Absolutely Critical?

Curtains are the most crucial piece of décor that can make or break the tone of the room. Hence, it is very important to choose the right curtains for the rooms that match the furniture and walls. There are a few important tips and tricks to follow in order to find the correct curtain according to the choice of the person:

• Before we move forwards, it is important to know the difference between curtains and drapes-

One must understand the difference between curtains and drapes before purchasing. Curtains are more lighter in feel and made of soft fabric. They let air and light pass easily. While drapes are made of thicker material and are mostly suitable for bedrooms where minimal light infiltration is required.

• Select fabrics based on the maintenance required:

It is always advisable to buy cotton or synthetic fibers that can be washed frequently if dirty. These fabrics do not need high maintenance and can be hand-washed as well. These are great for people with dust allergies. On the other hand, wool, silk and sheer curtains need extra care while washing.

• Select the ideal length:

The length of the curtain is a very important matter and should be taken seriously. Houses with pets and children should have floor length curtains and not fall beyond that. It is necessary to keep short curtains in kitchens for safety purposes, whereas bedrooms can have a puddle length if it suits the preference of the owner.

• Measuring the width:

The width should also be measured while purchasing a curtain to create a gathered look when the curtain is drawn back. It should be big and sufficient to cover up the entire window and also keep room for more.

• The choice of color should be perfect:

It is important to choose a similar color throughout the house to maintain consistency. It should even compliment the walls and furniture to give a soothing finish. The color scheme should be kept neutral with heavy furniture to highlight those more. Whereas simple and sober rooms can have a more bright-colored curtain to maintain the contrast.

How to Measure the Correct Curtain Length? Step-By-Step Procedure

Measuring curtain lengths can be confusing if one is buying for the first time. One should keep a steel tape and a calculator in hand to determine the accurate length for the curtains. Some easy steps to be followed are:

Measure the window width-

The window width from frame to the frame has to be measured first before proceeding to the next level.

Measure the rod placement-

The curtain rod should be 3″ above the window frame. Take a pencil and mark the exact placement point to maintain accuracy. The points should be marked on both sides. If the rod is inside the trim mount, the measurement should be the same as the width of the window.

Measure the length of the window-

The overall window length has to be measured from the top of the windowsill to the bottom. Then the additional measurement should be added if the rod is placed above the windowsill. In this case, if the area between the rod and the windowsill is 3″ and the length of the window is 50″, then the overall length of a sill length curtain should be 53“.

Calculate the precise curtain length-

If the curtain required by the buyer is floor length or below, then the measurement from the windowsill to the floor should be taken and then added up with the Length of the window and rod, respectively, to get the ultimate curtain length.

Decide the number of panels to order-

Usually, there are two panels that get layered on either side, giving a balanced look.

The Ideal Curtain Size for Your Bedroom is NOT a Straight Answer

Bedrooms are the place where one can leave all the stress behind and simply relax. Just like other furniture, curtains are also important as they add up to the overall aesthetic factor. The curtain length should be chosen appropriately in order to block the lights coming through the window.

The curtains in a bedroom should always belong, and they should cover up the entire wall. This visually elongates the room and emits an aura of sophistication. It is best to choose floor-length and trouser-length curtains and sometimes puddle Length if one wants a dramatic effect.

Short curtains are preferred only if the window is situated above the headboard or any other furniture. It is best to avoid small curtains in the bedroom.

The Best Types of Curtains for Every Room in your House

There are a number of options available in the market when it comes to curtains and designs. A proper guide is required for choosing the correct type of curtains for every room. Here is a piece of detailed information that one needs to cater to his interest regarding varieties of curtains~

Panel pair-

Panel pair curtains have two pairs that have to be drawn on either side of the window sill to create a symmetrical look.

Single panel-

Single panel curtains are for smaller windows or windows that are lengthy but has shorter width. These are drawn on one side and the other remains open.

Valance-

This is a short curtain that hangs on top of the longer one. It is an optional choice that adds up to the window treatment set.

Window tier-

This type of curtain is usually short in Length, covering the lower portion only, mostly used in kitchens. It keeps the light coming through the windows and provides just the right amount of privacy as well.

Window scarf-

These are like a valance, covering just the top part of the window. These are also optional as they create a dramatic look.

The living room can have a valance and scarf-type curtain over the full-length ones to enhance the overall look. It looks enthralling with a classic set of furniture and chandeliers. In contrast, bedrooms should have a peaceful atmosphere where mostly heavy drapes are preferred with minimal patterns and neutral colors. Children’s nurseries can have a colorful touch to the curtains to create a lively atmosphere. On the other hand, kitchen curtains should be short like the window tier to prevent greasiness and accidents.

Which Type of Window Treatment is Right for You?

Window treatments are generally the modifications done to the exterior or interior sides of a window to enhance the overall look as well as to maintain their functionality. There are broadly two types of window treatments~ hard window treatment and soft window treatment.

Hard window treatment-

The three major variations that fall under this category are shutters, blinds and shades. The shutters are mostly made of wood but nowadays other elements like ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) and aluminum. They can be opened and closed according to the preference of an individual. They also control the amount of light that enters through the window.

Blinds are usually made of plastic, wood and aluminum. They can be tilted up and down depending upon the amount of light required by the owner. Blinds protect the privacy of the room without blocking the light. The material is arranged in such a way that it overlaps the other and creates thin diagonal passages for light to enter through them. It is impossible for a passerby or neighbor to look into the room when the blinds are on.  This function of blinds often makes it a better choice than curtains. There are five different categories of blinds; they are:

• Venetian blinds
• Roman blinds
• Pleated blinds
• Roller blinds
• Vertical blinds

Shades are a type of hard covering that can be rolled up and down according to the choice of the owner. Usually, the rolled material gets gathered atop in a neat roll or stacked like plates. These are made of light PVC material or simply bamboo.

Soft window treatment-

Curtains and draperies fall under this category. Curtains are the light cloth coverings that engulf the window that helps to maintain privacy between the outside world and the room. They can be found in any color and enhance the overall appearance of the room.

What are the Do’s and Don’ts of window treatment?

• Do choose length based on function and style:

The curtains that one chooses should be based on their functionality. If it is a playroom or nursery, puddle-length curtains make no sense as they might get in the way of the toddler and cause a problem. Whereas in the master bedroom they look good when there are minimal furniture. The living room can have the floor-length or the trouser length curtains.

• Do use sheer fabrics along with the heavy drapes:

Heavy or opaque drapes are important for a living room for those who do not prefer an illuminating room at all. These help to keep the outside lights away, creating darkness inside. In such cases, it is important to install a sheer fabric as well so that light can enter during the daytime. These fabrics maintain privacy while making room for minimum light infiltration.

• Do install blinds if needed:

If the ceiling of the room is slanted or there is no room to fit a rod above the window, blinds are the best option. They keep the privacy intact while giving a scope to adjust the amount of sunlight preferred by the owner.

• Don’t use floor length curtains in the kitchen area:

Floor length curtains might cause an accident if not kept at bay from the gas oven. As it is impossible to keep track every time, it is best to keep them away in kitchens. Short curtains are a better choice for kitchens.

• Don’t choose different lengths and patterns for different rooms:

It is important to maintain uniformity while decorating a house. The rooms should have a similar window treatment throughout. The color scheme should be kept in mind as well.

What width sizes do curtains come in? Does Length vary according to the width?

The width sizes are 46″, 66″, 90″ and 112″ respectively. The length of the curtains may vary according to the preference of the buyer. The width provided can more or less cover an entire large window. If the width falls short, one may purchase multiple panels to cover up the whole window frame.

I have large windows than usual, should I get a customized curtain for perfect cover fitting or are there any extra large pre-made curtains available?

Large windows do not create a problem in purchasing curtains. One can easily add up a number of panels and buy 4 in place of two to cover up the entire frame.

However, the length has to be measured accurately in order to get a perfect size. If the ceiling of the room is higher than usual and the windows are taller and reach up to the ceiling, it is advisable to order a custom-made one from the tailor according to your liking.

What size curtains do I need for a 34 inch window?

If the window size from left to the right measures 34″, then one should always multiply it by two for the number of drapes needed, which sums up to 68″. He should look for curtains above 68″, probably the immediate next size available.

How wide should curtains be for 76 inch window?