Curtain Sizes Guide: How to Choose the Right Curtain Length

Choosing the right curtains can completely transform a room, turning a simple window into a stunning focal point. But getting it right goes beyond just picking a fabric or colour. The length and size of your curtains are crucial for achieving the look you want, whether it’s a cosy, casual vibe or a dramatic, elegant statement. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about curtain sizes, from measuring your windows to picking the perfect style for any room in your home.

Standard Curtain Sizes

Ready-made curtains are available in several standard lengths, designed to fit a range of common window and ceiling heights. Knowing these basic sizes is a great starting point.

The most common curtain lengths you'll find are:

• 63 inches – This shorter length is often used for small windows or in spaces like kitchens where long drapes would be impractical. They typically hang to the windowsill or slightly below.
• 84 inches – A very popular size, this length is designed for rooms with standard 8-foot ceilings. When hung correctly above the window frame, these curtains will typically hover just above the floor.
• 96 inches – Ideal for rooms with slightly higher ceilings (around 9 feet), this length gives you more flexibility to hang the rod higher, creating an illusion of height. These curtains are perfect for achieving a classic floor-length look.
• 108 inches – Suited for rooms with 10-foot ceilings or for creating a dramatic "puddle" effect on the floor in rooms with lower ceilings.

While these are standard, remember that custom options are always available if your windows have unique dimensions. At Linen Chest, we’ll work with you to create made-to-measure curtains that feel just right for your home. You pick the style, colour, fabric, and details you love—we’ll take care of the rest.

How to Measure Windows for the Perfect Curtain Fit

Accurate measurements are the key to getting your curtains just right. It’s a simple process, but a crucial one. Grab a metal tape measure and follow these steps on how to measure for your curtains.

• Measure rod width. First, measure the width of your window frame. To ensure proper coverage and allow light to fill the room when curtains are open, plan for your curtain rod to extend 4 to 6 inches beyond the frame on each side. For a fuller, more dramatic look, you can go even wider. This total width is your target rod width.
• Determine rod height. The placement of your curtain rod can dramatically change the feel of the room. For a modern look, mount the rod 4 to 6 inches above the window frame. Hanging the rod higher creates an illusion of height, making the room feel more spacious.
• Calculate curtain width & fullness. To avoid a flat, uninspired look, your curtains need fullness. A good rule of thumb is to choose curtain panels that have a combined width of at least double your rod's width. For a truly luxurious and fuller appearance, aim for 2.5 to 3 times the width.
• Measure curtain length. Finally, measure from where the top of your curtain will be (usually the rod) down to where you want it to end. This will depend on the style you choose, which we’ll cover next.

What Are Common Curtain Length Styles?

The "break" of a curtain—where it ends—defines its style. Each length offers a distinct look and feel.

Sill length

Sill-length curtains end about half an inch above or right at the windowsill. This is a practical and casual choice, perfect for kitchens and bathrooms where long drapes would get in the way. It’s also a great solution for windows above furniture or heaters.

Apron length

Apron-length curtains hang about an inch below the window frame or "apron." This style is tidy and practical, keeping the fabric off the floor and away from dust. It works well in casual spaces or over window seats where floor-length curtains aren't feasible.

Floor length

This is the most popular and timeless choice. Floor-length curtains typically hover about half an inch above the floor or just "kiss" it. This clean, sophisticated look works in almost any room, from the living room to the bedroom, creating a tailored and well-put-together feel.

Trouser length

For a slightly more relaxed but still polished look, the trouser length is perfect. These curtains break at the floor, with about two inches of extra fabric resting on it. This style adds a touch of softness and works well with crisp, high-quality fabrics. Trouser-length curtains are best for low-traffic areas and are not recommended in homes with young children or pets, since the extra fabric can gather dirt and create a tripping hazard.

Puddle length

If you're aiming for a dramatic, romantic, and luxurious statement, the puddle length is for you. These curtains have significant extra length (anywhere from 3 to 8 inches) that pools or "puddles" on the floor. This opulent style is best suited for formal spaces like dining rooms or primary bedrooms where the curtains will remain stationary. Puddle-length curtains are ideal for low-traffic areas and are not recommended in homes with young children or pets, as the excess fabric can accumulate dirt and pose a tripping hazard.

Things to Consider When Selecting Curtains

Room and window size

The size of your room and windows can influence how your curtains look and feel. In smaller rooms or spaces with low ceilings, tall, floor-length curtains can draw the eye upward and make the room appear taller.

In larger rooms with wide or tall windows, opting for longer curtains that gently puddle on the floor can create a sense of grandeur and help visually fill the space. Always consider the scale of your windows—larger windows can handle fuller or layered curtain styles, while smaller windows may benefit from lighter fabrics and tailored lengths.

Curtain styles

When deciding on the curtain style, consider how you use your space. Blackout curtains are ideal for bedrooms or media rooms, where blocking out light is a priority for restful sleep or screen viewing. Sheer curtains work beautifully in living rooms or open spaces, letting in natural light while offering soft privacy. You can also layer curtain styles (e.g., sheers under heavier panels) to create both flexibility and a designer look.

Patterns, textures, and fullness

The fabric and finish of your curtains can completely change the feel of a room. Patterns like vertical stripes help elongate walls, while bold prints or colour blocks can become a focal point. Heavier textures like velvet or jacquard add warmth and sophistication, while linen or cotton keeps things breezy and casual.

Don’t overlook fullness—curtains that are 1.5 to 2 times the width of your window look more polished and also improve insulation and privacy.

Custom vs. ready-made curtains

Ready-made curtains are a quick and affordable solution for standard windows, with plenty of styles, lengths, and colours to choose from. They’re perfect for quick updates or renters who want flexible options.

Custom curtains, on the other hand, are ideal if your windows are unusually sized or you want something tailored to your exact design vision. Going custom lets you choose exact measurements, fabric, pleat style, and finishing details, ensuring your drapery perfectly complements your space.

Pleat style? If you’re not sure what that means, we’ve got you. Our Guide to Curtain Pleat Styles breaks it all down—what pleats are, how they look, and how to choose the one that works best for your space.

Popular Curtain Sizes by Room

While there are no strict rules on curtain lengths, here are some common recommendations for different spaces in your home. The right length not only impacts how your curtains function, but also how they shape the overall look and feel of the room.

Living room

Floor-length or trouser-length curtains are the most popular choices for the living room. They offer a polished, elegant look that suits this central gathering space. For rooms with higher ceilings or a more dramatic effect, 108-inch lengths that lightly puddle on the floor can add softness and grandeur. Sheer panels or layered styles also work well in this space, offering light control and style flexibility.

Bedroom

Blackout curtains in a floor or trouser length are ideal for creating a dark, restful environment in bedrooms. Consider a 96-inch or 108-inch length depending on your ceiling height. Hanging curtains a few inches above the window frame can help elongate the wall and make the space feel more open. For a layered effect, pair blackout panels with decorative sheers for added softness and light control during the day.

Kitchen

Sill- and apron-length curtains are the most practical options for the kitchen. They stay clean, allow for easy opening of windows, and don’t interfere with counters or sinks. Café curtains are also a charming and functional choice, especially in farmhouse or vintage-inspired kitchens. Light fabrics like cotton or linen keep things fresh and airy while softening hard surfaces.

Bathroom

For privacy and practicality, sill-length curtains or café-style panels work best in bathrooms. Look for moisture-resistant fabrics or light cottons that can be washed easily. Avoid floor-length curtains, as they can collect moisture or interfere with airflow. Roman shades or moisture-safe roller blinds are also great alternatives in high-humidity spaces.

Dining room

Floor-length curtains offer an elegant and formal touch in dining areas. Choose a length that just kisses the floor or breaks slightly for a more relaxed look. Sheer or light-filtering curtains can soften the room and let natural light shine through beautifully during meals. For added drama, try layering drapes with a subtle pattern or luxe texture.

Home office

In a workspace, functionality is key. Floor-length or sill-length curtains can both work, depending on window placement and your layout. Choose materials that reduce glare while still letting in enough natural light to keep the space bright and focused. If your office doubles as a guest room, consider blackout options for more light control.

Wondering how much light your curtains should let in? Curtain Opacity 101 explains the difference between sheer, semi-sheer, room darkening, and blackout—so you can find the right balance of light and privacy for your space.

Understanding Curtain Sizes for a Perfect Home

Choosing the right curtain size is about balancing function and style. By taking accurate measurements and thinking about the length that works best for your space, you can find curtains that not only fit beautifully but also pull the whole room together. Your windows are a blank canvas—and with the right drapes, you can turn them into something truly special.

Curtains have a way of finishing a space, making it feel more cosy, more elegant, or simply more you. Whether you’re refreshing one room or styling a whole home, getting the length right is a small detail that makes a big impact. And remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all—just what feels right for your windows, your style, and the way you live.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the standard curtain length?

Standard curtain lengths are typically 63", 84", 96", and 108". These sizes fit most common window and ceiling heights and are widely available in stores across Canada.

How long should curtains be?

The ideal curtain length depends on your style and needs. For a clean, tailored look, select floor-length curtains that just touch or hover above the floor. For a more dramatic effect, opt for curtains that slightly puddle on the floor. Kitchens and bathrooms often benefit from sill- or apron-length curtains.

Should curtains touch the floor?

In most living spaces, it’s recommended that curtains either graze or just barely touch the floor for a finished and sophisticated appearance. However, in high-traffic areas, you may prefer curtains that hover about an inch above the floor to keep them cleaner and easier to manage.

How to measure windows for curtains?

Measure the width of your window and add 4–6 inches to each side to determine rod length. Measure from the top of where the rod will be installed to your desired endpoint (sill, apron, floor, or puddle) for curtain length. For a fuller look, ensure your curtain panels are about 2 to 2.5 times the width of your window.