Curtains are used to cover windows properly and block or filter sunlight. They also add depth to your windows, create an illusion of taller windows, and enhance interior aesthetics. But all that is possible when you have the right measurement. Otherwise, they impact your interior decor badly. You need to measure curtains accurately to achieve the desired privacy, style, and warmth level.
In this article, Lush Loom shares a complete step-by-step guide on how to measure curtains for different-sized windows. We’ll talk about the required tools, length & width, mount types, rod and heading tape measurement, and much more. You need to stay with this article to be an expert in measuring curtains in 2025.
Perfect Curtain Measurement Guide: Easy Steps!
Before starting out with the drape measurement, it’s necessary to have the required tools. Here are the tools you need for precise curtain measurement.
- Pen & Pad: To write the measurements as you go through the procedure.
- Measuring Tape: Used to measure window width & length and accurate rod placement
- Ladder: A Necessary tool used to measure taller and wider window curtains
- Level: You also need a level to ensure pencil markings are even for the rod placement.
- Calculator: Keep a calculator with you throughout the procedure for calculating curtain measurements at different points.
Similarly, you’ll need materials, including the curtain rod and its hardware accessories and curtains panels. Now, you’re ready to start measuring practically. However, decide on the rod placement and curtain style (floor-to-ceiling or short-length) first because it directly affects how you should measure.
Curtain Length Measurement
Measuring for the curtain length is super easy. You need to mark the rod as a starting point and measure to your desired length. It could be the floor surface or above it, depending upon your desired styling needs. However, header style impacts the overall length, and it must be considered to achieve the accurate length.
The headers come up in various styles, folds, and pleating patterns. Here are some popular ones and the length measurement with them.
- Pleating Curtains: Consider measuring pinch pleating drapes from under the ring to the ultimate length
- Grommet Curtains: Start measuring from the top of the eyelet rings and end at the desired length
- Rod Pocket Curtains: Rod-pocket curtains do not incorporate any additional length, so you can start simply from the rod to the floor.
- Tab-Top Curtains: Start measuring from the top of the tab to the length you need for curtains.
Pay Attention – For the fuzzy, puddle, or custom-made curtains, we need to follow their particular design and ensure the double fabric to the width of the railing track and curtain rod for maximum fullness.
Measuring Your Curtain Width
You can best measure curtain width by considering the desired fullness or appearance and including the trim present. If you want curtains to look textured, fluffy, and bunched, go for adding extra inches to the actual width. Otherwise, keep the original width for a sleek and contemporary look.
Take a measuring tape, pen, and notebook, and do the following:
- Measure the width of your window’s frame from end to end corners.
- Note down the measurement and add some additional inches to it.
Generally, you are asked to add between 8 and 14 inches to the actual width for fullness. But you can double the width for a luxurious effect and to block maximum sunlight and dampen sounds. We recommend you get two curtain panels if you’ve wide windows and ensure a wide railing system for even folds if you are going to install motorized curtains.
Determining The Rod Placement
You must understand the right placement of your curtain rod because it impacts the overall drape measurement and the look. You can create an illusion of larger windows and taller walls by strategically placing the rod.
Here’s how you can finalize its right position:
- Measure your windows side by side and add 4-8 inches on each side
- Make sure the rod is extended enough so the curtains can fully open or close
- Mount the rod at least 6-8 inches above the window frame for a look taller than its perceived size. However, it purely depends upon your ceiling height.
- After measuring your ceiling-to-window distance, consider placing the rod 14 inches beneath the ceiling for a sophisticated look
Attention: For double rod placement, follow the same procedure. They allow you to go for the motorized rails and layered curtains installation.
Some Ideal Curtain Sizes To Go With
If you’re confused and want to opt for ready-made curtain lengths, here’s what you can do. We’ve determined that standard windows that measure 24 in x 36 in and 48 in x 72 in are compatible with the below-mentioned curtain measurements.
- Widths: 48 inches of standard curtain panel (kitchen, bathroom, and living room)
- Lengths: 63 inches for casual spaces, 84–96 inches for standard windows, and 08–120 inches for floor-to-ceiling windows.
Opt for these lengths to install a drawing room, kitchen, living, and bedroom curtains.
The Bottom Line
To sum up, we are done with our step-by-step guide for measuring curtains. You need a measuring tape, pencil and notepad, a leveling gadget, a step ladder, and a calculator to start the procedure. You must consider the window frame height, width, desired fullness, and header style. Because it helps you choose the desired length and width for maximum fullness.
Similarly, you have to first analyze the right rod placement. Measure ceiling-to-window frame for finalizing it. For better navigation, we also described some ideal curtain lengths and widths that you can choose for the standard window sizes.
