Must-Have Curtains Measuring 96 Glorious Inches
Whether you have soaring floor-to-ceiling windows or standard eight-foot openings, finding curtains that fully cover the height can be a challenge. But for dramatic impact and seamless style, curtains that graze the floor are the ultimate choice. At a generous 96 inches long, these opulent curtains beautifully dress tall windows with a cascade of luxurious fabric.
From elegant living rooms to spacious bedrooms, 96-inch curtains make a stunning style statement. They filter bright light, provide insulation, reduce outside noise, and deliver next-level elegance. Read on to discover why curtains measuring 96 inches should be on your home decor must-have list.
Complement Floor-to-Ceiling Windows
Extra tall curtains that reach from ceiling to floor are exceptionally well-suited for soaring vertical windows. They elegantly frame the window opening for a cohesive look. With curtains tailored to the exact window height, you don't have awkward negative space but instead a seamless wall of dreamy fabric.
The generous proportions of floor-length curtains balance out the impressive height of floor-to-ceiling windows. This enhances cohesion and harmony in the space. The continuity of fabric from ceiling to floor makes the windows feel intentionally dressed.
Add Drama and Elegance
The sheer abundance of fabric makes 96-inch long curtains intrinsically dramatic. The generous proportions lend elegance and luxury in a way smaller curtains simply cannot. Flowing vertically from rod to floor, these substantial curtains make a seriously stylish statement.
The floor-grazing length enables the curtains to puddle luxuriously, creating lovely draping folds that catch the light gorgeously. The drama is enhanced by the contrast between the towering height of floor-to-ceiling windows and the beautifully gathered fabric cascading down.
Filter Bright Sunlight
Floor-length curtains are exceptionally functional at reducing intense sunlight. Multiple curtain panels layered across a wide window form an effective light-blocking barrier. This keeps interiors cooler and less harshly lit during sun-drenched days.
With ceiling-height windows, sunlight streams in abundantly. Ultra long curtains are perfectly tailored to mitigate this brightness. The light modulating effects keep rooms comfortable and prevent fading on interiors.
Measure Carefully
Achieving the perfect floor-skimming length for your 96-inch curtains requires accurate measuring. Use a steel tape measure to determine the distance from the top of the curtain rod to the floor. Round up to the nearest whole inch. Remember to account for decorative hardware when measuring for the rod placement height.
Consider using a laser distance measurer for optimal precision. This tool captures exact dimensions for the height which is key for floor-length curtains. Have two people measure to cross-check accuracy before ordering curtains.
Consider Fullness and Width
Consider the finished width and fullness you desire when determining what curtain panel width to purchase. More gathered curtains require wider individual panels. Make sure to calculate any overlap needed if using two curtain panels per window. Planning these details will ensure your curtains beautifully frame the window at the optimal floor-grazing length.
A good rule of thumb is making the curtain panels 1.5 to 2 times the width of the window itself. This enables generous draping and fullness without appearing overpowering. Sheer curtains can have up to triple the window's width.
Allow Room for Hardware
If adding decorative finials, rings, or holdbacks, make sure to measure for the rod height accordingly. Position the rod so the curtains' finished length after the added hardware reaches just to the floor. This avoids awkward visual gaps while still showcasing your chic accents.
When measuring, assess the ornamental hardware you plan to use. Drapery holdbacks, for example, require additional length so the secured curtains don't pull up. Allow 2-3 extra inches for hardware functionality.
Fabric and Style Choices
From breezy linen to tactile chenille, sumptuous silk, cozy textured cottons and more, 96-inch curtains come in a nearly endless variety of decorator fabrics. Match the fabric weight and textures to your room's mood and function. Light, casual styles suit family spaces while sophisticated options work in formal living rooms. Choose unlined, partially lined or interlined based on privacy needs and insulating qualities.
Consider room specifics like sunlight exposure and window material when selecting fabrics. South facing spaces may warrant light filtering linen, while bedrooms favor room darkening fabrics for sleeping. Check that lined curtains fit within window openings.
Elevated Elegance
For dramatic impact, 96-inch curtains truly shine in rich, opulent fabrics like silk, velvet, or embroidered linen. The sheer abundance of material enables the fabrics' innate splendor to truly captivate. Metal grommets complement the luxury aesthetic.
Combining ornate embroidery, smooth satin trim and lavish tie-backs takes the opulent aesthetic up another notch. Coordinating lumbar pillows made from the curtain fabric creates a designer look.
Casual Texture
In relaxed spaces like bedrooms, cozy textured cottons, breezy linen, or tactile chenille carry subtle sophistication in a casual 96-inch curtain. Unlined styles allow light filtering. Warm metallic grommets contrast beautifully with natural fabrics.
For children's rooms, whimsical printed cottons keep the look lighthearted. Solid linen or textured cottons suit guest bedroom curtains. In offices, screenprinted canvas lends an artistic vibe.
Installing Floor-Length Curtains
Achieving an expert, high-end look when installing substantial 96-inch curtains starts with proper hardware. Sturdy wider rods keep the panels sliding smoothly. Extensions ensure optimal rod length for a custom floor-to-ceiling style statement.
Consider using wood poles or decorative metal rods with custom machined bracket supports. This tailors the hardware scale to the curtain size for harmony and perfect function.
Strategic Rod Placement
Mount the rod so the finished curtains reach just to the floor. Any lower and visual proportions feel off. Use the previously measured length from floor to desired rod height. Check with a fabric swatch to confirm the floor-grazing dimension.
Having a helper available during hardware installation ensures you can readily assess and adjust rod positioning. Fine tune based on both form and function until curtains hang correctly.
Weigh Down Hemlines
Generous hems keep the curtain silhouette beautifully draping, not sagging. Discreetly added hem weights prevent billowing. Clip rings also work for holding edges in place without visible heaviness. This keeps curtains hanging smoothly and shapes holding beautifully over time.
For particularly lightweight or blousy fabric, consider double hemming with a sandwiched chain or rope for stable draping. Make sure rings attach at multiple upper points for secure hold without visible pulls.
Caring for Delicate Fabrics
From silk to linen, many high-end curtain fabrics require special handling to look lovely lasting years. Choose gentle wash cycles, air drying, and medium iron heat to prevent damage. Periodic steaming also revives curtains between deeper cleaning. With proper care, opulent 96-inch curtains become cherished forever home accents.
Establish seasonal care routines based on sunlight and heating exposure. Semi-annual deep cleaning keeps curtains fresh. Monthly steaming maintains shapes and minimizes dust buildup.
Read All Labels
Always check manufacturer's labels for recommended washing methods. Handwashing delicate silk or dry cleaning velvet curtains preserves their integrity and colors. Knowing specific care needs keeps curtains looking fabulous year after year.
Mark care labels with permanent marker if removed from panels. Photograph labels before washing for easy reference. Never machine dry clean-labeled curtains to prevent irreparable shrinking or water marking.
Gently smooth curtain panels after drying to minimize lasting creases. Apply brief low-heat steam from an iron without pressing down to relax wrinkles. Reshape heading while still warm. Cool completely before rehanging for crisp edges.