What is the Standard Size for Floor Length Curtains?

Floor length curtains can add drama, elegance, and luxury to any room. Their graceful lines cascading from ceiling to floor create a sophisticated look while also providing privacy and light control. But to get that perfect floor-sweeping length, you need to know the right way to measure for floor length curtains.

We'll cover measuring your windows properly, calculating length for optimal puddling, choosing curtain widths, allowing for shrinkage, and more. With the right measurements and tips, you can customize floor length curtains that enhance your space beautifully.

Measure Window Height Correctly

The starting point for finding the right floor length curtain size is to accurately measure the height of your window. Here are the key steps:

• Measure from the very top of the window frame down to the floor. For windows with sills or aprons, measure from the top of the frame down to the sill.
• Add 2-3 inches for clearance underneath the curtain. This prevents dust and debris from accumulating on top of the curtain.
• For extra height, extend starting measurement up to the ceiling or 3-4 inches above the window frame. This gives the curtain a grand, lofty effect.

Bathrooms and kitchens may need more clearance underneath curtains to accommodate openings and closings of doors. Make sure to measure any obstructions so curtains hang properly.

Calculate Additional Length for Puddling

Puddling is the elegant pooling of extra fabric on the floor in soft folds. The amount of puddle you want determines the additional length to add.

• For a standard puddle, add 4-6 inches of length beyond the floor.
• For a more dramatic puddle, add 8-12 inches of extra length.
• To just kiss the floor, add only 1-2 inches past floor length.

Consider your lifestyle and home when deciding on puddle length. More dramatic puddles complement large rooms and formal spaces beautifully. For homes with kids or pets, a kiss-the-floor length may be more practical.

Select an Appropriate Curtain Width

Floor length curtains can be made in a wide range of widths. Here are some tips for selecting width:

• For a gathered look, make curtains at least 1.5 times the window width.
• Extra wide curtains up to 2.5 times window width create a luxurious effect.
• Match wide windows with wide curtains, and narrow windows with narrower curtains.
• Consider window configurations. Wide curtains suit single windows well. Multiple windows may need multiple pairs of narrower curtains.

In smaller rooms, avoid extremely wide curtains which can overwhelm the space. Consult interior experts when in doubt about proportions.

Account for Possible Shrinkage

Many natural fiber fabrics like cotton and linen will shrink when laundered. To maintain floor length after washing, add extra length to account for shrinkage:

• Cotton curtains: Add up to 4% of total length
• Linen curtains: Add 4% to 6% of total length
• Polyester curtains: Add only 1% to 2% of length

Check fabric details to confirm expected shrinkage. Pre-wash cotton or linen curtains before hemming to maximize shrinkage. This will prevent curtains from becoming too short later.

Factor in the Look You Want

The desired aesthetic look and feel of your curtains also impacts ideal length:

• Longer lengths up to 120 inches suit formal living rooms and dining rooms.
• For bedrooms and kids' rooms, 90 to 108 inches is often sufficient.
• A barely sweeping the floor look needs just an extra inch or two.
• Adjust to account for high heels versus bare feet.

In nurseries, shorter lengths prevent safety hazards. For low ceiling rooms, moderate lengths prevent a squashed look. Evaluate your room's proportions and decor style.

Consider Functional Factors

Floor length curtains must work with room furnishings and fixtures. Check that:

• Curtains are long enough to cover window gaps fully when closed.
• They clear and don't obstruct floor vents or radiators.
• Lengths don't impede walking paths and traffic areas.

Make sure curtains are hung high enough and wide enough to open fully as needed. Manage length to complement both aesthetics and functionality.

Use Existing Curtains as Guides

Already have floor length curtains? Use them as measuring templates:

• Lay curtains flat and measure length from top to bottom.
• Measure width across the curtains, allowing for side hems.
• Add puddling length and shrinkage to recreate measurements.

Copying the dimensions of well-fitting curtains minimizes guesswork. Make adjustments as needed for updating length or fullness.

Account for Curtain Volume and Weight

More fabric equals more visual weight. When choosing length based on look and feel:

• Fuller, heavier fabrics need slightly shorter lengths to avoid overwhelming a space.
• Lightweight, sheer curtains can achieve greater lengths for ethereal billowing.
• Interlining adds weight and body, potentially shortening ideal length.

Test swatches with different fabrics and interlinings to see how they affect optimal dimensions for floor length.

Order the Proper Initial Length

To achieve the perfect customized floor length curtains:

• Measure window heights, widths, and puddling allowances carefully.
• When in doubt, order panels a little longer than calculations.
• Check options for ordering custom lengths vs standard sizes.

Having extra length to work with is better than curtains that are too short. The excess can be hemmed for an exact floor-skimming fit.

Make Final Adjustments After Hanging

Fine tune final curtain lengths after hanging:

• Live with the curtains for a few days to see how the lengths look and function.
• Adjust puddling amounts by hemming if needed.
• Allow the fabric to settle before hemming, as some fabrics relax after hanging.

Proper floor length curtains enhance any room's elegance. With accurate measuring, calculations, and customization, you can achieve a beautiful floor-sweeping look.

Answer Common Questions

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about floor length curtain sizes:

What's the standard floor length?

63 to 108 inches is the typical range for standard sized floor length curtains. 120 inches is common for more formal spaces. Minimal extra length is needed just to kiss the floor.

What width should I get?

Choose a width around 1.5 to 2.5 times your window's width. Wider widths create more luxurious draping effects.

How much extra length for puddling?

4 to 12 inches is recommended for puddling. More creates a dramatic effect, while just 1-2 inches softly kisses the floor.

How do I calculate shrinkage?

Add 4% to 6% extra length for cotton and linen curtains to account for fabric shrinkage after washing. Polyester shrinks less at 1% to 2%.

Should floor vents be covered?

No, curtains should clear floor vents by a couple inches so they don't obstruct airflow from vents or baseboard heaters.

Achieving the perfect floor length for curtains requires careful measurement, calculation, and customization. Measure window heights precisely from top to bottom. Plan for the desired amount of puddling at the floor. Select an appropriate width for visual balance. Allow extra length for possible fabric shrinkage after washing. And adjust the lengths after hanging if needed for the perfect sweeping effect.

You can request the ideal curtain size with the tips in this guide. Proper measurements will ensure your elegant floor length curtains enhance your rooms with style and beauty.