What's the Standard Shower Curtain Size?

When shopping for a new shower curtain, one of the most important considerations is making sure you get the right size. A shower curtain that is too small won't provide adequate coverage and protection, while one that is overly large can be cumbersome. So what exactly is the standard or typical size for a shower curtain? Let's take a closer look.

The recommended width for a shower curtain is the width of your shower, tub, or enclosure plus an additional 12 inches. This extra footage on either side allows for proper overlap when you close the curtain, preventing water from escaping onto the floor. The extra length also gives you comfortable clearance space when entering and exiting the tub or shower.

Width Measurements

For a basic bathtub shower combo, the standard width is 72 inches. This allows a 60-inch tub to be covered with 6 inches of overlap on either side. For standalone showers, common widths are 32, 36, and 48 inches. Just add approximately 12 inches to these numbers for shower curtain sizing.

It's important to accurately measure the width of your tub or shower enclosure across the area you want the curtain to cover. This ensures you don't end up with a curtain that is awkwardly narrow or excessively wide. Carefully measure widths at both the top and bottom since some tubs, showers, ceilings, and walls may not be perfectly square or plumb.

If you have a uniquely shaped tub or angled shower area, you may need special allowances in shower curtain size and coverage. An L-shaped curtain rod with multiple curtain panels can help accommodate tricky measurements and complex bathroom configurations.

Accommodating Various Tub Shapes and Sizes

Some key measurements for common tub types:

• Standard bathtubs: 60-72 inches wide
• Corner bathtub: 65-70 inches wide
• Oval bathtub: 55-60 inches wide
• Freestanding bathtub: 55-65 inches wide

Remember to add your 12-inch overlap allowance to these numbers when selecting an appropriate shower curtain size.

Length Requirements

For shower curtain length, most standard tubs are 14-17 inches deep, requiring a 72-inch shower curtain for full coverage. Standard showers are generally 32-48 inches deep, so you would need a curtain that is 48-72 inches long. Taller enclosures may require extra long 84-inch shower curtains.

Make sure your new shower curtain is long enough to cover the entire vertical area you want protected, from the ceiling down to roughly 4 inches above the tub or shower basin. Allowing for some space at the bottom prevents the wet curtain from clinging to your feet.

Ensuring Proper Coverage for Different Heights

Common shower and tub areas have the following typical heights:

• Standard bathtub: 14-17 inches tall
• Shower stall: 32-48 inches tall
• Custom/luxury shower: Up to 84 inches tall

Choose a shower curtain length that fits your bathing space height, allowing for some additional overlap if needed.

Length Considerations for Enclosure Type

Bathroom layout and tub/shower construction can also impact ideal curtain length:

• Alcove tub/shower: Short 72-inch curtain
• Clawfoot tub: Extra long 120-inch curtain
• Corner shower: Multi-panel L-shaped curtain
• Frameless shower: Precise sizing for full coverage

Other Standard Sizing Factors

In addition to width and length measurements, there are a few other shower curtain specifications that typically follow common standards.

Standard Number of Shower Curtain Panels

The vast majority of shower curtains come in a single panel design. This allows for easy hanging and full coverage for most basic tubs and shower enclosures. Some specialized curtains may come as two, three, or even four panels to accommodate uniquely shaped bathing spaces.

Normal Weights and Densities

Standard vinyl and fabric shower curtains have a density of 10-12 ounces per square yard. This mid-weight density provides enough heaviness for stability and water barrier effectiveness while still allowing for easy movement and cleaning.

Typical Materials and Fabrics

Conventional shower curtains are made using water-resistant, mold/mildew-resistant fabrics like:

• Vinyl
• Polyester
• Microfiber
• Nylon
• PEVA

These fabrics repel moisture well while being easy to clean and maintain over years of repeated use.

Meeting Specific Shower Needs

While standard sizing may work well for basic bathing spaces, you may need to adjust shower curtain specifications to properly fit unique tub and shower configurations.

Adjusting Size for Specialized Uses

Some examples where non-standard curtain sizing is required:

• Extra large/custom showers
• Spa baths and Jacuzzi tubs
• ADA/accessible showers
• Glass block showers
• Neo-angle showers

Carefully measure these spaces and order custom-sized shower curtains to get an ideal fit.

Niche Applications and Non-Standard Showers

Unusual shower types like:

• Campers/RVs
• Boat heads
• Gym/pool showers

May call for unique curtain solutions like tension rods, suction cups, and outdoor-friendly fabrics.

When One Size Doesn't Fit All

If you have an unusually narrow, short, or small tub or shower area, be sure to shop for specialty petite/narrow shower curtains to get full coverage without unsightly bunching or uneven hanging.

Buying the Right Size

Now that you know the basic size guidelines for shower curtains, here are some final tips for purchasing the perfect fit:

Deciphering Size Charts and Specifications

Be savvy about interpreting product dimensions, allowing for your overlap needs. For example, a "60 x 72 inch" curtain may only cover 60 inches wide without appropriate overhang.

Allowing for Proper Overlap and Coverage

Plan for roughly 12 inches of additional width and length beyond your measured tub/shower dimensions to prevent water escaping onto the floor.

For total assurance, bring your bathroom measurements when shopping so you can hold shower curtains up to test for ideal width, length, and coverage.

Understanding standard shower curtain sizes along with taking careful measurements of your specific bathing space will allow you to select the perfect water-blocking shield. With the right length, width, overlap, and coverage, your new vinyl or fabric curtain will keep water inside the tub and shower area while complementing your bathroom's decor.