Find Your Perfect Fit with 45-Inch Curtains for Short Windows
Trying to find curtains for windows that are shorter than the standard size can be a frustrating experience. Most ready-made curtains are designed for windows with a height of 84 inches or more. This leaves those with smaller windows dealing with excess fabric bunching on the floor, or spending time and money getting standard curtains altered. However, opting for 45-inch long curtains can provide a custom fit solution for bathrooms, kitchens, hallways, and any space where you need to cover shorter windows. With the right style and hanging techniques, 45-inch curtains can transform even the most awkward small windows into charming focal points.
With these tips and tricks, you'll be able to find gorgeous, made-to-fit curtains that provide privacy, light filtering, and stylistic flair for your distinctive windows.
Measure Your Windows Precisely
The first step to finding well-fitting 45-inch curtains is to carefully measure the height and width of your windows. This ensures you get the fabric dimensions just right.
When measuring height, run your tape measure from the very top of the window trim down to the point where you want the curtains to end. This is usually the window sill, but you may prefer them to puddle slightly on the floor for a luxurious effect. Make sure to note the exact height in inches.
For width, you'll need to measure across the entire window frame from edge to edge. Make sure to account for any protruding frames or architectural details on the window itself. Measure in three places - left, center and right - for the most accuracy, and use the longest width.
Don't forget to account for extra length that will be needed for curtain rings, clearance, and overlap when closed. 2-3 inches is standard, but measure your existing curtains or rods to be sure.
Benefits of 45-Inch Curtains for Small Windows
Once you've settled on 45 inches as the ideal curtain length for your space, you'll begin to realize the many benefits this custom fit provides over standard window curtain sizes:
- No excess fabric bunching and puddling on the floor.
- Hemming or alterations are not required to get the perfect floor length.
- More control over light and privacy even with abbreviated window heights.
Because they are made to fit the exact dimensions of your windows, 45-inch curtains can provide a neat, finished look without any additional work needed. You'll also avoid some of the light gaping and fit issues caused by curtains that are too voluminous for the window size.
Style Options for 45-Inch Curtains
Just because your windows are on the shorter side doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style! Here are some of the many design options available when shopping for 45-inch long curtains:
- Sheer, breezy fabrics like voile and lace.
- Light-blocking blackout curtains for bedrooms and media rooms.
- Noise-reducing curtain materials to buffer sound.
- Elaborate embellished styles with ruffles, embroidery, and trim accents.
- Simple, streamlined solid colored curtains.
- Vibrant patterns and prints to make a statement.
The choices are nearly endless! Focus on finding designs that complement your existing decor and serve the functional needs of the space. For example, blackout curtains help darken a nursery for naps, while cheerful patterns perk up boring bathroom windows.
Suitable Rooms for Short 45-Inch Curtains
Here are some of the prime spots in your home where 45-inch curtains can make the most impact:
Bathrooms
Bathroom windows are often shortened to allow for tub and shower installations while still permitting in natural light. A 45-inch tailored curtain adds a perfect design focal point.
Kitchens
Kitchens can benefit from the brightening effects of plentiful sunlight streaming through small windows dressed in 45-inch sheer curtains.
Hallways and Stairwells
These narrow architectural spaces are the perfect canvas for 45-inch curtains. Make the most of shortened windows along stairs or hallways.
Laundry Rooms and Mudrooms
Uplift dingy utility spaces by using 45-inch curtains to add a custom finish to small laundry and mudroom windows.
Hanging 45-Inch Curtains Properly
To help your 45-inch curtains look balanced and full, pay attention to the hanging techniques:
Optimal Rod Height
The curtain rod should be installed so that the bottom hem of the curtains ends about 1/4 inch above the floor. Any higher will look skimpy.
Maximize Headspace
Use low-profile rods and rings to gain every possible inch of visual height for a larger appearance.
Smooth Stacking
Fold back pleats, ruffles and other details neatly and evenly so the curtains stack tidily on the sides.
Customization Tips and Ideas for 45-Inch Curtains
The benefit of such specifically sized curtains means you have ample opportunity for customization. Some ideas include:
- Embellishing with fun trim, tassels, appliques or decorative headers.
- Lining blackout curtains with a light-blocking backing to darken bedrooms.
- Using noise-reducing curtain linings to absorb sound in a nursery or near busy streets.
- Adding weights or heavy bottom hems for more hold and structure.
- Layering sheer and solid curtains for added depth and light filtering.
Take your custom curtains to the next level by really personalizing them to your needs and style.
Shop Top Recommendations for 45-Inch Curtains
Looking for the best selection of quality 45-inch curtains? Here are some of our top recommendations for places to shop:
TheCurtainShop.com
This online retailer offers the widest variety of patterns, colors and materials specifically in 45-inch lengths. One of the best selections out there.
Custom Curtain Company
For a completely bespoke set of curtains tailored to your exact window measurements, this workroom ships nationwide.
Overstock.com
Check their frequent sales and deals for major savings on ready-made 45-inch curtains in an array of styles.
Target
In-store only, but Target stocks affordable 45-inch curtains in essential solids and printed designs.
Doing your homework helps you find quality 45-inch curtains at the best prices. Use these recommendations as a starting point in your search!
Finding perfectly proportioned curtains for small, shortened windows can be tricky. But opting for expertly crafted 45-inch curtain lengths provides a fuss-free and elegant solution. Properly measuring your windows, selecting suitable styles, and utilizing smart hanging techniques allows you to decorate with custom, on-trend window dressings. So don't settle for the skimpy look of standard sizes. Instead, embrace the charm and coziness afforded by 45-inch curtains made just for petite and uniquely sized windows.