Here's How Long Your Bedroom Curtains Should Actually Be
Do you ever wonder if your bedroom curtains are the right length? Getting the length of your bedroom curtains just right can make a huge difference in both the look and the functionality of the space. Curtains that are too short fail to provide privacy and light control, while curtains that are overly long can overwhelm a room. Follow our tips to determine the ideal curtain length for your bedroom.
Typical Recommendations for Bedroom Curtain Length
Many standard guidelines recommend hanging bedroom curtains just above the window frame or just below the ceiling. However, these blanket recommendations rarely fit every bedroom perfectly. Hanging curtains just above the window can leave an awkward gap of visible wallspace above. And hanging them close to the ceiling may overwhelm a room with low ceilings. Instead, the most foolproof way to determine the right curtain length is to carefully measure your specific window and room dimensions.
Key Measurements to Take
Start by measuring the exact height of your window or windows. Next, measure the distance from the top of the window frame to the ceiling. Finally, make note of the room's ceiling height. These measurements will allow you to calculate the ideal curtain length to properly fit your window and room proportions.
Customizing Curtain Length for Your Bedroom
Once you have your room measurements, there are a few additional factors that can help fine tune the curtain length that will work best for your bedroom's unique needs.
Based on Room Function
Consider how you use the bedroom. For a guest room or kid's bedroom, shorter curtains around the exact window height help maximize natural light. For the master suite where darkness and privacy take priority for sleep, longer curtains just below the ceiling work best. If the room doubles as a home office or workout space, leave a gap between the curtain hem and the floor to allow light in.
Matching Room Style
Make sure curtain length complements the existing style of your bedroom. For modern and contemporary spaces, narrow floor-to-ceiling curtains enhance the sleek aesthetic. In traditional bedrooms, generously puddled curtains that stack attractively on the floor complete the classic look. Factor in current furniture placement as well when fine tuning length.
Getting the Curtain Length Just Right
As a general guideline, ceiling height is the most important factor for determining ideal curtain length. For 8 ft. ceilings, hanging curtains just above the window with 2-3 inches of floor clearance is usually most visually appealing. At 9 ft. ceilings and above, longer curtains ending 1-2 inches above the floor tend to look best.
Be sure to account for your chosen curtain hardware and any additional decorative elements when taking your measurements as well. This will ensure your curtains hang at the perfect customized length for both practicality and style in your specific bedroom.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Hanging curtains too short so there is a large gap between the top of the curtain and the ceiling
- Mismatched curtain panel lengths in the same window for an uneven look
- Ignoring differences in ceiling height if you have vaulted areas or multiple windows
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I choose standard or custom curtain lengths?
Getting custom curtain lengths tailored to your exact window and ceiling measurements almost always gives a better fit than standard sizes. However, standard sizes can work well if your room dimensions closely match common heights like 8 ft. or 9 ft. ceilings.
What if my window is very close to the ceiling?
For windows placed very close to the ceiling, it usually looks best to hang curtains close to the ceiling as well, leaving just 2-3 inches between the top of the curtain and the ceiling. This helps balance out the proportions.
What curtain fabrics work best for floor-length curtains?
Choose medium to heavy weight fabrics with a nice drape and stack for floor-length curtains. Cotton velvets, faux silks, linens, textured wovens and subtly patterned fabrics help the curtains fall beautifully. Stay away from stiff or very lightweight fabrics that won't stack evenly at longer lengths.
Finding the optimal curtain length comes down to carefully measuring your window placement, ceiling height, and accounting for room functionality. Once you nail the measurements, customize to your bedroom's proportions. Longer, floor-skimming curtains tend to work best at higher ceiling heights, while just above the window lengths are better for standard 8 ft. ceilings. Follow our tips and transform not only the look but also the light control and privacy functions through properly sized bedroom curtains.