Standard Shower Curtain Sizes Finally Explained
Is your shower curtain too short, leaving your floor soaked? Or maybe it's too narrow, letting in drafts from the side. Ill-fitting shower curtains are a common problem many of us face when trying to buy new ones. With so many different shower curtain sizes available, how are you supposed to know which length and width will fit your space properly?
No more guessing games or getting the size wrong!
What Are the Standard Shower Curtain Dimensions?
Most ready-made shower curtains come in one of three standard sizes:
- 70 x 70 inches
- 70 x 72 inches
- 72 x 72 inches
These dimensions are suitable for most average-sized bathtubs and showers. The width ranges from 70-72 inches, which allows the curtain to hang with proper coverage across standard 60-inch tubs and showers. The length is also typically 70-72 inches, long enough to reach from the shower rod down to the tub or floor.
If you have a larger specialty shower or tub, you may need to size up from the standard shower curtain dimensions. But for most basic bathroom setups, these sizes should suffice.
Shower Curtain Length
To find the ideal shower curtain length, you first need to measure from where your curtain rod installs down to the tub floor or base of the shower. This will give you the minimum length your new curtain must be to provide coverage.
Be sure to subtract a couple inches from your floor-to-rod measurement to account for the shower curtain rings. The rings take up some of the length, so your curtain needs to be a bit shorter than the total floor-to-rod measurement.
For example, if you measure 72 inches from your rod to the floor, you might look for a 70-inch long shower curtain. This leaves you 2 inches of clearance with the rings.
If your floor-to-rod measurement exceeds 72 inches, you may need an extra long shower curtain. These can range from 74 inches up to 84 inches for very tall showers or shower rods installed higher up than normal.
Shower Curtain Width
For shower curtain width, you'll want to measure across the entire span of your tub or shower stall opening. Then add an extra 12 to 24 inches to this measurement.
The extra width allows for proper hanging and full coverage. A too-narrow curtain might leave gaps at the edges or not overlap in the middle properly when closed.
Most standard 60-inch wide tubs and showers use 70- to 72-inch wide shower curtains. But if you have an extra wide tub or stall, shower curtain widths are available up to 144 inches wide.
When Do You Need a Bigger Shower Curtain?
There are a few signs that indicate it's time to size up from a standard shower curtain to an extra long or wide version:
- Water sprays out the bottom or sides of the curtain when the shower is running
- The shower curtain doesn't fully enclose or cover the tub or shower area
- Your existing curtain is too short and drags on the floor when closed
- You notice gaps between the edges of the curtain and your walls or shower door
If your current curtain exhibits any of these issues, an oversized shower curtain can help provide full, proper coverage.
Extra Long Shower Curtains
Extra long shower curtains are ideal if you have:
- A taller than average shower area or high shower rod installation
- A showerhead located higher up than normal
- A desire for your curtain to extend fully to the floor for maximum coverage
These extra long curtains provide the additional length you need for sufficient coverage from top to bottom. They come in lengths ranging from 74 inches up to 84 inches.
An 84-inch long curtain allows a full 12 inches of clearance at the bottom for higher showers. The added length prevents billowing at the bottom and keeps water from escaping.
Extra Wide Shower Curtains
On the other hand, extra wide shower curtains give you greater coverage side to side. They work well if you have:
- An oversized, spacious shower area
- A larger than average bathtub
- A corner tub or shower
- Handicap-accessible shower needs
Extra wide shower curtains come in sizes ranging from 74 inches up to 144 inches across. This allows complete overlap in the middle, preventing drafts or water spraying out the sides.
The wider width also provides enough fabric to smoothly drape and hang down without pulling when drawn closed. Oversized shower curtains give you full privacy and protection.
How to Measure for the Perfect Shower Curtain
To ensure you get a well-fitting shower curtain, accurate measurements are a must. Follow these steps:
Measure Length
1. Use a cloth measuring tape to measure from the center of where your shower curtain rod installs down to the tub floor or shower base.
2. Make note of this length. Then deduct 1 to 2 inches for shower curtain rings.
3. Round your final length up to the nearest common shower curtain size (70 in, 72 in, 74 in, etc.).
Measure Width
1. Spread a cloth measuring tape across the entire width of your bathtub lip or shower stall opening.
2. Note this width measurement, then add 12 to 24 inches for fuller coverage and proper hanging.
3. Round up the total to the nearest common shower curtain width (70 in, 72 in, 74 in, etc.).
Once you have accurate length and width measurements, you'll know exactly what shower curtain size to shop for.
Common Shower Curtain Measurement Questions
Here are answers to some other common issues and questions people have when measuring for shower curtains:
What if my measurements are between sizes?
If your measurements don't perfectly match a standard curtain size, always round up. It's better to have a slightly oversized curtain than one that is too small.
What if my shower area is an odd size?
They make custom shower curtains if you need a very specific size. But first look for the next largest stock size that will work, and use clip rings to take up any extra length.
Should I get a curtain too big or too small?
Err on the larger side. A curtain too small leaves gaps and allows water to escape. Oversized can simply be hemmed for perfect coverage.
What are best tricks for accurate measurements?
Use a steel measuring tape instead of a cloth one. Measure multiple spots and average the numbers. Have someone assist and confirm your measurements.
Knowing the standard shower curtain sizes makes buying the perfect one much easier. Most ready-made curtains come in 70 x 70 in, 70 x 72 in, or 72 x 72 in. These accommodate most basic tubs and showers.
For specialty setups, extra long curtains up to 84 in or extra wide curtains up to 144 in are available. Carefully measure your space and use our tips to determine the ideal length and width.
The right shower curtain measurement will prevent drafts, leaks and billowing. No more coming home to puddles on your floor! Our guide takes the guesswork out of shower curtain sizing so you can finally explain those standard dimensions.