Window Curtain Measurement: How to Get the Right Size for Every Room

When you buy window curtain measurement, the process of determining the exact size of curtains needed to fit a window properly, including height, width, and drop. Also known as curtain sizing, it’s not just about covering glass—it’s about creating balance, controlling light, and making a room feel finished. Too short, and your windows look cheap. Too long, and they pool messily. Get it right, and your space instantly feels more intentional.

Window curtain measurement isn’t just about the window frame. It’s about curtain length, how far down the fabric hangs from the rod to the floor, and curtain hanging height, where you mount the rod relative to the window. Most people hang rods too low—right above the frame. But mounting them 4 to 6 inches above the window makes the room feel taller. And when it comes to length, the sweet spot for most UK homes is just above the floor, not touching it. Pooling curtains (where fabric gathers on the floor) look luxurious, but they trap dust and get dirty fast in busy households.

Width matters too. A curtain should be at least double the width of the window to look full and drape nicely. If your window is 100cm wide, get curtains that total 200cm in width. And don’t forget the curtain drop, the vertical measurement from the rod to the bottom hem. This is where people mess up. Measure from the rod, not the top of the window. If you’re using a track, measure from the top of the track. If you’re using a rod with rings, measure from the bottom of the rings. And always measure twice—once with a tape, once with a piece of string you can hold up to the window.

What works in a living room doesn’t always work in a bedroom. Blackout curtains need extra length to block light at the edges. Sheer curtains can float just above the sill for a light, airy feel. And in kitchens or bathrooms, shorter curtains that stop at the window sill or just below it keep moisture and splashes away. The right measurement isn’t just about looks—it’s about function. A curtain that’s too short won’t block morning light. One that’s too long might drag through pet traffic or get caught in the door.

You’ll find plenty of advice online about ‘perfect’ curtain lengths, but the truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all. It depends on your ceiling height, your window style, your furniture layout, and even your personal taste. That’s why we’ve gathered real examples from UK homes—what worked, what didn’t, and why. Whether you’re replacing tired drapes or hanging your first set, these posts show you how to avoid the mistakes everyone makes and get a look that feels custom, not catalog.