How to measure for curtains: step-by-step width and height rules, fullness (1.8–2×), standard curtain lengths and pro tips for a perfect fit.
Why measuring matters
You can find gorgeous, budget-friendly curtains online — but if you don’t measure correctly, the panels will look wrong, hang poorly, or leave light gaps. As a factory-direct curtain maker, Hugmoom shares the exact measuring methods we use in-store so you can order directly from manufacturers and avoid middleman markups.
Curtain or shade? Choose the right method first
-
Curtains / Drapes (panels): Hang on a rod or track; need fullness (gathers or pleats).
-
Shades (roller, Roman, cellular): Fit inside or just outside a window frame; measured to the opening.
Measuring methods differ — follow the correct path below.
Tools you’ll need
-
Metal tape measure (metric & imperial)
-
Pencil & notepad or phone (take photos)
-
Helper (recommended)
-
Ladder for tall window
How to measure curtain WIDTH (how to size curtains)
Rule: Most makers produce panels with 1.8–2× fullness of your rod/track width by default. You don’t need to add extra unless requested.
A. Rod/track already installed
-
Measure the total rod/track length from outer end to outer end.
-
Tell the seller this rod length; fabric will be produced at 1.8–2× this number.
- Curtain width = rod length
B. No rod/track yet (recommended for new installs)
-
Measure window frame width.
-
Add 8–10in(20-25cm) each side so curtains stack clear of glass when open. This gives the rod length to install.
-
Curtain width = window width +20inch.
Per-panel width: total fabric ÷ number of panels.
💡Pro tip: If a seller asks you to pay extra for 1.8–2× fullness, switch sellers — reputable makers include it.
How to measure curtain HEIGHT (how to size curtains / standard curtain lengths)
Decide finish: floating, kiss (just touch floor), or puddle.
A. Where to measure from
-
Measure from the top of the rod/track (where the curtain hangs) straight down to the floor (or sill).
-
If mounting above the window for a taller effect, measure from the chosen mounting height (often 4–6 in / 10–15 cm above frame).
B. Finish guidelines
-
Kiss the floor: subtract 0.4–0.8 in (1–2 cm) from rod-to-floor measurement.
-
Floating: leave 0.4–0.8 in (1–2 cm) gap above floor.
-
Puddle: add 1–4 in (2.5–10 cm) for a romantic sweep.
C. Standard curtain lengths (common US/EU sizes)
-
63 in (160 cm) — short windows / sill length
-
84 in (213 cm) — standard for 8 ft ceilings
-
96 in (244 cm) — 9 ft ceilings
-
108 in (274 cm) — taller ceilings / minimal stackback
-
Custom lengths for floor-to-ceiling or unusual heights
Special cases & notes
-
Inside-mount shades: measure inside the frame width & height at three points; use the smallest value.
-
Bay windows: measure each segment separately; consider custom tracks.
-
Sliding doors / patios: measure width including stackback area so panels clear the glass.
-
Arched or irregular windows: supply detailed sketches/photos for custom quoting.
Fullness & pleating rules
-
Everyday natural look: 1.8–2× fullness.
-
Luxe hotel look: 2.5× fullness.
-
Calculator example: 96" rod × 2 = 192" fabric → 3 panels ≈ 64" each.
Practical checklist before ordering
-
Photo of window with tape visible
-
Rod length or inside frame width (measure twice)
-
Rod mounting height noted
-
Desired finish (kiss/puddle/floating)
-
Fullness multiplier (1.8–2×)
-
Number of panels and per-panel width
-
Fabric swatch requested; test in day/night light
FAQs (short)
Q — How precise must measurements be?
A — Aim for ±0.4 in (±1 cm). Re-measure twice.
Q — Should curtains touch the floor?
A — For living rooms/bedrooms, a “kiss” finish looks polished; for kitchens/bathrooms avoid touching for hygiene.
Q — What if floors are uneven?
A — Measure from the highest point or opt for custom hemming.
Q — What about measurement errors?
A — Measure 3 times, take average, and send photos. Many makers (including Hugmoom) confirm measurements before cutting.
Pro tips from factory experts
-
Order swatches and view them in your room across different lighting.
-
Mount higher & wider than the frame to make windows feel larger.
-
Use a helper for tall windows to keep tape straight.
-
Confirm fullness is included; reputable factories (including ours) default to 1.8–2×.
Internal Hugmoom resources (use when ordering)
-
Custom curtains & measurement service: https://hugmoomcurtain.com/pages/custom-curtains
-
Honeycomb / thermal options: https://hugmoomcurtain.com/collections/honeycomb/products/aurora-haze-honeycomb-blinds
-
Sheer & light-filtering: https://hugmoomcurtain.com/products/sheer-turquoise-curtains
-
Luxury lined drapes: https://hugmoomcurtain.com/products/luxury-insulated-european-chenier
Authoritative external references
-
The Spruce — window treatments & measurement tips: https://www.thespruce.com
-
House Beautiful — how to hang curtains and measuring: https://www.housebeautiful.com
-
U.S. Department of Energy — window coverings & energy efficiency: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/energy-efficient-window-coverings
-
Architectural Digest — design best practices for drapery: https://www.architecturaldigest.com
Final note
Measuring for curtains is simple when you follow a method and double-check. With this curtain guide you now know how to measure for curtains, the standard curtain lengths, and how to size curtains so your online or custom order fits perfectly. Want a printable measurement sheet or a ready-to-send template for Hugmoom’s customer service? I’ll make one for you.
Leave a comment