Curtains are the best window treatment for residential and commercial places. They add style to windows when the length is correct. By measuring the curtains correctly, you can achieve the desired look.
Whether you purchase blackout or sheer drapes, all you have to do is check the accurate curtain lengths. If you have no idea about how to select the right length, then we have prepared this curtain length guide for your ease. For the perfect fit, follow the steps in this blog.
Why Curtain Length Matters
Curtain length adds aesthetic value to any home decor. Adding the height as per your window frame and size will enhance the room’s ambience. The proportion of right length, either short, medium, or full length, gives a dramatic look to your drapes. Furthermore, various styles such as puddling, floor length, and sill length determine how your window looks. Regarding functional aspects, they offer complete light control, allowing you to keep your room dark during the day. Additionally, the correct length of the curtain helps in providing insulation. Besides, it maintains airflow in the room. If you have been looking for what size curtains do I need? Then follow this guide for your answer.
Measure Your Room
Take a tape measure and start measuring the length of your room. Furthermore, do not leave the width out, as it is an essential element to consider when noting down dimensions. Moreover, make sure to record every inch of length and width for your ease. The room’s dimensions will tell the owner about the perfect size of the drapes.
Measure the Window Frame
By taking the dimensions of the window frame, you can determine the accurate drape length. You have to measure the length, width, and depth of the window frame accordingly. Use the tape measure to measure the length from the ceiling to the bottom. Consider the factors such as trim, hem, and moulding while taking the dimensions. Make sure to take measurements from the left and right sides, as well as from the top and bottom.
Choose a Curtain Style
When you have accurately measured the dimensions of windows, consider the curtain style. You can select from goblet, pencil pleat, box pleat, or wave-fold curtain styles. Further, rod pockets and cafe curtains are also popular styles. Moreover, for practicality, choose thermal, sheer, or blackout curtains. From modern to classic, any style can be selected after taking the window dimensions. Choose the right style of drapery for your windows according to your fashion taste.
Select the Right Curtain Length
There are various curtain length rules to choose from. You can select it as per your window style or room theme. The following are some of the lengths that are common in Dubai interiors.
Apron length
This type of curtain usually extends about 1 inch from the bottom. It gives a formal and practical visual to your windows. Furthermore, it makes a unique and casual look for home decor. These drapes are simple to open and close.
Floor length
It is usually extended 3 to 8 inches above the floor. This gives your room windows a more practical, polished ambience. Keeping it above the floor in the high-traffic areas. Further, it offers an elegant and complete look. This provides a longer appearance of windows. They are placed straight while touching the floor. Ideal for high-traffic spaces such as the living room.
Sill length
It is the best length to cover the kitchen windows. These drapes should be kept from 1 to 8 inches above the sill. You can experiment with textures and colours of your choice. It is ideal for bathroom and kitchen windows.
Puddle length
The puddle-length drapes give an aesthetically unique look if installed correctly. It provides extra length for your room curtains. From the dining room to the bedroom, it offers a formal look. Furthermore, it gives your room interiors a dramatic look. It is best for large windows of villas and farmhouses.
Trouser Length
You have to keep 2 inches from the bottom to achieve an elegant look for your windows. This adds extra fabric to the curtains so they can bend when they hit the floor. It is best to install it in the formal style windows and low-traffic areas.
Analyse the Mount Position
Observing the mount is essential for selecting the appropriate length of the curtain. It directly calculates the length of drapes after finishing. Experts advised keeping the rod 4 to 6 inches above the frame. It gives windows a taller look. Further, the width should be 6 to 12 inches, extending from each side.
Consider Fabric Type
When you choose the fabric for curtains, that actually affects the length of your drapes. Usually, heavy fabrics are made in short lengths because they carry weight and already drag the curtains down. On the contrary, light fabrics are made in full floor-length, as they do not extend. For lightweight fabrics, cotton, linen, and sheer are the best options. For heavy curtains, velvet, suede, and brocade are the perfect options. They are the right fit for formal settings in the bedroom and living spaces.
Do not Use Short Drapes
Usually, people prefer short curtains for their homes. But they seem odd in visuals. An ideal length for the curtain should be 1 to 2 inches higher than the floor. Further, long drapes make a luxurious effect in any space. You have to actually analyse your window, which is the best length to suit your frame.
Avoid Lengthy Curtains
You do not need to purchase extra-long curtains to fit in the windows. Extra-long drapes carry dust and gather dirt, which is untidy for homeowners. That is why it is important to cover the windows with the right length. You have to analyse the surroundings and make the right decision instead of buying ready-made long curtains.
Mistakes To Avoid When Measuring Curtains Length
Below are some of the common mistakes that people mostly make while measuring the curtains.
Not Checking the Ceiling Height.
The most common mistake is not considering the ceiling height. If your ceiling is too high, consider longer drapes. It will give your windows a fuller look. If the ceiling is lower, you have to buy shorter curtains.
Selecting the Wrong Fabric
For shorter-length fabric, you have to buy thick, heavy fabrics, as they drag the curtains downwards. In the case of light fabrics, you must consider lightweight fabrics.
Not Considering the Room’s Purpose
It is essential to know what your room needs from the curtains. To maintain the temperature, you need to install thick, full-length drapes. But if you want a light and airy ambience, consider sheer curtains with a short length.
Not Measuring Dimensions Properly
If you do not adequately measure the window dimensions, then you will fail to get perfect results. Further, the window dimensions should be accurately measured; otherwise, you will end up with curtains that are too long or too short.
Selecting Too Long or Too Short Curtains
The most common mistake people make is buying drapes in uneven lengths. For ready-made curtains, people consider whether to choose longer or shorter curtains, and the latter should be avoided at any cost. Always measure your windows and custom-make your curtains accordingly.
Wrapping Up
Selecting the right curtain length is very important because it makes up the room’s ambience. You have to consider the following factors before choosing the length of curtains. Measure the room and ceiling length along with the window frame. Selecting the appropriate fabrics, from thick to sheer, based on the window’s practicality. Further, choose the length style from puddle, trousers, or a skirt as per your requirement. Moreover, know the purpose of your curtain, whether it is for style or functionality. The final length can be determined by following all the steps in this guide. Get light and privacy in your living space by choosing the right length.
