What size curtains do I need for a 200cm window?

For a 200cm window, you should choose a total curtain width of 300cm to 400cm (1.5x to 2x fullness). In standard sizing, this would mean purchasing two panels that are each 228cm wide.

How do I know if my curtains are wide enough?

If your curtains’ total width is 1.5–2.5 times that of the curtain pole or track, excluding the decorative ends, then it is wide enough.

Should curtains touch the floor or the window sill?

The exact curtain length is up to you, but generally curtains should hover just above the floor, though you might prefer yours to ‘kiss’ the floor or to create a puddled look with excess length.

Do I measure curtains in cm or inches?

It’s best to measure curtains in centimetres for accuracy.

How to Measure Curtains: A Simple Guide

Contents:

Rear view of a woman measuring curtains on wall at home

Curtains can completely elevate the look of a room. Thankfully, learning how to measure curtains isn’t as difficult as it may sound.

From measuring width and drop to using those measurements properly when shopping around, this article has everything you need.

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Key takeaways

There is a lot that goes into how to measure curtains properly and how to translate those measurements into the right option for your home. As a result, it’s important to keep in mind the following:

How to Measure – The two key measurements you need are curtain width and drop. To get the width, measure from end to end of the pole or track (excluding decorative ends) and multiply this by your chosen fullness factor (1.5–2.5x).
Add 2.5–5cm to each panel to account for overlap. For the drop, measure from the track or from the curtain rings. If you want your curtains to ‘kiss’ or fall into a puddle on the floor, add length accordingly.
Turning Measurements into Sizes – Most retailers sell curtains in standard sizes, so it’s important to choose the one that is closest to your measurements. If your ideal drop sits between standard sizes, always size up, as you can have it altered.
Mistakes to Avoid – Always measure the rod width, not the window width, and use a rod that is longer than your window (6-12 inches on either side) to ensure the curtains don’t block the windows even when fully open.

Additionally, don’t forget to account for fullness when measuring your curtain size to avoid a flat look. Finally, decide what kind of length you want before purchasing, and avoid getting curtains that are too short.

Curtain heading types and how they affect measurements

A curtain heading is simply where the curtains are attached to a pole or track and has a big impact on the measurements overall. Different styles of curtain heading can affect curtain length and where the measurements should be taken from.

This will mean the drop measurement could vary, based on the heading type. For example, eyelet curtains can be measured from the very top of the pole, as the fabric typically sits 3cm above this. Pencil pleat curtains, however, need to be measured from the bottom of the rings or hooks.

How to measure for curtains: step by step

The most common mistake when it comes to measuring curtains is taking the measurements from the window frame, rather than the curtain pole or track.

To effectively measure curtains, there are two things you’ll need to measure – the width and the drop. If you’re in the UK, remember to always measure in centimetres.

Measure curtain width

The first step to measuring your curtains is to find out the width. This can be done with a few simple steps:

Measuring the Pole or Track – If the curtains have a pole, using measuring tape, measure the width between the decorative end caps, but do not include these end caps in your measurement. For tracks, measure from one end to the other.
Multiply by Fullness Factor – The fullness factor determines how much fabric is gathered. The correct way to measure for curtains is to multiply your width by the amount required for your chosen style. Different styles require different multiplications:
- Minimalist – Best suited to heavier fabrics or for a flatter look. This would require multiplying your width by 1.5.
- Standard – The most common choice for a balanced appearance. Multiply your width by 2.

Luxurious – For deep folds, this is recommended for sheer fabrics and pinch pleats. Multiply your width by 2.5.

Account for Overlap – If using a pair of curtains, you’ll want a slight overlap between them so no light gets in when they are closed. Add 2.5–5cm to the width for each curtain panel to account for this.

Measure curtain drop (length)

The next step is to measure your curtain’s drop or length. Typically you’ll want to measure from the curtain ring eyes if the curtains are attached to a pole, or, if the curtains are set up with a track, you’ll want to measure from that instead.

It is up to you where you want your curtains to finish on the floor, and there are a few different looks you could choose:

Floor-Length – Curtains hang about 1cm off the ground. This is the preferred option for many homeowners.
Kissing the Floor – The curtain fabric just touches the floor, creating a slight crease.
Puddled – Adding 2–7cm of length can create a romantic puddled look.

Proper measurement will ensure the right look for your home.

Curtain sizes explained: What size curtains do I need?

Understanding what curtain size you need can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be, and having your measurements ready will make it much easier.

Ready-made curtains come in fixed widths and drops, so you’ll need to match your measurements to the closest suitable curtain size.

Top Tip: If your ideal drop sits between standard sizes, always size up. You can have them shortened later with an alteration service.

Standard curtain widths and lengths

In the UK, there are standard curtain sizes and curtain lengths, so you’ll need to match your measurements to find the right curtain size for you. It’s also worth noting that availability may vary depending on what style you want.

Width (Per Panel)	Drop (Length) Options	Best Fit For (Pole/Track Width)
117cm (46”)	137cm, 183cm, 229cm	Up to 122cm (48”)
168cm (66”)	137cm, 183cm, 229cm	122cm–198cm (48”–78”)
228cm (90”)	137cm, 183cm, 229, 274cm	198cm–274cm (78”–108”)

Common curtain measuring mistakes to avoid

To ensure the right fit, make sure you avoid these common mistakes when measuring for your curtains:

Measuring the Window – When measuring for curtains, you must measure the rod width, not the window width. Curtains should cover the wall around the window, too, so they must be measured properly.
Not Allowing For Fullness – Using curtains the same width as the rid will create a flat look, so be sure to account for fullness in your measurements. Multiply your width by 1.5–2.5, depending on the look you want.
Incorrect Length of Rod – If you use a rod that is the same width as the window, you will end up with curtains that, even when fully open, partially cover up the windows and restrict light. Make sure the rod extends 6–12 inches wider on either side of the window.
Short Curtains – Incorrect curtain lengths and curtain sizes can give the room an unfinished look. It is up to you how much you want your curtains to meet the floor, whether they ‘kiss’ them or create a puddle, but make sure the length is not too short. Measuring accurately will let you know what size curtains you need before purchasing.