Choosing the right curtains is about more than color and fabric — it’s about creating balance, proportion, and flow. A beautifully hung curtain can make a room feel taller, brighter, and more refined. But before you can achieve that look, there’s one essential step: measuring correctly.
At Neutral Curtains, we believe that perfect curtains start with precision. Whether you’re dressing your living room, bedroom, or dining area, understanding how to measure for curtains ensures a flawless fit and elegant drape every time.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple process of measuring your windows — whether you’re using a track or rod — so your curtains hang beautifully and function effortlessly.
Why Measuring Matters
Proper measurements are key to achieving a professional, tailored finish. Even the most luxurious fabric can look awkward if the proportions are off — too short, too narrow, or poorly positioned.
Accurate measurements help you:
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Ensure smooth operation when opening or closing curtains.
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Achieve the desired fullness for rich, elegant folds.
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Enhance the visual height and width of your windows.
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Prevent light gaps for better privacy and coverage.
Taking time to measure carefully guarantees that your curtains complement your space — not compete with it.
Before You Begin: What You’ll Need
Gather these simple tools before you start measuring:
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A metal measuring tape (for accuracy)
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A step stool or ladder (if measuring high windows)
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A pencil and notepad (to record each window’s measurements)
Always measure in centimeters or inches, depending on your preference, and double-check every number before ordering.
Step 1: Decide How You’ll Hang Your Curtains
Your measuring method depends on whether you’re using a curtain track or a curtain pole (rod).
For a Curtain Pole:
Measure from the bottom of the rings (where the curtain hooks attach) to your desired length.
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If you prefer your curtains to hang from eyelet or tab tops, measure from the top of the pole since the fabric will sit above it.
For a Curtain Track:
Measure from the top of the track (where the hooks are inserted) to your desired length.
This distinction ensures that your curtain height looks clean and precise once installed.
Step 2: Measure the Width
The width determines how much of the window your curtains will cover and how full they’ll appear when closed.
For Curtain Poles:
Measure the full width of the pole (not including finials).
Then, for fullness, multiply that measurement:
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1.5x the pole width for a tailored, minimal look.
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2x the pole width for standard fullness.
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2.5x or more for a rich, luxurious drape.
For Curtain Tracks:
Measure the entire length of the track, including any overlap in the center (for double tracks).
Apply the same fullness multiplier based on your style preference.
Tip: Always add extra width (10–20 cm on each side) if you want your curtains to stack neatly away from the window when open.
Step 3: Measure the Length (Drop)
Curtain length dramatically affects the mood and style of a room. Here are the most common options:
A. Sill Length
Ideal for kitchens or bathrooms, where curtains end just above the windowsill.
Measure from the top of the pole or track to 1 cm above the sill.
B. Below Sill Length
Common for bedrooms or smaller spaces — the curtain ends about 15–20 cm below the sill.
C. Floor Length
A classic, elegant look for living rooms or dining spaces.
Measure from the top of the pole or track to 1 cm above the floor to allow free movement.
D. Puddle Length
For a soft, romantic aesthetic, extend 2–5 cm longer than the floor for a gentle “puddle” effect.
At Neutral Curtains, we recommend floor-length curtains for most rooms — timeless, graceful, and ideal for creating visual height.
Step 4: Mounting Height
For a designer look, hang your curtain pole or track higher than the window frame — typically 10–20 cm above the top of the window.
This small adjustment makes ceilings appear taller and rooms feel more open. If space allows, extend your pole 15–30 cm beyond each side of the window to ensure full light exposure when curtains are drawn back.
Step 5: Double-Check Everything
Before ordering, review your measurements twice.
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Record both width and length for each window.
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Clearly note mount type (pole or track).
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Specify desired fullness and curtain style (eyelet, pencil pleat, ripple fold, etc.).
If you’re ordering custom curtains from Neutral Curtains, our team can guide you through the details to ensure a flawless fit.
Measuring for Special Window Types
Not all windows are the same — here’s how to handle a few unique cases:
Bay Windows:
Measure each section separately. Choose a track that curves or use multiple poles for each angle.
French Doors:
Measure from the top of the door frame to 1 cm above the floor for an elegant, functional fit.
Floor-to-Ceiling Windows:
Measure from the ceiling line (or desired top point) to just above the floor for dramatic vertical impact.
Double Windows:
Treat the entire span as one measurement for visual continuity.
Common Measuring Mistakes to Avoid
To achieve a designer finish, avoid these common pitfalls:
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Measuring only the glass area (always include frame and margins).
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Forgetting to account for mounting hardware height.
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Ordering the exact window width — add extra for fullness.
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Skipping the double-check before placing your order.
Even a few centimeters can make a big difference in the final appearance.
Bringing It All Together
The right curtains can completely transform a room — softening light, adding texture, and framing your view. But the secret to achieving that effortless beauty lies in one simple step: measuring with care.
At Neutral Curtains, we make it easy to bring your vision to life. Our custom-made curtains are crafted to your exact specifications — ensuring perfect proportions, flawless drape, and timeless design.