Curtains & Blinds Sizes Explained

In depth

Measuring accurately is absolutely crucial when choosing curtains or blinds – it’s far better to buy something slightly too large than to have poorly fitted window treatments that look awkward and unprofessional. The terminology used by manufacturers and retailers can be surprisingly complex, so let's break down what you really need to know about sizes in the UK. It starts with understanding the fundamental measurements: width and length.

The ‘width’ of a curtain usually refers to its overall size when fully open. This measurement is taken from the *edge* of the curtain fabric to the *edge* of the curtain fabric, across the recess or window frame. Don't include any extra material for fullness; that’s something you add later with weighting and gathers. It’s common to see widths described as ‘ready made’, ‘made to measure’, or ‘extra wide’. “Ready Made” curtains are typically pre-cut and hemmed, and the width will be the stated size. “Made to Measure” curtains are cut precisely according to your provided measurements, offering a greater degree of accuracy. “Extra Wide” curtains have a significantly larger width, often used for creating a dramatic effect or maximizing light control in larger windows. When measuring width, always take your measurement across the *full* recess – don't just measure the window frame itself. This allows for the curtain to hang properly and not pull unevenly when open.

The ‘length’ of curtains is where things get a little more nuanced. There are several ways curtain length is described. “Waffle” or “Paling” lengths (which you’ll often see on blinds) indicate how much fabric is gathered. A "waffle" setting, for example, means the fabric will be gathered to approximately 3-4 times its width when closed. A “pale” setting gathers it around twice its width. This gathering creates a soft, romantic look. The length measurement itself is taken from where the curtain rod or blind operates (usually at face height) down to the floor. For standard windows, this is usually around 50-56cm (20-22 inches) below the window sill. However, for taller windows, you’ll want a longer drop – often 75-90cm (30-36 inches). Consider the furniture in the room when deciding on length; you generally want some clearance between the curtain and the furniture to prevent it from being constantly brushed against.

For blinds, the measurement is typically given as ‘back rake’ or ‘side rake’. The ‘back rake’ refers to how much the blind is angled outwards at the top – this is common with Venetian blinds. A greater back rake allows for more light control but also requires more adjustment tabs. 'Side rakes' indicate the amount of overlap on either side of the window, and are particularly important for roller blinds or pleated shades where a neat finish is crucial. Again, take these measurements from the operating mechanism to the floor. For larger windows, you might need to increase the side rake measurement by 10-15cm (4-6 inches) to ensure a tidy appearance.

Now let’s talk about household sizes and appropriate curtain/blind sizes. A small bedroom or bathroom will typically require shorter curtains – around 160-200cm (63-79 inches) in length, with a width of approximately 150cm (59 inches). This is enough to provide privacy without overwhelming the space. For living rooms and dining rooms, you’ll generally want curtains that are at least 240cm (94 inches) long – ideally 270cm (106 inches) or more – and around 210cm (83 inches) wide, allowing for generous fullness. Consider the furniture again; larger sofas will need a greater clearance beneath the curtains. A large bay window could benefit from wider curtain panels (around 300-360cm / 118-142inches) to maintain proportion and avoid a cluttered look.

The most common mistake people make when buying curtains is underestimating the length. It's far easier to add more fabric than to have to shorten them once they’re hung. Measure from the operating mechanism (where the curtain rod or blind attaches) down to the floor, then add an extra 15-20cm (6-8 inches). This provides a safety margin and ensures that the curtains hang properly when the window is opened or closed. Similarly, don't be afraid to go wider than you initially think – a slightly larger width will always look more luxurious and create a greater sense of space.

Finally, remember to factor in the type of fabric you choose. Heavier fabrics, such as velvet or wool, require stronger curtain rods and linings to ensure they hang properly and prevent sagging. Lighter fabrics like voile are more prone to billowing and may need additional weighting or hooks to maintain their shape. Accurate measurements combined with careful consideration of these factors will guarantee beautifully fitted curtains and blinds that enhance your home’s décor.