Determining the Correct Curtain Length: A Practical Guide

Determining the correct curtain length may seem simple, but several important factors need to be considered, such as the heating system and the season. When designers talk about summer or winter curtains, they don't mean floral patterns or warm wool but rather the optimal length of the curtains.

In the summer, when radiators are not emitting heat, long curtains can be used to avoid drafts. In winter, however, radiators should function efficiently without obstruction, meaning the fabric should not cover the radiator surface.

Even if you use underfloor heating, curtains that hang down to the floor can reduce the efficiency of the heating system. Therefore, the ideal curtain length in winter is up to the window sill.

Determining the Correct Curtain Length: Made Easy

Curtains that lie on the floor look chic and stylish but are very impractical in everyday life. They only look great in photos, where stylists spend hours arranging them perfectly. Without this care, curtains quickly lose their luxurious appearance and become dust collectors.

Note: A hygiene gap between the curtain and the floor is recommended.

Curtains to the Floor

The distance to the floor should be 1-2 cm. Accurately measuring the curtain length is crucial and requires careful attention. Inaccuracies and an uneven floor can affect this gap.

The hygiene gap of 1-2 cm is important to prevent dust from collecting under the curtains. This makes cleaning easier. If you use a robot vacuum cleaner, the curtains should be even shorter to allow the device to pass underneath without issues.

Avoid making the curtains so long that they touch the floor. Otherwise, the fabric will droop and collect a lot of dust.

Curtains to the Window Sill

If the window sill is used as a surface for flower pots or other items, the curtains should not exceed the window sill. These curtains are made from light, transparent fabrics. The distance between the window sill and the curtain should ideally be 1-1.5 cm.

Rule: Window sill minus 1 cm.

The hygiene gap is not only important for floor-length curtains. Shorter curtains also need an air gap of 1-1.5 cm.

Curtains Below the Window Sill

Curtains that end 10-15 cm below the window sill look elegant and are particularly suitable for modern-style dining rooms.

Another tip regarding the optimal curtain length concerns the combination of curtains and tulle. Both should be the same length. Sometimes, the curtains are made slightly longer. Long curtains to the floor can be combined with shorter tulle curtains up to the window sill, but not the other way around.

Calculating Curtain Length: What to Consider

There are no standard curtain lengths. To calculate the correct length for a specific room, measure in advance and select the accessories accordingly. The length of a curtain is measured from the top fixing point to the desired endpoint. For models with eyelets or loops, start measuring from these elements.

The fabric of the curtains is also very important. Natural fabrics such as linen or cotton may shrink after washing. This should be taken into account during planning.

When we sew linen curtains for our customers, we account for the fabric's shrinkage and make the curtains slightly longer. After the first wash, the curtains reach the desired length and do not shrink further.

The correct curtain length is crucial for functionality and aesthetics in your home. In summer, long curtains are ideal to prevent drafts, while in winter, shorter curtains ensure efficient heating. A hygiene gap of 1-2 cm between the floor and the curtain makes cleaning easier and prevents dust accumulation. Consider the shrinkage of natural fabrics when planning and choosing your curtains. With these tips, you can find the perfect curtain length for any season and any room.