Do Curtains Have to Touch the Floor: A Guide to Curtain Lengths

The length of your curtains dramatically impacts both the look and function of your windows. Curtains that are too short leave your windows exposed, while curtains that are too long collect dust and get in the way. Choosing the perfect curtain length for your space is key to maximizing style and practicality.

Whether you prefer curtains that just skim the floor, end at the windowsill, fall somewhere in between or puddle onto the floorboards, there’s a curtain length tailored to your needs. From casual to formal and everything in between, the options for achieving your ideal window treatment are endless.

In this guide, we explore the most popular curtain lengths – floor-length, sill-length, apron-length and puddle-length. See how each length dresses up your windows and learn tricks for using curtain length to enhance your room’s unique character. Find the perfect pairings of window size, room style and curtain length to showcase your space at its best.

With the right length curtains, you can frame your views, set the ideal ambiance and add the finishing touch of polish or panache. Measure, choose and hang for windows worth admiring!

Floor-Length

Floor-length curtains are curtains that touch or barely touch the floor. They are the most common and popular type of curtain length, as they can suit any window and any room. They can create a clean and elegant look for your window, as well as a cozy and comfortable feel for your room.

Some of the benefits of floor-length curtains are:

• They are easy to measure and install.
• They are versatile and adaptable.
• They are suitable for any window size and shape.
• They can add height and drama to your room.

Some of the drawbacks of floor-length curtains are:

• They can be expensive and heavy.
• They can collect dust and dirt easily.
• They can get in the way of furniture or traffic if not tied back or pulled up.

Sill-Length

Sill-length curtains are curtains that end at or slightly below the window sill. They are a good option for small or narrow windows, or windows that are above furniture or radiators. They can create a neat and tidy look for your window, as well as a bright and airy feel for your room.

Some of the benefits of sill-length curtains are:

• They are easy to measure and install.
• They are affordable and lightweight.
• They are suitable for small or narrow windows.
• They can let in more light and air into your room.

Some of the drawbacks of sill-length curtains are:

• They can be boring and plain.
• They can expose too much of your window or wall.
• They can reduce privacy and insulation for your room.

Apron-Length

Apron-length curtains are curtains that end a few inches below the window sill. They are a good option for medium or wide windows, or windows that are in between furniture or radiators. They can create a balanced and harmonious look for your window, as well as a warm and inviting feel for your room.

Some of the benefits of apron-length curtains are:

• They are easy to measure and install.
• They are durable and practical.
• They are suitable for medium or wide windows.
• They can provide privacy and insulation for your room.

Some of the drawbacks of apron-length curtains are:

• They can be dull and ordinary.
• They can hide too much of your window or wall.
• They can block some light and air from your room.

Puddle-Length

Puddle-length curtains are curtains that extend a few inches or more beyond the floor. They are a good option for large or tall windows, or windows that are in a formal or luxurious setting. They can create a dramatic and extravagant look for your window, as well as a romantic and elegant feel for your room.

Some of the benefits of puddle-length curtains are:

• They are easy to measure and install.
• They are decorative and unique.
• They are suitable for large or tall windows.
• They can add texture and depth to your room.

Some of the drawbacks of puddle-length curtains are:

• They can be expensive and bulky.
• They can attract dust and dirt easily.
• They can be difficult to clean and maintain.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks to choose the best curtain length for your window and your room:

• Measure your window height from the top of the curtain rod to the floor. Subtract 1 inch for floor-length curtains, add 4 inches for sill-length curtains, add 8 inches for apron-length curtains, or add 12 inches or more for puddle-length curtains.
• Choose a curtain length that matches or contrasts with your room style. For example, you can use floor-length curtains for a modern or minimalist room, sill-length curtains for a casual or rustic room, apron-length curtains for a traditional or classic room, or puddle-length curtains for a formal or glamorous room.
• Choose a curtain length that enhances or disguises your window shape. For example, you can use floor-length curtains to make your window look taller or wider, sill-length curtains to make your window look smaller or narrower, apron-length curtains to make your window look balanced or symmetrical, or puddle-length curtains to make your window look dramatic or luxurious.

Wrap Up!

Curtain length makes all the difference in how your windows and rooms appear. Floor-skimming, sill-hitting or puddle-gathering – choose the length that spotlights your windows and sets the tone you envision. Use your window measurements, room style and the tricks in this guide to gauge what curtain length flatters your space. Pay attention to proportions and the mood you want to achieve.

Frame fully or partially, maximize coziness or openness. Make your curtain length design deliberate. Whether you want to add height, minimize width or just get the proportions just right, choose a length tailored to your needs. Polish the presence of lackluster windows or play up already dramatic views. Discover how curtain lengths long or short transform the feel of your room.

Make windows the focal point they deserve to be with a length suited to your style and space. Measure, choose and hang for an alluring presentation worth admiring! The perfect curtain length – your windows, style and function in flawless harmony at last.

Dale

Dale is the colorful mind behind HuetifulHomes.com, where he shows you how to create a home that is as fun and fabulous as you are. He has a passion for color and a knack for DIY, with years of interior design experience he shares his tips and tricks on how to create a home that reflects your personality and style. He believes that color is the key to happiness, and he wants to help you make your home more Huetiful.