When it comes to bedroom curtains, length matters! The right length transforms bare windows into a dramatic design feature. But go too long or too short, and your curtains miss the mark—leaving your space with the wrong vibe or amount of privacy. Deciding the perfect length comes down to your unique style and needs.
Want blackout darkness or filtered light? Modest coverage or a theatrical billow? Whatever effect you’re after, we’ve got options. Follow our tried-and-true tips to find your just-right length, and your bedroom will bask in a welcoming glow.
For an informal cottage feel, opt for panels that just brush the floor. An inch or two too long is perfect—the extra length keeps light at bay for coziness but avoids a heavy pooled effect.
Ditch the guesswork and demystify curtain lengths once and for all! Whether you crave a minimal sill skim, trendy mid-length or opulent puddle, we’ve got the formula for curtains guaranteed to transform your space.
The hardest part will be deciding whether you want your new dreamy curtains to graze the floor for a relaxed vibe, skim the sill for crispness or puddle lavishly for drama. Whatever you choose, blissful bedroom style is just an adjustment away!
Factors to Consider When Choosing Bedroom Curtain Length
Before you decide how long your bedroom curtains should be, you should consider some factors that can affect the look and function of your curtains, such as:
- The size and shape of your windows. Larger or taller windows may require longer curtains to cover them adequately and create a balanced proportion. Smaller or shorter windows may look better with shorter curtains that do not overwhelm them or block too much light.
- The style and mood of your bedroom. Different curtain lengths can create different vibes and impressions in your bedroom. For example, longer curtains can add drama, elegance, or coziness, while shorter curtains can add freshness, simplicity, or casualness.
- The type and weight of your curtain fabric. Heavier or thicker fabrics may need more length to drape well and avoid looking stiff or bulky. Lighter or thinner fabrics may need less length to avoid looking limp or flimsy.
- The type and height of your curtain rod. The position and style of your curtain rod can affect how your curtains hang and how much space they take up. For example, a higher or wider rod can make your curtains look longer and more spacious, while a lower or narrower rod can make them look shorter and more compact.
- The type and size of your bed. The position and style of your bed can also affect how your curtains look and function in your bedroom. For example, a bed that is close to the window may need shorter curtains that do not interfere with the bed frame or bedding. A bed that is far from the window may need longer curtains that create a connection between the bed and the window.
Common Bedroom Curtain Lengths and How to Use Them
There are four common curtain lengths that you can choose from for your bedroom, depending on the factors mentioned above and your personal taste. They are:
- Sill length. This is when your curtains end just above the window sill or slightly touch it. This is a good option for smaller or shorter windows, as it can make them look bigger and brighter. It is also a good option for bedrooms that need more light or ventilation, such as guest rooms or kids’ rooms. However, this length may not be suitable for larger or taller windows, as it can make them look unfinished or awkward.
- Apron length. This is when your curtains end a few inches below the window sill or halfway between the sill and the floor. This is a good option for medium-sized windows, as it can create a neat and tidy look. It is also a good option for bedrooms that need some privacy but not too much darkness, such as master bedrooms or teen rooms. However, this length may not be suitable for smaller or larger windows, as it can make them look disproportionate or unbalanced.
- Floor length. This is when your curtains end just above the floor or slightly touch it. This is a good option for larger or taller windows, as it can create a full and elegant look. It is also a good option for bedrooms that need more warmth or coziness, such as romantic bedrooms or adult rooms. However, this length may not be suitable for smaller windows, as it can make them look crowded or heavy.
- Puddle length. This is when your curtains end several inches below the floor and create a puddle effect on the ground. This is a good option for adding some drama, romance, or luxury to your bedroom. It is also a good option for using heavier or thicker fabrics that need more length to drape well. However, this length may not be suitable for bedrooms that have high traffic or pets, as it can get dirty or damaged easily.
Conclusion
There is no definitive answer to how long bedroom curtains should be, as different curtain lengths can work for different windows and bedrooms. The best way to choose the right curtain length for your space is to consider the size and shape of your windows, the style and mood of your bedroom, the type and weight of your curtain fabric, the type and height of your curtain rod, and the type and size of your bed. You can also experiment with different lengths and see how they look and feel in your bedroom.
If you need some inspiration or guidance on how to hang curtains properly, here are some tips to help you:
- Measure your windows carefully before buying or making your curtains. You should measure the width of your window frame, the height from the top of the frame to the floor, and the height from the top of the frame to where you want your curtains to end.
- Choose a curtain rod that matches the style and size of your window and bedroom. You should also choose a rod that is long enough to extend beyond the sides of your window frame by at least 6 inches on each side. This will make your window look wider and allow more light in.
- Hang your curtain rod at least 4 inches above the top of your window frame. This will make your window look taller and create more space between the rod and the window sill.
- Hang your curtains evenly on both sides of the window using clips, rings, hooks, grommets, tabs, or ties. You should also make sure that your curtains are not too tight or too loose on the rod, as this can affect their appearance and function.
- Adjust your curtains to the desired length and style. You can use pins, hem tape, or sewing to alter the length of your curtains if needed. You can also use tiebacks, holdbacks, or hooks to create different effects with your curtains, such as pleats, folds, or swags.
