Is It Ok For Curtains To Drag On The Floor?

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If you’re wondering whether your curtains should touch the floor or not, you’re not alone. This is a common dilemma for many homeowners who want to create a stylish and cozy look for their windows. But the answer is not so simple. It depends on the type of curtains you have, the style of your room, and your personal preference.

The short answer is: yes, it is ok for curtains to drag on the floor, but only if they are designed to do so. Otherwise, you may have measured wrong and need to change or take up your curtains.

What are curtains that drag on the floor?

Curtains that drag on the floor are also known as puddled curtains. They are curtains that are intentionally made longer than the window height, so that they create a pool of fabric on the floor. This can create a dramatic, elegant, and romantic effect in your room.

Puddled curtains are usually made of heavy or lightweight fabrics that can drape well and form graceful folds on the floor. Some examples are velvet, silk, linen, or cotton. Puddled curtains are not recommended for fabrics that are stiff, thick, or textured, as they may look bulky and messy on the floor.

Puddled curtains can also vary in how much they drag on the floor. There are different types of puddles, such as:

  • Light or minimal puddle: The curtains just touch or kiss the floor, creating a clean and tailored look.
  • Hovering puddle: The curtains slightly touch the floor, creating a simple and casual look.
  • Breaking puddle: The curtains lie on the floor for about one or two inches, creating a slight break in the fabric.
  • Medium puddle: The curtains lie on the floor for about three to six inches, creating a more dramatic and formal look.
  • Opulent puddle: The curtains lie on the floor for more than six inches, creating a luxurious and extravagant look.

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Why not let curtains drag?

Curtains that drag on the floor can have some advantages and disadvantages, depending on your situation. Here are some of them:

Love drag:

  • They can add style and personality to your room, making it look more cozy and inviting.
  • They can create a sense of height and grandeur in your room, especially if you have high ceilings or large windows.
  • They can hide imperfections or unevenness in your floor or wall.
  • They can help insulate your room from cold or noise, as they create an extra layer of fabric.

No drag:

  • They can cause extra wear and tear and even damage to your curtains. Fabric is easily snagged on items like furniture legs, shoes and pet paws, so it’s best to avoid dragging curtains if you have pets or kids at home.
  • They can collect dust more easily and require more frequent cleaning and maintenance.
  • They can be a hazard and pose a tripping risk, especially if you have long or opulent puddles.
  • They can make your room look smaller or cluttered if you have too much fabric on the floor.

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How to measure for curtains that drag on the floor?

If you decide to go for curtains that drag on the floor, you need to measure them carefully to achieve the desired effect. Here are some tips on how to measure for puddled curtains:

  • Start by measuring the height of your window from the curtain rod to the floor. This will give you the basic length of your curtain.
  • Add extra inches according to the type of puddle you want. For example, if you want a light puddle, add half an inch; if you want a breaking puddle, add one or two inches; if you want a medium puddle, add three to six inches; if you want an opulent puddle, add more than six inches.
  • Measure the width of your window and multiply it by 1.5 or 2 to get the fullness of your curtain. This will ensure that your curtain has enough fabric to drape nicely on the floor.
  • Order or buy your curtains according to these measurements. Make sure to check the fabric type and quality before purchasing.

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FAQs

Q: How do I keep my curtains from dragging on the floor?

A: If you don’t want your curtains to drag on the floor, you have two options: either shorten them or raise them. You can shorten your curtains by hemming them, pinning them, or using curtain clips. You can raise your curtains by installing a higher curtain rod, using longer curtain rings, or using tiebacks.

Q: How do I clean my curtains that drag on the floor?

A: Cleaning your curtains that drag on the floor can be tricky, as they may be too heavy or delicate to wash in a machine. The best way to clean them is to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the appropriate method for the fabric type. Some fabrics can be machine washed, while others need to be dry cleaned or hand washed. You can also use a vacuum cleaner or a lint roller to remove dust and dirt from your curtains.

Q: How do I style my curtains that drag on the floor?

A: Styling your curtains that drag on the floor can be fun and creative, as you can play with different colors, patterns, and textures. Here are some ideas on how to style your puddled curtains:

  • Choose a contrasting color or pattern for your curtains to create a focal point in your room.
  • Layer your curtains with sheer panels or valances to add more depth and dimension.
  • Use curtain tiebacks or holdbacks to create different shapes and effects with your puddles.
  • Add accessories like tassels, beads, or pom-poms to your curtains to make them more playful and whimsical.

Final Thoughts

Curtains that drag on the floor can be a great way to add some flair and drama to your room, but they also come with some challenges and drawbacks. Before you decide to go for this look, make sure you consider the type of curtains you have, the style of your room, and your personal preference. And don’t forget to measure, clean, and style your curtains properly to achieve the best results.

We hope this post has helped you answer the question: is it ok for curtains to drag on the floor? If you have any comments or questions, feel free to share them below. And if you’re looking for more home decor tips and tricks, check out our blog at Huetifulhome

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