The key to properly mounting curtains is knowing how tomeasure your windowsbeforehand.

Keep reading for our step-by-step guide on how to accurately measure curtains every time.

This will increase the number of curtain options available to you.

Measuring the width of a window for curtain size

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Choose a Curtain Break

Choose how long the curtains need to be once the rod is mounted.

This will be determined by how you prefer the curtains to meet the floor.

Factor the header into your curtain measurements.

Materials needed for measuring a window for curtains

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Shorter lengths are used for cafe curtains and above-the-sink kitchen curtains.

Generally, it’s better for curtains to be too long than too short.

More length can visually add height to the room.

Measuring the outer width of the window

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Adding extra inches to accommodate the curtains

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Measuring the window width

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Factoring in rod spacing

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Factoring in how the curtains should look when fully closed

The Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Determining curtain length

Kiss curtain lengthThe Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Float curtain length

Float curtain lengthThe Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Puddle curtain length

Puddle curtain lengthThe Spruce / Meg MacDonald

Break puddle curtain length

Break puddle curtain lengthThe Spruce / Meg MacDonald