If you are planning new curtains and want a perfect fit first time, this step by step guide shows you how to measure curtains like a pro. You will learn the right way to measure the width, choose the finished drop, add fullness for your heading style, and avoid common mistakes. Where it helps, we include practical numbers in millimetres so you can hand measurements to a curtain maker or find a local installer through Trade Heroes.

Curtain Track

When you have an existing track, measure the track length end to end, including any returns that wrap back to the wall. Note any track height if you plan a pelmet or a ceiling mount later.

If you are installing a new track, decide the track position first. For face fix, the track should usually be a little wider than the opening it covers. As a general rule, extend the track 150 to 300 mm past each side of the window frame so panels can stack off the glass and maximise natural light. If you prefer centimetres, that is 15 to 30 cm each side. Mount the track at least 100 mm above the frame, or closer to the ceiling to make the room feel taller. When measuring for a face fix, it is recommended to measure from where you want the track to sit on the wall down to the floor for accurate drop numbers.

For butt corner curtains, measure the track length from the first fixing point to the corner. For angled or curved tracks, measure each section from angle to angle so the hardware is made to the true path of the bay.

Always use a metal tape measure, measure in millimetres, and take the width at several points. Record the shortest measurement if the wall is out of square.

Curtain Width

Your finished curtain width comes from two parts: the hardware span and the fullness factor.

1. Measure The Width of the curtain track or curtain pole between finials or end caps.
2. Multiply that width by a curtain fullness factor that suits the heading.
3. Add stack back if you want panels to sit off the glass when open.

Use these typical fullness guides:

• Eyelet: 1.5x to 2.0x
• S fold or wave: 2.0x to 2.2x
• Pencil pleat: 2.0x to 2.5x
• Pinch pleat: 2.2x to 2.5x
• Luxurious drape option: 3.0x fullness for statement rooms

The total curtain width is a multiple of the rod or track length determined by the fullness factor. As a quick rule, the width of your curtains should be at least twice the width of your window for a balanced look.

Stack back planning

• Allow about 100 mm of stack per side for each 1 m of track, with a minimum of 200 mm per side.
• For a dramatic clear glass look, allow 150 to 300 mm per side.

Before finalising, consider nearby furniture on the wall so open curtains do not block movement or power points.

Eyelet Curtains

For eyelet curtains, measure the pole width between finials. The drop is taken from the top of the pole to the finished hem because the eyelet ring sits below the pole. Keep brackets and finials in mind so the fabric does not rub. Most eyelet styles look best at 1.5x to 2.0x fullness, or 3.0x if you want a very plush wave.

Curtain Pole

A curtain pole gives a visible, decorative finish. Measure the pole width between finials, then check bracket positions so there is space for the pleats to move. If mounting close to the ceiling, confirm there is room for the heading to sit without touching the ceiling when the fabric is hung.

When swapping from a track to a pole, remember that eyelet curtains and rod pocket styles are designed for poles, while pencil pleat curtains and pinch pleat curtains suit both poles and tracks with rings or gliders.

Face Fix Curtains

Face fix curtains mount on the wall or architrave. This is ideal when the window recess is shallow, when there are winders or handles, or when you need better light block. For outside fit, simply measure the window frame width and add 150 to 300 mm each side so the curtains can cover the frame and stack off the glass. Mount the hardware 100 to 200 mm above the frame, or near the ceiling for a taller look.

Measure Curtains

Here is a step by step guide that answers how to measure for curtains, how to measure a window for curtains, and how to measure windows for curtains for most homes.

Tools: metal tape measure, pencil, phone or notepad, step ladder.

Step 1: Decide Hardware

Choose curtain track or curtain pole, top fixing to the ceiling or wall fixing on the frame. Mark the planned track position.

Step 2: Measure Width

Measure end to end of the track or between finials on the pole. For new hardware, extend the rod or track 15 to 30 cm past each side of the window.

Step 3: Choose Heading

Select pencil pleat, pinch pleat, eyelet or S fold. This sets your curtain fullness factor. Standard fullness is 2.0x to 2.5x. Luxurious fullness is 3.0x.

Step 4: Calculate Panel Width

Panel width = hardware width × fullness. Note left and right panel splits if you prefer equal stacks.

Step 5: Measure Drop

For top fixed tracks or ceiling mounts, measure from the ceiling surface to the floor for the drop, or from the top of the installed track to the hem. For poles with rings, measure from the underside of the ring eye to the hem for pencil and pinch pleat headings. Take three measurements down the left, centre and right and write down the shortest measurement to prevent dragging on uneven floors. For very large windows, also check three points across the width to ensure the floor is level.

Step 6: Confirm Clearances

Check brackets, finials, heaters under the sill, skirting at the floor, door swings and nearby furniture. Adjust the drop or stack so panels sit cleanly.

Worked Example

• Track width: 2400 mm
• Heading: S fold at 2.1x
• Finished width required: 2400 × 2.1 = 5040 mm total fabric
• Two equal panels: 2520 mm each
• Drop to floor: ceiling to floor 2700 mm with top fixed track height 40 mm. Measure from the ceiling surface to the floor if top fixing.
• Finish length: floor clearance 5 mm, so finished drop 2695 mm

Measuring thoroughly and accurately at this stage ensures a great final result.

Curtain Length

Length is also called the curtain drop. Choose one of these finishes:

• Sill: measure to the window sill, then add 10 to 15 mm to overlap the edge
• Below Sill: measure to the sill, then add 100 to 200 mm
• Floor: measure to the floor, then subtract 5 mm so the hem does not drag
• Puddle: measure to floor, then add 50 to 100 mm for a dramatic pool

When calculating the finished length, measure from the top of the frame down to the floor and add the distance you plan to mount above the frame, or measure from the ceiling surface to the floor for top fix. Always use the shortest measurement if the three drops vary.

Curtain Rod

If you use a curtain rod with rings, measure the drop from the underside of the ring fitting to the hem for pencil pleat and pinch pleat headings, since hooks raise the fabric slightly. For rod pocket styles, measure from the top of the rod to the hem, and add any header height if the fabric extends above the rod.

The curtain rod should extend 15 to 30 cm beyond the frame on each side to maximise natural light and allow full stack back.

Fix Curtains

Once you have confirmed your measurements, you are ready to fix curtains. Pre fit brackets and check they are level. It is critical to give a track additional support if it will carry a heavy curtain, so add a centre fixing for wide spans. Mount the track or pole, hang the panels, then adjust hooks, pleats or heading tape to sit evenly. Steam the curtain fabric lightly so folds fall cleanly.

Curtain Poles

When choosing curtain poles, allow space for finials at each side and ensure there is solid wall fixing. Heavier fabrics and wide spans may need a centre bracket. Keep the pole high enough so pleat curtains clear the frame and still cover the glass when closed.

Bay Windows

Bay windows need careful measuring. Measure each track section along the angle, not across the bay. Use flexible tracks or custom bent tracks that follow the frame. Mark angles and joints, note any window winders, and confirm the drop at each segment since floors often vary inside bays.

Curtain Fullness

Curtain fullness creates the finished look. Use these guides and adjust for fabric weight.

Heavier fabric or lined curtains often look better toward the higher end of the range. Lightweight sheers can sit at the lower end if you prefer a clean line.

Existing Track

If you already have an existing track, measuring is simple. Measure the track width end to end and note any returns. Check gliders run freely, then confirm the drop from the top of the track. If you are replacing with new panels, keep the same hardware numbers unless you plan a different finish length.

Tracks Versus Poles

If you are unsure about curtain tracks vs poles, consider the room and style. Tracks give a minimal look, hide hardware, and stack tightly. Poles provide a decorative feature and suit eyelet curtains or rings with hooks. For very wide spans, a track with additional fixings often carries weight better than a pole.

Sheer Curtains

Here is how to measure sheer curtains when layering over blockout. Measure the front track width for the sheer layer and use a slightly higher fullness, often 2.0x to 2.2x for S fold. For the drop, many people choose floor length or a 10 to 20 mm puddle for a soft line. Measure both layers separately so they sit correctly.

Standard Sizes

Standard curtain sizes for ready made panels often include widths around 1400 mm, 1800 mm,

and 2400 mm, with common drops near 1600 mm, 2130 mm, 2300 mm, and 2500 mm. These vary by brand, so always check the label. If your window is wider than standard, combine panels or order custom.

Frequently Asked Questions

How To Measure Windows For Curtains?

Measure the track or pole width, multiply by a fullness factor, then measure the drop from the hardware to the sill or floor. Take three drops and use the shortest.

What Curtain Measurements Do I Need?

You need the hardware width, chosen fullness, finished drop, heading type, stack back allowance, and space for brackets or finials.

How Wide Should Curtains Be?

As a guide, finished width equals the track or pole width multiplied by the fullness factor. Standard fullness is 2.0x to 2.5x. For a luxe look, use 3.0x.

How Long Should Curtains Be?

Pick sill, below sill, floor or puddle. For floor length, measure to the floor and subtract 5 mm so the hem does not drag. For puddling, add 50 to 100 mm.

Should Curtains Touch The Floor?

Living rooms and bedrooms often look best with a gentle kiss at the floor or a small puddle. High traffic areas and wet rooms suit a 5 mm clearance.

How To Measure For Eyelet Curtains?

Measure pole width between finials, then measure the drop from the top of the pole to the hem. Use 1.5x to 2.0x fullness, or 3.0x for a fuller wave.

How To Measure For Rod Pocket Curtains?

Measure from the top of the rod to the hem. Add header height if the fabric extends above the rod. Fullness is usually 2.0x to 2.5x.

How To Measure For Curtain Tracks Versus Poles?

For tracks, measure end to end of the installed track and drop from the top of the track. For poles, measure between finials and drop from the top of the pole for eyelets or from the ring eye for hook headings.

What Is Curtain Drop?

Curtain drop is the distance from the hardware to the finished hem. Choose sill, below sill, floor or puddle according to room use and style.

What are the Standard Curtain Sizes?

Ready made panels commonly come in several fixed widths and drops. If your opening does not match neatly, add panels or order made to measure.

Care Basics

Once panels are installed, you will eventually ask how to clean curtains. Always check the care label first. Many sheers are gentle machine wash inside a bag with mild detergent. Heavier lined or interlined panels are often dry clean only. Vacuum with a soft brush monthly to keep dust out of the fabric and pleats.

Measuring Tips

• Measure with a metal tape measure in millimetres
• Record widths and drops separately for each window
• Extend rods and tracks 15 to 30 cm beyond the frame per side
• Allow 100 mm stack per side for each 1 m of track, minimum 200 mm
• Check mounted hardware is level and well supported for heavy curtains
• Confirm hooks or heading tape positions after steaming
• Allow clearance for heaters, radiators and skirting at the floor
• For top fix, measure from the ceiling surface to the floor

Find A Local Pro

If you would like a professional to measure, supply and install, connect with verified curtain specialists on Trade Heroes. Share your notes, photos and measurements, and request a quote for tracks, poles, fabrics and installation. A local pro can check standard windows and trickier spots like bay windows, then confirm the final measurement for a perfect fit.