Natural light streaming into your home is a beautiful thing—except, that is, when you want to sleep or get some privacy. Yes, curtains are pretty much a necessity regardless of where you live, and you’ll want to do some research before buying them to ensure that you get the right size and style for your home.
To help take the guesswork out of the process, we’ve put together this quick guide on how to choose curtains, and all of the extras that come with them.
Get The Look!
Length is one of the biggest factors to consider when you’re choosing curtains. There are five standard curtain lengths: 63 inches, 84 inches, 95 inches, 108 inches, and 120 inches. How long you go depends on the height of your windows and ceilings, and the look that you’re trying to achieve. Curtain lengths are determined by measuring from the rod pocket—which is where your curtain hangs off the curtain rod—to the bottom of the fabric.
(Note that there are also short curtains, called tier curtains, that only cover part of the window. These typically measure either 24 inches or 36 inches long.)
To figure out the curtain length you’ll need, you’ll want to come up with your rod to floor height. Determine where your rod is going to be installed or measure from the existing rod down to where you want the curtains to hang—either the bottom of the window or all the way to the floor. Do this measurement in inches, since that is how curtain lengths are usually indicated in the U.S.
Curtains come in a variety of fabrics. In addition to thinking about the overall look that you want for your windows, keep in mind the amount of light that will pass through. Heavier, opaque fabrics will keep out more light than lighter and more sheer fabrics.
If you want lots of light to shine through: Go with sheer or cotton fabrics. Even in a range of colors you’ll still get lots of natural light.
If you want moderate amounts of light: Opt for linen curtains, which offer a textured weave that lets in some light but not all.
If you want the light to be all or mostly blocked out: Choose velvet curtains, which are extremely heavy and opaque. Blackout curtains, which feature a special lining that keeps out sunlight entirely, are also an option.
Within each fabric option you’ll also have lots to choose from in terms of color and pattern. Go bold if you want your curtains to be a standout feature of the room, or keep it simple if you’d rather they don’t take attention away from other focal points in the space.