Curtain Sizes in the UK: Standard Drops and Widths Explained

Buying curtains online is much easier once you understand how UK sizing works. The problem is that the labels aren’t always obvious, and if you get it wrong you’re either left with curtains that don’t reach the floor or a gathered mess you can’t pull back properly. Here’s everything you need to know.

How curtain sizes are labelled

UK curtain sizes are always written as width x drop – in that order. So “66\” x 90\”” means the curtain is 66 inches wide and 90 inches long. Ready-made curtains are sold as a pair, so that width measurement is for both panels together, not each one individually.

Standard curtain widths in the UK

For curtains to hang properly and look full when closed, your combined curtain width should be 1.5 to 2 times the width of your pole or track. A single 120cm window would typically need a 66″ (168cm) pair as a minimum – the extra fabric gives you the gather effect that makes curtains look right rather than flat.

Standard curtain drops in the UK

The 90″ (229cm) drop is the most commonly purchased in the UK and works for standard 2.4m ceiling heights. If you have higher ceilings or want a slightly puddled look, a 108″ drop is worth considering.

Sill, below sill or floor – which should you choose?

Sill length works well in kitchens and bathrooms where floor-length curtains would be impractical, or get in the way of radiators directly under the window.

Below sill is a good compromise in rooms where you want more coverage than sill length but the window sits above a piece of furniture like a sofa or radiator.

Floor length is the most popular choice in living rooms and bedrooms. It makes the room feel taller and gives a finished, considered look. The curtain should sit no more than 1.5cm above the floor – any higher and it starts to look short.

Quick cm to inches conversion

Browse curtains at Ooble in sizes from 46″ to 90″ wide and drops from 54″ to 90″ – and if you’re hanging yours on a new pole, take a look at our curtain poles to get the full setup sorted in one go.

At Ooble, quality curtains don’t have to cost a fortune. Browse our full range and find your size.