The Ultimate Shower Curtain Size Chart to Follow
Picking the right shower curtain size can be tricky. I’ve seen many bathrooms with curtains that let water splash everywhere or look oddly small against the wall.
Having dealt with these issues in my own home, I know how frustrating it can be.
But here’s the good news – getting the perfect fit isn’t hard once you know what to measure. I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about shower curtain sizes.
No more water on the floor, no more awkward gaps, and no more wasted money on returns.
In this guide, I’ll share the standard sizes, measuring tips, and expert suggestions to help you choose the right curtain for your bathroom.”
Standard Shower Curtain Size Chart to Follow
| Location/Setup Type | Width (inches) | Height (inches) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Tub | 70-72 | 70-72 | – Regular bathtub-shower combos- Most common home setups |
| Stall Shower | 54 | 78 | – Stand-up shower stalls- Narrow shower spaces |
| Extra-Wide Tub | 108 | 72 | – Clawfoot tubs- Double-wide shower spaces- Custom bathrooms |
| Extra-Long | 72 | 84-96 | – High ceilings- Tall shower spaces- Custom installations |
| Curved Shower Rod | 72-77 | 72 | – Standard tubs with curved rods- Extra elbow room needed |
| Kids’ Bathroom | 54-60 | 72 | – Lower shower heads- Smaller bathroom spaces |
How Do I Measure for An Extra-Wide Shower Curtain
Let me explain how to measure for an extra-wide shower curtain, like those needed for clawfoot tubs or special setups:
1. Basic Width Steps
- Measure rod length end to end
- Add 20-24 inches total (10-12 inches per side)
- Write down this final number
2. Consider Rod Type
- L-shaped rod? Measure both straight sections
- Round rod? Measure from wall to wall
- U-shaped rod? Include all three sides
3. Check Special Needs
- Want more fullness? Add 30-40% to width
- Using corner setup? Measure both walls
- Need overlap? Add 4-6 inches extra
4. Quick Formula
- Base Rod Length + 24 inches = Minimum Curtain Width
For Example:
- 60-inch rod + 24 inches = 84-inch curtain
- 72-inch rod + 24 inches = 96-inch curtain
- 84-inch rod + 24 inches = 108-inch curtain
Tip: Always round up to the next size if your exact measurement isn’t standard.
How to Measure Your Shower Space
Getting the right measurements for your shower space is easier than you might think.
Here’s what I do to get accurate numbers every time:
1. Width Measurement
- Grab your tape measure
- Start at one bathroom wall
- Measure straight across to the opposite wall
- Add 12 inches to your total (This gives 6 inches extra on each side to prevent water leaks)
2. Height Measurement
- Start from the curtain rod or mounting point
- Measure down to the top of your tub or floor
- Add 2-3 inches if you want the curtain to sit inside the tub
Quick Tips
- Use a metal tape measure instead of cloth for better accuracy
- Keep the tape measure level for true measurements
- Write down your numbers right away
- Double-check your measurements before buying
Remember: A curtain that’s too short will cause water to splash out, while one that’s too long might get moldy from touching the floor.
How to Choose the Right Shower Curtain Size
Let me share a few simple tips that will help you pick the perfect shower curtain size for your bathroom:
1. Match Your Setup
- Regular tub-shower combo? Go with 72 x 72 inches
- Standing shower stall? Pick 54 x 78 inches
- Clawfoot tub? Look for 108-inch width options
2. Consider Your Rod Type
- Straight rod? The standard 72-inch width works fine
- Curved rod? Add 5-7 inches to width for proper coverage
3. Think About Height
- Standard ceiling? The 72-inch length is perfect
- High ceiling? Try 84-96 inch length options
- Shower stall? Go longer with 78-inch length
4. Extra Coverage Tips
- Want fuller folds? Buy a curtain 1.5 times your rod width
- Have a drafty shower? Get an extra-wide curtain
- Using rings or hooks? Add 2 inches to your height measurement
Remember: It’s better to have a curtain slightly too big than too small. You can always adjust the height with rings, but you can’t make a small curtain cover more space.
What Size Shower Curtain Should You Buy?
Are you still wondering about the right size for your bathroom?
Here’s my quick guide to help you decide:
- Standard Bathroom? Get a 72 x 72-inch curtain. This size fits most home setups perfectly.
- Standing Shower? Choose 54 x 78 inches. The extra height helps prevent splashes.
- Clawfoot Tub? Pick a 108 x 72-inch curtain. You need the extra width for full coverage.
- High Ceilings? Go for 72 x 84 inches or longer. This prevents gaps at the top.
Quick Tip
When in doubt, measure your space and add:
- 12 inches to the width (6 inches on each side)
- 2-3 inches to the height for tub overlap
This simple math hasn’t failed me yet!
Material & Fabric Consideration
| Material | Pros |
|---|---|
| Plastic/Vinyl | – Keeps water in perfectly- Easy to clean with just a wipe- Budget-friendly- Resists mold well |
| Polyester | – Dries fast- Holds color well- Good water resistance- Machine washable |
| Cotton/Cotton Blend | – Soft and natural feel- Good airflow- Nice fabric drape- Machine washable |
| Linen | – High-end look- Natural material- Good ventilation- Gets softer with washing |
| Nylon | – Light and flexible- Quick-drying- Mold resistant- Easy to clean |
Care Tips
- Use a liner with fabric curtains
- Wash in warm water monthly
- Let dry fully after each use
- Check care labels before washing.
How to Style It Perfectly
Let me share some simple style tips I’ve picked up for making your shower curtain work in your bathroom:
1. Small Bathroom Tricks
- Choose light colors to open up space
- Use vertical stripes to make walls look taller
- Pick clear or semi-clear curtains for brightness
2. Color Matching
- Match curtains to towels or rugs
- Use bathroom tile colors as a guide
- Stick to 2-3 main colors max
3. Pattern Rules
- Big room? Try bold patterns
- Tiny space? Keep patterns small
- Plain walls? Add textured curtains
4. Hanging Tips
- Mount rod close to the ceiling for height
- Use double-rod for liner and curtain
- Space hooks evenly for clean folds
5. Design Balance
- Mix solid liner with patterned curtain
- Keep shower rings in the same color as fixtures
- Let the curtain be the main focal point or background piece
Maintenance Tips to Follow
Conclusion
I hope this guide helps you find the perfect shower curtain size for your bathroom. Remember, measuring right is the key to keeping your floor dry and your bathroom looking good.
From my experience, a standard 72 x 72 inch curtain works for most homes. But don’t worry if your space needs something different – that’s why I shared the size chart and measuring tips with you.
Want to make your shower curtain last longer? Simply spread it out after each use, wash it monthly, and keep an eye on those bottom edges.
Need more bathroom organization ideas? Check out my guide on maximizing bathroom storage space.
Or leave a comment below if you have questions about finding the right curtain size for your space.
