If you have ever bathed in a shower which has a curtain that is too short or too narrow, you know just how frustrating it can be to keep water from leaking all over the bathroom. Fortunately, shower curtains come in several different sizes to accommodate a wide range of tubs.

Before you buy a new shower curtain, you’ll need to take some measurements to ensure that you have the perfect fit. This standard shower curtain size guide will help you determine which size to purchase.

Standard Shower Curtain Measurements

Shower curtains for a bathtub shower are designed to fit a standard 60-inch-long tub. This design incorporates an extra 12 inches of width to ensure a full appearance and generous folds when pulled shut. Some designer curtains may be as wide as 108 inches.

Standard shower curtain measurements:

• 70 x 70 inches
• 70 x 72 inches
• 72 x 72 inches

At Linen Store, our shower curtains come in a wide variety of sizes and patterns to suit any bathroom. We also carry matching bathroom sets that include bath mats, shower curtains, shower curtain rings, and towels for easy setup and hassle-free style. Check out our full collection here.

How to Measure Standard Shower Curtain Width

If you are uncertain of whether your tub or curtain is a standard size, you can measure this easily. For the curtain width, measure the entire length of the curtain rod and add 12 inches. This additional length ensures that the curtain can reach the wall on both sides while providing enough fabric for the folds to drape.

Use our Jada Shower Curtain photo as an example to measure the width for your shower curtain:

Shower Width + 12” = Shower Curtain Width

Measuring the Perfect Shower Curtain Height

In general, it is not recommended for your shower curtain to pool or drape on the floor. While this look may work for window curtains, it is not ideal for showers. Overly long shower curtains allow moisture, mold, and mildew to build up.

To identify where to hang your curtain, measure from the bottom of the curtain rod – or curtain rings if you are using them – to the floor. Subtract up to 10 inches for a tub to determine where to hang your curtains.

Shower curtains that are swept to the side using tie-backs will appear shorter when the material is gathered up. If necessary, hang the rod 1 to 2 inches lower to keep the draped curtain outside the rim of the tub.

Measuring Shower Curtains for a Freestanding Stall

If you are purchasing a curtain for a shower stall, it’s important to note that the measurements will be different than for a tub.

The measurements for most shower stalls are:

• 50 x 78 inches
• 54 x 78 inches

The height of the shower curtain for a shower stall should fall long to make sure that water is caught and directed inside of the shower curb. Measure from the bottom of the curtain rod or curtain rings to the floor and subtract 2 inches.

If your local store doesn’t have curtains in these sizes, choosing the narrowest width available will work in a pinch.

For those with a steady hand, some sharp shears, and measuring tape, you can always make adjustments to a curtain. Measure the width of the shower stall, add 12 inches, and cut the curtain to size.

Where to Hang Your Curtain Rod

While there is no rule book to set the standard height for a shower curtain rod, there are a few guidelines you can follow.

In general, you’ll want to hang the shower curtain so that the bottom hem is at least 1 to 2 inches from the bathroom floor. Overly long curtains provide the ideal environment for mildew to grow between the liner or in the creases. Shower curtains pooling on the floor present a dangerous tripping hazard, and will also get in the way when you are vacuuming or mopping the floor when cleaning.

Use our Jada Shower Curtain photo as an example:

2” + Shower Curtain Length + Hook Size = Shower Rod Height

With a standard shower curtain height at 70 or 72 inches, adding at least three inches will give you a good indication about the ideal shower curtain rod height. With a standard shower curtain of 72 inches long, the curtain rod should be installed around 75 to 77 inches from the floor.

A Handy Tip For Hanging Your Shower Curtain Rod

Shower curtains vary in length, so always measure the curtain before deciding where to drill holes for shower rod brackets. Shower hooks also create distance between the rod and the top of the curtain, adding to the overall length of your curtain, so remember to take this measurement into consideration.

When installing permanent brackets, consider using a tension rod first to find the perfect height. The tension rod can be easily adjusted multiple times. Once you've found the precise height, you can mark the wall and install the brackets in the perfect location without having to re-drill.