Should your curtains be floor length?

Getting curtain length right is important, but it can be tricky to measure. Our consultants help Kiwi homeowners measure and hang curtains every day. This guide covers everything you need to know about curtain length in NZ homes.

A question our consultants hear most often is, “Should my curtains touch the floor?” In the following, we’ll answer it and compare different floor-length curtains versus sill-length curtains based on their benefits for Kiwi homes.

Different lengths like "floating", "skimming", or "puddling" offer various stylistic effects and practical benefits for your home. You can also browse our range of fabric and decide the length of your curtains with our experts during a free in-home consultation.

Book a free consultation to get your measurements right.

Table of contents

• What length is best for your curtains

• How do you measure for each length

• So, should your curtains be floor length

What length is best for your curtains?

Puddle-length curtains

For those who love a touch of luxury, puddle-length curtains deliver an effortlessly dramatic look. They gather on the floor, creating a soft and noble look perfect for formal spaces. Our consultants often recommend this option if you’re after a statement finish.

Break-length curtains

Also known as “trouser break”, these curtains sit just a little longer than standard floor length. They rest gently on the floor without the full “puddle”, offering a tailored yet relaxed feel. It’s a popular choice for living rooms and bedrooms, where you want a polished look without going overly formal.

Skim-length curtains

Skim-length curtains just kiss the floor, making them easier to maintain in rooms with more foot traffic. They create an almost complete insulation barrier, especially effective in Kiwi homes with carpeted floors. That’s why our consultants often recommend this style when you want both energy efficiency and a modern, clean finish.

Floating-length curtains

Floating curtains hover a few centimetres above the floor, giving the impression they’re weightless. This style is ideal for modern interiors that aim to keep things light and for rooms with high foot traffic. Our experts know that floor-length curtains are your go-to when you want to highlight beautiful timber or tiled flooring.

Sill-length curtains

Sill-length curtains are a practical choice for kitchens and bathrooms. They can be hung from the top of the window or halfway down for a classic “café curtains” look. While they let in plenty of light and provide privacy where it’s needed most, they don’t offer insulation or strong light control.

Kiwi homes often face cooler winters and plenty of sun in summer, so floor-length curtains really make a difference to both comfort and energy efficiency. Opt for skim or floating curtains in rooms with high foot traffic.

How do you measure for each length?

Below are curtain measuring tips depending on the style you are looking for.

To make sure you get the measurements right, especially for large windows, ask someone to help hold the measuring tape or double-check you’re holding it straight. It’s always better to have a little extra fabric than not enough, since you can easily trim the surplus. If you want complete confidence in your measurements, we recommend booking a free in-home consultation with one of our experts.

So, should your curtains be floor length?

Floor-length curtains, whether they sit slightly above the floor or pool onto it, provide several practical benefits for New Zealand homes. This is why our consultants recommend them most of the time. From increased insulation all year round to light-blocking properties, they are made for our changing weather and defined seasons. Their different lengths, from puddling to floating, will give your room a unique style that our expert consultants will help you find and choose with a free in-home consultation.

Those come with our Fit Guarantee, so you can be confident your curtains will be made to measure.