Ever bought a shower curtain only to realize it’s too short or too wide? You’re not alone. Knowing what are the measurements of a standard shower curtain can save you time, money, and frustration. Whether you’re upgrading your bathroom or moving into a new place, this guide will help you find the perfect curtain size in minutes.
Let’s break it all down—without any confusing jargon.
Table of Contents
Standard Shower Curtain Sizes at a Glance
Most bathrooms aren’t one-size-fits-all, but thankfully, shower curtains follow a few common measurements. Here’s a quick reference table:
| Shower Curtain Size | Best For | Common Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| 72 x 72 inches | Standard bathtubs | Most homes and apartments |
| 70 x 70 inches | Compact bathtub spaces | Older homes, narrow tubs |
| 72 x 84 inches | Extra-tall showers | High ceilings, spa setups |
| 54 x 78 inches | Shower stalls | Small bathrooms, corner units |
| 108 x 72 inches | Oversized tubs or setups | Double showers, hotel-style |
Pro tip: If your shower curtain is too short, you risk splashing water everywhere. If it’s too long, it may drag and grow mold. The right size helps you avoid both problems.
Why Does Shower Curtain Size Matter?
You might think any curtain will do. But the wrong size can cause real issues.
-
Water spills: Too short = water leaks = slippery mess
-
Mold problems: Fabric that touches the floor stays damp
-
Poor design fit: A curtain that’s too wide can look bulky
-
Uncomfortable use: Constant tugging and adjusting isn’t fun
Getting the right size ensures your bathroom looks tidy and functions well—every single day.
How to Measure for a Shower Curtain (Step-by-Step)
Before you hit the “Buy Now” button, grab a measuring tape and follow these easy steps:
1. Measure the Width
-
Use a tape to measure from wall to wall (or edge to edge of your shower area).
-
Add 10–12 inches to this measurement to give your curtain a nice fold or “gathered” look.
2. Measure the Height
-
Measure from the curtain rod (or where you’ll install it) down to the floor.
-
Subtract 1–2 inches so the curtain doesn’t touch the floor—this helps avoid moisture buildup and mold.
Example:
-
If your shower width is 60 inches, you’ll want a curtain that’s 70–72 inches wide.
-
If your rod-to-floor height is 74 inches, go for a 72-inch tall curtain.
Types of Shower Curtains and Their Sizes
Let’s match sizes with actual bathroom setups:
| Bathroom Type | Recommended Curtain Size |
|---|---|
| Standard bathtub | 72 x 72 inches |
| Compact/tight spaces | 70 x 70 inches |
| Tall or custom shower | 72 x 84 inches |
| Shower stall | 54 x 78 inches |
| Luxury/double shower | 108 x 72 inches |
If you’re using a curved shower rod, consider adding a couple of inches to the width. Curved rods bow outward and need extra coverage.
Do Fabric, Liners, or Hooks Affect the Size?
They sure do—but not in the way you might think.
Fabric vs. Plastic
-
Fabric curtains (like cotton or polyester) tend to flow and hang more naturally.
-
Plastic curtains (like PEVA or vinyl) are stiffer and may not drape as well, so sizing accuracy is key.
Liners
-
Liners should match the curtain size or be just an inch shorter.
-
For example, pair a 72 x 72 liner with a 72 x 72 curtain or one that’s 71 x 71.
Hookless Curtains
-
These come with built-in grommets or snap-on rings.
-
You must measure accurately—no slack room like with adjustable hooks.
Top-Rated Standard Shower Curtains on Amazon
Looking to upgrade? Here are a few tried-and-tested options you can buy with confidence.
| Product | Size | Material | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| AmazerBath Plastic Shower Curtain | 72 x 72 in | PEVA | Waterproof & easy clean |
| LiBa Mildew Resistant Fabric Curtain | 72 x 72 in | Polyester | Long-lasting use |
| Barossa Design Extra Long Curtain | 72 x 84 in | Microfiber | High ceilings |
| mDesign Fabric Curtain for Stalls | 54 x 78 in | Polyester | Small stalls |
These links are intended for informational use—pick one that fits your space and style.
Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Shower Curtain
-
❌ Guessing without measuring
-
❌ Ignoring rod height (especially when rods are installed higher than average)
-
❌ Using the same size liner for all curtain types
-
❌ Not considering shrinkage (especially with cotton curtains that get washed)
A few extra minutes of measuring can prevent months of annoyance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a 72 x 72 curtain for a shower stall?
You can, but it may bunch up or not hang properly. A 54 x 78 curtain is usually better for stalls.
What if my shower is bigger than the standard size?
Go for an extra-wide (108 x 72 in) or extra-long (up to 96 in) curtain. You can also layer two curtains if needed.
Do I need a special size for curved shower rods?
Yes. Since curved rods extend outward, your curtain should be 2–3 inches wider than standard for full coverage.
Is there a difference between fabric and plastic curtain sizing?
Not really in measurements, but fabric curtains may appear longer due to how they hang and flow.
Final Thoughts
So, what are the measurements of a standard shower curtain? Now you know—it’s usually 72 x 72 inches, but your bathroom might need a different size depending on layout, height, and rod type.
Don’t just eyeball it. Grab a tape measure, check your space, and choose a curtain that fits like a glove. Your bathroom (and your floors) will thank you.
Looking for a quick upgrade? Check out our favorite picks on Amazon and bring home a shower curtain that works—not just one that looks good.
