Floor Length vs Sill Length Curtains Brisbane

Floor Length Curtains

Floor length curtains reach the floor or puddle slightly. They create a luxurious, finished look. The extra fabric provides better insulation and light blocking. Floor length suits living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms.

The hem should just kiss the floor or puddle up to 5cm for a formal look. Too short looks unfinished. Too long becomes a tripping hazard and collects dirt.

Floor length works with most window heights. Even short windows look better with curtains extending to the floor. The vertical lines make rooms feel taller.

Sill Length Curtains

Sill length curtains end at the window sill. They suit windows above furniture, kitchen windows, and bathroom windows. The shorter length avoids interfering with items below the window.

The hem should sit 1-2cm above the sill. This prevents fabric sitting on the sill collecting dust and moisture. Too short looks awkward with visible gap.

Sill length costs less due to using less fabric. However, the saving is usually minor compared to total curtain cost.

Practical Considerations

Kitchen windows often suit sill length. Floor length curtains near cooking areas collect grease and smells. Sill length stays cleaner. Avoid fabric near stoves for safety.

Bathroom windows need sill or shorter length. Floor length curtains in bathrooms drag through water on the floor. Moisture damages fabric. Sill length or cafe curtains work better.

Windows above radiators or heaters should not have floor length curtains touching the heat source. Fire risk exists. Sill length allows heat circulation.

Pets and young children make floor length challenging. Curtains get pulled and dirtied. However, most Brisbane families still choose floor length for the appearance.

Brisbane Climate Factors

Floor length curtains provide better heat insulation. The extra fabric creates more air barrier. This helps keep Brisbane heat out in summer.

Humidity affects floor length curtains in bathrooms and laundries. The lower section absorbs moisture from the floor. Sill length avoids this problem.

Cleaning frequency increases with floor length. Brisbane dust settles on fabric touching the floor. Regular vacuuming keeps them clean. Sill length stays cleaner longer.

Common Questions

Should bedroom curtains touch the floor?

Yes. Floor length looks more elegant and provides better light blocking. The extra fabric at the bottom prevents light gaps. Bedrooms benefit from the polished appearance.

What if I have floor outlets near windows?

Floor length curtains can work with proper installation. Mount curtains to clear outlets when closed. Or choose sill length for those windows only. Professional installers handle this situation regularly.

Can I hem curtains shorter later?

Yes. Curtains can be hemmed shorter. However, lengthening is impossible without visible alterations. When uncertain, slightly longer is safer than too short.

When to Call a Professional

Professional measuring ensures correct length. They measure from track or rod position to floor accounting for carpet thickness. Mistakes are avoided.

Atlas Blind & Curtain provides expert measuring and makes Pinch Pleat Curtains to exact lengths across Brisbane, Ipswich, and Logan.