How to Find the Ideal Shower Curtain Rod Height
Time for curtain call!
Shower curtains serve an important aesthetic and functional purpose in your bathroom when styled correctly. Follow our step-by-step guide to help you determine how high to hang a shower curtain rod to make the most of this bathroom essential.
How High to Hang a Shower Curtain
To accommodate the average 72" shower curtain, your curtain rod should generally be placed 75" – 77" off the ground. However, this measurement can vary slightly depending on personal preference or the design of your bathroom.
Tip!
Shower curtains can range in size from 72" to more than 85". Read our guide on the Average Shower Curtain Size to help you choose the right size for your bathroom.
1. Prioritize Curtain Function
The first and most important step to determining how high to hang a shower curtain rod is to make sure your curtain will be functional for providing privacy and containing water. A curtain rod should be at least several inches higher than the head of your tallest household member and hang several inches lower than the side of your bathtub.
2. Think About Aesthetic Appeal
Shower curtain height and rod placement will affect the overall look of your bathroom. A floor-length shower curtain will give the space a more formal aesthetic and can help a bathroom with low ceilings feel taller, while a shower curtain that hangs several inches above the floor provides a more casual look but can appear disproportionate in a large bathroom.
3. Factor In Your Shower Type
Depending on the type of shower you have, you may opt for a different height for your curtain. For stall showers without a door, you’ll want the shower curtain and liner to go all the way to the floor to prevent water from splashing out of the stall. If you have a claw-foot bathtub on the other hand, consider hanging your curtain higher so you can still see the decorative claws when the curtain is closed.
You will also need to factor in 1" – 3" for shower curtain hooks since they will add to the total length from the bottom of the shower curtain to the top of the shower curtain rod.
4. Consider Your Cleaning Needs
Shower curtains that sweep the floor are more prone to fraying, staining, and buildup of mold and mildew than those that don’t touch the floor. Floor-length shower curtains can also get in the way of cleaning to make sweeping and mopping your bathroom floors more difficult. If you prioritize practicality over aesthetics, opt to leave several inches of clearance between your curtain hem and the bathroom floor. You can do this by buying a shorter curtain or mounting your shower curtain rod higher on the wall.
Tip!
Now that you know how high to hang your shower curtain, check out our related articles if you need styling inspiration or cleaning tips:
Tip!
Check out the video below for a complete visual overview on everything you need to know about choosing the right curtain rod height:
