Shower Curtains Decoded: Size & Buying Guide 2024

standard shower curtain size

A shower curtain is an essential item for your bathroom. It is practical for keeping water in your shower or tub and can make your bathroom look chic. But what is the standard shower curtain size?

When redecorating your bathroom, you should choose your new shower curtain carefully. I’ve put this guide together to help you find the best shower curtain for your bathroom. You’ll find the standard shower curtain measurements and tips for picking the right one. 

Looking for more bathroom tips? Check out my guide to the best shower standing handle here.

If you’re in a hurry, here’s the short answer for you. The standard shower curtain size is 70 x 70 inches. But you can readily find different sizes, depending on your bathroom’s design.

Does the shower curtain size matter?

Yes, the shower curtain size does matter. If you get the wrong size, it could look strange in your bathroom

Or, even worse, it might not do the job. 

If you buy a shower curtain that’s too short, water will splash out all over your bathroom. And if you don’t have enough width, the same will happen.

So, you’ll spend time mopping up the water every time you take a shower. 

But if you go for a curtain that’s too large, it will bunch up at the sides. It could also potentially smell musty or develop mold if it doesn’t dry out between uses. 

That’s because the extra width will prevent the air from getting to it all. And you don’t want your bathroom to start smelling damp or moldy. 

Should you buy a standard-sized shower curtain?

what is the standard size of a shower curtain,

As you can see, choosing the right size shower curtain is important. 

But you might be wondering, what size shower curtain should I buy?

The good news is that for most people, you can buy a standard-sized shower curtain. That’s because most showers and bathtubs are built to a standard size across all homes. 

Of course, there will be some exceptions. If you have an unusual or unique home, you may need to tweak the measurements to suit your bathroom. In that case, make sure to measure accurately, so you get the right fit. 

But generally, most people will find that a standard shower curtain will suit their needs. 

Either way, the first step is to measure your shower or bathtub carefully. You’ll need exact measurements of its height and width. I would recommend measuring twice to double-check, as accuracy is crucial. 

What is the standard size of a shower curtain?

size of standard shower curtain

So, now you know that a standard shower curtain should fit the bill. But what is the standard size of a shower curtain?

It depends on whether you need a shower curtain for a shower stall or a bathtub. They have very different dimensions, so you don’t want to get mixed up when buying. 

Below, you’ll find the standard sizes for each type of shower/bath. 

Standard Shower Curtain Size for Bathtubs

For a bathtub, you can choose between three common shower curtain sizes. However, there is only a tiny difference between these options. 

So, you don’t need to worry too much about what to go for. 

Here are the standard sizes for shower curtains:

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

The best way to decide which one to go for is by looking at your bathroom. Opt for the 72 x 72-inch shower curtain if your shower is taller than usual. 

And if you need more width, you can go for the 72 x 70-inch curtain. But otherwise, the standard 70 x 70-inch shower curtain is a safe option. 

Standard Shower Curtain Size for Shower Stalls

standard shower curtain size

But what if you have a shower stall instead of a bathtub? Then, you won’t need such a wide curtain. 

In that case, your best bet is to go with a shower curtain measuring 54 x 78 inches. It has the smaller width and extra height necessary for most stalls. 

If you find that this curtain is too long, you could trim it down to the right size. Make sure to cut cleanly and in a straight line for evenness. 

Specialty Size Shower Curtains

However, you might find that your bathroom doesn’t fit the norm. 

For example, if you have a bathtub that is wider than usual. Or maybe, you have a bathroom with an extra-high ceiling and an extra-tall shower to match. 


In that case, you can go for a specialty-sized shower curtain. 

You’ll find options as long as 84 inches for those very tall showers. You can choose between 70 x 84 or 72 x 84 inches, depending on the width you need. 

And there are shower curtains as wide as 144 inches, designed for extra-large bathtubs. This curtain even comes in a 180-inch width for clawfoot tubs. 

These curtains provide all the privacy you need and keep the water in. 

How to Measure Your Bathroom to Find Out the Right Shower Curtain Size

standard shower curtain size

Now, you know the standard sizes for shower curtains. But how do you know if it’s right for your bathroom?

To find out, you’ll need to measure your shower. And here are some simple tips on how to do it. 

What shower curtain width do you need?

Now, you know the standard sizes for different types of shower curtains. But what size will suit your shower?

You’ll determine that by measuring your shower’s width (i.e., from one wall to the other). 


Once you’ve measured the width, you should add on 12 inches. The extra material will allow your curtain to hang nicely and prevent any gaps around the sides. That will keep the water in and preserve your privacy. 

So, the width of your shower + 12 inches is the correct width for your shower curtain. 

What shower curtain length do you need?

You’ll also need to know the right length for your shower curtain. 

So, grab your tape measure again. But don’t start measuring from the ceiling. Instead, you need to measure from the shower rod to the flower. 

Then, you should factor in the space taken up by curtain rings. You’ll need to take away a few inches from the total length to create space for the rings. So, subtract around 8 inches from the full height. 

That should give you the correct length for your shower curtain. 

You might find that it’s not exactly the same as the standard size. But with shower curtains, the measurements don’t have to be exact. You have a wiggle room of a few inches in either way. 

It’s only when the shower curtain is much too long or short that it’s a problem. In most cases, you’ll find that you can adjust the height of your shower rod. So, that can be a simple solution. 

And the same goes if it’s narrow or wide for your space. A little extra material is fine, but too little, and the water could spray out. 

But as mentioned above, you can always buy a slightly larger shower curtain and trim it to the correct size. 

standard curtain size buying guide

The Wrap Up

A shower curtain can make a real difference to your bathroom decor. It’s a cheap investment that could add the final touch to your bathroom. 

Plus, everyone needs a shower curtain. Choosing this essential item carefully allows you to create the perfect bathroom style.

But you want to ensure you buy the correct size shower curtain. Otherwise, it will drag on the floor, and you could risk standing on it and pulling it down. Or, you could have a gap letting the water out and defeating the purpose. 

By now, you should have a good idea of the best shower curtain size for your bathroom. So, you’ll feel confident buying the perfect shower curtain for your tub. 

Let me know which one you go for in the comments below! 

Follow Quiet Minimal on Pinterest for more home design and minimalist living tips. 

Quiet Minimal Avatar