Curtain measurements depend on how the fabric hangs, not simply the size of the glass. Settle the heading and hanging position first, then compare the required width and drop with the product description. This separates a fitting decision from a colour decision.
Measure the hanging system first
Dunelm measures curtain width across the pole or track, excluding decorative ends. Its starting point for the drop differs between eyelet and pencil-pleat curtains. Record the heading type beside your measurements so those two methods do not get mixed together. Check whether the listed width describes one panel or the whole pair, and use the retailer’s fullness guidance for that particular style rather than assuming the fabric should lie flat.
dunelm.com · Dunelm · Curtain measuring guide
Choose what the curtain must do
IKEA’s guide distinguishes sheer, light-filtering and room-darkening fabrics and asks readers to consider layout, window type and privacy. Use that distinction to write a short brief before shopping: soften daylight, reduce glare or obscure the view. Layering can combine different jobs, but it also needs an appropriate hanging arrangement. These are retailer guides, not a recommendation to buy a particular range; use them to check the specification against your own room.
