Learn how to measure for curtain tracks and poles

Measuring for tracks and poles

Whether you’re refreshing your space with a new set of pencil pleat or eyelet curtains, measuring correctly for the perfect sized track or pole is key. In this guide, you’ll find informative videos and easy-to-follow steps that will make taking those measurements simple, and finding the best track or pole for the job a breeze. If you’re in need of inspiration or have a style in mind, don’t forget to take a look at our huge range of tracks and poles online to find your best match.

Tools you'll need before you start
Steel tape measure (more accurate than a fabric one).
A step ladder.
Pencil and paper.
In this guide
How to measure for curtain poles
How to measure for bay window curtain poles
How to measure for curtain tracks
How to measure for bay window tracks
Recommended pole widths

💡 TOP TIP
Allow 20cm extra on each side of your track or pole (40cm total) for full coverage, brackets, and finials. Check out our curtain calculator to find the right curtains for your home.

How to measure for curtain poles

When it comes to measuring for a curtain track or curtain pole, using a metal measuring tape will produce the most accurate results. Don’t forget to keep a pen and paper handy so you can jot down any numbers, and if you are measuring a large window, an extra pair of hands can also make things easier. Follow these simple steps and watch our helpful video for more information.

Measure the width of the window using a metal measuring tape.
Add 40cm to your measurement (20cm either side) to allow for curtain gathering, brackets and finials. This added width will also give you the best coverage for blocking out unwanted light – this will be especially useful if you are hanging Blackout curtains.
SHOP CURTAIN POLES

How to measure for bay window curtain poles
We have a range of bay poles ideal for 3 and 5 sided bays, and measuring for them uses the same steps above with just one difference. Rather than measuring the whole window in one go, you simply measure the width of each section and add them together plus an extra 40cm. To make things clearer to follow, we have included a helpful diagram that shows each step you need to follow.
SHOP BAY WINDOW POLES

How to measure for curtain tracks
Like measuring for a curtain pole, measuring for curtain tracks, also known as 'curtain rails', can be done in just a few steps. Keep a pen, piece of paper and your handy metal measuring tape close by and remember to add 20cm to your final measurement (which represents and extra 10cm on either side of your track). This allows for a neat curtain gathering and optimal window coverage when your curtains are up.
Decide if you are fitting to the wall or ceiling (if it's the wall, decide inside or outside recess).
Use a metal measuring tape to measure the width of the window and if you're fitting outside the recess, add 10cm to either side. This allows for curtain gathering and the best coverage for blocking out unwanted light when using Blackout curtains.

How to measure for bay window tracks
Measuring for your bay window track uses the same simple steps as measuring for a non-bay tracks. The only difference is you start from the centre and allow your metal tape to bend at each corner. The diagrams below will help alongside our handy step-by-step guide to find your perfect fit.
Decide whether you want your bay track to fit inside or outside the recess, and if you'd prefer it on the ceiling or on the wall.
Measure from the centre of the bay window, working out towards the end.
Bend the measuring tape as if it were a track in front of each of the brackets and measure the length as shown by the dotted line on the diagram.
If you want your curtains to sit outside of the bay recess, add 15cm on either end of the track to allow room gathering.
SHOP CURTAIN TRACKS

  

    

      
Recommended pole widths
      
Need help choosing what size curtain pole you need? Our recommendations make it simple to find the right fit. Use the table below to see which pole width works best with each ready-made curtain size, so you can create either a standard or luxury look.
      

        

          
Curtain width
          
Recommended pole width (standard look)
          
Recommended pole width (luxury look)
        
        

          
117cm (46")
          
168cm (66")
          
117cm (46")
        
        

          
168cm (66")
          
228cm (90")
          
168cm (66")
        
        

          
228cm (90")
          
228cm (90")
          
228cm (90")
        
      
      
*Our readymade curtains are always sold in pairs unless stated otherwise. The size refers to each individual curtain which will fit the pole or track size stated. **284cm (112") pack sizes are available in selected ranges and online only.