Ever feel like your bathroom looks “chopped off” at the top? That’s usually the shower curtain’s fault. Standard curtains (72″ long) float awkwardly above the tub or stall, which makes the room feel shorter and messier. Swap in an extra long shower curtain and the whole space instantly reads taller, calmer, and more “hotel.” Below, you’ll find twelve design-forward ideas—and the practical details (lengths, hardware, liners, care) to help you get it right on the first try.

How to Measure for an Extra Long Curtain (Quick Guide)

Before we jump into design ideas, a 2-minute measuring refresher so you can shop with confidence.

• Know your ceiling height. Common heights: 8 ft (96″), 9 ft (108″), 10 ft (120″).
• Know your tub or curb height. Most alcove tubs are ~14–20″ high; shower curbs ~4–6″.
• Plan the “gap.” You want 1–2″ clearance from the floor to avoid wicking and make cleaning easier.
• Common extra-long lengths: 84″, 90″, 96″, 108″. Width is typically 70–72″, but you can find 78–84″ for wide setups.

Rule of thumb: Rod height ≈ Curtain length + Floor gap + Tub/curb height.
Then confirm your hooks/rings add 1–2″.

Key takeaway: Measure from the floor up, not the ceiling down.

1) The Hotel-Luxe “Floor-Skimming” Curtain

If you’ve ever admired that calm, tailored look in boutique hotels, here’s the secret: a heavier, extra long fabric that almost kisses the floor.

How to do it

• Choose 90″ or 96″ length for 8–9 ft ceilings.
• Use waffle weave or heavy cotton; they hang straighter and look expensive.
• Keep it solid white or soft oatmeal for the spa vibe.
• Pair with a weighted, mildew-resistant liner (same length or 1–2″ shorter).

Why it works

• Vertical lines from near ceiling to near floor make the room feel taller.
• Heavier fabric = fewer clingy moments and a crisper drape.

Pro tip: Curved rods give you more elbow room and make the curtain fall in a gentle arc—very hotel.

2) Ceiling-Mounted Track for a Seamless Wall of “Drapery”

When the shower sits in a corner or you have a freestanding tub, a ceiling track (straight or L-shaped) with 96–108″ drapery panels reads sophisticated.

How to do it

• Install a ceiling track across the span and hang extra long panels with drapery carriers.
• Use washable polyester-linen blends for better steam tolerance.
• Hide a separate waterproof liner on its own track or behind the panel.

Why it works

• Eliminates chopped visual lines from rods and brackets.
• Lets you wall-to-wall the curtain for a clean, built-in look.

Maintenance note: Pick synthetic or performance linen; true linen loves steam but can wrinkle.

3) Hookless Extra Long Curtains (Clean + Practical)

Hookless curtains with built-in grommets or snap-in liners save time and look streamlined.

How to do it

• Look for 84–96″ hookless options with a snap-in PEVA or fabric liner.
• Choose frosted windows at the top if you want light without losing privacy.
• Ensure the liner matches the curtain length—some brands sell longer liners separately.

Why it works

• Fast liner swaps keep everything fresh.
• The header sits cleanly on the rod—no clanky rings.

Pro tip: If your rod is thick, double-check the grommet diameter.

4) Double-Layer: Sheer Outer + Waterproof Inner

A decorator move: a sheer, extra long outer curtain with a full-length waterproof liner behind it. Think “window treatment,” but for your shower.

How to do it

• Use a double rod (or two parallel rods).
• Outer: sheer 90–96″ (voile, performance sheer).
• Inner: waterproof liner (same length, weighted hem).
• Keep the outer panel wider (78–84″ wide) for soft pleats.

Why it works

• Softens tile-heavy bathrooms.
• Lets you change the outer layer seasonally without replacing the liner.

Tip for stalls: Use an extra wide sheer and slight pooling (½–1″) outside the shower for drama—liner still sets the water line.

5) Waffle Weave in Bright White (High-Contrast, High-End)

If you like crisp minimalism, waffle weave in bright white is the move. The texture reads hotel, and it photographs beautifully.

How to do it

• Pick 90″ for most 8 ft ceilings (rod mounted just below the ceiling).
• Choose heavy waffle (not micro); it tapes straight and resists billowing.
• Pair with matte black or brushed nickel hardware to anchor the white.

Why it works

• Texture = interest without pattern.
• White reflects light, making small baths feel bigger.

Care tip: Wash warm with a bit of vinegar to keep whites bright and deodorized.

6) Linen-Blend Neutrals for a Warm, Spa-Like Feel

Real linen can be fussy under steam, but linen blends look luxe and are easier to care for.

How to do it

• Choose oat, flax, or greige in 90–96″ length.
• Look for lined options so the weave doesn’t go see-through when wet.
• Pair with warm-toned hardware (brass, champagne).

Why it works

• Adds softness to hard surfaces (tile, glass, chrome).
• Neutral linens blend with most vanities and stone.

Water note: Linen-blend curtain should be treated as decorative with a full-length liner doing the waterproofing.

7) Vertical Stripes to Visually Raise the Ceiling

Vertical patterns elongate. Bold or subtle stripes can do the heavy lifting in low-ceiling baths.

How to do it

• Look for pinstripes or 2–3″ stripes in 84–96″ length.
• If your bath is narrow, go thin stripes to avoid the room feeling busy.
• Align the rod just below the ceiling so stripes run unbroken.

Why it works

• Amplifies height with simple geometry.
• Adds character without overwhelming the space.

Color pairing: Navy/white, black/ivory, or tone-on-tone taupe.

8) Deep, Saturated Color for Drama

All-white is safe, but ink, forest, espresso, or charcoal can feel incredibly luxe—especially paired with stone-look tile.

How to do it

• Choose a matte, heavy fabric in 90–96″ length.
• Balance with light towels and bath mat so the room doesn’t go cave-like.
• Use brass or matte black hardware to frame the depth.

Why it works

• Dark curtains look intentional and custom.
• They hide minor water spots better than white.

Caution: If the bath lacks natural light, keep walls light or add a glass shower shield instead of a second dark panel.

9) Extra Wide + Extra Long for Clawfoot or Open Showers

Clawfoot tubs and corner showers often need more coverage. You’ll want extra width (78–108″) and extra length (90–108″).

How to do it

• Use an L-shaped or oval ceiling rod for clawfoot tubs.
• Seek two 72×96″ panels for wraparound coverage, or a single 108″ wide panel.
• Add magnets or weights to hems to reduce billow.

Why it works

• Prevents overspray with style.
• Looks bespoke when the width is generous—no stretched, tight panels.

Hardware tip: Use more ceiling supports on long rods to prevent sag.

10) Curved Rod + Extra Long Curtain to Gain Space

A curved rod adds up to 6–8″ of elbow room in the shower and gives your curtain a graceful line.

How to do it

• Combine a curved rod mounted slightly higher with a 90″ curtain.
• Ensure the curtain sits inside the tub edge when closed (rod curvature can shift the fall line).
• Choose weighted hems or clips on the liner sides.

Why it works

• Functional upgrade that feels like a bigger shower.
• Shows off the curtain in an elegant curve—very “luxury hotel.”

11) Split-Panel Symmetry (Two Curtains, Center Opening)

Instead of one panel sliding across, try two extra long panels that draw to the sides. It’s dramatic and symmetrical.

How to do it

• Hang two 72×90″ panels on a single rod.
• Add tiebacks (or simple robe hooks) to frame the opening when not in use.
• Use a center-slit liner or overlap two liners by a few inches.

Why it works

• Mimics window drapery in a high-end way.
• Makes the bathtub more inviting, especially in guest baths.

Pro tip: Slightly wider panels (78″) give you soft pleats and better coverage.

12) Custom-Length Look with No-Sew Hem Tape

Can’t find the perfect length? Buy slightly longer and hem it to a precise height.

How to do it

• Choose a 96″ curtain and test the rod height.
• Mark your target floor gap (1–2″).
• Use washable fabric tape to create a clean hem (no sewing machine needed).

Why it works

• Tailored finish for tricky ceiling heights.
• Lets you set rod height based on stud locations, then adjust fabric to match.

Care tip: Always wash and dry once before hemming to account for shrinkage.

Hardware, Liners, and Care: The Details That Make It Last

Rods & Mounting

• Anchors matter. Use wall anchors or hit studs—extra long curtains have more drag.
• Finish coordination. Match rod finish to faucet or cabinet hardware for a cohesive look.
• Curved vs straight. Curved feels upscale and roomy; straight is minimal and suits narrow bathrooms.

Hooks, Rings, and Headers

• Grommet vs ring vs hookless. Grommets slide smoothly but are visible; rings look classic; hookless is clean and quick.
• Pleated headers (pinch pleat with drapery rings) elevate the look. Use a waterproof liner behind.

Liners (Don’t Skimp)

• Lengths: 72×84″, 72×90″, 72×96″ exist—match the curtain length.
• Materials: PEVA (PVC-free), polyester fabric (machine washable), EVA (soft, low odor).
• Weights: Choose weighted hems or add clip-on weights for cling control.

Ventilation & Mildew Prevention

• After showers, spread the curtain to dry out pleats.
• Run the fan 20 minutes post-shower.
• Wash monthly: Warm water + gentle detergent; add ½ cup white vinegar for deodorizing.

Safety & Maintenance

• Keep a 1–2″ floor gap to prevent wicking and tripping.
• For radiant heated floors, that small gap also protects hems from heat exposure.
• Replace liners every 6–12 months (or sooner if you see spotting that won’t wash out).

Key takeaway: The “luxury” look lasts when the liner fits, the rod is solid, and the fabric gets regular care.

What Length Should You Choose? (Examples)

• 8 ft ceiling (96″) with alcove tub (16″ high):
  Rod at ~74–75″ from the floor; 90″ curtain leaves ~1″ floor gap (with rings adding 1–2″).
• 9 ft ceiling (108″) with shower curb (5″ high):
  Rod at ~101–102″; 96″ curtain leaves ~1–2″ gap (check ring height).
• Ceiling track + freestanding tub:
  Use 96–108″ panels; mount track ~½–1″ below ceiling for cleaner lines.
• Clawfoot wraparound:
  Two 72×96″ panels on an oval track, or a single 108×96″ panel.

The Best Fabrics for a Luxe Look (and Why)

• Heavy cotton / cotton sateen: Crisp, weighty, hotel feel. Needs liner. Machine washable.
• Waffle weave: Texture hides wrinkles, looks high-end in white. Needs liner.
• Poly-linen blends: Linen look with easier care. Resists steam wrinkles better. Needs liner.
• Performance polyester: Budget-friendly, colorfast, good drape. Some are water-resistant on their own, but still pair with a liner for longevity.

Key takeaway: Let the liner handle water; pick the outer for drape, texture, and color.

Color & Finish Pairings That Always Work

• White waffle + brushed nickel hardware + white towels = classic hotel.
• Flax linen-blend + warm brass hardware + Turkish towels = spa modern.
• Charcoal matte curtain + matte black hardware + pale stone tile = moody luxe.
• Navy striped curtain + chrome hardware + teak bath mat = coastal grown-up.

Budget vs. Custom: Where to Spend

Spend on:

• Proper length (and liner to match) – the biggest visual difference.
• Solid rod and brackets – function and look.
• Weighted hems – better hang, less cling.

Save on:

• Outer fabric if you use a liner—performance poly can look great.
• DIY hemming with fabric tape.
• Hardware bundles (rod + rings) in a matched finish.

Common Mistakes (and Easy Fixes)

• Mistake: Curtain is obviously too short.
  Fix: Raise the rod or buy a 90–96″ curtain; hem if needed.
• Mistake: Liner ends mid-calf, water escapes.
  Fix: Buy a liner the same length as your curtain (or 1–2″ shorter).
• Mistake: Curtain billows inward and sticks.
  Fix: Weighted hem, curved rod, or magnet clips along the tub.
• Mistake: Cluttered header (too many ring styles).
  Fix: Choose one ring style and match your finishes.

Extra-Long Shower Curtain Planner

Use this quick calculator to get the right curtain length and rod height for your bathroom. Enter your dimensions and it will suggest common lengths (84″, 90″, 96″, 108″), the ideal rod height, and liner length.

Tip: Measure in inches. If you only know feet, multiply by 12.

Putting It All Together: Sample Combos

Small 5′ x 7′ bath, 8 ft ceiling

• Curtain: 90″ waffle weave in white
• Rod: Curved, brushed nickel, mounted ~75″
• Liner: 72×90″ PEVA, weighted hem
• Hardware: Simple rings, white towels, teak mat

Modern 9 ft ceiling, walk-in shower with curb

• Curtain: 96″ charcoal performance polyester
• Rod: Straight matte black at ~101″
• Liner: 72×96″ fabric liner
• Hardware: Black rings; light stone tile and pale towels for balance

Clawfoot tub, window nearby

• Curtain: Two 72×96″ flax linen-blend panels (outer)
• Track: Oval ceiling track with multiple supports
• Liner: Two 72×96″ fabric liners overlapped
• Detail: Brass hooks, magnets in hems, soft sconce lighting

Quick Shopping Checklist

• Measured ceiling height, tub/curb height, and chosen floor gap
• Picked target length (84/90/96/108″) and matching liner
• Selected rod style (curved/straight/track) and verified wall anchors
• Chosen header (rings, grommet, hookless, or pleated)
• Decided on fabric (waffle, linen-blend, heavy cotton, performance)
• Color plan set (white spa, warm neutrals, deep color, stripes)
• Added weights/magnets and washing plan to cart

FAQs (Because You’ll Probably Wonder)

Do I need an extra long liner too?
Yes. Match the liner to the curtain length (or go 1–2″ shorter). A standard 72″ liner behind a 90″ curtain will splash water onto the floor.

Will a longer curtain make my small bathroom feel smaller?
No—it does the opposite. Continuous vertical lines visually heighten the room.

What if my rod can’t go that high because of studs or tile?
Choose the next length up and hem with fabric tape. It’s a 15-minute project and looks custom.

How do I stop the curtain from billowing and sticking to me?
Use a curved rod and weighted hems (or add aftermarket weights/magnets to the liner corners).

Can I use real linen?
You can, but pair it with a full-length liner and expect some wrinkles. A linen blend is lower-maintenance.

Your Next Easy Win

Extra long shower curtains are one of those small, high-impact upgrades that make your bathroom look taller and more intentional—fast. Measure once, choose the right length (and liner), and hang it high. If you do nothing else today, open the planner above with your ceiling height and pick your target length. That one step gets you 80% of the way to the hotel look.

You’ve got this—and your bathroom’s about to look amazing.