An extra long shower curtain hung closer to the ceiling can draw the eye upward and make a bathroom with a low ceiling feel taller. This approach also gives you more choice in color and fabric: window curtain panels can serve as the decorative outer layer, while a waterproof liner protects them from splashes.
What you need to hang a shower curtain higher
A double shower rod keeps the waterproof liner on the shower side and the decorative panels on the outside. A curved rod can provide extra room inside the shower, but a straight rod also works. Before buying supplies, check that the rod and hardware are suitable for your wall and shower layout.
- Double shower curtain rod (curved or straight)
- Two window curtain panels at least 90 inches long; long tablecloths are another possible decorative option
- Extra long waterproof shower curtain liner
- Shower curtain hooks for the liner
- Curtain ring hooks for panels without a rod pocket, or if you prefer their appearance
How to measure for an extra long shower curtain
Measure the rod from end to end to determine how wide your curtain should be. Because a curtain hangs in folds, its combined width needs to be greater than the rod measurement. Add at least 12 inches; adding more creates fuller folds when the panels are closed. Divide the total by two to find the approximate width needed for each panel.
For example, a 60-inch shower rod with 12 inches added gives a minimum combined panel width of 72 inches, or 36 inches per panel. For a more billowy look, the original project used two 50-inch-wide panels on a 60-inch shower, for a combined width of 100 inches.
To choose the length, measure from the planned rod position down to the floor. Use this measurement to select panels and a liner that suit your setup. Check where the liner will sit in relation to the tub or shower base, and make sure it can hang inside the wet area during use.
Why use window curtains as shower curtains?
Window panels offer a wider range of colors, prints, and fabric textures than many standard shower curtains. This makes it easier to coordinate the bathroom with the rest of your decor. Long tablecloths can also work as decorative panels if their dimensions and construction suit the project.
Keep the decorative fabric outside the shower and use a long waterproof liner on the inside rod. The liner helps protect the panels from water, but the fabric itself should not be treated as waterproof. Check care instructions before washing, and allow the panels to dry if they become damp.
How to hang an extra long shower curtain higher
- Install the double rod near the ceiling. Follow the rod manufacturer’s installation instructions. Position it just below crown molding, or about 2–3 inches below the ceiling if there is no molding. Use the appropriate fixings for the wall and avoid guessing about hidden pipes or wiring when drilling.
- Hang the liner on the inner rod. Attach the extra long waterproof liner with standard shower curtain hooks. Confirm that it reaches the shower area and can be placed inside the tub or shower base when in use.
- Attach the decorative panels to the outer rod. Curtain rings can clip onto panels without a rod pocket and are useful for tablecloths that do not have a channel for a rod. If the panels already have rod pockets, you can slide them directly onto the rod instead.
If the fabric has creases, a garment steamer can help smooth them. Follow the fabric’s care label and test a small, inconspicuous area first when you are unsure how it will respond to heat.
Finishing touches and practical checks
After hanging the panels, open and close them to check that the width provides the fullness you want and that the rings move freely. Make sure the longer fabric does not obstruct access or interfere with the shower. In a bathroom without a light above the shower, a high-hanging curtain may reduce the light reaching the area; consider the room’s lighting before choosing a heavy or opaque fabric.
For the decorative look, choose a pattern or texture that works with the room. Stripes, gingham, floral prints, textured checks, linen blends, and pleated styles are all options to consider. Prioritize the correct length, easy-care fabric, and a properly fitted liner over appearance alone.
Conclusion
An extra long shower curtain is a straightforward way to draw attention upward and add a custom look to a bathroom. Measure the rod and the distance from the higher rod position to the floor, use enough panel width for folds, and keep a waterproof liner on the inside rod. These checks help the finished setup look intentional while remaining practical for everyday use.
