Standard Shower Curtain Size: 72 x 72 Inches, Stall 54 x 78, Extra Long 72 x 84 and Liner Sizes

Quick answer: the standard shower curtain is 72 inches wide by 72 inches long, made for tub-and-shower combos. Stall showers usually use 54 by 78 inch curtains (some sources say 54 by 72), extra-long curtains are 72 by 84 inches or sometimes 72 by 96, and liners often run about 70 by 72 inches. Measure your rod length and the drop from rod to floor.

This article is part of our shower guide, where you can compare related options.

Buying a shower curtain should be easy, but sizes trip people up. A curtain that is too short leaves a gap that lets water out, and one that is too long puddles on the floor. This guide lists the standard shower curtain sizes, how they match tub and stall showers, how to measure, liner sizes and tips for small and walk-in showers. On the main sizes, with some variation for stall height. The search did not provide liner weight data. See the shower rod guide for rod lengths.

Interior of bathroom with modern shower cabin with curtains and gray tiled walls

Standard Shower Curtain Sizes

Type	Typical size (width x length)	Use
Standard	72 x 72 inches	Tub-shower combos
Stall	54 x 78 inches (some 54 x 72)	Stall showers
Long	72 x 84 inches	Taller rods or walk-in showers
Extra long	72 x 96 inches (some retailers)	High rods, walk-in showers

72 by 72 is the most common size for a tub-and-shower combo, and one says it fits most bathtub shower combinations. 54 by 78 for stalls. One notes the extra height compensates for the higher base that most stall showers sit on. Other sources give 54 by 72 for stalls, so the height varies by source. A long shower curtain measures 72 by 84. Some retailers list 72 by 96 as extra long, and one notes that extra-long shower curtains work well for walk-in showers as they do not have the tub sides for the curtain to fall back on.

How to Measure

Measure the rod length from wall to wall. See the shower rod guide. A standard tub is about 60 inches, so a 72 inch curtain has extra fabric for gathering.
Measure from the rod down. Decide where the hem should end: inside the tub, just above the floor or slightly below the tub rim.
Subtract a few inches so the curtain does not drag.
Add width for fullness if you like a gathered look.
Check the rod height. Rods are often installed 6 to 8 feet from the floor. A higher rod needs a longer curtain.

If your rod is higher than normal, choose a 72 by 84 or longer curtain.

Stall Showers

A stall shower is smaller, about 36 by 36 inches or 54 inches wide for a stall (see the shower pan sizes guide). A 54 by 78 curtain suits most. Corner showers with curved rods may need special sizes. See the corner shower guide.

Walk-In and Curbless Showers

Walk-in showers have no tub edge for the curtain to rest on. A longer curtain, such as 72 by 84 or 72 by 96, helps keep water inside. A curtain that reaches the floor, or a weighted hem, reduces splashing. For curbless showers, see the curbless shower guide for splash control.

Liner Sizes

Liner sizes differ from curtain sizes.

One source says the average shower curtain liner runs 70 by 72 inches. Another says extra-long liners typically run 70 by 84 inches or 72 by 84 inches. Product listings include 72 by 72 PEVA liners and 72 by 84 clear liners.

The search found no liner weight figures. Product listings name thickness in gauge or “heavy duty” but not weight, so check the product page for grams or mil thickness if weight matters to you. Heavier liners hang better and cling less. A magnetic hem helps.

Materials

Key points: polyester or fabric. Machine washable. Often water-repellent; cotton or linen blends. Need a liner; PEVA or vinyl. Waterproof, cheap. PEVA is chlorine free (common label); hookless curtains with a built-in top that clips to the rod; antimicrobial or mildew-resistant treatments (check claims).

See the how to clean a shower curtain guide for care.

Hooks and Rings

Standard curtains have 12 buttonholes and use 12 rings or hooks. Choose rings that slide easily and match your rod finish. See the bathroom accessories guide for matching finishes.

Style Tips

Use a longer curtain to make the ceiling look higher. Hang the rod high and the curtain just above the floor. Use a plain liner and a decorative outer curtain. Choose colors that match your towels. See the hand towels guide.

What are the main strengths and weaknesses?

Option	Pros	Cons
Shower curtain	Cheap, easy to change, flexible	Needs washing, can cling
Glass door	Clean look, easy squeegee	Costly, harder to clean. See the shower squeegee guide

How to Choose the Right Size

Identify your shower type: tub combo, stall or walk-in. Measure the rod. Measure from rod to the desired hem. Choose 72 by 72 for most tubs. Choose 54 by 78 for most stalls. Choose 72 by 84 or longer for high rods and walk-ins. Buy a liner to match. Check materials and care.

What mistakes should you avoid?

A few common mistakes are worth avoiding: measuring the old curtain, not the rod; ignoring rod height; using a stall curtain on a tub; buying a liner of the wrong size; letting the curtain puddle on the floor; skipping a liner with a cotton curtain.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the standard shower curtain size?

72 by 72 inches.

What size for a stall shower?

Usually 54 by 78 inches, though some sources say 54 by 72.

What is an extra long shower curtain?

72 by 84 inches, or 72 by 96 at some retailers.

What size is a shower curtain liner?

Often about 70 by 72 inches, or 70 or 72 by 84 for extra long.

How do I measure for a curtain?

Measure the rod length and the drop from the rod to where you want the hem.

Are curtains longer for walk-in showers?

Yes. They help keep water in without a tub edge.

Conclusion

The standard shower curtain is 72 by 72 inches, with 54 by 78 for stalls and 72 by 84 or longer for high rods and walk-ins. Measure your rod and the drop, buy a matching liner and wash both regularly.

The right size keeps water inside and the bathroom tidy.