Curtain Pole Buying Guide: How to Choose, Measure & Install

• Pole vs track: Choose a pole for a decorative finish and flexibility in curtain headings. Choose a track for a discreet look or to curve around the alcove in bay windows.
• Pole length: Select a pole that is around 30cm longer than your window measurement so curtains stack back neatly when open.
• Pole height: Fit the pole around 12-15cm above your window to ensure curtain headings sit above the window.
• Pole diameter: 19mm poles suit lighter weight curtains; 28mm poles suit heavier curtains and wider window spans.
• Brackets: Use 2 brackets for shorter windows. Add a centre bracket for longer poles or heavier curtains to add additional support.

Start with the type of look that you want, then match the pole type to your curtains and how you’ll use them day to day in your home.

Standard wall-mounted poles: A popular choice with lots of style, material and colour choices. Standard poles work well for most windows and curtain types. 

Extendable curtain poles: Great if your window is between sizes or you want future flexibility to use in a different window or property. These poles are ideal for quick updates and easy fitting. 

Bay window poles and tracks: Bay windows often need angled joints or flexible solutions. A plastic track is a good choice for a continuous run around bends/corners. 

Ceiling-mounted poles/tracks: A less common choice but ideal for giving the illusion of more height in a room and for hanging floor to ceiling length curtains. 

Corded operation: Handy for tall windows and hard-to-reach spots. A track with corded operation allows opening and closing using a cord instead of pulling the curtain fabric. 

• Eyelet curtains: Slide directly onto the pole. Look for a smooth finish and a diameter that fits comfortably through the eyelets. Shop: Eyelet curtains

• Pencil pleat curtains: Usually hang from curtain rings on a pole or gliders on a track making them a versatile choice. Shop: Pencil pleat curtains

Top Tip: If you open and close your curtains every day, investing in a high-quality pole with smooth operation and sturdy fittings can make a bigger difference than you think. It ensures durability, effortless movement, and a more enjoyable experience for years to come. 

• Pole: the bar your curtains hang from 
• Brackets: support the pole on the wall/ceiling 
• Finials: decorative ends that also help keep rings in place 
• Curtain rings: attach curtains to the pole (often via hooks) 
• Holdbacks: keep curtains neatly to the side 
• Draw rods: open/close without touching the fabric (useful for tall windows) 

When measuring for a curtain pole ‘size’ usually means two things: pole length (how wide it is) and pole diameter (how thick it is). Getting both length and diameter right will ensure your curtains hang well, open smoothly and look neat and tidy.

Whilst visually subtle there is a difference between 19mm and 28mm poles. 28mm poles are usually sturdier for heavier curtains and wider spans, while 19mm poles are slimmer and better for lighter fabrics or smaller windows. 

Choose 19mm if: 

• You have lighter curtains 
• Your window is smaller/standard width 
• You want a more subtle look 

Choose 28mm if: 

• You have heavier curtains (lined/blackout/thermal) 
• Your window is wide 
• You want a bolder, more decorative finish 

Installing a curtain pole is a straightforward DIY job with the right tools and fixings. These steps suit most wall-mounted poles however your pole or track should also come with its own instructions.

• Tape measure 
• Pencil 
• Spirit level or laser level 
• Step ladder 
• Screwdriver 
• Drill and drill bits 
• Wall plugs and screws (these may come with your pole) 

To fit your pole or track you will need to drill into a wall, so it's best to check before you start that there are no pipes or cables nearby. If you're not sure where the pipes or cables lie, use a cable detector to check the area first.

• Mark your height above the window, around 12–15cm above, space allowing.  
• Mark end bracket positions, these will usually be around 10cm in from the end of the pole.  
• If using a centre bracket mark this at the centre point of the window (remembering to leave 12-15cm above the window) 
• Mark for any additional brackets required for your specific curtain pole/track. 
• Check your markings are all level and parallel to the ceiling before drilling.  
• Drill holes for your brackets at each marked point - your instructions will tell you the drill bit width required. Make sure you use the appropriate bit for the type of material you are drilling into. 
• Add the wall plugs, supplied with most curtain pole/track kits (just check again they are the correct type for the material you are drilling into), and affix your brackets using a screwdriver. 

Depending on the type of pole and curtain headings you are using you may need to hang the curtains on the pole before finalising the fixing e.g. Eyelet curtains.  

• Position your pole or track to the brackets and follow the instructions to secure in place (you may need your screwdriver again for this). 
• Attach finials if separate to the pole, although these can be added earlier if your specific instructions suggest this.   
• Test opening and closing the curtains and step back to admire your work.  

Here are our tips for extra considerations to make when installing your new curtain pole dependent on the material.  

• Wooden poles: Often heavier so double check bracket strength and avoid overtightening to protect the finish. 
• Metal poles: Great for smooth glide, ensure any joins are tight and won’t snag rings or eyelets as curtains are opened/closed. 
• Plastic poles: Best for lighter curtains, use adequate bracket support to prevent bending over time. 

Shop curtain poles, tracks and curtains to find the perfect fit for your space.