AUCH, SORE BACK! HOW TO MEASURE THE PERFECT COUNTER FOR YOUR KITCHEN
If you’re like most people, you spend a lot of time in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking a big family meal or simply making yourself a cup of coffee, the counter is the centerpiece of your kitchen. But if your counter is too high or too low, it can cause aches and pains that make your kitchen experience less enjoyable. In this article, we’ll talk about how to measure the perfect counter for your kitchen so you can avoid those sore backs and enjoy your time in the kitchen.
Why Counter Height Matters
Before we get into measuring, let’s talk about why counter height matters. The ideal counter height can help you avoid back, neck, and shoulder pain. If your counter is too high, you’ll have to reach up to work on it, which can cause strain in your shoulders and neck. If your counter is too low, you’ll have to bend over to work on it, which can cause lower back pain. Finding the right counter height is crucial for a comfortable and pain-free kitchen experience.
Measuring for Counter Height
Now that we know why counter height matters, let’s talk about how to measure for it. The standard counter height is 36 inches, but that may not be the right height for you. To measure for counter height, follow these steps:
- Stand up straight with your arms at your sides and your feet shoulder-width apart.
- Bend your elbows at a 90-degree angle and hold your hands up as if you were working on a counter.
- Measure the distance from the floor to your hands.
- Subtract the height of your shoes from the measurement you just took.
- Add 1-2 inches to the final number to account for the thickness of the countertop.
The final number is the ideal height for your kitchen counter. If the number is close to the standard height of 36 inches, you’re in luck! If it’s higher or lower, you may need to make adjustments to your kitchen or consider custom countertops.
Other Factors to Consider
While measuring for counter height is an important factor in creating a comfortable kitchen, there are other factors to consider as well. For example, if you’re tall or short, you may need to adjust the height accordingly. If you have a physical disability or mobility issue, you may need to consider a lower or adjustable counter. Additionally, the type of work you do in the kitchen may require different counter heights. For example, if you do a lot of chopping, you may prefer a lower counter, while if you do a lot of baking, you may prefer a higher counter.
In Conclusion, your kitchen counter is one of the most important features in your kitchen, and finding the right height can make all the difference. By measuring for counter height and considering other factors, you can create a comfortable and functional kitchen that you’ll love spending time in. Say goodbye to sore backs and hello to a pain-free cooking experience!