Will It Fit? A Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring for Furniture

Few things are more frustrating than buying a gorgeous new piece of furniture only to realize it doesn’t fit in your space—or worse, it won’t fit through the door! Measuring properly before you buy is crucial to ensuring a smooth delivery and placement process. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you avoid the common pitfalls of furniture shopping and make sure everything fits perfectly.

1. Measure Your Space

Before picking out furniture, you need to know the dimensions of the space where it will go.

How to Measure Your Space:

• Width, Depth, and Height: Use a measuring tape to measure the width, depth, and height of the area. For example, measure the wall where a sofa will go or the floor space for a table.

• Account for Clearance: Add extra space around the furniture for functionality. For example, leave 18-24 inches between a sofa and coffee table or ensure doors and drawers can open fully.

• Ceiling Height: For taller pieces like bookshelves or armoires, make sure to measure the ceiling height.

Tip: Use painter’s tape to outline the furniture dimensions on the floor to visualize how it will fit.

2. Measure Doorways and Hallways

Getting the furniture into your home is just as important as fitting it in the room.

Key Areas to Measure:

• Doorways: Measure the width and height of all doorways the furniture will pass through. Don’t forget to account for doorframes and any trim that might narrow the space.

• Hallways: Measure the width and note any tight corners where the furniture might need to turn.

• Staircases: Check the width of the staircase and the height of the ceiling above it. If there are landings, measure those too.

Pro Tip: If a doorway or hallway seems tight, consider the furniture’s diagonal measurement (from one corner to the opposite corner). This can help determine if it can be angled through the space.

3. Measure Windows and Elevators

Large pieces like sofas or beds might need to come in through a window or elevator.

• Windows: If you’re using a window for delivery, measure the width, height, and clearance around it.

• Elevators: Measure the interior dimensions of the elevator, including the door opening and ceiling height.

4. Measure the Furniture

Once you’ve measured your space, doorways, and other access points, it’s time to focus on the furniture itself.

Dimensions to Check:

• Overall Dimensions: Look for the width, depth, and height listed in the product description.

• Legs and Bases: Some furniture pieces have removable legs or bases, which can make delivery easier.

• Angled or Curved Pieces: For items with unusual shapes, measure the widest points.

Pro Tip: If you’re shopping in-store, bring a tape measure with you to confirm the dimensions listed on tags.

5. Think About Clearance for Movement

Once the furniture is in place, you need enough room to move comfortably around it.

• Seating Arrangements: Leave at least 36 inches of clearance for walking paths in living rooms.

• Dining Areas: Allow 24-30 inches between the edge of a dining table and walls or other furniture for chairs to slide out.

• Bedroom Furniture: Ensure there’s enough space to walk around the bed, typically 24 inches or more.

6. Special Considerations for Apartments and Condos

If you live in an apartment or condo, check with your building management for any special requirements.

• Delivery Restrictions: Some buildings have rules about delivery times or access points.

• Freight Elevators: Reserve a freight elevator in advance if needed.

• Hallway Obstacles: Note any fire extinguishers, exit signs, or other obstructions in common areas.

7. Use Tools to Help Visualize

If you’re not confident in your measurements, use tools to help you visualize how the furniture will fit.

• Painter’s Tape: Mark the dimensions on your floor and walls to see how the furniture will sit in the space.

• Augmented Reality (AR) Apps: Many furniture retailers, like IKEA and Wayfair, offer apps that let you place virtual furniture in your room to see how it fits.

• Graph Paper: Sketch a scaled drawing of your room and furniture to experiment with different layouts.

8. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forgetting Vertical Clearance: Measure ceiling heights, especially for tall furniture.

• Ignoring Angles and Curves: Oddly shaped pieces might need more clearance than you expect.

• Not Accounting for Skirting Boards: Baseboards and trim can reduce available wall space.

• Assuming Doorways Are Standard: Measure all doorways, as older homes often have smaller frames.

9. Double-Check Before Delivery

Once you’ve chosen your furniture, double-check all your measurements before confirming your purchase. If possible, consult with the delivery team to ensure they can handle any tight spots or challenges.

Measure Twice, Buy Once

Properly measuring your space, access points, and furniture dimensions can save you a lot of headaches (and returns). By taking the time to plan ahead, you’ll ensure that your new furniture not only fits but also enhances your space.

Ready to find the perfect piece? Grab your tape measure and start shopping with confidence!

Would you like a downloadable checklist for measuring your space? Let us know in the comments!