Simple Guide to Measure for Kitchen Cabinets
Are you tired of a kitchen that doesn’t quite work for you? Poorly measured cabinets can lead to wasted space, awkward gaps, and costly mistakes. Good news—you can avoid these problems with accurate measurements!
In this guide, you’ll learn the exact steps to measure your kitchen like a pro. We’ll walk through the process in simple terms, from basic wall measurements to checking for hidden issues that could affect your cabinet fit.
By the end, you’ll have all the numbers you need to find cabinets that fit your space perfectly. Let’s get started with what you’ll need for this project!
Before you start, it’s essential to understand the standard kitchen dimensions. For a comprehensive guide on standard kitchen dimensions, refer to our detailed article on How to Measure Standard Kitchen Dimensions.
Steps to Start Measuring For Kitchen Cabinets
Ready to tackle your kitchen measurement project? Let’s gather these essential tools for success:
| Tools/ Materials | Notes |
| Measuring tape | Metal ones are more exact and won’t bend. |
| Pen and notepad | for recording all those important numbers |
| Step stool | to reach those high spots safely |
| Level | Because straight lines matter! |
| Graph paper | Turns your sketch into something useful |
| Calculator | Because math happens |
| Camera | to snap reference photos from various angles |
| Flashlight | for peering into dark corners and spaces |
Having everything ready before you start will save you time and frustration!
Step 1: Measure Your Kitchen Walls
Start by measuring the length of each wall where you want cabinets. Write down these numbers so you know how much space you have to work with.
Measure from one corner to the next. Note any breaks in the wall, such as windows or doors. These will affect where you can put cabinets.
Pro Tip: Always check your measurements twice. Even small errors can cause big problems later.
Step 2: Check the Height
Measure from the floor all the way up to the ceiling. This tells you how tall your cabinets can be.
Most standard base cabinets are 34.5 inches tall, and wall cabinets are 30 or 42 inches tall. But your kitchen might be different, so always measure!
Take note of:
- Floor-to-ceiling height
- Floor-to-window height (if you have windows)
- Height where you want upper cabinets to start (usually 54 inches from the floor)
Step 3: Mark Doors and Windows
Measure the width and height of any doors and windows on those walls. Also, note how far they are from the floor and from the corners. Cabinets can’t go where doors or windows are, so this is important!
Take these specific measurements:
- Total width of each door/window (including trim)
- Distance from the floor to the bottom of each window
- Distance from the corner to the edge of each door/window
Pro Tip: Remember to note which way doors swing open. This affects your cabinet placement.
Step 4: Find Plumbing and Electrical Spots
Jot down where your sink, faucets, outlets, and switches are. Also, measure how far they are from the floor and walls. This helps when planning cabinets around sinks and appliances.
Key measurements to take:
- Distance from the corners to each outlet
- Height of outlets from the floor
- Location of water lines for sink and dishwasher
- Gas line location (if you have a gas stove)
Safety Note: You might need to work around some electrical and plumbing fixtures. Make sure to factor this into your plans.
Step 5: Measure Your Appliances
Got a fridge, oven, or dishwasher? Measure their width, depth, and height so your cabinets fit nicely around them without crowding.
Don’t just measure the visible parts:
- For refrigerators, include the door when open, and space for air flow
- For stoves, measure any knobs that stick out
- For dishwashers, account for the door when fully open
Important: Add about 1/4 inch of extra space around each appliance to avoid tight fits.
Step 6: Sketch a Simple Floor Plan
Draw a rough map of your kitchen on paper. Mark all your measurements, doors, windows, plumbing, and appliances. This visual will help you and your cabinet designer understand the space.
Use graph paper if possible for more accurate sketching. Include:
- The length of each wall
- Door and window locations with measurements
- Plumbing and electrical outlets
- Appliance locations and sizes
Pro Tip: Take photos of your current kitchen from different angles. These will be helpful references when planning your new layout.
Step 7: Check If the Walls Are Square
This step is often missed, but very important! Kitchen walls aren’t always perfectly straight.
To check:
- Measure the distance across corners using a tape measure
- If the measurements vary by more than 1/2 inch, your walls aren’t square
- Make a note of this so your cabinet installer can plan accordingly
Important: Uneven walls can affect how your cabinets fit. Your installer may need to use shims to level everything out.
I’d like to acknowledge Liz is My Design Sherpa for the insightful video, which was a key reference in putting this guide together.
Common Measurement Mistakes to Avoid
- Not checking for level floors: Floors that aren’t level can make cabinets tilt.
- Forgetting about appliances: Measure the exact size of your fridge, stove, and dishwasher
- Not planning for countertop overhang: Usually 1-1.5 inches past the cabinet face
- Missing the toe kick space: Leave about 4 inches at the bottom of base cabinets
- Ignoring cabinet depth: Standard base cabinets are 24 inches deep, while wall cabinets are 12 inches deep.
Finding Custom vs. Stock Cabinets
Your measurements will help determine if stock cabinets will work or if you need custom options:
| Cabinet Type | Description | Best For | Cost |
| Stock Cabinets | Pre-made in standard sizes, typically in 3-inch increments | Standard layouts, cost-saving options | Least expensive |
| Semi-Custom Cabinets | Offers more size options with some flexibility | Unusual spaces with slight customization needed | Moderately expensive |
| Custom Cabinets | Built to your exact measurements, but more expensive | Non-standard spaces, exact measurements, premium quality | Most expensive |
For unusual spaces or non-standard measurements, semi-custom or custom cabinets might be your best option. For standard layouts, stock cabinets can save you money while still looking great.
Standard Cabinet Dimensions to Know
Once you’ve taken your measurements, you’ll need to know the standard cabinet sizes to help you decide what works best for your space.
| Cabinet Type / Space | Measurement |
|
Base cabinets |
34.5 inches high, 24 inches deep |
| Wall cabinets | Usually 30 or 36 inches tall, 12 inches deep |
| Tall cabinets | 84 to 96 inches tall |
|
Space between countertop and wall cabinets |
18 inches |
| Common cabinet widths | 12, 18, 24, 30, 36 inches |
Final Tips for Measuring Kitchen Cabinets
- Take all measurements in inches, not feet
- Always round down to the nearest 1/8 inch
- Measure at least twice to confirm your numbers
- Consider hiring a pro if you’re not confident in your measurements
Getting accurate measurements is worth the time. It helps you avoid costly mistakes and ensures your new kitchen cabinets fit just right.
How to Use Your Measurements for Cabinet Shopping
Now that you have all your kitchen measurements, let’s talk about how to use them effectively when shopping for cabinets!
Taking Your Measurements to a Supplier or Designer
When meeting with cabinet professionals:
- Bring your detailed floor plan with all measurements clearly marked
- Include photos of your current kitchen from multiple angles
- Have a list of your must-have features ready
- Be prepared to discuss your budget openly
Many cabinet showrooms offer free design services when you purchase from them. Their experts can spot potential issues in your measurements and suggest solutions.
Choosing the Right Cabinet Style Based on Your Space
Your measurements can guide your style choices:
- Small kitchens often work best with lighter colors and simpler designs
- Larger kitchens can handle bolder styles and darker finishes
- Low ceilings? Consider cabinets without crown molding
- Uneven walls? Certain door styles hide imperfections better than others
Remember that function matters as much as form. Choose styles that work with your specific kitchen layout and needs.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve mastered how to measure for kitchen cabinets. Your careful work will ensure your new cabinets fit perfectly in your space. These measurements are your ticket to a kitchen that works for you, not against you.
Now that you’re equipped with all the measurements, it’s time to take your kitchen to the next level. Whether you’re choosing stock, semi-custom, or custom cabinets, make sure your choices match your measurements for the best fit. Ready to shop? Head to your local supplier or start browsing online!
Have questions about your cabinet project? Ask in the comments below! And if you found this guide helpful, share it with a friend who’s planning their own kitchen update.
Frequently Asked Questions
How High Should Upper Cabinets Be from the Countertop?
Standard height is 18 inches from the countertop to the bottom of the upper cabinet. This gives enough room for small appliances while keeping items within reach.
Do I Need to Remove Old Cabinets Before Measuring?
No, but measuring both your walls and current cabinets helps. Take photos of the existing layout for reference when planning.
How Do I Measure for Corner Cabinets?
Measure from the corner along both walls. Note the depth from the back corner to the front. Corner cabinets need special attention for proper fit.
What if My Floor Isn’t Level?
Use a level to find the highest spot. Measure cabinet height from this point. Installers will use shims to level cabinets during installation.
How Much Space Should You Leave for Appliances?
Check the exact dimensions of appliances and add 1/4 inch clearance on each side. Remember to account for door swings and ventilation needs.
