Cabinets are more than just storage containers. They impact how you navigate your kitchen and how much counter space you have for cooking. If your measurements are off by even an inch, you could end up with gaps around your dishwasher or a fridge that sticks out more than it should. That’s why knowing the typical kitchen cabinet sizes is so important.
In this kitchen cabinet measurement guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about estimating these essential units. We’ll provide you with the standard kitchen cabinet dimensions that designers use, along with handy tips to make sure your new cooking space is functional.
Standard Base Cabinet Dimensions
Height
Base cabinets usually have a height of 34.5 inches. This measurement has been established through years of kitchen design to ensure an ideal counter altitude. This height offers an ergonomic work surface that is suitable for most adults.
Depth
Base cabinets usually have a standard depth of 21 inches or 24 inches. The 24-inch depth is the more popular choice because it offers plenty of storage space and allows easy access to the back of the units. Besides, this depth fits well with common countertop depths and most appliances.
Width
Base cabinets come in many different standard width options, so they can fit pretty much any kitchen setup. The usual sizes you’ll find are 12, 18, 24, 30, 33, 36, and 48 inches. 12 inches are great for narrow spaces, while 48 inches are suitable for bigger rooms.
Standard Base Cabinet Sizes
The usual combination of base cabinet sizes is a height of 34.5 inches, a depth of 24 inches, and different widths to fit your kitchen layout. These dimensions work best for extra storage and everyday tasks.
Just remember that these measurements are for the kitchen cabinet box itself — your final counter height will increase once you add your countertop material, usually about 1.5 inches.
Standard Wall Cabinet Dimensions
Height
Wall cabinets usually come in a few standard heights:
- 30 inches
- 36 inches
- 42 inches
The height you pick when you install wall cabinets usually depends on the ceiling altitude and the space you want between the countertop of your base kitchen cabinet and the wall units. Most kitchens keep an 18-inch space between the countertop and the bottom of the wall cabinets to make a comfy workspace.
Depth
Wall cabinets are designed to be shorter than base ones. This makes it easy for you to reach items stored inside without having to lean over your counter. The standard depth can be:
- 12 inches
- 15 inches
- 18 inches
- 24 inches
Width
Wall cabinets come in widths just like base units: 12, 18, 24, 30, and 36 inches. These standard widths make your kitchen look more balanced when you line up the wall options with the base cabinets underneath.
Standard Wall Cabinet Sizes
When you install wall cabinets, you can create multiple storage options. For instance, a regular 12-inch high and 30-inch wide kitchen cabinet works perfectly above a fridge, while 42-inch high units can extend to the ceiling in kitchens with 8-foot tops.
The gap between your countertop and wall cabinets needs to be big enough for small appliances like coffee machines or mixers. This also ensures a cooking workspace is spacious enough.
Standard Tall Cabinet Dimensions
Height
There are usually three common heights for tall cabinets:
- 84 inches
- 90 inches
- 96 inches
These heights are designed to work with standard 8-foot ceilings, but you can get custom sizes for taller tops if needed. The 84-inch version gives you some space for crown molding, and the 96-inch options reach all the way up to a standard ceiling.
Depth
The depths for tall cabinets correspond to the depths of base cabinets and are typically 24 inches. This consistency results in a cohesive appearance when tall cabinets are placed next to base ones, and it also offers plenty of storage space for large items and pantry supplies.
Width
The standard width for tall cabinets includes the following:
- 12 inches
- 18 inches
- 24 inches
- 30 inches
- 33 inches
Narrower widths (12-24 inches) work well for pantry storage, while wider cabinets are ideal for storing built-in appliances or creating larger storage spaces.
Standard Tall Cabinet Sizes
A sleek 84x24x12 cabinet is perfect for cleaning supplies or it can become your dream pantry. If you need a coffee station, consider the 90x24x24 — it’s the right size for your coffee machine, mugs, and all your coffee supplies.
Tips for Kitchen Cabinet Measuring
Even tiny measuring mistakes can lead to issues with your kitchen space. As we wrap up our kitchen cabinet dimensions guide, we’d like to share some tried-and-true tips to ensure successful kitchen remodeling from the first try.
Before starting, however, you should have all the necessary tools: a tape measure, a piece of paper, a pencil, and, if possible, someone to help you hold the tape measure when you work with longer lengths. Remember to write down measurements and double-check your numbers.
Now, let’s get down to business:
- Start by measuring your room dimensions: the overall space of the kitchen, including the ceiling height and the lengths of the walls.
- Take into account the location of utilities, like electrical outlets, switches, plumbing, and gas lines, as they can impact your kitchen cabinet position.
- Don’t forget about windows and doors. You should measure their exact size as well as include the space they need to swing open.
- Check the height in different areas along the walls since floors and ceilings aren’t always perfectly level.
- Factor in spaces for appliances to install wall cabinets rationally.
- Identify any pipes, vents, or structural things that could interfere with kitchen cabinet installation.
- Make sure there’s enough room for people to move around comfortably in the kitchen, especially in busy areas.
Every Detail Matters
Accurate measurements lay the groundwork for a beautiful and functional kitchen. Although standard kitchen cabinet dimensions suit many homes, each cooking space has its unique character and requires thoughtful planning. When your utility cabinets are of the right size and are positioned correctly, your routine becomes more enjoyable, from morning coffees to holiday cooking.
While this kitchen cabinet guide provides standard sizes and tips for measuring, professional assistance guarantees the best outcomes. Schedule a free consultation with Statewide Remodeling today! Our experts are ready to help you design the kitchen you’ve always wanted, with every measurement done right.
FAQ
What is the standard size of kitchen hanging cabinets?
Wall cabinets are usually available in heights of 30, 36, or 42 inches, and they typically have depths of 12 to 13 inches. The common widths for these units range from 12 inches to 36 inches.
What is the standard distance between the countertop and upper cabinets?
The typical distance between the countertop and upper cabinets is 18 inches. With this distance, you can locate small appliances and easily access upper cabinets at the same time.
What is the standard space between a kitchen island and a counter?
A perfect walkway between your island and counter is 42 inches. It creates enough room for a few people to work side by side, open cabinet doors and drawers, and move throughout the room. If your kitchen is smaller, 36 inches will work for this size, but a narrower walkway can make your cooking area too confined.
