How to Pick a Bar Stool (+ My Favorite Picks)

I got a question from a reader about bar stools which sparked this post! So thank you so much to Miri G.! If you have any questions you would like me to write about, you can contact me here or leave a comment below. I would love to hear your feedback!

Buying bar stools can seem like a simple task until it comes time to actually do it. Here are some things to keep in mind to help make the process a little bit easier.

Tip #1

If you have kids (and even if you do not), you want to choose a bar stool that is sturdy and has some weight. This is because when you or your kids are trying to climb onto the bar stool and it’s flimsy, you’ll likely take a tumble. Avoid this issue by choosing bar stools that are more solid.

Tip #2

Think about how often your bar stools are going to be used. If they are going to be used every day by you and your family, get something with a back. If they’re going to only be used occasionally, you can get something without a back.

Tip #3

If your bar stools are going to be used often, choose bar stools that are easily wipeable. You want to keep the functionality of your bar stools at the top of your mind.

Tip #4

Bar stools generally come in 2 heights. Bar height and counter height. So which one should you get? You have to measure from the bottom of your counter or table to the floor. If it’s 35-37 inches tall, you need a counter-height bar stool. Counter height bar stools should be 24-27 inches from the seat to the floor. If it’s 41-43 inches tall, you need a bar-height stool. Bar height stools should be 28-30 inches from the seat to the floor. In the bar stool picks below you’ll find a selection of both heights and keep in mind that many bar stools will come in both heights.

Tip #5

Now, how many bar stools should you put by your counter? In order for everyone to sit comfortably without bumping elbows, you’ll want 6-12 inches between bar stools.

So now, it’s time to put your newfound knowledge to work! Below are my favorite bar stools. Click the links to shop!

If you’re looking for dining chair options, click here.