Folding tables come in a variety of heights to accommodate different needs. But how do you know what height folding table you need? Here are some key questions to consider:
Page Contents
- 0.1 What will the folding table mainly be used for?
- 0.2 What seating will you use with the table?
- 0.3 How much clearance do you need?
- 0.4 What size tabletop do you need?
- 0.5 Will it be used by people of varying heights?
- 0.6 Do you need wheelchair accessibility?
- 1 Standard Folding Table Heights
- 2 Choosing the Right Folding Table Height
- 3 Tips for Using a Folding Table
- 4 Comparing Folding Table Brands
- 5 Key Considerations When Buying a Folding Table
- 6 Do’s and Don’ts When Using Folding Tables
- 7 Conclusion
What will the folding table mainly be used for?
The intended use of the folding table is one of the most important factors in determining the ideal height. Here are some common uses and the recommended heights for each:
| Dining | 28-30 inches – Standard dining table height for comfortable eating. |
| Crafting | 28-30 inches – Convenient height for sewing, scrapbooking, etc. |
| Game table | 28-30 inches – Comfortable for card games, board games, puzzles. |
| Buffet or food service | 36 inches – High enough to easily access food and drinks. |
| Bar height | 42 inches – Standard height for bars and high top tables. |
| Work table | 28-30 inches – Ideal for laptops or paperwork. |
So consider what you will primarily be doing at the table. A standard dining table height is usually the most versatile.
What seating will you use with the table?
The height of your chairs, stools or benches will impact the ideal table height. Standard chair seating will be around 18 inches high. Here are some guidelines based on seating:
| Standard chairs | 28-30 inches – Leaves 12 inches knee clearance. |
| Bar stools | 40-42 inches – For comfortable eating and drinking at bar height. |
| Standing | 36-42 inches – Allows access without need for seating. |
Measure the height of your current seating to find the optimal table height match.
How much clearance do you need?
Consider how much leg room and clearance you require around the table. For dining tables, you generally need at least 24-30 inches to comfortably sit and get in and out of the table. Other uses like game tables or craft tables can allow less clearance.
What size tabletop do you need?
The dimensions of the tabletop are also a factor. A large tabletop may require a higher height for stability and to make it easier to access items across the table. Smaller tabletops can potentially work at lower heights.
Will it be used by people of varying heights?
If the table needs to accommodate adults of varying heights, consider an adjustable height table in the 28-32 inch range. This provides flexibility for the specific user’s comfort.
Do you need wheelchair accessibility?
For wheelchair accessibility, tables should have a minimum height of 28-29 inches and up to 34 inches max to allow knee clearance. The table base should also be open underneath to accommodate a wheelchair.
Standard Folding Table Heights
Based on typical uses, here are some of the standard folding table height options:
| 18 inches | Ideal for small children. |
| 24-25 inches | Works for kids activities, game tables. |
| 28-30 inches | Standard dining table height for adults. |
| 34-36 inches | Standing height, buffet tables. |
| 42 inches | Bar table height for bar stools. |
These are just general guidelines, and you may find a height outside these ranges works best for your needs. The key is considering the intended uses, seating, and required clearance.
Choosing the Right Folding Table Height
When selecting a folding table, keep these tips in mind for choosing the optimal height:
- Measure the height of your existing furniture like chairs or stools to find a matching table height.
- Factor in the leg room needed around the table for each user.
- Consider the primary function – dining, crafting, buffet, etc. This guides ideal heights.
- Allow for up to 1-2 inches less than standard heights if using a folding table.
- Check that the height works ergonomically for the intended user(s).
- Look for adjustable height models if needing flexibility.
An adjustable height folding table can provide the most versatility. But standard folding table heights around 28-30 inches or bar height models around 40-42 inches work well for most adult needs.
Getting the right table height improves the comfort and functionality for any activity. Take measurements and simulate the space before purchasing to find the perfect folding table height.
Tips for Using a Folding Table
Once you’ve selected the ideal folding table height, here are some additional tips for using and maintaining folding tables:
Set-up
- Make sure the table is fully unfolded and locked into place before use.
- Set up on a flat, even surface.
- For wobbly tables, adjust the internal support brace or add table stabilizer accessories.
- Carefully read weight limits and avoid exceeding them.
Tablecloth use
- Measure the table size and allow at least 15 inches of overhang.
- Select a durable, machine-washable fabric for easy care.
- For rounded tables, use a fitted tablecloth to avoid sagging fabric.
- Use clips or elastic bands to securely attach the tablecloth.
Storage and Maintenance
- Wipe down after use to keep the surface clean.
- Disassemble and store upright rather than folded flat to avoid weakening the frame.
- Apply paste wax or rubbing wax to the table legs to help prevent rusting.
- Check bolts/screws periodically and tighten as needed.
Following the manufacturer’s care instructions can prolong the life of your folding table. With periodic cleaning and maintenance checks, a quality folding table can provide many years of versatile use.
Comparing Folding Table Brands
When shopping for a folding table, you’ll find a wide range of brands and models to consider. Here is an overview of some top folding table manufacturers:
Lifetime Products
Lifetime is one of the largest manufacturers of folding plastic tables. Their tables feature high-density polyethylene (HDPE) tops and powder coated steel frames. They offer models in a variety of standard folding table heights from 18 inches up to 30 inches. Lifetime tables have weight capacities up to 500 pounds and fold to just under 5 inches thick. They are a budget-friendly option starting around $50.
Cosco
Cosco makes affordable and lightweight folding tables with steel or aluminum frames. Their table tops are made of laminated plastic, metal or wood. Cosco’s specialty is kid-size folding tables from 18 to 25 inches high. But they also have standard height models up to 30 inches. Weight limits range from 225 to 300 pounds and folded thickness is 6 to 8.5 inches. Cosco tables cost approximately $30 to $100.
Midwest Folding Products
Known for quality, Midwest Folding offers many folding table sizes and shapes with melamine laminate tabletops. Their heights range from 18 inches up to 37 inches for standing height. These commercial grade tables can support 150 to 500 pounds when properly set up. Pricing ranges from $50 up to $300 for specialty models.
Iceberg Enterprises
Iceburg makes plastic folding tables featuring HDPE tabletops and powder coated steel frames. Their tables come in both rectangular and round shapes from 4 to 8 feet lengths. Available heights range from 24 inches up to 34 inches. Table weight limits are 300 to 750 pounds. Pricing runs from around $60 to $180.
Barricks
Barricks manufactures quality folding tables with tabletops of plastic, wood or metal. Their models include adjustable height tables that convert from seating to standing heights. Table sizes range from 4 feet to 8 feet and can support 400 to 500 pounds evenly distributed. Folding table prices are moderate, starting around $100.
Flash Furniture
Flash Furniture offers an extensive selection of folding tables in many materials, sizes and heights. Their tables feature metal, wood, plastic and laminate tops. Height adjusts on some models from 22 inches up to 32 inches. These tables fold to 4 inch thickness and can support 220 to 440 pounds. Prices range from budget-friendly at around $50 up to $250.
Key Considerations When Buying a Folding Table
Keep the following criteria in mind when selecting a folding table for your needs:
- Height – Consider the primary usage and what works ergonomically for your height.
- Size – Choose a tabletop size based on the space needed and seating capacity.
- Weight capacity – Check the weight limits and size/number of people the table can safely accommodate.
- Portability – Look at the folded size for storage and transport.
- Materials – Compare tabletop and frame materials that offer durability and easy cleaning.
- Design – Seek design features like rounded corners, adjustable heights and table stabilizers.
- Price – Set a budget but expect to invest more for better quality and construction.
Carefully evaluating your needs against these criteria will help narrow your choices to find the ideal folding table.
Do’s and Don’ts When Using Folding Tables
Follow these do’s and don’ts to safely use your folding table and get the most out of it:
Do:
- Set up on a stable, level surface.
- Lock all legs and braces fully into place before use.
- Adhere to the recommended weight limits.
- Wipe down after use and clean periodically with mild detergent.
- Store upright instead of laying flat to avoid warping.
- Check and tighten hardware regularly.
Don’t:
- Exceed the total weight capacity or load weight unevenly.
- Allow people to stand, sit or climb on the table.
- Drag the table when moving it to avoid scratching.
- Use abrasive cleaners that can damage the finish.
- Leave outdoors exposed to weather and moisture.
- Fold and unfold the table repeatedly as this weakens the frame.
Following the manufacturer’s instructions for weight limits, setup, takedown and maintenance will get the most life out of your folding table.
Conclusion
Choosing the ideal folding table height involves factoring in your intended uses, required clearance, seating heights and user ergonomics. Standard table heights around 28-30 inches work well for dining, game, craft and work tables. For standing activities, consider heights of 36 inches or bar height tables around 42 inches. Adjustable height folding tables provide maximum versatility. Compare material and construction quality between brands, along with weight limits, sizes and portability. Follow usage and care guidelines to safely enjoy your folding table for years to come. Utilizing the criteria and tips in this article will help you select the perfect folding table height to meet your needs.