Hanging floating shelves and not sure how far apart they should be? This free shelf spacing calculator tells you the height of every shelf from the floor, based on where the shelves go, how many you want and the tallest thing you plan to put on them.
Pick a spot, enter your measurements in inches or centimeters and the results update as you type. Typical values are filled in so you can start right away.
Plan your shelf spacing
Pick where the shelves go, enter your wall and your tallest item, and get the height of every shelf.
| Shelf | Height from floor |
|---|
Rules of thumb used: about 12 in (30 cm) of clear height between decor shelves, or more when your tallest item plus 2 in (5 cm) of air needs it. Results are planning estimates. Mount shelves into studs or wall anchors rated for the load, and follow the instructions that come with your brackets.
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<p style="font-size:13px;margin:6px 0 0"><a href="https://dailyspacehacks.com/shelf-spacing-calculator/">Shelf Spacing Calculator</a> by Daily Space Hacks</p>
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The lowest shelf goes the gap you choose above the furniture, counter or toilet tank. Each shelf above it gets about 12 inches (30 cm) of clear height, or more if your tallest item plus 2 inches (5 cm) of air needs it, plus the thickness of the shelf. The calculator then checks that the top shelf stays below the limit you set, such as the ceiling, a window or the highest point you can comfortably reach.
Typical Starting Points
| Where | Lowest shelf | Between shelves |
|---|---|---|
| Above a sofa, sideboard or desk | about 10 in (25 cm) above it | 12–15 in (30–38 cm) |
| Over a kitchen counter | about 18 in (46 cm) above the counter | 12–15 in (30–38 cm) |
| Above a toilet | about 12 in (30 cm) above the tank | 12–15 in (30–38 cm) |
| Open wall | where it suits the room | 12–15 in (30–38 cm) |
These are common styling guidelines, not building rules. Adjust them to your height, your wall and what you plan to display.
Before You Drill: 4 Quick Checks
- Find the studs. Use a stud finder and mark them. Studs are often 16 in (41 cm) apart, but check your wall.
- Check for pipes and wires. Avoid drilling directly above or below outlets and switches, and behind sinks.
- Match the hardware to the load. Books and plates are heavy. Use studs, or wall anchors rated for the weight.
- Tape it first. Mark the shelf positions on the wall with painter’s tape and live with them for a day before you drill.
More Shelf Guides
Ready to build? Our DIY floating shelves guide shows how to mount them, and our DIY closet shelves and pantry shelving ideas cover shelves inside closets and pantries. For more ways to use your walls, see our storage ideas for small spaces.
How this tool was made: built with the help of AI tools, tested in the browser and published by Mohamed Elber. Results are planning estimates based on common styling guidelines; always follow the instructions that come with your shelves and brackets. See our Editorial Policy.