How High Should My Table Be?
Folding tables are one of the world’s most popular tools. From meeting places to workstations, we use folding tables for numerous daily tasks.
Despite their widespread use, most tables are built at 28 to 30 inches high, and this is where the problem begins.
Almost every table is manufactured for users to sit at, whether for work or leisure. However, people regularly use folding tables for non-seated activities.
Using a folding table as a workstation can quickly cause pain and fatigue. As we stand above the table to work, we force ourselves to bend our backs, necks, hips, legs, and arms in an unnatural position, which can lead to various health issues in the long term.
Not only do these issues negatively impact the lives of workers, but they can harm business operations. Costs from losses in productivity and workers comp claims can cause severe harm to growth potential and profit margins.
While folding tables serve a vital function in our daily lives, we don’t have to suffer from the issues they cause. By changing the height of folding tables, we can improve their functionality while preventing severe injuries.
An Ergonomics Issue
In recent years, ergonomics experts have been tackling table height issues in nearly every industry. Millions of workers worldwide use folding tables to complete their daily tasks, but many are bent over tables set at improper heights. These issues can result in serious health problems for workers while costing companies time and money.
However, as we learned with the standard 28 to 30-inch folding table height, one solution does not fit all. With folding table risers, anyone can lift their folding table to the proper height for their tasks or personal preference.
So every worker should ask themselves, “how high should my folding table be?”
Not a One-Size Fits All Solution
Although each profession and person may have a perfect table height suited for their needs, some standard measurements can be helpful beyond the typical 28 to 30-inch table.
Seated Height (Approx. 28 Inches)
Seated height tables are the most common height for all tables, including folding tables. This height can be comfortably used by most people sitting in a chair.
Problems arise when people use Seated Height tables for standing activities. 28-inch tables require people to bend their backs, necks, hips, and knees to perform a variety of activities which can lead to fatigue, pain, and other health issues.
Counter Height (Approx. 36 Inches)
Counter Height tables sit around the average person’s hips. This height allows users to manipulate large objects with plenty of clearance and visibility easily. This is perfect for professionals who regularly work with their hands while standing but still need a clear top-down view of their work. Counter Height tables are excellent for chefs, woodworkers, artisans, and more.
Bar Height (Approx. 42 Inches)
Bar Height tables are usually set at a person’s waistline. This height is preferred by workers who work with their hands but don’t require a top-down view of objects on the table. This height is great for displaying products and standing computer desks. Bar Height tables are regularly used by office workers, DJs, caterers, tradeshow sales reps, and more.
For Individuals over 6’3”: XL Height (Approximately 48 Inches)
The recommended folding table height for individuals over 6’3” is 48 inches. This height is used by tall professionals who want to place objects close to eye level but where objects can still be easily manipulated.
For instance, 48-inch tables are great for tall athletes who need to work while standing during book signings, meet and greets, press releases, and more. Additionally, folding tables raised to 48 inches are commonly used by bartenders, speakers, and in other special circumstances.
Folding Table Risers
Although it’s essential to set your table to the correct height, finding a table that fits your needs can be challenging. With Lift Your Table® folding table risers, anyone can raise a standard folding table to the correct height.
Tables have been around for thousands of years and will continue to be around for thousands more. Fortunately, products like Lift Your Table® folding table extenders can upgrade any folding table to create a healthier and more productive workstation.
