Are you opening a bar or do you simply want to improve the look of your kitchen counter? Then you probably need some good bar stools? Don’t know what to buy? Read the guidelines below and stop the confusion.

1. Consider The Height

You should consider the height of your counter or bar when buying bar stools. Ideally, there should be 10-12 inches between your bar stool seat and the top of your counter or bar. For example, if you have a 36 inch counter or bar then you will need a 24 or 25 inch seat height bar stool. If you have a 48 inch high counter or bar then you should buy a 36 inch tall bar stool. If the height and size of your bar or counter is unique you can have a bar stool custom made for it. At an additional cost, some manufacturers will cut the legs of available bar stools to accommodate the height of any bar or counter. For example if you need a bar stool that is 27 inches in height, then buy one that is 30 inches high or more and have it cut to 27 inch size.

2. Swivels

When it comes to swivels there are generally two types. And choosing one all depends on personal taste. The first is the regular swivel which provides 360 degree turning and works on most styles of bar stools. This is the only type that should be used on a backless swivel bar stool. The elderly, disabled and children would find it easy to get on and off this type of bar stool that‘s why it is ideal in the home. The second type of swivel is the memory swivel. This type of swivel has a spring loaded mechanism that allows the stool to return to the center position when the person sitting on it gets off, providing a neat look all the time. It also saves users from manually turning the stool to a central point. The memory swivel only turns approximately half way for people to get on and off it.

4. Backed Or Backless?

Keep in mind that backless type bar stools are designed for short duration sitting. These type of bar stools come in a variety of seat choices and is available in either wood or metal. There are generally three types of backless bar stools: the standard round seat which has a smooth surface, the saddle dish which conforms to the body surface for added comfort, and the round cushion which has a wood base and comes with a padded cushion in the fabric of your choice.

5. Style & Material

If you choose to buy bar stools with backs then you will also find a variety of styles and make from wood, metal and iron as well as the fashionable “stainless steel finish” which is chosen by most designers. Wooden bar stools with backs come in Arrow Back, Wheat Sheaf, High Spindle back, the low curved back and the low spindle back. Wrought iron bar stools on the other hand, come with “motif” backs with your choice of motif design to fit your décor and lifestyle. These type is ideal for restaurants and bars.

6. Arm Rests?

If you require a bar stool which provides total comfort then buy the type that has a back and an arm as well. The arms provide additional comfort while eating or drinking. The only disadvantage of these kind of bar stools is that they would require additional space at the counter or bar. When you do buy bar stools with arms then make sure that you consider turning space when installing them.

7. Buying Tips

- If you can, purchase bar stools in a store with good professional customer service people
- Buy bar stools that are backed by individual factory warranties for your own peace of mind
- Determine the number of bar stools you will need
- When choosing between metal or wood, take note of their differences. Wooden stools have a warmer feel while metal ones are usually contemporary