Size Guide
Use this guide to measure your space and choose the right size for our front-facing bookshelves, open storage, and learning towers. Measurements are shown in inches and centimeters.
How to Measure Your Space
- Clear the area and measure the available width, depth, and height. Note baseboards, vents, and outlets.
- Check doorways, stairs, and elevators for delivery clearance. Measure the narrowest point.
- If placing near a door or walkway, allow at least 24 in (61 cm) clearance in front.
- For tall units, check the wall type for anchoring and locate a suitable stud or anchor position.
Front-Facing Bookshelf Sizing
Choose a width that fits your wall, a height your child can access comfortably, and a depth that suits larger picture books.
| Model | Width | Depth | Height | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 24 in (61 cm) | 11–12 in (28–30 cm) | 24–28 in (61–71 cm) | Toddlers, tight spaces | Holds 20–30 picture books; ideal beside a crib or reading nook. |
| Medium | 30–36 in (76–91 cm) | 11–12 in (28–30 cm) | 28–32 in (71–81 cm) | Shared spaces, most rooms | Holds 30–45 books; top row is parent-reach for rotation. |
| Large | 40–48 in (102–122 cm) | 12–13 in (30–33 cm) | 30–36 in (76–91 cm) | Playrooms, siblings | Holds 45–60 books; consider wall anchoring for extra stability. |
- Most picture books are 8–12 in (20–30 cm) tall; allow a bit of headroom per tier.
- For ages 1–3, aim for top edge at or below 30 in (76 cm) so children can self-select safely.
- Anchor to the wall if the height is above 32 in (81 cm) or if you have climbers.
Learning Tower Sizing
Match the platform height to your counter and your child’s height so elbows are at or just below the countertop when standing upright.
Kitchen Counter Reference
| Countertop height | Suggested platform range | Typical child age | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 33–34 in (84–86 cm) | 13–15 in (33–38 cm) | 18–24 months | Start at the lower setting; raise as the child grows. |
| 34–36 in (86–91 cm) | 14–17 in (36–43 cm) | 2–4 years | Most kitchens; keep tower flush with the counter. |
| 36–38 in (91–97 cm) | 16–19 in (41–48 cm) | 3–6 years | Use the highest safe setting that keeps elbows near counter height. |
Child Height Quick Guide
| Child height | Suggested platform | Fit check |
|---|---|---|
| 30–34 in (76–86 cm) | 13–14 in (33–36 cm) | Elbows near or slightly below counter on a 34–36 in counter. |
| 34–38 in (86–97 cm) | 14–16 in (36–41 cm) | Feet flat; no tip-toeing needed. |
| 38–42 in (97–107 cm) | 16–18 in (41–46 cm) | Torso clear of counter edge; no leaning. |
| 42–46 in (107–117 cm) | 18–19 in (46–48 cm) | Consider lowest safe setting as the child grows. |
- Keep the tower flush to the counter with no gap. Use only on a level, non-slip floor.
- Choose a platform height that allows a relaxed stance with elbows at or just below the counter.
- Always provide active adult supervision with elevated products.
Typical Footprints
| Product | Footprint (W × D) | Clearance in front | Doorway clearance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front-facing bookshelf | 24–48 in × 11–13 in (61–122 cm × 28–33 cm) | 24 in (61 cm) for browsing | Measure smallest turn on the path to the room |
| Learning tower | 17–20 in × 18–22 in (43–51 cm × 46–56 cm) | 18 in (46 cm) behind the user | Check island corners and rug edges |
| Open toy shelf | 24–40 in × 12–15 in (61–102 cm × 30–38 cm) | 24 in (61 cm) | Verify wall anchor position if over 32 in high |
Safety and Placement Notes
- Use on flat, stable floors. Level with felt pads if needed.
- Install anti-tip kits on taller units as recommended.
- Keep away from stairs, heaters, windows, and cords.
- Follow the age and weight guidance on each product page.
Quick Conversions
- 1 in = 2.54 cm
- 1 ft = 30.48 cm
- To convert in → cm, multiply by 2.54; cm → in, divide by 2.54.
Need Sizing Help?
If you would like a second look on fit or a custom suggestion for your space, please contact us at hello@montefurniture.com. Photos of the space and your counter height help us recommend the best size.