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Here's everything you need to know when picking out the seats!
Bar stools have become highly popular in the home. The versatile seating allows you to make the most out of your kitchen counter space, but it's important to note there's a difference between the stools you see out at restaurants or bars and the ones you should have for your place.
As House Beautiful's Senior Editor Hadley Mendelsohn points out, your at-home bar stool (or what she calls counter stool) should be shorter as most counters are built at a lower height. Once you get your measurements right, it's important to think about what you want out of the seat. For instance, a backless stool, while less comfortable provides more flexibility because you can sit on it in multiple ways. Then, there are styles with a backrest, which are more comfortable for those who use the counter as a dining table. Swivels may be a stylish option but aren't the best for kids, but of course, we've spotlighted plenty more on our list.
When it comes to materials, smooth and impermeable stools made with leather or metal are the easiest to wipe up. Remember, wicker or textured surfaces can be vacuumed clean, and always be on the look with how many each purchase comes with. Wayfair often sells them in sets of two making your buy even more affordable. Since the kitchen is likely where most of your friends and family congregate, there's no better time to switch up the seating and give the room a practical upgrade.
On the hunt for an elegant must-buy that's equally comfy? Look no further than AllModern's upholstered stools featuring a trendy cane back. It's stunning and you get double with each purchase.
Honest Review: "Beautiful! Even prettier in person. Comfortable & good back support! I got the counter stool size and it’s perfect. Highly recommend."
Searching for an affordable set you don't have to think twice about? Snag our top suggestion that's four for the price of one. The stools are lightweight, yet sturdy and because they're metal, keeping them clean is a breeze. It even made it into Senior Shopping Editor Isis Briones's cart when she furnished a past apartment, read her thoughts below.
Honest Review: "I only signed a three-month lease when I was in-between places at the height of the pandemic. The one-bedroom I got had an island, so to avoid spending a lot for a spot I wasn't going to have for long, I used that as a dining table and ordered these white stools that came out to only around $40 a piece. A worthwhile purchase that I passed down to a friend after I moved."
This FSC-certified eucalyptus wood bar stool is sturdy and handsome and tough enough to withstand changing weather conditions. You can add a cushion (sold separately) to add a pop of color and comfort.
Pottery Barn's handsome leather stool has it all like a durable contoured leather seat, a swivel, and it's available in both counter and bar heights (in case you're using it for a high-top table). You can also buy it in different leather hues and is sold in sets of two or individually, which is great for shoppers in need of an odd number.
Nothing beats the soft touch of velvet, so give yourself the chance to sit in it daily. Additionally, there are a number of eye-catching colors to choose from so go on, take your pick.
Honest Review: "Assembly wasn’t too hard. The velvet is so smooth I love the sturdiness. Nice yellow and appears as is."
Next up, a classic, quality stool that'll never go out of style. Plus, it's made to last as it's designed with real elm wood and can be ordered in natural wood or black. In short, you'll be able to get plenty of use out of it.
Pro Shopping Tip: Sign up for Lulu and Georgia's e-mail subscription list for an extra 10% discount!
With a swivel and adjustable heights, here's another excellent pick. Coming in more than 10 colors (we're obsessed with the teal), these stools are highly-rated, functional, and can add a pop of color to any kitchen.
Honest review: "Love these stools. Have ordered a total of 8. Comfortable and easy to clean."
Give your space a contemporary flair with a stool that boasts stunning faux leather and walnut wood accents. It also swivels and adjusts, so it's pretty and practical.
Ready to invest in rattan? Lulu and Georgia's cozy chair will add texture and a cool coastal vibe to your home. It's a handcrafted no-brainer.
Height (bar stool vs. counter stool)
Reminder: the bar stools you sit on when you're out are typically 30-inches tall and unless you have a high-top table in your home, buy the 24-inch counter stool option. Overall, ensure your measurements are correct, and don't make the mistake of ordering a chair that's too tall.
"I highly recommend opting for a bar stool with a back," Briones adds. "As someone who's a slow eater, being uncomfortable for an extended time is awful, and hunching over doesn't do your posture any favors.
How many are in each set?
Take a second to check how many come in each set. While most purchases are sold individually, there are sets that come in twos or fours that are a total bargain. And having coordinated seating doesn't hurt either!
Arricca Elin Sansone has been a long-time, expert design contributor to House Beautiful. You can count on her to deliver form meets function pieces, and she writes for many other publications including Country Living, Veranda, Prevention, and more.