Choosing the Right Size for Your Kitchen Door

Choosing the Right Size for Your Kitchen Door

When outfitting a commercial kitchen, the door isn’t just a passage, it’s a key component of workflow, safety, and hygiene. Choosing the right size for your kitchen door can make a big difference in how efficiently your staff moves, how well your space complies with regulations, and how safe your environment remains during peak hours.

Understanding Door Sizing: What Do the Numbers Mean?

Door sizes are typically listed in inches, such as 36" x 84". Here's what that means:

• Width (36"): This is the horizontal measurement across the door. A 36-inch wide door is a common choice for commercial kitchens because it allows enough space for carts, trays, and staff to pass through comfortably.
• Height (84"): This is the vertical measurement from the bottom to the top of the door. 84 inches (or 7 feet) is taller than a standard residential door, which helps accommodate taller equipment and improves ventilation.

Common Commercial Kitchen Door Sizes:

• 30" x 80" – Suitable for smaller prep areas or storage rooms.
• 36" x 84" – Ideal for main kitchen entrances and high-traffic zones.
• 42" x 84" – Used in larger kitchens or where double-door setups are needed.

Always measure your opening carefully and consider any trim, casing, or wall obstructions before ordering. We have a handy measurement guide available on our site here.

Choosing the Correct Handing

The handing refers to what side the hardware will be on a single panel door opening —either left or right. We have a guide on selecting the correct handing for your opening here.

Best Practices for Kitchen Doors:

• Outward Swinging Doors: These are preferred for kitchen exits to comply with fire codes and allow quick egress.
• Double-Acting Doors: Also known as "saloon" or "traffic" doors, these swing both ways and are great for high-traffic areas between kitchen and dining spaces.
• Hinge Placement: Choose hinge placement based on the layout of your kitchen. Avoid placing hinges where they might interfere with equipment or foot traffic.

Pro Tips for Buyers

• Consider Door Material: Stainless steel or Laminate are durable and easy to clean.
• Add Vision Panels: Small windows help prevent collisions in busy kitchens.
• Check Local Codes: Health and fire regulations may dictate door size, swing direction, and materials.

Final Thoughts

The right kitchen door isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about function, safety, and compliance. Whether you're renovating or building new, take the time to measure accurately, understand swing direction, and choose a door that supports your kitchen’s workflow.

Need help choosing the perfect door? Contact our team at restaurantdoors.com—we’re here to help you swing in the right direction.