Bar stools serve their purpose in commercial bars, restaurants and game rooms, as well as kitchens and home bars. They are often referred to as counter stools and more households are adding them to the dcor every day.

Bar stools come in various styles, shapes, materials, sizes, fabrics and prices. Before purchasing a bar stool, it is important to know exactly why is it required, where is it going to be kept, who is going to use it most often, how often it will be used and what is the budget. If the answers to these questions are clear, then the selection of the right bar stool becomes very easy.

First decide if the bar stool is meant for the kitchen, outdoors, bar or game room, then can decide how many are needed and of what durability. When buying bar stools for outdoors, avoid the wooded variety, since they wont last when exposed to the elements. The size and comfort can be decided when it is known who is going to use them and where are they going to be placed.

If children are going to use them in the kitchen, a convenient seat height with backrest can be considered. Generally bar stools are available at from 24"" to 30"" seat height. But if the counter top is much higher, then the stools might have to be custom made to be able to sit comfortably. The size of the counter or bar top needs to be taken into account even when going in for a bar stool with arms. Ensure that the arms are at a height where they can easily slide under the counter. Basically the gap between the seat of the barstool and the counter top should be between 10-13 inches.

Nowadays barstools are available in various furniture styles and colors. Many have matching chair and dining sets to go with them. If the barstools are going to be exposed to lot of food and beverages, then it is better to go in for a barstool with no solid seats or a very durable fabric such as leather, vinyl or micro fiber. The style can be selected from swivel barstool or stationary one, with a back or backless seat, having arms or armless. Any of these styles could be available in metal or wood. Wood stools will have a warm feel to them while on the other hand metal ones are stark, contemporary and more durable. The designs could be selected from catalogues. And if the budget allows, one could have them especially designed for the specific needs and comfort. They could be ordered at the furniture outlet stores in your town or from the various stores listed on the Internet. It is always better to check the credentials of the supplier before placing the order, so that you are assured of good quality stuff. Once you have this wonderful piece of furniture with you, follow the cleaning instructions to maintain it beautifully.