Sometimes, you don’t have a ruler on hand, but you still need to estimate a measurement quickly. One length that comes up often in everyday life is 7 inches. You may not realize it, but many of the items around you are approximately this length, making them great visual references for quick measurements.
In this article, we’ll explore 12 common things that are about 7 inches long. Not only will you gain a useful mental list, but you’ll also learn why having a sense of everyday measurements can make life a little easier.
Why Knowing the Sizes of Common Objects Can Be Helpful
Knowing the size of familiar objects can save time and effort. If you’re arranging items in your home, organizing a drawer, or estimating the size of a package, having a rough idea of what 7 inches looks like can help. This knowledge can also be useful in unexpected situations—like when you’re shopping online and trying to visualize the size of an item. So, let’s dive in and learn about some practical items that are around 7 inches long!
12 Common Things That Are 7 Inches Long
Here’s a list of common objects that are close to 7 inches in length. Each one is something you likely encounter often, making these items easy reference points when you need them.
1. Pencil
A typical wooden pencil, especially those used in schools or offices, is often close to 7 inches long. Standard pencils are easy to find and make for a handy measuring tool in a pinch. Just lay it down to approximate 7 inches when measuring smaller items, such as a notebook or a piece of paper. Keep in mind that some specialty pencils may be longer, but standard pencils are a fairly reliable measure.
2. Butter Knife
Butter knives in most silverware sets measure around 7 inches. Since you likely have one handy in the kitchen, a butter knife can be used as a quick reference if you need to measure ingredients, small tools, or organize kitchen spaces. It’s worth noting that more ornate or custom-made butter knives might vary, but your average butter knife is a dependable 7-inch reference.
3. Mobile Phone
Many smartphones, especially smaller models, have screen sizes around 7 inches. If you measure from the bottom to the top along the diagonal, you’ll often find this size range. While modern smartphones are getting larger, compact models are still in the 6–7 inch range. Knowing your phone’s approximate size can be useful when measuring areas for electronics, assessing storage space, or sizing bags and phone cases.
4. Envelope
The classic envelope, often used for mailing letters and cards, is about 7 inches long. This makes it a great tool to visualize smaller measurements, especially if you’re working with stationery, crafting, or organizing files. Standard letter-sized envelopes are easy to find and give you a quick, portable reference for 7 inches when needed.
5. Paperback Book Width
Most paperback books have a width of approximately 7 inches when closed. While sizes can vary by genre or publisher, this is a good average width. If you’re organizing books on a shelf or comparing them with other items, a paperback book is a reliable reference point. Books are also sturdy, making them easy to place along other objects for rough measurements.
6. Small Tablet
Many small tablets, especially “mini” versions from popular brands, have screens that measure around 7 inches diagonally. These tablets are popular for their compact, easy-to-carry size and can serve as a useful measurement reference for electronics. Whether you’re comparing it with a phone case, bag size, or other tech accessories, a 7-inch tablet is handy to have around.
7. Men’s Wallet (Unfolded)
A typical men’s wallet, when unfolded, measures about 7 inches long. Wallets are practical to use as measuring references, especially since most people carry them daily. This can be helpful if you’re estimating the size of a pocket, wallet insert, or checking to see if it will fit comfortably in a bag. Just unfold it to get an approximate length of 7 inches!
8. Kitchen Spoon
A regular kitchen spoon used for stirring or serving is often close to 7 inches in length. From mixing ingredients to portioning out servings, this spoon is one of the most versatile utensils in the kitchen. If you’re without a measuring tape while cooking or organizing kitchen supplies, a kitchen spoon can act as a quick guide for a 7-inch measurement.
9. DVD Case
If you have DVDs or Blu-ray discs, you may have noticed that their cases are roughly 7 inches tall. This makes DVD cases a useful measuring reference, especially when organizing a media shelf or assessing storage space. Even though DVDs have become less common with streaming services, they’re still around and make for a helpful measuring guide in certain spaces.
10. Handspan (Average Adult)
On average, the span from the tip of your thumb to the tip of your pinky finger, when stretched out, measures around 7 inches for many adults. This “handspan” varies slightly, depending on hand size, but it’s a good, accessible tool for rough measurements. So, if you ever find yourself without a measuring tool, just stretch your hand, and you’ll have a quick reference.
11. Electric Toothbrush
An electric toothbrush handle is usually close to 7 inches in length. While toothbrush sizes can vary, most electric models are designed to be around this size for easy handling. If you’re organizing bathroom items, this common item can provide a useful measuring reference for cabinets, drawers, or other toiletries.
12. Remote Control
The typical remote control for TVs or streaming devices is about 7 inches long. Whether it’s in the living room or bedroom, a remote control is a readily accessible item you can use for quick measurements. If you’re decorating, rearranging, or assessing table space, a remote control provides an easy way to visualize the 7-inch length.
Conclusion
Knowing the approximate lengths of everyday items can be surprisingly helpful. These 12 objects, each around 7 inches long, provide a convenient way to estimate measurements without special tools. Whether you’re organizing, decorating, or just curious about object sizes, these items can be handy.
Next time you need a quick size reference, remember this list! You’ll be surprised how useful a simple butter knife, book, or remote control can be when estimating 7 inches.
FAQ
How accurate are these measurements?
The measurements here are approximate, meaning each item may vary slightly. However, they should all give you a close estimate, especially for everyday measuring tasks.
Why is it useful to know the lengths of common objects?
It’s a quick and practical way to gauge size without using a ruler. It’s particularly helpful in situations where you need a rough idea of length, like organizing spaces or shopping for household items.
What other everyday items are around 7 inches long?
Other items like notebooks, some small cutting boards, and certain coffee mugs can measure around 7 inches as well. Looking around your home, you might discover even more things that fall close to this measurement!