Ever found yourself stuck without a measuring tape when you desperately need one? You’re not alone! Whether you’re planning a DIY project, shopping for furniture, or just curious about measurements, knowing what 20 inches looks like can save your day.
This comprehensive guide reveals 14 everyday objects that are 20 inches long. You’ll discover practical ways to visualize 20 inches using items already in your home. Plus, we’ll share clever tricks for measuring 20 inches without a ruler.
What do you mean by 20 Inches Long?
When something measures 20 inches long, it spans exactly 20 inches from end to end. That’s 50.8 centimeters in the metric system.
Here’s what 20 inches equals in different units:
| Unit | Equivalent to 20 Inches |
|---|---|
| Inches | 20 inches |
| Feet | 1.67 feet |
| Yards | 0.56 yards |
| Centimeters | 50.8 cm |
| Meters | 0.508 meters |
| Millimeters | 508 mm |
Think of it this way: 20 inches is slightly less than 2 feet. It’s a noticeable length that’s perfect for comparing with household items.
How long is 20 Inches Visually?
Visualizing 20 inches becomes easier when you use familiar references. Picture a medium-sized computer monitor sitting on your desk. That screen measures close to 20 inches across.
Here are more visual anchors:
- The width of a standard carry-on suitcase
- Two letter-sized papers placed end-to-end
- Your forearm length (from elbow to fingertips for most adults)
- A small table’s width
These everyday items help you estimate 20 inches at home without any tools. The key is building a mental library of 20 inch measurement examples.
How can it be measured 20 Inches without a Ruler?
Measuring 20 inches without a ruler requires creativity and common sense. Here are proven DIY measuring tricks:
Using Paper Method:
- Take two sheets of letter-sized paper (each is 11 inches long)
- Overlap them slightly for a perfect 20-inch measurement
Dollar Bill Technique:
- A dollar bill measures about 6 inches long
- Line up three bills end-to-end, then add a bit more
Body Part References:
- Your forearm typically measures 18-20 inches
- Use your hand span (about 8-9 inches) twice, plus extra
Kitchen Items:
- Four soda cans in a row equal roughly 20 inches
- A men’s size 10.5 shoe (12 inches) plus a soda can (5 inches)
These home measurement hacks work when you need quick length comparison examples.
14 Things Equal to 20 Inches: List of Random Things
Ready to explore objects that are 20 inches long? These common things will become your go-to references for estimating 20 inches:
Carry-on Suitcase Width
Most airline carry-on size regulations allow suitcases up to 20 inches wide. Popular brands like Samsonite and American Tourister design their standard carry-on suitcase dimensions around this measurement.
This makes carry-on suitcase width perfect for travel hacks for measuring. Next time you’re at the airport, glance at rolling luggage. That width gives you an instant 20-inch reference.
Medium-sized Monitor Screen
A 20 inch computer monitor hits the sweet spot for home offices. These medium monitor screen size displays offer excellent clarity without overwhelming your desk space.
Popular models from Dell, HP, and Samsung measure exactly 20 inches diagonally. They’re larger than typical 14-inch laptop screens but more compact than 24-inch gaming monitors.
Baseball bat (youth size)
Youth baseball bat length varies by age group, but 20-inch bats are common for younger players. Little League specifications often recommend this size for kids aged 7-9.
A baseball bat 20 inches long helps young players develop proper swing technique. It’s manageable yet substantial enough for learning fundamentals.
Two stacked iPads
When you stack two iPads vertically, their combined height reaches approximately 20 inches. Standard iPad dimensions make this a tech-savvy way to visualize 20 inches.
This iPad dimensions stacked reference works great in offices or homes where tablets are common. It’s a modern twist on traditional measurement examples.
A cat’s full length (tail included!)
Here’s a fun one: most domestic cats measure 20 inches from nose to tail tip when fully stretched. This cat body length with tail varies by breed, but it’s surprisingly consistent.
Measuring cats for comparison might sound silly, but pet owners find this reference memorable and practical. Plus, it’s a conversation starter!
Standard throw pillow diagonal
Throw pillow diagonal size often measures 19-20 inches across square pillows. While the sides might be shorter, that corner-to-corner measurement gives you a perfect 20-inch reference.
Interior designers use this decorative wall frame sizing when planning gallery walls and room proportions.
Large pizza box width
A large pizza box from chains like Domino’s or Pizza Hut typically measures 20 inches wide. This pizza box size comparison works great for party planning and kitchen measuring hacks.
Next pizza night, remember that box width. It’s a delicious way to remember what 20 inches looks like!
Small desk fan height
Desk fan height 20 inches is standard for compact office models. These fans provide adequate airflow while fitting neatly on desks or bedside tables.
Popular brands design small desk fans around this height for optimal performance without taking up excessive space.
The diameter of a car wheel
Many mid-size vehicles have car wheel diameter close to 20 inches. This includes popular models like Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Ford Escape.
Car wheel measurements vary, but 20-inch wheels are increasingly common on modern vehicles. Check your own car for a daily reference!
Two letter-sized papers
Letter-sized paper length comparison provides the simplest measurement hack. Standard US paper measures 11 inches long, so two sheets end-to-end equal 22 inches – close enough for estimation.
This office measurement reference works anywhere paper is available. It’s the most accessible 20-inch measurement tool.
Skateboard deck width
While most skateboard decks are measured by length, some wider cruiser styles approach 20 inches in width. Skateboard deck width 20 inches provides extra stability for beginners.
These boards offer more surface area for balance and control during learning.
Guitar fretboard (partial)
From the headstock to approximately the 12th fret, guitar fretboard length measures about 20 inches on standard acoustic guitars.
Musical instrument measurements like this help musicians visualize distances on their instruments. It’s practical for guitar fretboard positioning and chord transitions.
Tool box length
Many medium toolboxes measure 20 inches long. This toolbox size balances storage capacity with portability for home improvement projects.
A toolbox 20 inches long holds essential tools without becoming too heavy or bulky for transport.
Decorative wall art frame
Standard wall art frame measurement for medium prints often equals 20 inches across. These frames work perfectly for gallery layouts and family photos.
Decorative wall frame 20 inches wide creates visual impact without overwhelming room proportions.
Read This Post: 14 Common Things That Are 12 Inches Long
Common Misconceptions About Item Measurements
Many people overestimate or underestimate object lengths based on memory alone. Laptops might appear 20 inches wide, but most measure only 12-15 inches.
Visual perception tricks our brains. Objects appear different sizes depending on surrounding context. Always compare with known items when uncertain about measurements.
Brand variations also cause confusion. Not all “medium” sizes are identical across manufacturers.
How to measure 20 Inches at Home without Tools?
Estimate 20 inches at home using these creative methods:
- Kitchen utensil combinations: Four dinner knives end-to-end
- Furniture references: Most couch armrests measure close to 20 inches
- Appliance dimensions: Microwave widths often approach this measurement
- Book stacking: Approximately 15-20 paperback books spine-to-spine
Accuracy tips: Always double-check with multiple reference objects. Combine methods for better precision.
How to measure 20 Inches while traveling without Tools?
Travel hacks for measuring lengths become essential in hotels and airports:
- Use your luggage dimensions as references
- Tablet and charger cord combinations work well
- Hotel towel widths often measure 18-20 inches
- Your travel pillow might provide another reference point
Airport scenarios: Carry-on restrictions make fellow travelers’ luggage perfect 20-inch references.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how long 20 inches really is makes daily tasks infinitely easier. From DIY projects to shopping and packing, these visual references eliminate guesswork.
Practice estimating 20 inches using the household items we’ve covered. Build your mental library of measurement references. Soon, you’ll visualize 20 inches instantly without any tools.
Remember: 20 inches equals 50.8 centimeters. Whether you prefer imperial or metric measurements, these everyday objects provide universal reference points.
FAQs
What objects are 20 inches?
Common items around 20 inches include carry-on suitcases, computer monitors, youth baseball bats, large pizza boxes, and small desk fans. Household objects like stacked iPads and medium toolboxes also measure approximately 20 inches.
How long is 20 inch long hair?
20-inch hair reaches approximately to the lower back or waist area on most people. This length takes roughly 3-4 years to grow from a short pixie cut, assuming average hair growth of 6 inches per year.
How big is 20 inches compared to a foot?
20 inches equals 1.67 feet or 1 foot and 8 inches. It’s two-thirds longer than a standard foot measurement. Think of it as one foot plus eight additional inches for easy length comparison.
Ethan is the expert voice behind Sizefinders.com, helping readers understand measurements with ease. He simplifies complex sizing guides into clear, practical tips anyone can use. With a passion for accuracy, Ethan makes finding the right fit simple and stress-free.
