Minimum Stair Width For A Stairlift: What You Need to Know
One of the most common questions we hear from customers is: “Is my staircase wide enough for a stairlift?”
The good news is that stairlifts are designed to work in a wide variety of homes, including those with very narrow stairs. However, there are minimum width requirements to ensure safety and comfort, and these vary depending on the type of stairlift you choose.
What Is the Minimum Stair Width for a Stairlift?
The minimum technical width for a stairlift is 61cm at the narrowest point of the stairs. The Flow X is the slimmest and most agile stairlift on the market, with its pivot and tilt patented technology it can avoid difficult turns which other stairlifts are incapable of.
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Straight stairlifts: Most modern straight stairlifts require a staircase that’s at least 700mm (27.5 inches) wide. Some slimline models can fit on staircases as narrow as 660mm (26 inches).
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Curved stairlifts: Because of the bend and turning radius, curved stairlifts typically need a little more room, usually 700mm–750mm (27.5–29.5 inches).
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Perch or standing stairlifts: These are designed for very tight spaces or users who struggle to bend their knees. They can often be installed on staircases as narrow as 610mm (24 inches).
👉 If your stairs are narrower than this, specialist solutions may still be possible. For example, the Flow X stairlift is one of the most advanced options for tight spaces, thanks to its automatic swivel technology that adjusts the seat while travelling. It can navigate staircases as narrow as 61cm in width!
How to Measure Your Staircase
- Senior using a reconditioned stairlift in a modern Leeds home. Use a tape measure to record the width of the staircase at its narrowest point (often the top or bottom step).
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Check for obstacles, such as handrails, radiators, or windowsills, that might reduce usable space.
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Don’t forget headroom—especially on steep or winding staircases.
For peace of mind, it’s always best to have a professional stairlift survey. Our engineers take precise measurements and recommend the safest solution for your home.
What If Your Stairs Are Too Narrow?
If you’re worried your staircase is too small, don’t panic. There are several space-saving options available:
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Slimline stairlifts with folding seats, arms, and footrests
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Perch stairlifts that let you ride standing upright or in a semi-standing position
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Custom curved rails designed to hug the shape of your staircase closely
You can explore these options on our dedicated guide to stairlifts for narrow stairs.
Final Thoughts
The minimum stair width for a stairlift is typically between 610mm and 750mm, depending on the model and staircase design. Even if your stairs are narrower than average, there’s often a practical solution available.
📞 Call our friendly team today on 0800 046 3438 or get in touch online for free advice and a no-obligation survey. We’ll help you find the right stairlift for your home—no matter how narrow your stairs may be.
