Css vertical alignment of inline/inline-block elements

html

css-properties

vertical-alignment

responsive-design

byAlex Kataev·Aug 28, 2024

Reach for the flexbox toolkit when you need to vertically center elements. The display: flex; and align-items: center; combination on the parent container makes it a breeze:

.container {
  display: flex;
  align-items: center;
}

<div class="container">
  <span>Text</span>
</div>

The power duo here is display: flex; and align-items: center; that provide an on-target vertical alignment of your elements.

Learning the Basics

Understanding Vertical Align

Vertical-align, a CSS property specifically earmarks the vertical positioning of inline or inline-block elements relative to their respective line boxes or parent containers.

.inline-child {
  vertical-align: middle; /* Take me to your leader, or rather the middle of the line-box */
}

Using Line Height

To aid with alignment, specifying an explicit line-height on the parent container can be helpful.

.parent-div {
  line-height: 3em; /* I'm stretching the gap. Beware! */
}

Remember, vertical-align and line-height might sometimes exhibit a game of thrones. Defend your alignment!

Children Selector for Universal Alignment

For a styling spree on all children within a container:

div > * {
  vertical-align: middle; /* You shall not budge, to the middle you are all summoned */
}

Predicting and Preventing Problems

To see problems before viewers do, don't get stuck:

Inline elements may align to their default baseline and distemper alignment. A surge of vertical-align can set it right.
Watch out! Vertical-align pulls off differently between inline and inline-block elements.
If vertical-align fails like a late-night infomercial product, check for conflicting styles or container properties.

Advanced Techniques and Troubleshooting

Alternatives When Flex Doesn't Flex Right

Grid Layout: Flex your CSS muscles to achieve a display: grid; and child element rules justify-content: center; and align-items: center; for a perfectly centered effect.
Table-Cell Approach: If your elements are playing hide and seek, go for display: table-cell; and apply vertical-align: middle;.

Precision Positioning Techniques

Relative Positioning: Top and left properties can conveniently adjust your elements like a wind-up toy.
Absolute Centering: Go absolute with position: absolute;, pair it up with top: 50%; and transform: translateY(-50%); for an alignment nirvana.

Visual Debugging Tools

Color Coding: Applying a temporary background-color to elements helps you visualize and debug the box model.
Spacing: Inject some margin around elements like personal space in a crowded subway, to prevent visual fights!

explain-codes / Html / Css vertical alignment of inline/inline-block elements

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