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Input type "number" won't resize

html
responsive-design
css
best-practices
Alex KataevbyAlex Kataev·Feb 24, 2025
TLDR

The size of an <input type="number"> can be controlled with CSS using the width and height properties. If there are any conflicting styles, use !important for your styles to take precedence.

input[type="number"] { width: 200px !important; /* Because size matters */ height: 40px !important; /* Height, too! */ }

This snippet will ensure your number input follows your predefined size. Adjust the values to match your design needs.

The resize issue with input[type="number"]

HTML5 is cool and all, but did you realize that size attribute doesn't work for type="number"? Yeah, <input type="number"> needs a little more TLC. Let's dive into some core details.

The elusive size attribute

Your size attribute works fine with text, email, and password, but it's not for number. Also, remember size is more about visible characters, not physical dimensions!

Cross-browser compatibility blues

Different browsers have their styles, and sometimes they can mess with your input fields' appearance. Overriding browser-defined widths with CSS ensures a unified user experience.

Entering the range arena with min and max

The min and max attributes, while not sizing tools, set the input's acceptable value range. They won't mess with your width but can keep user inputs within your required boundaries.

Responsiveness for flexible layouts

Remember the old saying, static layouts sink ships? In the interests of responsive design, opt for percentage values or viewport-relative units for sizes that adapt to the container and screen.

Best practices and techniques

Fluid responsive inputs

For more dynamic widths that suit every screen, consider using percentage values or viewport-relative units:

input[type="number"] { width: 50%; /* Takes up half the parent's size, like a good child */ /* or */ width: 25vw; /* Just a quarter of the whole view, very modest! */ }

Planning for long numerical inputs

The input box should be wide enough to accommodate the longest valid number a user might input. Imagine having a lottery-winning number that doesn't quite fit!

Exploring type "range"

If it’s about choosing within a range, the <input type="range"> is an excellent alternative. It's more visually intuitive and can be styled to match your website aesthetics.

Flexing your layout muscles

Embrace Flexbox and CSS Grid for more intuitive layout design. They provide responsiveness and enhance your form's style scalability:

.form-container { display: flex; /* Flex: not just for bodybuilders! */ justify-content: space-between; }