My inline-block elements are not lining up properly

html

responsive-design

css-reset

flexbox

byAlex Kataev·Jan 22, 2025

Triple-check your HTML. Spaces and line breaks between inline-block elements can cause alignment issues. But hey, not all heroes wear capes; simply add vertical-align: top; to your CSS rules for these elements. This masterstroke will override the standard baseline alignment causing your problem.

Here's a neat sample:

.element-class {
  display: inline-block;
  vertical-align: top; /* Not all heroes wear capes */
}

Replace .element-class with your own element class or id.

Clean up your HTML semantics

Whitespace between inline-block elements can cause headaches. To keep your sanity, consider:

Tighten up your HTML. Remove spaces and placed tags closely together.
Use HTML comment tags () to quell the effects of whitespace.

Remember: semantic HTML is your friend.

In the trenches: baseline defaults and tricks

Your inline-block elements align to a baseline by default. This invisible line can subtly ruin your alignment if various font sizes, content, or line heights are involved.

To identify the culprit, fire up your DevTools and inspect. Look for variance in line-height or other CSS fiends causing conflict. Sometimes, a CSS reset is a refreshing start to rid of pesky browser defaults.

Embrace modern CSS layout techniques

Sure, vertical-align: top; is handy. But for those higher peaks, consider Flexbox or CSS Grid. They give you more control and turn tricky layouts into a walk in the park:

Flexbox: Set display: flex; on a container and align child elements with align-items: flex-start;. It's like magic, but better.
CSS Grid: More advanced, more control. It's like Lego on steroids.

Master overflow and floating elements

Be wary of overflow—it can skew your baseline alignment. So, if your layout seems tipsy, check if an overflow property likes hidden or auto is meddling.

Keep an eye on floating elements too. Sometimes, float: left; is your ticket to sorting sideways alignment.

Consistent line-height and box-sizing can also prevent layout derailment (see what we did there?).