How to Use a Squish Silicone Tape Measure in Small Spaces

By Design Ideas - Fun, functional & affordable home & office ... | Published: 2026-10-15

Category: How-to Guides

A step-by-step guide to measuring drawers, shelves, and tight corners with the Squish silicone tape measure, including flexible tape measure tips and common mistakes to avoid.

Quick answer

To measure small spaces with a Squish silicone tape measure, anchor the zero mark at one edge, press the soft body flat against the surface, and read the measurement at the opposite edge without letting the tape bow. Because it measures up to 3 ft and has a smooth silicone body, it works well for drawers, shelves, and other tight spots where a stiff metal tape is awkward.

Why a soft tape measure works better in tight spots

A standard metal tape measure is built for long distances and straight lines. In a drawer or between shelf brackets, its rigid blade can snap back or refuse to sit flat. A silicone tape measure like the Squish is flexible and smooth, so it can follow curves and press into corners without scratching surfaces. It measures up to 3 ft, which covers most drawer, shelf, and small-room dimensions. The tradeoff is that it is not meant for long runs or heavy construction; for those jobs, use a standard tape. For measuring small spaces, the soft body is an advantage.

Before you measure: check the zero point and the surface

Not all tape measures start at the same place. On the Squish, confirm where the zero mark sits at the end of the tape. If the zero is at the very tip, you can butt it against a wall or drawer edge. If there is a small gap before zero, you will need to add that gap to your reading or start from a visible mark instead. Also wipe the surface if it is dusty or oily; a clean, dry surface helps the silicone grip and keeps the tape from sliding while you read it.

Step-by-step: measuring a drawer or shelf

Step 1: Clear the space: Remove items from the drawer or shelf so the tape can lie flat against the full surface. Common mistake: measuring around objects, which adds length and gives a false reading. Checkpoint: the surface is empty and dry before you start.
Step 2: Anchor the zero mark: Press the zero end of the Squish tape against the left or back edge of the space. Hold it with one finger so it does not shift. Common mistake: letting the end curl up, which shortens your measurement. Checkpoint: the zero mark is exactly on the edge, not past it.
Step 3: Press the tape flat: Lay the silicone tape along the surface and smooth it down with your free hand. Because it is flexible, it will follow the surface instead of bridging over gaps. Common mistake: pulling the tape tight so it bows away from the surface. Checkpoint: the tape touches the surface along its whole length.
Step 4: Read at the opposite edge: Look straight down at the mark that lines up with the far edge. Note the measurement in inches or feet. Common mistake: reading at an angle, which can add or subtract a fraction. Checkpoint: your eye is directly above the mark, not off to the side.
Step 5: Measure twice and note it: Repeat the measurement once to confirm. If the two readings differ, check that the tape is flat and the zero mark has not moved. Write down the final number before you put the tape away. Common mistake: trusting a single reading in a hurry. Next step: use your recorded measurement when shopping for liners, bins, or organizers.

Product facts

Squish™ silicone tape measure: SquishTM silicone tape measure measures up to 3 ft and has a smooth silicone body. It is long enough for most drawer, shelf, and small-space measurements, and the soft body presses flat without scratching.