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Why is my flex container not centering items vertically even with align-items set to center?

Asked on Dec 04, 2025

Answer

When a flex container does not center items vertically despite using "align-items: center", it often indicates an issue with the container's height. The container needs a defined height for vertical centering to work properly.

<!-- BEGIN COPY / PASTE -->
    <style>
      .flex-container {
        display: flex;
        align-items: center; /* Centers items vertically */
        justify-content: center; /* Centers items horizontally */
        height: 200px; /* Ensure the container has a defined height */
        border: 1px solid #ccc;
      }
      .flex-item {
        padding: 10px;
        background-color: #f0f0f0;
      }
    </style>
    <div class="flex-container">
      <div class="flex-item">Centered Item</div>
    </div>
    <!-- END COPY / PASTE -->

Additional Comment:

The flex container must have a defined height for "align-items: center" to function correctly.
Check if any parent elements have constraints affecting the flex container's height.
Ensure there are no conflicting CSS rules that might override the flex properties.
Using "justify-content: center" will also horizontally center items.

✅ Answered with CSS best practices.

Ask any question about CSS here... and get an instant response.

Why is my flex container not centering items vertically even with align-items set to center?

Asked on Dec 04, 2025

Answer

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