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Why isn't my item centering with `align-items: center` in a flex container?

Asked on Nov 11, 2025

Answer

When using "align-items: center" in a flex container, items are centered along the cross axis. If your item isn't centering, it could be due to the container's height or other CSS properties affecting the layout.

<!-- BEGIN COPY / PASTE -->
    <style>
      .flex-container {
        display: flex;
        align-items: center; /* Aligns items vertically */
        height: 200px; /* Ensure the container has a height */
        border: 1px solid #ccc;
      }
      .flex-item {
        background-color: lightblue;
        padding: 10px;
      }
    </style>

    <div class="flex-container">
      <div class="flex-item">Centered Item</div>
    </div>
    <!-- END COPY / PASTE -->

Additional Comment:

Ensure the flex container has a defined height; otherwise, centering vertically won't be visible.
Check for any additional CSS rules that might override or conflict with "align-items: center".
Remember that "align-items: center" affects the cross axis, which is vertical in a row-based flex container.
If the container is a column, "align-items: center" will center items horizontally.

✅ Answered with CSS best practices.

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

Why isn't my item centering with `align-items: center` in a flex container?

Asked on Nov 11, 2025

Answer

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