Volume · Unit Converter

Convert Centiliter to Liter

Convert centiliters to liters instantly. 1 centiliter = 0.01 liter — use the live calculator, the exact formula, a conversion table and worked examples. Also check the Liter to Centiliter converter for the reverse conversion.

Written by Sunith Babu L, Ph.D., Lead Engineer Reviewed by Dr. Jaya Christiyan K G, Ph.D.
Volume category 2 min read Published Last reviewed Updated

Units explained

Metric / SI

Centiliter

What is a centiliter?

A centiliter is one hundredth of a liter (10⁻⁵ m³).

Origin of the centiliter

Formed with the SI prefix centi- applied to the liter.

Where it is used

Used on beverage labels, especially for wine and spirits in Europe.

When and where it was developed

Metric prefix system.

Metric / SI

Liter

What is a liter?

The liter is a metric unit of volume equal to one cubic decimeter (0.001 m³). It is the everyday metric volume unit.

Origin of the liter

Introduced in France in 1795; redefined in 1964 as exactly one cubic decimeter.

Where it is used

The world's common unit for beverages, fuel, and household liquids.

When and where it was developed

France, 1795; CGPM 1964.

Centiliter to Liter conversion formula

The relationship between centiliters and liters:

1 cL = 0.01 L
1 L = 100 cL

To convert centiliters to liters, multiply the value in centiliters by 0.01. To reverse, multiply liters by 100.

How to use this converter

Type a value into the calculator. The result in liters updates as you type. Tap a quick value, copy the result with one click, or use the swap arrow to jump straight to the Liter to Centiliter converter for the reverse direction.

Step-by-step: convert centiliters to liters

  1. Write down the value in centiliters (cL).
  2. Multiply that value by the factor 0.01.
  3. The product is the equivalent value in liters (L).
  4. To reverse, multiply the liter value by 100.

Worked examples

Example 1 — Convert 1 cL to L:
1 × 0.01 = 0.01 L

Example 2 — Convert 100 cL to L:
100 × 0.01 = 1 L

Real-world example — Plastic film and laminate thickness

A 500-centiliter sheet is a typical spec for ID-card laminates and film overlays. Converting to liters aligns the value with the unit most CAD systems and material datasheets prefer.

500 cL × 0.01 = 5 L

Real-world example — Packaging gauge

A 4-centiliter plastic bag thickness is a common spec for grocery and freezer bags. Converting from centiliters to liters is what packaging buyers do whenever they bridge US and metric supplier quotes.

4 cL × 0.01 = 0.04 L

Centiliter to Liter conversion table

Standard reference values for converting centiliters to liters:

Centiliter [cL]Liter [L]
0.010.0001
0.10.001
10.01
20.02
30.03
40.04
50.05
100.1
200.2
300.3
400.4
500.5
1001
5005
100010

Frequently asked questions

How many liters is 1 centiliter?
1 centiliter equals 0.01 liter.
How do I convert centiliters to liters?
Multiply the value in centiliters by 0.01 to get liters.
How do I convert liters back to centiliters?
Multiply the value in liters by 100, or use the Liter to Centiliter converter.
How many liters is 100 centiliters?
100 centiliters equals 1 liters, because 100 × 0.01 = 1.

Convert Centiliter to other volume units

Show all Centiliter conversions

Sources & references

Conversion factor (1 cL = 0.01 L) verified against the following authoritative sources:

Results are provided for general reference. Verify critical measurements against an authoritative standard.