Office Furniture Online’s Helpful Buying Guide to Office Chairs
When deciding on the perfect office chair for you, there are a few considerations that you should take into account. Whether you’re setting up your home office, outfitting an office, or revamping a meeting room, selecting the right chair is essential for comfort, productivity, and day-to-day well-being. With a variety of material options, styles, and accessories, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. With this Helpful Buying Guide to Office Chairs from the experts at Office Furniture Online, you can expand your knowledge to make an informed decision on which one is right for you!
Types of Office Chair
There are a variety of styles of office chairs, with each one being designed to cater to different needs and preferences. You can find ergonomic, breathable, and sophisticated professional options that provide the perfect seating option for your environment.
What is an Ergonomic Office Chair?
An ergonomic office chair is constructed to offer maximum support and comfort during your workday. This type of desk chair typically has adjustable features that promote good posture, including adjustable seat height, lumbar support, armrests, and backrests. Ergonomic chairs are designed to reduce pressure on the lower back, helping to prevent discomfort and allowing you to stay focused and productive during your day.
What is a 24 Hour Office Chair?
A 24-hour office chair is the perfect solution for jobs that require constant seating, like healthcare facilities and call centres. These chairs have enhanced comfort and support, so you don’t feel the strain with prolonged use, and they have reinforced components to increase durability for users of all shapes and sizes.
What is a Kneeling Chair?
A great seating option that helps to reduce lower back strain is a kneeling chair. This unique solution has a forward-sloping seat and knee pads that support the body in a kneeling position. This choice will align your spine, encourage movement during the day, and be perfect if you experience discomfort or stiffness.
What is an Operator/Task Chair?
Great for offices, workstations, or home environments, an operator or task chair offers functional seating. These desk chairs can accommodate different users and typically feature a swivel base, adjustable seat height, and armrests. With their compact design and manoeuvrability, they are ideal in environments where you may need to frequently switch between tasks.
What Height Should My Office Chair Be?
To maximise your comfort when working, your chair must be positioned at the correct height. To ensure this, place your feet flat on the floor and adjust your chair until your knees are at a 90-degree angle. Your hips should sit slightly higher than your knees to allow for even weight distribution and proper spinal alignment. Your arms should rest on your desk or armrest without the need to reach too far.
What Should I Look for in an Office Chair for Lumbar Support?
If you want to reduce the risk of lower back pain and discomfort, an office chair for lumbar support is the solution for you. The desk chair should allow you to adjust the height and depth of the lumbar support to naturally fit your spinal curve. You should feel supported, but it should also be a firm and gentle pressure on your lower back. A contoured backrest or adjustable tension will help you personalise your comfort.
How Much Do Office Chairs Usually Cost?
Depending on the type of office chair that you need will affect the cost. For basic office or meeting room chairs, you can expect to pay around £50. Mid-range chairs with more features are more likely to cost around £200 but will offer further comfort. High-end office chairs can cost anything in the high hundreds or low thousands, and these will be advanced in material, adjustability, and functions. Decide on your budget, needs, and preferences before shopping to ensure you find the perfect chair for you.
Which Office Chair Material is Best?
When choosing the material that you would like your office chair to be made of, consider your personal preferences, budget, and what you intend to use it for. Below are a few options that may assist you in your decision.
Leather: Leather office chairs are a sophisticated choice and integrate well in most office environments. They are very easy to clean and offer both comfort and durability; however, they are often a more expensive choice and will require regular maintenance.
Mesh: Mesh office chairs are great for long days of sitting down. They are breathable and offer excellent airflow to prevent overheating and discomfort.
Plastic: Plastic office chairs are a cost-effective and lightweight solution that is great for temporary workstations. Available in a variety of colours and styles, they are easy to clean but aren’t as comfortable as other materials.
Fabric: Fabric chairs are easy to integrate with their colour, pattern, and texture options. They are a more affordable solution that will still give you the comfort that you need. They may need more frequent cleaning to maintain a clean appearance.
No matter what requirements you have for your office chair, the perfect solution is available. Whether you prioritise breathability, luxury, or affordability, you can ensure optimal support throughout your workday. With careful consideration and a little bit of research, you can find your ideal desk chair that enhances your workspace, boosts your productivity, and keeps you comfortable.
