The best office chair is one of the most important furniture pieces in your home office. An excellent ergonomic office chair provides you with the right lumbar support during long periods of sitting. This significantly boosts your comfort and productivity. However, even the best office chair made from quality materials won’t last forever. If you’ve stumbled upon this article, you must be debating whether it is time to change your office chair or not.
So, how often should you replace your office chair? Is it already time to upgrade your current seat? It depends on different factors. Let’s talk about these considerations as we go through this guide.
Office Chair Lifespan
On average, office chairs last 7-8 years. Other high-quality ergonomic chairs may last up to 10 years, depending on how they are used and maintained.
Factors that Affect the Lifespan of Office Chairs
How long your office chair will last depends on many factors, including the quality of the materials used, the integrity of the construction, how often you use it, where you use it, and how it is maintained.
Leather office chairs are known to be very durable and easy to maintain. They also provide a luxurious feel to your home office with their premium appearance. Although mesh office tables are breathable, comfortable, and durable, they do not last as long as quality leather office chairs.
In terms of frequency of use and work environment, office chairs are specially designed to support the average eight-hour-a-day, five-day-a-week usage. However, frequent usage in a bustling and unconducive environment will contribute to the early deterioration of your ergonomic chair.
Signs that You Need to Replace Your Office Chair
When are office chairs considered dangerous to use?
Your Office Chair is Worn Out
Appearance is an important factor in keeping the office or home office comfortable for work. In a formal setting, having a presentable work area creates a sense of order and professionalism. Plus, a presentable office setup with no visual clutter keeps you comfortable and confident. If your office chair shows signs of damage, flat padding, or wear and tear, it’s time to consider an upgrade.
Your Office Chair is Uncomfortable
Sitting for eight to nine hours a day, five days a week, can take a toll on your health. An inappropriate chair affects your posture, let alone a worn out chair that lacks proper support. If sitting on your office chair gives you aches, it is a clear sign that your office chair is not good for your health. On top of discomfort, a bad chair can cause serious problems for your health.
The Parts of Your Chair are Broken
Broken or missing caster wheels? Damaged armchairs or recliners? These can greatly affect the comfort and safety of your office chair. When you see slight problems with your office chair, make sure to get them checked or repaired as soon as possible. If the damage becomes more noticeable and dangerous, you should replace your office chair.
Your Office Chair Produces Squeaking Sounds
Disturbing squeaking sounds every time you rest your back, stand up, or sit down can be a good indication that your office table is due for replacement.
Your Sitting Posture is Becoming Poor
The best feature of an ergonomic office chair is the proper lumbar support that it provides. If your office chair does not properly support the natural shape of your spine when sitting, it’s time to look for a better office chair that provides the lumbar support that you need.
What to Look for in a New Office Chair?
If you experience the signs above, consider getting a new office chair with these important features:
- Adjustable height
- Adjustable backrest or backrest with tilt function
- Contoured backrest provides proper lumbar support
- Proper seat size and depth
- Comfortable padding
- Breathable material
- Swivel and casters
Depending on your preferences, you can choose an ergonomic office chair with armrests and additional adjustments. The right office chair must follow the proper S shape of your spine when sitting. It also must allow your feet to touch the floor while your back is resting comfortably.
Ergonomics is Important
The main purpose of having a dedicated office chair is to give your body the right amount of support for long hours. Ergonomic office chairs have specialised features that promote healthy sitting posture compared to a standard kitchen chair or armchair. An effective office chair significantly affects your health and productivity. A quality ergonomic chair is truly an excellent investment for your health and overall wellness.
Need an office chair upgrade? Check out Megafurniture’s premium collection of ergonomic office chairs in Singapore. Read on to our short office chair buying guide to learn more.