Office Chair Lifespan: When Do You Need a Replacement?
An office chair is an essential piece of office equipment that keeps us comfortable and pain-free during the work week. With many of us spending up to 40 hours or more a week in the office, our trusty chairs experience a fair amount of wear and tear, and knowing the lifespan of your office chair is crucial to avoiding any accidents or ensuring you get a good return on investment.
Like all types of office furniture, there are many different types of office chairs with different pros and cons, and this includes longevity. On average, office chairs last between seven and eight years, and in this article, we'll look at the durability of various types of office chairs and give you some top tips for making yours last.
Office Chair Material Life
Service Life of Fabric Office Chairs
The wear-resistant properties of fabric office chairs ensure a long service life and a good return on investment. It handles daily wear and tear well, but tends to look older than other materials. Upholstered fabric office chairs may tear, or the fabric seat may start to dent.
Just be sure to do your research on the type of fabric chair you're buying, as some fabric chairs wear out faster than others. Fabric office chairs are very durable and a smart investment, but if you want to keep looking new for a long time, then you may decide to look elsewhere.
The lifespan of Leather Office Chairs
If you're looking for a durable chair, leather office chairs are something you should look out for. Leather is a durable material that lasts and retains its new look for longer. It is also easy to extend the life of a leather chair by treating it with an oil that keeps the material soft and malleable. A good quality leather office chair can last more than 10 years if cared for properly.
Service Life of Mesh Office Chair
The biggest benefit of mesh office chairs is good ventilation and breathability. These chairs are designed to provide good airflow to keep one's back cool and dry. Thanks to the great airflow, people can focus better on their work. Mesh office chairs last about 5 years, and some last 10 years. However, the longevity of a mesh office chair is not guaranteed unless you buy a chair that uses high-quality materials and you use the chair for an average of 8 hours a day.
Important Signs Your Office Chair Needs Replacement
If the Chair is Damaged
This is the clearest sign that your office chair is nearing the end of its life. Some damage is obvious, but there are other tell-tale signs you should watch out for. Keep an eye out for loose wheels or broken parts, if any chair mechanism is damaged it will not be able to perform its intended ergonomic function. It is important that an office chair provides comfort and helps prevent the user from overtiring during a long workday. If you think your office chair is no longer fit for purpose, it may be time to look for a replacement.
If the Chair Has a Flat Cushion
With heavy use over time, you may find that your office chair's seat cushion flattens and becomes less comfortable. Once this starts to happen, you should be on the lookout for a replacement, as seat cushions play a vital role in preventing back pain. Not only is a compression seat less comfortable, but it can also put more pressure on your lower back, which can start to cause pain and affect your ability to work. Take care of yourself and invest in a comfortable new office chair, you won't regret it.
If the Office Chair is Not Suitable
Often, if we start a new job or grab an old office chair from a friend, we find ourselves sitting in a chair that doesn't quite fit us. Everyone is different, and you may find that the chair is the wrong size or doesn't have the features that allow you to sit comfortably. If you work in a chair for long periods of time, it's best to buy a chair that suits your individual needs. You'll be grateful for it in the long run.
If the Chair Doesn't Feel Right
You don't always have to explain, and sometimes we can fall in love with our trusty office chair. If you're no longer satisfied with your office chair, whether it's because it looks or doesn't feel comfortable anymore, hit the market for a new one. An office chair may be ergonomically perfect for some but not for others. Since we spend up to 40 hours a week in our office chairs, it's important to take the time to find a chair designed just for you.
Tips to Make Your Office Chair Last
Vacuum Chairs Regularly
Office chairs can accumulate a lot of dirt and dust that can eat away at your chair's upholstery, causing it to lose its cushioning and comfort over time. Regular vacuuming will help extend the life of your office chair and keep it looking nice and clean.
Be Careful with Wheels and Casters
The chair's wheels carry most of the chair's stress and are also prone to picking up hair or dust. Vacuuming or using a can of compressed air to keep the wheels clean will help keep them from breaking or loosening. Lubrication also goes a long way in extending the life of your office chair. Spray them every six months or so to help them continue to function properly.
Fix Loose Parts
You may find that less expensive office chairs may have broken or loose parts over time, such as screws or levers. Keeping an eye on these, making sure no parts are missing, and repairing the damage will help your office chair last a long time. This won't be much of a problem if you invest in a higher-quality chair.
This article will help you find a chair that will stand up to the wear and tear of the modern office. Taking good care of your office chair will help you save unnecessary costs and keep your employees happy. If you want to buy office chairs, please contact us.
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