No matter if you’ve just moved into a new office space or you’re looking to replace your old chair, selecting an office chair is a big decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Remember, you’ll be sitting in the chair you choose for several hours a day nearly every day. Take a look at our list of DOs and DON’Ts before you take the plunge!
DO – Consider the ergonomics of the chair and how adjustable it is. When it comes to your office seating, you’ll want all the right adjustments in all the right places. Chair adjustments might seem unnecessary, but they can completely change how comfortable, how well supported and how productive you are while you work. Make sure you know the differences between each ergonomic adjustment and which adjustments you need.
DON’T – Compare apples to oranges. There are a lot of factors that go into determining the price of a chair. Often times, the material and the number of adjustments greatly impact the price. A chair that is priced at $99 and a chair that is priced at $500 may look very similar, but there are bound to be crucial differences that may make the $500 chair a better option for your working needs. However, if you only use your chair or stool periodically throughout the day, a less expensive seating option may be just fine for your purposes. Remember, in most cases, you get what you pay for.
DO – Pay special attention to the type of material a chair offers. From mesh and fabric to leather and vinyl, office chairs come in a huge variety of upholsteries and other materials. If it’s leather that’s caught your eye, make sure you are aware of the differences between faux leather, genuine leather and vinyl before you buy.
DON’T – Go in blindly. Have a budget planned beforehand so you know how much you can spend. You’ll also want to know the specific needs of your workplace. For example, call centers will need chairs that are durable and designed for 24-hour use, while healthcare facilities will need chairs that are easy to clean and able to withstand constant daily use by multiple users.
As there is no one-chair-fits-all solution to office seating, picking the perfect chair can be tough. Be sure to listen to what your body needs and what your office environment calls for when selecting the right chair for you.