What Size Office Chair Should I Get?

It’s a common misconception that office chairs come in a one-size-fits-all size. On the contrary, task seating is designed to accommodate people of specific body types. Every individual is unique, so finding the correct chair for your body type is essential. Read on to determine what size chair will be best for you.

Standard-Size Office Chairs

Most people will feel comfortable using a standard-size office chair. Commercial-grade office chairs are designed to support up to 250 pounds and are usually comfortable for people between 5’ 5” and 6’ 0” tall. Although standard-size office chairs are ideal for most individuals, there are many other factors to consider when selecting which chair to purchase. Look at the height of the back of the chair and the ergonomic adjustments available when determining whether an option will work for you. Proper ergonomics are important not only in standard-size office chairs but in all office chairs.

Petite Office Chairs

Most petite office chairs can still support up to 250 pounds, but these seating options are designed with a shorter cylinder and a smaller seat pan to accommodate individuals who are 5’ 4” or shorter. For petite people, a standard-size seat pan will often hit the back of the knee uncomfortably, while a too-tall cylinder will leave the feet dangling off the ground without help from a footrest. Petite chairs scale everything down, allowing shorter users to experience the same level of support as standard chair users.

Big and Tall Office Chairs

Standing-Height Ergonomics

You’ve added a standing desk to your workspace to help ward off the negative health consequences of sitting all day. You’re now consistently moving and incorporating a balance of sitting and standing. But have you forgotten about ergonomics? While a balance of sitting and standing is the most important, you’ll also want to consider the height of your workstation, the position of your monitors and keyboard, and your ergonomic chair adjustments to make sure that your body is fully supported whether you’re taking a stand or sitting for a bit.

Set Your Workstation at the Proper Height

Your workstation should not cause you to strain to reach something high or low. If you are reaching to look up or down, it can cause a lot of strain on your shoulders, neck, and back. An adjustable-height desk allows you to move the workstation up or down to accommodate your height. You will want to position your workstation (including your keyboard) so your arms are parallel to the ground while typing (no stress on elbows or shoulders) and you're not looking up or down at monitors but instead straight ahead, keeping your shoulders and neck relaxed. It's recommended that your monitor is placed about arm’s length from your face.  

Stand Correctly

Standing at your desk for the recommended amount of time isn't enough—you'll need to be sure you are standing correctly. Otherwise, you may still experience those aches and pains you’ve been trying to avoid. Having your monitor at the right angle and your workstation at the right height will help, but remember to keep your back straight and shoulders relaxed. Avoid reaching above or behind the shoulder line. Avoid crossing your legs in any matter when standing and avoid locking your knees—both of these movements can disrupt blood flow. Instead, keep your feet pointed toward your workstation and your knees loose and comfortable.

Consider Your Feet

Even if you stand for short bursts throughout the day, you’ll want to consider how your feet are holding up. If they are sore or uncomfortable after standing, evaluate your footwear and add an anti-fatigue mat to your workspace. Switching to practical footwear for standing is ideal, and anti-fatigue mats can make a huge difference in supporting your feet and legs.

Take a Seat

Office Design for Startups

Launching your startup may be one of your most difficult ventures. There are so many things to consider when getting ready to open for business, and selecting the right office furniture is not usually high on what is probably a very long to-do list. Many startups begin by offering their employees folding chairs to sit in, shabby tables to work on, and little to no décor to look at. Of course, this lack of style and function is always due to a lack of money. 

Startups rarely have the extra cash to spring for genuine leather office chairs, wood veneer executive desks, or one-of-a-kind artwork. But what happens when you need to impress business investors? When you want to attract new employees to work for your company? When you have clients come in for a meeting? Your office design can make more of a difference than you think.

Make It Yours

Branding is hugely important for the success of any business, and branding your office to fit with your identity will help inspire employees and impress investors and customers. There are plenty of ways to bring branding into your workplace, and it doesn’t have to be an expensive process. Some of the most affordable ways to reel in your identity are to paint the walls your brand colors, purchase some coffee mugs with your logo for your employees, and buy office furniture in a style that matches your business goals. If you’re starting a new attorney’s office, you may want desks and bookcases with a traditional look. If you’re starting a trendy marketing firm, you may choose something more modern. Take the identity you want people to associate with your brand and incorporate it into every aspect of your office design.

Make It Functional

What makes furniture functional varies greatly from one company to the next because every business operates a little differently. If you and your employees work in an environment that requires constant collaboration between coworkers, you may want to consider creating an open-office floor plan that facilitates open communication without the barriers that cubicle walls put up. However, if your business is in an industry requiring quiet concentration, you may want to add more private offices to the area. For most companies, a mix of openness and privacy is best.

Also consider the versatility of your office furniture. Adding mobile filing cabinets with padded tops that can be used as both storage and chairs is a great way to save space and cash in a startup office. Desks with built-in storage often take up less floor space than a table desk that needs an additional cabinet added to the workspace. Selecting furniture that serves multiple purposes is a great way to save room in a small area and a great way to save money.

Make It Comfortable

If your employees can’t stay comfortable at work, they aren’t likely to be very productive or even stay with your company for long. Although metal folding chairs may be the most economical choice, they won’t be good for your business in the long run. Instead, equip your workstations with affordable ergonomic chairs, pull-out keyboard trays, adjustable-height monitor stands, and anything else that will make your employees’ 8-hour day more enjoyable. 

Along with the right furniture, make an effort to allow employees to take a break now and then. We know you’ve got a lot of work to get done, but a short walk or breath of fresh air allows employees to return from their mental break with a renewed sense of creativity and eagerness to get the job done.

Make It Fun

Last but not least, take measures to make your new business a fun place to be for employees, investors, clients, and yourself. No one wants to come to work every day only to sit at his or her computer without any human interaction or anything to look at other than black text on a white screen. Adding pops of color to your office and allowing employees to decorate their desks with family photos and memorabilia will give them the little boost of inspiration they need to be effective workers.

How to Hold More Active Meetings

As business owners and employees become more aware of the negative effects of sitting all day on our bodies, we need new ways of staying active on the job. We all know standing desks are a great solution for keeping moving at our desks, but what about those of us who are stuck in meetings all day? Here are some creative solutions for giving everyone in your conference rooms the option to move freely throughout the day.

Choose an Adjustable-Height Conference Table

That’s right, adjustable-height furniture doesn’t only come in desk form! Adjustable-height conference tables come in a wide range of styles and sizes, allowing meeting members to decide when they’d like to sit or stand. Remember to provide stools rather than standard conference chairs in a meeting room with an adjustable-height table. This way, users can still take a seat if they prefer when the table is set to standing height. Remember, it’s all about offering everyone a choice.

Offer Active Seating in Your Conference Rooms

While stools are ideal for the standing conference room, you may also want to offer active seating options such as ball chairs or leaning stools that promote positive fidgeting. Active seating allows meeting members to move freely while they sit, encouraging movement in a setting that would normally prevent it. Beware of what type of conference room these seating options are provided in, as the fidgeting active seating promotes can be potentially distracting. We suggest offering these seating options in more casual offices or meeting spaces. 

Hold Active Meetings Outside the Office

If possible, try holding meetings outside the office from time to time. Even a short walk to a new location will get employees moving, which gets those creative juices flowing. If you’re feeling extra ambitious, you can even try holding the meeting while walking. This type of meeting is typically only viable with a small number of participants, and you should make sure that everyone is on board with it before the meeting. Not everyone is physically able to walk for even short distances.

Are you slouching in your chair while reading this? Are you squinting because your lighting is a little harsh or your monitor isn’t the right height? Does your neck or back ache? If you nodded yes to any of these questions, you need better ergonomics. 

Ergonomics is the science of making workplaces, products, and systems fit the workers who use them. And it’s about much more than comfort: Ergonomics impacts vision, musculoskeletal health, energy levels, productivity, and even company performance. 

For the longevity of our people, our businesses, and our bodies, it’s time to improve ergonomics.

Want to learn just how effective ergonomics can be? We’ve got your back (pun intended). 

What Happens When Ergonomics Are Neglected?

Musculoskeletal disorders are responsible for one-third of work injuries or illnesses, many of which are due to poor ergonomics:  

• Carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis are caused by typing, data entry, switchboard operation, and repeating other hand and wrist motions without proper support.

• Sitting incorrectly or slouching causes fatigue, back pain, abdominal cramps, digestive issues, and blood clots.

• Poor lighting or improperly positioned computer monitors are responsible for eye strain, headaches, and nausea.

And we’re all familiar with the negative effects of sitting for long periods, which has been linked to cardiovascular conditions, spinal issues, obesity, and even cancer.

In Washington, neck, back, and upper-extremity issues make up 27% of all workers’ compensation claims, and “36% of the claims result in 4 or more lost work days and more than 43% of all costs.” A small study of Iranian workers found that discomfort or pain in the neck, lower back, and thighs resulted in fatigue and correlated with decreased concentration and productivity.

All these health complications result in additional mental and physical stress for employees and lost productivity, absenteeism, and higher healthcare costs for employers. Nobody wins when our people don’t feel well.

Improving Ergonomics Boosts Performance

So do ergonomics improvements really make that much difference for all our aches, pains, and eye strains? Absolutely.

A review of 250 ergonomic studies by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries found that ergonomic workstations reduced lost workdays by 75% and reduced workers’ compensation costs by 68%.

Highlighted in the above review was a landmark rollout of redesigned workstations for Blue Cross corporate employees, which saved the company $1 million in insurance claims. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island followed suit a few years later and had equally impressive results, reducing workers comp costs from $227,620 to $26,010 in a single year—a whopping 89% decrease. 

The data is clear: Ergonomics is important for people and businesses.

What Does Good Ergonomics Look Like?

So if we want to improve ergonomics, where do we start? With our workstations. 

For office workers, 4 factors impact ergonomics throughout the entire body: 

1. Chair

2. Desk

3. Monitor

4. Lighting

Improving the quality and height of our chairs and desks, the placement of our computer monitors, and the quality of our lighting significantly impacts overall health and performance. And, unlike the many complicated financial and operational challenges in business that are hard to solve, improving ergonomics is relatively simple. 

Here are some pointers that can help you immediately make your workstation more comfortable.

Best Practices for Chairs and Desks

• When seated, your feet should firmly touch the floor, and your knees should be bent at 90 degrees.

• While working at a computer, your forearms should be at desk height and parallel to the desk, ideally with elbows at a 90–100 degree angle.

• Sit with your back straight, shoulders pulled slightly back, and ears aligned over your shoulders.

• For maximum comfort, consider investing in a chair with a headrest or lumbar support.

• Switch to an adjustable-height desk to avoid working at a desk that’s too high or low.

Best Practices for Computer Monitors

Ergonomic Trends reports that “even a 15-degree tilt of the neck to look down at the laptop screen doubles the amount of forces exerted on our necks to hold up the head.” No wonder our necks are achy.

• Use a laptop stand to elevate the monitor to eye level.

• When using a single monitor, it should be 18–28” away, directly in front of the face.

• When using a dual monitor setup, place the primary monitor 18–28” away, directly in front of the face, and place the second monitor on the side with the dominant eye. The inner edges of the monitors should be touching so they form a concave position around you.

Best practices for workstation lighting

• Whenever possible, minimize glare on monitors from external sources.

• Soften lighting and reduce bulb intensity. If possible, use natural instead of artificial light.

• Follow the 20-20-20 rule to rest your eyes: Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away from the computer for 20 seconds.

Improve Workstations to Improve Performance

While minor adjustments are a good start to improving ergonomics, it’s worth considering whether your old workstations need an upgrade. Ill-fitting desks and chairs will continue impeding performance because you’ll be forced to keep working around them. Ergonomics-driven furniture works for you, not the other way around.

And even smaller investments like wrist supports, under-desk mats, monitor stands, or eye-friendly lighting can alleviate many of the physical ailments we covered here.

It’s time we all sat up a little straighter, saw a little clearer, and worked a little more comfortably. National Business Furniture can help. From adjustable-height desks to monitor stands, we can outfit your workstation with everything you need to feel better, work better, and perform better. 

Hey, remember to sit up straight. You’re welcome…

While research points to all standing desks offering long-term health benefits, it’s important to know that there are still many different kinds, each offering various design aspects and functions. 

Often, the first image that comes to mind when we think of a standing desk is an entirely separate unit with a preset height you cannot change. While this is certainly an option, others are available that may better suit your working needs and your office environment.

One such option is an adjustable-height standing desk. Unlike standing-height desks, the desktop can be raised or lowered to whatever level is desired. This makes sitting and standing possible with one unit without buying a counter-height stool or chair. One of the distinguishing features of adjustable standing desks is how they are lifted or operated.

Gas Lifts

Adjustable desks with a gas lift mechanism typically feature a lever control, allowing you to easily raise or lower the desk's surface. Gas lifts may also be called pneumatic lifts. Some adjustable height gas lift tables also feature rolling casters for a high level of mobility, making them ideal for the on-the-go worker.

Manual Lifts

As the name implies, these desks require manual effort when it comes to both lifting and lowering the surface of the desk or table. Many manual lifts feature a clip or screw clamp that you must fasten to hold the unit securely in place. Some may even feature a hand crank. While manual effort is required, these desks and tables are still easy to move up and down, as they feature a lightweight design.

Electronic Lifts

Adjustable desks that feature an electronic lift are perhaps the utmost in convenience, as the surface moves up and down via the touch of a button. It’s an incredibly easy-to-use feature that still allows maximum flexibility in your working environment. Due to their simple use and electrical components, this type of adjustable height desk tends to be more of an investment than the other options.

Your business could be in trouble if your employees are still sitting in basic fabric task chairs. A recent study from Kelton Global showed that 54% of American office workers believe an uncomfortable workstation would cause unhappiness and a lack of productivity. In addition, 92% state that a workspace that is not up-to-par negatively impacts mental well-being. What can you do to help your employees stay positive and productive? Consider these seating alternatives to the traditional office chair.

Standing Desks

One alternative seating solution is not a seating solution at all. Equipping your employee cubicles with standing desks will enable workers to move more at the office. This doesn’t mean you should eliminate office chairs altogether, but rather the chair and standing desk should be used in shifts throughout the day. Utilizing a standing desk has proven health benefits, including improved blood flow and increased employee productivity.

Active Chairs and Leaning Stools

Active seating comes in many forms for use with or without a standing-height desk. Active chairs such as the Zenergy ball chair are ideal for bringing movement to a traditional cubicle or home office setup. Leaning stools tilt on a long stick-like base to prop users on an angle, which is more ergonomically friendly. No matter which active chair you choose, offering employees the option to bring more movement into their days is sure to improve comfort, making them more alert and productive while working.

Collaborative Soft Seating

Remember, chairs are all over the office, not just at your employees' desks. The same research study found that 1 in 4 employees value flexible areas to work away from their desks, indicating a need for varied touchdown spaces. Incorporating soft seating throughout your office will enable employees to pick up their laptops and work away from their workstations when they need to focus on a difficult project or collaborate with a coworker. Collaborative seating solutions like the Gather and Touchdown collections are ideal for use in an open area of the office or a private space.

Whether your goal is to add more meeting space to your office or increase employee happiness and productivity, offering alternative seating solutions is a great option. To learn more about how the physical workspace affects employee mental health, read the full study here.

Did you know that 92% of American workers say that when their physical workspace is lacking, their mental well-being and productivity can suffer? 

According to a research study conducted by Kelton Global, the physical workspace affects the mental workspace a lot more than you may realize. The study surveyed adults aged 18 and older who are employed full- or part-time and measured which elements influence employee mood, performance, and overall job satisfaction. The following physical elements were shown to have the greatest negative effect on employee mental well-being at the office.

1. Cluttered Work Area

62% of survey respondents reported that a cluttered workstation would make them unhappy on the job. Upon closer examination of the results, it was revealed that a cluttered workspace has an especially negative effect on women, of whom 70% said that having a cluttered work area would make them unproductive. By comparison, 55% of men felt the same way.

2. Outdated Technology

Using outdated technology was a close second cause of workplace unhappiness among study participants. 61% reported that working with outdated technology would negatively impact their mental state at work, while 1 in 4 said having multiple computer monitors is critical to workplace happiness.

3. Uncomfortable Workspace Ergonomics

More than half of survey respondents stated that an uncomfortable workspace would cause unhappiness at work. This includes not only the type of desk or cubicle the individual works at but the ergonomic features and overall comfort of the office chair.

4. Lack of Privacy and Workspace Flexibility

43% of employed Americans say that not having a private area to work would negatively affect their mental wellness at the office. Additionally, 1 in 4 survey respondents finds value in flexible work environments so that they may work away from their regular work areas when needed.

What Can Business Managers Do to Keep Employees Happy at Work?

The study results are clear—employee satisfaction and productivity decrease when the provided work environment is not up to par. To stave off the negative effects of a poorly designed workplace, consider the 4 major contributing factors when designing your employee workstations and common areas.

1. Offer employees plenty of storage and filing space at their desks and keep most files digital to decrease the amount of visual clutter in the physical workspace.

2. Keep technology as up-to-date as possible, and offer employees multiple monitors. 

3. Provide ergonomic office chairs that can conform to individual users so that every employee can experience comfort at work. 

4. Finally, provide privacy options intended for intense mental focus, and switch up your common areas to provide open collaboration spaces.

When making office design decisions, consider that women are more likely than men (60% versus 49%) to say that an uncomfortable workspace would cause them to be unhappy. Additionally, employees in the millennial generation are the most impacted by the physical workspace, indicating that younger workers may benefit the most from certain upgrades in office furniture and design. By making simple updates to your office's physical look and functionality, you’ll be investing in the future of your business’s workforce.

If you feel discomfort in your back, neck, or legs while you work, your office chair may be to blame. 

Good chair ergonomics are hugely important when it comes to your comfort level at work, but this can seem difficult to achieve because every person has different needs when it comes to keeping his or her body in the correct position as they sit. Although there is no one-size-fits-all solution to office chairs, ergonomic chairs that feature a range of adjustments come close.

Each individual needs different support from their ergonomic chair. While most office chairs allow seat height adjustment, you may need additional features, including lumbar support, a headrest, adjustable back height, or even a knee-tilt adjustment. 

February is commonly the time of year when New Year’s resolutions fall by the wayside and we forget all about the goals we wanted to achieve due to our busy work schedules. If you resolved to stay healthy in the office this year, we have plenty of standing desks and tables to help.

1. At Work Standing-Height Desks 

The At Work standing-height desks are a National Business Furniture exclusive that will help you stay healthy. The collection includes standing desks in several different sizes and color options, including espresso and warm ash. The sleek, streamlined look of these desks sets them apart from the competition, and they also come at an affordable price.

2. Statesman Standing-Height Desks 

If you prefer something a little more traditional in style, then the Statesman standing desks could be right up your alley. Available in 2 different sizes, the Statesman desks are finished in a chestnut cherry wood veneer. These desks even have a pencil drawer that you can flip down for use as a keyboard tray.

3. EZ Lift Adjustable-Height Tables 

EZ Lift adjustable-height tables are aptly named for their ease of use. With the touch of a button, you can move these units up and down until you find your ideal standing or seated position. Remember, standing all day is as bad for your body as sitting all day, so be sure you put in a good mix of both.

4. Bestar Adjustable-Height Tables 

Adjustable-height tables from Bestar are easy to use and designed to match many of Bestar’s other furniture collections. You can select from a variety of colors to choose the one that’s right for you. Match your selection with a corresponding Bestar look—like those found in the Connexion Collection.

5. Efficiente Whiteboard Tables 

Did you know the right workspace can transform employee disposition and overall job performance? If you’re looking to boost employee happiness and productivity, we recommend invigorating your office with the latest trends in office design. 

Provide Flexible Workstations

Most employees are unhappy with at least one aspect of their physical workspace. Often, an uncomfortable workstation is to blame. The culprits? An office chair that is not designed to meet employee needs can cause discomfort over long hours at the office. A sedentary workstation is also to blame. 

To counteract the negative effects of uncomfortable offices, incorporate more flexibility into your employee workstations. First, equip every employee workstation with an ergonomic office chair. This type of chair will allow individual users to adjust the seat to meet their needs. 

Next, consider providing height adjustable standing desks. You may also consider an active seating option such as a ball chair or leaning stool for additional support. Giving employees the option to move around throughout the day will not only help increase productivity, but it’ll also improve overall employee health.

Incorporate Touchdown Areas

Incorporating touchdown areas throughout your office is an excellent way to facilitate collaboration between coworkers and encourage employees to get up and move. Touchdown spaces can be added to any open area of your office and are ideal for holding casual meetings or chatting. We recommend utilizing touchdown areas with soft seating or chairs around a coffee table to create a more relaxed, homelike feel in your office.

Offer Privacy

Not only should you add open, collaborative spaces to your office, but consider incorporating common private areas. Many employees report that not having a private space to work would make them unhappy at the office. If your employees work in an open concept area, consider adding a designated quiet area such as an office library for focused work. You may also incorporate a private wellness room for employees who are not feeling well or a breastfeeding room for nursing mothers.

Allow for Telecommuting

Telecommuting has become standard for many office workers. Although you may not be able to offer employees full-time work-from-home positions, permitting telecommuting where possible will do wonders for morale and productivity.

In need of commercial quality office seating for your business? Consider armless chairs. Here are some of the benefits of seating with an armless design.

Allows for Easy Movement and Versatility

Armrests can often get in the way. Armless chairs offer an unrestrictive seating design for the workplace. Not only do these chairs accommodate many different seating styles, but they also allow for easy movement both in and out of the chair. Want to scoot as close as possible to the working surface? With an armless task chair, it is easy to do so.

Saves Space

One of the biggest benefits of armless chairs is their space-saving design. While armrests may not seem bulky, they take up a lot of room. Armless chairs can be neatly tucked under tables and desks when not in use. This is especially useful in training rooms, conference rooms, and other meeting/collaborative areas. Many armless chairs can also be placed next to each other in reception areas or waiting rooms to accommodate numerous individuals without taking up too much space.

Usually More Economical

Because armless designs require less materials (fabric, upholstery, and frame supports), they are usually a budget-friendly option. This makes them ideal for businesses with smaller budgets looking for commercial quality seating that will hold up to daily use.

Whether you've just moved into a new office space or are 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. 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. Many factors go into determining the price of a chair. Often, the material and the number of adjustments greatly impact the price. A chair priced at $99 and a chair 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 fine. Remember, in most cases, you get what you pay for.

DO: Pay special attention to the material used in the chair. From mesh and fabric to leather and vinyl, office chairs come in various upholsteries and other materials. If it’s leather that’s caught your eye, make sure you know the differences between faux leather, genuine leather, and vinyl before buying.

DON’T: Go in blindly. Have a budget 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 durable chairs 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.

If you find yourself with your feet dangling off the ground or not enough seat space to stay comfortable, it may be time for a different size office chair. Employees in most office settings are equipped with a standard-size office chair that, to be fair, will accommodate the majority of people. But for those who do not fit within the realm of being 5’5” to 6’0” tall and weighing less than 250 pounds, it may be time for a new chair.

Chair Is Too Big

Problem: My office chair is too large and uncomfortable for my small body frame.

Solution: A petite office chair with a lower chair cylinder and shorter back will provide a more comfortable fit.

Most petite office chairs support the same weight as a standard-size chair, but this type of seating is designed on a smaller scale. A shorter-than-average chair cylinder puts the user’s feet closer to the ground, and a smaller seat pan and back are ideal for individuals who are 5’4” or shorter.

Chair Is Too Small

Problem: My body frame is tall or large, and a standard-size chair lacks the support I need to be comfortable on the job.

Solution: A big and tall chair will provide greater support for tall and large individuals via a larger seat and back and a higher weight capacity.

Be sure to read the description of the specific big and tall chair you’re considering. All big and tall chairs can support more than 250 pounds, but some have a weight limit of 400 pounds while others have weight limits as high as 700 pounds.

When it comes to implementing good ergonomics in the workplace, most people instantly think of an ergonomic chair, an adjustable height desk, or even a footrest. But what about the position of your computer monitor? If you’re like most office employees, you use your desktop computer for hours on end every day, but is it set to the most comfortable possible level? Take a look at these quick tips for achieving good positioning of your monitor!

Find the Correct Height

The top of your computer monitor should be about 2” higher than your eye level when seated (or standing at a stand-up desk). If your company doesn’t provide adjustable monitor stands, you can achieve the correct height by standing your monitor on a small stack of books. If you have dual monitors, they should be the same size, set at the same height, and as close together as possible to avoid eye and neck strain. Make sure that both screens are set at the same resolution so that your eyes won’t need to readjust every time you move from one monitor to the next. 

Adjust the Brightness of Your Screen

Speaking of screen resolution, make sure that your screen isn’t too bright. Just because your company sets your monitor at a certain brightness doesn’t mean you need to look at that all the time. Staring at a computer monitor all day can cause serious eye strain, so dimming the brightness can help you stay awake and focused.

Don’t Sit Too Close

Remember when your parents used to tell you not to sit so close to the TV? The same goes for your computer. You shouldn’t be hunched over your desk to get as close to your screen as possible, and you shouldn’t be leaning far back into your task chair. The ideal distance from your monitor is about the length of your arm.

Tilt Your Monitor Up or Down

As you read an email or an article online, you shouldn’t need to strain your neck as you read toward the bottom of the page. Tilt your monitor up or down so that your downward viewing angle is no less than 60 degrees.

Keeping your computer screens in the proper position will set you up for success in staying comfortable at your desk. Whether sitting or standing, your monitors should always be in the right place while you work.

"What's in a chair? That which we call an office chair by any other name would feel as comfortable." Even though Shakespeare may not have frequented the modern office, he'd certainly have a lot to say about the properties of office chairs. Finding the right chair for every workstation and conference room requires a few calculated and careful considerations about the chair's construction. Every choice has benefits that can be combined to find your perfect fit.

Upholstery

The right upholstery defines the feel, look, and longevity of your office chair. Consider how often you'll need to clean the chair, how rigorously you’ll use it, and your décor choices while picking the perfect upholstery.

Fabric

It's everywhere in life, but the fabric on your task chair isn't quite like the textiles used for your clothing. Commercial-grade fabric is a great choice for many working environments, and even residential-geared seating will feature a durable weave designed to withstand long hours of sitting. 

Look for chairs that are ANSI/BIFMA rated, which ensures they were able to withstand a test that mechanically determines the chair's suitability over a long period. 

Its major downfall? It's hard to clean and disinfect, so be wary of using fabric in healthcare offices, and ensure that you have the right equipment to give your chair a good cleaning from time to time.

Polyurethane

Also known as faux leather, fake leather, simulated leather, or leatherette, today's polyurethane has come a long way. Unlike the poly of yore, we've found ways to imitate leather in a way that mimics the texture, look, and luxurious qualities at a fraction of the price. 

These chairs are easy to care for and can be cleaned with simple cleaning solvents, such as water with a touch of dish soap. Unfortunately, these materials can break down and flake if they don't receive proper care.

Vinyl

When it comes to office chairs, vinyl isn't necessarily the most popular choice. While common in waiting rooms and healthcare facilities, vinyl upholstery is reserved for seating that needs rigorous cleaning at continued intervals. 

When looking for a task chair for a physician's office or in a lab setting, you should try to find vinyl-upholstered pieces that can be deep-cleaned with harsh solvents. Some 24/7-rated chairs feature vinyl for its impressive strength and suitability for shift-based work.

Leather

Not all varieties of leather are on the same level, but most are significantly more luxurious than the alternatives. As a bonus, it won't break down after years of use when properly cared for. Using leather polish and the right cleaners will ensure it retains its favorable feel. 

Fun fact! Most of these chairs have leather on all of the "touchable" areas, such as the seat, back, and arm-pads; however, they have a seamlessly coordinating polyurethane back. Don't let this dissuade you—it simply keeps the price reasonable. 

Bonded Leather

Unfortunately, the term "bonded leather" is a bit disingenuous. To put it simply—it is leather on a technicality. The surface of bonded leather is typically made from polyurethane, though scrap leather is ground up and blasted on the back of the poly with spray adhesive, which adds no tensile benefit to the material. For consumers, "bonded leather" sounds like a premium purchase, though it is instead wiser to invest in a chair made of leather or durable polyurethane.

Mesh

Mesh offers comfortable and breathable support that other materials cannot duplicate. Its grid-like pattern encourages airflow even when the user is seated. This feature is great for individuals who often overheat in a fabric or leather chair. Sometimes, mesh is used as an outer covering on a fabric seat or back, though this is often stylistic and similar in efficacy to a fabric chair.

Support Materials

Not all support materials are created equal. Depending on your needs, price point, and personal preference, selecting the right padding will ensure that you're comfortable in your office chair for years to come.

Fabricated Foam

Fabricated foam, otherwise known as cut foam or slab foam, is one of the most common seat support materials that furniture makers use. It is often used in upholstered office chairs. 

Fabricated foam can vary in densities: The denser a piece of foam, the firmer and more durable it will be. However, too much firmness can be uncomfortable. As a solution, many furniture makers will add layers of foam to the seat of the chair. The layers will have various densities, with the lighter, less dense foam pieces toward the top to create a cushioning feeling when a user sits. Office chairs that include only layers of fabricated foam are often a very economical choice for those looking for a new office chair.

Memory Foam

Memory foam features a unique and distinctive chemical makeup that allows the seat to adjust to your body temperature. These seats, therefore, retain more heat than others. They also mold their shape to the user as the user shifts position. With such a design, memory foam seats keep the spine in a constant neutral position for optimal comfort. 

Memory foam seats are known for their superior comfort and “hugging” effect. These chair seats are also hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites.

Molded Foam

Molded foam is aptly named, as its production process includes an actual mold. The process consists of pouring liquid foam material into a mold and baking it to set. 

Molded foam seats offer more consistent support and can hold their shape longer than fabricated foam. These seats can also allow for a comfortable and visually appealing contour seat. Another distinct benefit of molded foam is that there is a possibility of a great range of firmness depending on how the foam is produced.

Mesh Chairs

It's not just an upholstery choice! With traditional office chairs, such as leather or other upholstery, a user can occasionally experience an uncomfortably warm seat or back. The lack of ventilation traps the hot air inside. 

Mesh chairs solve this problem by offering a ventilation system. The mesh seat material regulates the temperature by allowing for airflow that keeps the user cool and comfortable. Leather and fabric chairs without ventilation systems can also retain unpleasant odors. With a mesh design, unpleasant orders are less likely to cling to the material.

Pocketed Coil System

Seats featuring pocketed coil systems offer superior comfort. The spring coils help to distribute weight evenly and are more durable than most foam options. The seats include a multi-layer foam design in addition to pocketed springs located in the seat portion. The layers of foam also capture all of the benefits of each type of foam and ensure comfort when sitting. The top layer of foam is less dense, creating a nice cushioned feeling when the user first sits. The other foam layers are denser and will hold up better to regular use.

Bases

Every chair deserves a strong foundation. The base of the chair will determine its raw strength and often defines the borders of a big and tall chair versus a standard-size seat. Some of these decisions may be cosmetic, while others are tensile, but the proper choice can truly make or break an office chair.

Nylon

Common in budget chairs, a nylon base doesn't mean that it's not a strong or durable chair. Nylon can be easily formed and shaped into the 5-star base typical of most office chairs, offering a wide variety of colors and textures to accent any design elements.

Metal

Though it sounds a little ambiguous, bases that aren't made from steel are typically an alloy that should go by a different name. This provides a more premium feel to most chairs and allows for attractive powder coating or chrome plating to further accent any design sensibilities.

Steel

Sometimes you need to go big or go home. Steel bases are designed to withstand high weight capacities or provide 24/7 use for shift workers thanks to their significantly stronger tensile strength and longevity. Most big and tall chairs will use a metal or steel base to ensure they can stand up to everyday use by larger statures.

Hard Floor or Carpet Casters

It's not hard to spot the difference between these 2 caster types. While many are manufactured to function on either surface, defined caster styles should pair with the flooring environment. 

Smooth floors, such as wood, laminate, or tile, would be better suited by hard casters that may have higher tension without the enhanced strength necessary to move on carpet. If you have a carpeted surface but hard casters, go with a chair mat that can make movement easier. Carpet casters are larger, stronger, and more adept at handling low- or mid-pile carpets. High-pile carpets aren’t terribly friendly regardless of casters and should be paired with a chair mat.

Foot Grips and Foot Rings

Adjustable stools may feature foot grips or foot rings to allow the sitter to place their feet on the base, should that better suit their sitting position. These are particularly useful on plated metals that may be slightly more slippery than others.

We've all heard the tale of “Goldilocks and the Three Bears.” One bed is too big, one is too small, and one is just right. Though there's a little less in common with bowls of porridge, there's no doubt about it—the same is true of office chairs.

While you're on the hunt for the perfect fit, consider your stature and how a properly-sized chair can make every workday more comfortable. Whether you're papa bear, mama bear, baby bear, or the ever-picky Goldilocks herself, there's a seat for every size.

Standard Size

The archetype, Platonic ideal, or "OG" (if you will), the standard-sized office chair is the most common, and its gotta-have-it adjustment is its height. Otherwise, these chairs are always a fairly typical size: 17–20" wide with a depth that gives most users 2" to 4" of clearance between the edge of the chair and their knees. As this is the most common size, there's no shortage of chairs with slight variations to best accommodate your comfort. So long as you can adjust your height between about 16" and 20", you'll feel great with a simple, standard office chair.

Ergonomic Adjustments

For those picky sitters that need things just right, ergonomic chairs include newer technology that helps you achieve that perfect sit without committing to a custom size. These go-go-gadget chairs feature enhanced ergonomic adjustments, such as a movable seat pan that easily increases or decreases the depth. 3D arms provide superior support, moving up/down/in/out/forward/back, and they may even flip up for an armless option. At their core, these seats start with a standard configuration but provide additional flexibility.

Headrests and High Back

Though they're bigger, chairs with headrests and high backs aren’t necessarily unwieldy. A chair with a high back is an excellent option for supporting the entirety of the spine during long days at the desk. These typically feature built-in lumbar support (static, adjustable, or self-adjusting for the most futuristic folks). Some seats have a headrest integrated at the top that can be raised or lowered to perfectly accommodate your stature. These chairs are common in executive offices.

Big and Tall

You don't have to be in the NBA to consider a big and tall chair. These are designed around larger statures and will have a higher back, deeper seat, and wider breadth than their counterparts. Stronger materials, such as a steel base, will support a much higher weight capacity, and any ergonomic adjustments will be enhanced to fit your needs.

Petite

Even baby bear needs a seat at the table. Petite chairs account for short statures and narrow frames to maintain optimal depth and width. The seat pan, in particular, is significantly shorter to preserve the optimal 2-4" clearance between the knees and chair. This small-yet-mighty solution is still height adjustable to account for tall and narrow frames. Despite their compact size, petite chairs with an ANSI/BIFMA rating will still have standard weight capacities.

Adjustable Stools

Ergonomics is the study of an individual’s efficiency in his or her working environment. Today, many furniture manufacturers and designers understand that a one-size-fits-all approach to creating office furniture doesn’t work, especially when it comes to chairs. Because of that, many office chairs include ergonomic adjustments that enable them to support a wide range of body types. What ergonomic adjustments should you look for in your next ergonomic office chair? 

Minimum Suggested Ergonomic Adjustments

No matter what, office chairs tend to have a few standard features or variations on options. They generally go up and down to adjust to the user's height. Many office chairs also include a tilt mechanism, either knee tilt or synchro. From there, the sky's the limit. Office furniture innovation will continue to bring new advances, but for now, you can mix and match common features to your liking.

Additional Ergonomic Adjustments

The following adjustments are special features that help keep your body in an ideal position while you work. Although they are not necessary for everyone, these adjustments can alleviate specific problems and help with the overall support of your body.

Seat

Adjustable Seat Height: With adjustable seat height, shorter users can avoid the discomfort of their feet dangling above the ground, and taller users do not have to worry about their knees being raised in an uncomfortably high position. This adjustment should allow each individual to comfortably rest their feet on the ground. In addition to an adjustable seat height, we recommend shorter users sit in a petite office chair and larger users sit in a big and tall office chair to achieve maximum comfort.

Adjustable Seat Depth: Taller individuals need more space in a seat, and the seat depth adjustment will address this issue. Without enough room or support, a tall individual will feel undesirable pressure under his or her thighs. In contrast, shorter individuals require a smaller seat. If the seat is too large, a shorter user will feel pressure behind the knees. Typically, most chairs include 2” to 3” of seat depth adjustability to accommodate most users.

Back

Adjustable Arm Height: Individuals will want to keep their arms parallel to the ground and in a position where they are resting comfortably and naturally on the armrests. You want to avoid shrugging or straining your shoulders, a problem seen when armrests are too high, and you will want to ensure that your elbows are not stressed, which is a result felt when the armrests are too low.

Adjustable Back Height: The back of your chair plays a very important role in supporting your spine throughout the work day. As the shape of the spine varies from one person to the next, ergonomic seating should include an adjustment for back height. This adjustment slides up and down—it should be adjusted so the chair’s lumbar curve fits into and supports the user’s lower back curve.

Adjustable Lumbar Support: Typically, you can find this adjustment via a ratcheting column on the back of the chair. This column can be moved up or down to suit the individual user.

Adjustable Headrest: A headrest gives the user a place to rest their head, thereby helping reduce the weight the neck must support during recline. If you are experiencing constant neck pain, a chair with a headrest may be a great choice for you.

Arms

Flip Arms: This adjustment makes it possible to flip the arms up and down or to the side. This feature allows for easier movement, whether the individual wants to move out of the chair easily or wants to get close to their working surface without the chair arms getting in the way.

Adjustable Arm Width: Arms should rest comfortably at a natural position, not too close or far away from the body. This adjustment ensures that individuals won’t feel discomfort from their sides pushing up against the arms of the chair. Likewise, this adjustment also ensures that people won’t need to strain to get their arms to reach the armrests.

Adjustable Arm Depth: Adjustable arm depth affects the forward and backward motion of the arms. Remember, the arms of your chair should support your elbows, not your wrists. Chairs with this feature are also less likely to bump into the user’s desk throughout the day, which is a plus!

Adjustable Arm Pivot: A pivoting action addresses the same issues that adjustable arm depth and width aim to solve. Pivoting arms can accommodate specific tasks, making it so that the arms of your chair won’t get in your way if you are working on a task or project that requires more space.

Adjustable Arm Pad Depth: Some users prefer to have their arms resting in plush comfort, while others require less padding. This adjustment lets you choose an option so your arms rest exactly as you desire.

Adjustable Arm Pad Pivot: Like adjustable arm pad depth, an adjustable arm pad pivot adds an extra level of cushioned comfort so that you can work on your projects with ease.

Adjustable Foot Ring Height: A foot ring offers a place for users to rest their feet when sitting on a stool. It is an especially important feature when the stool height cannot be adjusted or when the user is sitting at counter height, as the user will be unable to rest his or her feet on the ground. With an adjustable foot ring, all individuals may be accommodated with a place to rest their feet.

Tilt

Synchro Tilt: Synchro tilt (short for synchronous) mechanisms allow the back and seat of a chair to move together in a 2:1 ratio. This is helpful when it comes to maintaining the proper posture while reclining. All users should have their feet placed flat on the ground when seated. With the synchro-tilt feature, a user can recline while still comfortably resting their feet flat on the ground.

Knee Tilt: A knee tilt mechanism allows the user’s feet to remain flat on the ground. To achieve this action, the pivot point for a knee tilt mechanism is at the front of the chair rather than in the middle of the seat like most office chairs. Because the user can keep his or her feet flat on the ground, no pressure is exerted on the back of the legs in the process, thus reducing fatigue. To achieve this, the pivot point for tilting is located at the front of the chair.

Single-Point Tilt: This feature is typically found on inexpensive office chairs and offers an unmodified tilt, maintaining the angle between the back and the seat. Adjustable tension can make this a more comfortable experience and typically aids in fidgeting as opposed to comfort and ergonomics. When possible, choose a chair with a synchro or knee-tilt mechanism instead.

Tilt Lock: A tilt lock control makes it possible for any individual to lock his or her chair in place during recline so that they won’t need to apply any pressure to the chair to get it to stay in the desired position.