How to Clean an Office Chair: The Best Tips and Tricks

Have you ever wondered how to clean your office chair? Lucky you! This guide contains all the information you need to make sure your furniture is properly disinfected and your workplace is as healthy as possible.

Did you know that you pick up germs every time you touch your keyboard, phone, or desk? Your working area can have 400 times more bacteria than the average toilet seat!

Such germs and viruses can lead to illnesses or infections. That's why it's so important to clean and disinfect your frequently touched work surfaces on a regular basis.

However, most people only focus on their computer equipment, desktops, or telephones when disinfecting their workplaces and ignore an essential piece of furniture: their chair.

Because they’re heavily used, office chairs can easily accumulate bacteria and germs, which can shorten their lifespan and pose several workplace hazards. Therefore, it’s crucial to clean them.

Do you want to know the best way to clean an office chair? Keep reading to find awesome tips and tricks!

Essential Steps to Clean Your Office Chair

The key to properly cleaning your office chair is to be organized. These furniture pieces have many components or parts, and each one must be carefully cleaned.

Read the Label

Always check the label or manufacturer’s instructions under the chair or on the back. These guides provide tailored care recommendations and cleaning codes:

• W: Water-based cleaners.
• S: Solvent-based cleaners.
• W/S: Either type.
• X: Only vacuuming or brushing.

Wipe Down the Office Chair

Start with a dry cloth to remove dust and dirt. This step is crucial for preventing particles from embedding deeper into the fabric when you apply cleaning products.

Vacuum the Office Chair

Use a vacuum cleaner with the appropriate attachments to thoroughly clean the chair, including hard-to-reach areas. For leather chairs, use low suction and a soft brush attachment to avoid damaging the surface.

Use the Right Products and Apply Them as Recommended

Test any cleaning product on a small, inconspicuous area first. Apply solvents by pouring a small amount onto a cloth and then wiping the chair. Follow the specific instructions on the product’s label.

Let the Chair Dry

After cleaning, let the chair air dry in a shaded area. If needed, use a hot air dryer for faster drying, but avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight to prevent damage.

Guide to Clean Different Office Chair Parts

The previous information is ideal if you were wondering how to clean an office chair seat or frame, but other parts can accumulate dirt and must be properly disinfected, too.

How to Clean Office Chair Wheels

When cleaning your office chair, you shouldn't focus solely on soft materials. It’s also essential to make sure the wheels are dirt-free. Otherwise, these components won't work as they should.

These are the steps you must follow:

1. Remove the wheels, if possible.
2. Clean them, getting rid of dirt and debris.
3. Use tweezers or nail clippers and scissors to remove stuck debris or hair.
4. Apply oil or any required product to the gaps or areas beneath each wheel cover, if necessary.
5. Let the wheels dry completely.
6. Install them again in your chair.

Remember to remove any office chair footrest attachment and clean it before reinstalling the wheels.

How to Clean an Office Chair Cushion

Do you have an ergonomic office chair with lumbar support? Although cleaning it may take longer, it's so easy!

Steps:

1. Remove the cushions from the chair base.
2. Wipe them down with a soft and dry cloth.
3. Remove dust and other loose debris with a vacuum cleaner.
4. Apply suitable products in small quantities.
5. Rinse them.
6. Let them dry.

If your chair has a headrest, the process is the same. Additionally, many cushions have removable covers, which can be cleaned in a washing machine with a mild detergent.

How to Clean an Office Chair’s Arms

Office chair armrests can also accumulate dirt, bacteria, and viruses. Therefore, you should consider these components when cleaning this furniture piece.

Steps:

1. Wipe them regularly with a dry or slightly damp cloth.
2. For deep cleaning, use the same technique as for the chair’s upholstery.
3. Place them horizontally to dry, allowing water to drain and dry faster.

Cleaning Tips for Every Material

Keeping your office chair clean goes beyond aesthetics. Properly disinfected surfaces promote a healthy and comfortable workspace.

With different materials, you should adapt the cleaning approach accordingly. Do you need help learning how to clean your office chair based on what it’s made of?

Here are some tips on how to clean mesh, leather, and fabric office chairs:

Tips: How to Clean a Mesh Office Chair

1. Start by vacuuming thoroughly, focusing on crevices and the seat.
2. Use a mild detergent or a mixture of mild dish soap in warm water to clean the mesh.
3. Lightly dip a microfiber cloth in the solution and wipe down the entire mesh surface.
4. For stubborn stains, use a vinegar and water solution or a baking soda paste, gently applied and wiped clean.

Tips: How to Clean a Leather Office Chair

1. Dust the leather with a soft, dry cloth.
2. Use a leather conditioner designed for office chairs.
3. Apply the conditioner with a clean cloth and buff gently.
4. Avoid harsh chemicals and furniture polish.
5. Treat spills immediately by blotting with a clean cloth.

Tips: How to Clean a Fabric Office Chair

1. Start with a thorough vacuuming.
2. Identify the fabric type and choose the appropriate cleaning solution.
3. Use a specialized upholstery cleaner if needed.
4. Use a brush attachment on your vacuum for deeper cleaning.
5. For a refresh, consider professional steam cleaning.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning your office chair is as important as choosing an ergonomic one. Besides creating a healthy workspace, this process will extend this furniture piece's lifespan and help you save money in the long run.

Did you learn how to clean your office chair? Remember that consistency is key!

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean my office chair?

Ideally, you should clean your office chair at least once a week. This process should be part of your routine to prevent the accumulation of dirt, dust, and germs.

Can I use bleach to clean my office chair?

Since it's highly abrasive, bleach can cause discoloration or significant damage, especially to upholstery. It's recommended to use mild detergents or cleaners with special formulas.

How can I remove stains from my office chair?

Treat spills immediately. Remove excess liquid, apply a small amount of detergent or cleaner, rinse with clean water, and let the chair dry completely.

How can I prevent stains on my office chair?

Use a fabric protector to prevent spills from penetrating the material or causing irreversible damage.

Should I get my office chair cleaned by professionals?

While you can clean your office chair yourself, consider professional cleaning if it's heavily soiled or stained, or if you need to clean multiple chairs in a large workspace.