How to Clean and Maintain Your Ergonomic Office Chair (Without Losing Your Mind)

April 10, 2025

Let’s face it – your ergonomic office chair has been through a lot. From powering you through deadlines to supporting you during snack-fuelled brainstorms, it’s the unsung hero of your workspace. Whether it’s fresh out the box or a pre-loved gem from Lifestyle Office Furniture, it deserves a little TLC to keep it comfy, clean, and creak-free.

Here’s our no-nonsense guide to keeping your chair in top shape – with a sprinkle of humour (because cleaning shouldn’t be boring).

Start With a General Wipe-Down (aka: Operation Crumb Patrol)

You’d be amazed what collects under the seat over time – biscuit crumbs, pen lids, mysterious fluff... maybe even a long-lost paperclip or two.

What to do:

Use a handheld vacuum or brush to remove loose debris from all the nooks and crannies.
Wipe the frame and armrests with a damp cloth and a mild detergent.
Avoid soaking anything – your chair likes a spa day, not a swim.

Top tip: Don’t forget underneath. Out of sight is where the sneakiest dust bunnies hide.

Fabric and Mesh Maintenance – Because Stains Happen

Whether it’s a splash of coffee or an unfortunate encounter with a leaky pen, stains are part of office life.

For fabric seats:

Blot (don’t scrub) spills immediately with a dry cloth.
Use fabric-safe upholstery cleaner or a vinegar and water solution for tougher marks.
Let it air dry thoroughly – no one wants a damp behind.

For mesh chairs:

Use a soft brush and mild soap.
Avoid harsh chemicals that might break down the mesh over time.

Bonus tip: If you’ve got a used chair and the fabric’s a little... aromatic, sprinkle with bicarbonate of soda, leave for an hour, then vacuum.

Leather and Faux Leather – Wipe With Attitude

If your chair has a leather or PU seat, it’s all about gentle cleaning and regular conditioning.

Do:

Wipe with a damp cloth weekly.
Use leather cleaner and conditioner monthly (it’s like moisturiser for your chair).

Don’t:

Use bleach or abrasive cleaners – your chair’s not a kitchen worktop.

Check Screws and Bolts – Nobody Wants a Wobbly Throne

Over time, screws and bolts can work themselves loose – especially on well-loved used chairs.

Monthly check:

Tighten any loose bits.
Check casters and base for cracks or wear.
Listen for mystery squeaks – a little lubricant goes a long way (WD-40 is your friend here).

Give It a Test Sit

Yes, really. Sit in your chair like you mean it. Adjust the height, lumbar support, tilt, armrests... Make sure it’s all working smoothly.

If something feels off, and you bought your chair from us, give us a shout. We’re pretty handy at fixing things – or replacing them if needed.

The Lifestyle Office Furniture Difference

Whether you’ve bought a brand-new ergonomic chair or saved a top-quality used one from landfill (go you), we’re here to help you keep it in great condition. All our chairs are thoroughly checked before they leave us, but a little maintenance keeps them performing at their best.

And let’s be honest – a clean, comfy chair just makes Monday feel that tiny bit less… Monday-ish.