How Do I Choose a Good Office Chair?

When you worked in an office building, you probably didn’t have much choice in the type of chair you used day in, day out. But with so many of us now working remotely, odds are you’ve found yourself asking the million-dollar question: How do I choose a good ergonomic office chair? Because while your chiropractor may benefit from your aching back, you don’t want that sensation to last.

Luckily, you have plenty of opportunities to personalize your desk chair when outfitting a home office. Here are some things you can keep in mind while you shop.

1. Back Support Is Key

A healthy spine possesses a natural curve, and your desk chair should be designed with that in mind. Look for a chair that possesses lumbar (lower back) support. If you regularly find yourself dealing with shoulder or neck pain, you may want to opt for a chair with a high backrest and adjustable headrest as well. Finally, make sure your office chair can recline, allowing you to stretch your spine periodically instead of letting gravity compress it all day.

2. Adjustable Is Better

It should go without saying, but there is no such thing as a “one-size-fits-all” ergonomic computer chair. Our bodies are different, our postures are different, and what feels comfortable to one person may send another searching for pain relievers. Testing out desk chairs before purchasing one can reduce the risk of winding up with an uncomfortable chair, but sitting in a furniture store for five minutes isn’t the same as sitting in front of your computer for eight hours.

That’s why we’d recommend purchasing an office chair with plenty of adjustable features. Most ergonomic chairs allow you to tweak the seat height and depth, lumbar support height and depth, armrests, and backrest recline.

3. Mind the Material

Most people consider chair material when they’re thinking about the style of their home office. But did you know that material can impact ergonomics as well? Not only do you want a padded computer chair, but you also need to make sure the material is breathable. If settling into your chair makes you hot, sweaty, and all-around uncomfortable, you’re more likely to contort your back into strange postures as you try to keep cool.

Do you have more questions about choosing the right office chair? Ajax Business Interiors is here to help! Contact us today to learn more about our office furniture offerings.