When was the last time you cleaned your office chair? Was it weeks ago? Months ago? If you can’t remember, you might want to rethink having your next snack at your desk.
Studies show that the average office chair harbors more bacteria than a toilet seat. It may sound surprising. But think about the dust in the crevices, the crumbs from last week’s lunch, and the invisible germs transferred from your hands. Without regular office chair cleaning, these quickly pile up and turn your chair into an unhealthy environment.
That’s why proper office chair maintenance is important. With a few simple practices, you can refresh your chair, improve comfort, and extend the life of your office chair.
In this guide, we will show you how to clean office chair materials like fabric, leather, and mesh. You will also discover maintenance tips that keep your chair ergonomic and durable for years.
First, Identify the Material of Your Office Chair
The first step in proper office chair cleaning is knowing what material you are working with. Not all office chairs are created equal, and neither are their cleaning needs.
Using the wrong cleaner on the wrong material can cause irreversible damage. A harsh chemical that works on plastic, for example, could permanently discolor some leather.
Most office chairs in the Philippines fall into one of 3 main categories:
Mesh Office Chairs
Mesh chairs are lightweight and breathable, but they tend to trap crumbs and dust in their tiny openings. Over time, this buildup can affect both appearance and breathability.
Leather Office Chairs
This material requires special care. A leather office chair may resist light dust, but it is vulnerable to scratches, fading, and cracking if not cared for. Keep in mind that exposure to heat and moisture can also damage its surface.
Fabric office chairs
The most common type of chair. They are prone to absorbing dust, sweat, and liquid spills. Stains can sink deep into the fibers, making them harder to remove over time.
Taking a moment to correctly identify your chair's material will save you a lot of hassle and potential mistakes later.
How to Clean a Mesh Office Chair?
Mesh chairs are a popular choice for their modern look and excellent breathability. The open weave of the mesh allows for constant airflow, which helps you stay cool. However, this same design can act as a net, catching everything from dust and hair to crumbs and lint.
Here is a simple way to clean your mesh chair:
Step 1: Vacuum the Surface
Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust and debris caught in the mesh. Move slowly to make sure you reach all the small openings.
Step 2: Wipe with a mild solution
Mix a small amount of gentle dish soap with warm water. Dip a soft cloth or sponge in the solution, wring it out, and wipe the mesh in circular motions.
Step 3: Rinse and Dry
Wipe again with a clean, damp cloth to remove soap residue. Let the chair air dry completely before using it again to prevent moisture damage.
How to Clean a Leather Office Chair?
A leather chair adds a touch of sophistication to any workspace, but it requires specific care to maintain its elegant appearance. All leather grades, from top leather to split leather and bonded leather, can be damaged by harsh chemicals, so a gentle approach is always best.
Here’s how to properly clean your leather chairs:
Step 1: Dust the surface
Wipe the leather gently with a dry microfiber cloth to remove surface dust and loose particles. This prevents dirt from scratching the leather during cleaning.
Step 2: Use a mild cleaning solution
Avoid harsh cleaners that strip away the natural oils of the leather. You can also make your own cleaning solution by mixing a few drops of gentle dish soap with warm water.
Step 3: Wipe the leather
Dip a soft cloth in the solution, wring it out well, and wipe the chair in small sections. Do not oversaturate, as excess water can damage the material.
Step 4: Wipe away and dry the surface
Use a separate damp cloth to remove soap residue, then immediately dry the surface with another clean cloth.
Step 5: Condition the leather
Apply a leather conditioner to keep the material soft and to prevent cracks. This also restores its natural shine and extends its lifespan.
How to Clean a Fabric Office Chair
Fabric is also one of the most common materials for an office chair, offering a comfortable and classic feel. However, its porous nature makes it highly susceptible to absorbing spills, trapping dust, and holding on to odors.
The key to keeping your fabric office chair clean is a combination of regular vacuuming and careful spot-treating to prevent stains from setting in. Here’s how to clean it effectively:
Step 1: Vacuum the Surface
Use the brush attachment on your vacuum to thoroughly go over the entire chair. Make sure to get into all the crevices, the seams, and underneath the seat cushion to remove all loose dirt and debris.
Step 2: Treat Stains Immediately
Blot spills right away using a clean, damp cloth. For tougher spots, apply a mild fabric cleaner or a mixture of water and gentle soap, then dab carefully without rubbing.
Step 3: Deep Clean When Needed
For stubborn dirt, use a foam upholstery cleaner or a gentle steam cleaner, following the product instructions.
Step 4: Air it Out
Let the chair breathe in a well-ventilated space until it is completely free of moisture before using it again. This prevents lingering moisture, reduces the risk of mold, and keeps the fabric smelling clean.
7 Maintenance Tips to Extend Your Office Chair’s Lifespan
Cleaning your chair is a great first step. But if you want to extend your office chair’s lifespan, proactive maintenance is just as important. Here are a few mindful habits to help you maintain comfort and durability for years to come:
1. Maintain a Regular Cleaning Schedule
Aim for a quick weekly or bi-weekly wipe-down to prevent dust and grime from building up. A deeper clean once every three to six months will keep your chair in top condition.
2. Check Moving Parts
Over time, the constant movement and weight can cause screws and bolts to loosen, leading to a wobbly or creaky chair. So, inspect wheels, armrests, and adjustment levers periodically. Tighten loose screws and lubricate mechanisms when needed.
3. Keep Your Wheels Clear
This is a common issue that can make your chair difficult to roll. Regularly turn your chair over and check the casters for tangled hair, lint, and debris. You can easily remove these with tweezers or a small tool, which will improve mobility and prevent damage to the wheels.
4. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Strong cleaners can strip leather, fade fabric, or weaken mesh fibers. Always use gentle, chair-safe products when cleaning.
5. Lubricate Moving Parts
For chairs with complex tilt or height mechanisms, a small spray of a silicone-based lubricant can work wonders. Applying it every six months will ensure smooth, quiet operation and prevent parts from wearing down.
6. Practice Good Desk Habits
We know maintaining your office chair is not always easy. Still, if you want to prolong its lifespan, try to limit snacking while seated and avoid leaning excessively on the armrests to reduce wear and tear.
7. Adhere to the Weight Limit
While it may seem obvious, consistently exceeding your chair's specified weight limit can put unnecessary stress on the gas lift, casters, and frame. If you think your current chair doesn't fit your body range, consider investing in a big and tall office chair that is designed for your body range.
When to Buy a New Office Chair
Regular cleaning and maintenance can go a long way in keeping your office chair fresh, comfortable, and supportive. Still, there comes a point when even the best methods may not be enough to get a truly clean computer chair.
If your chair feels uncomfortable, looks worn, or no longer functions well, do not hesitate to replace it. After all, we spend most of our day sitting, so comfort and ergonomics should never be compromised.
Explore our office chair collections to find options that bring durability, support, and style to your workspace. Visit our stores on Lazada, Shopee, or TikTok to enjoy special promos and vouchers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my office chair?
It is best to clean your office chair once a week. This prevents dust, crumbs, and bacteria from building up and keeps the chair comfortable and hygienic.
Can I use household cleaners on a leather office chair?
Avoid harsh household cleaners because they can damage leather. Instead, use a leather-safe cleaner or a mild soap solution followed by a conditioner to keep the material soft and durable.
What if I do not have a vacuum cleaner for my office chair?
If you do not have a vacuum, you can use a soft brush or lint roller to remove dust and debris from your office chair. A slightly damp microfiber cloth also works well for wiping down surfaces without damaging the material.
Is it okay to wet my office chair?
It depends on the material. Mesh and fabric office chairs can handle light, damp cleaning, but they should never be soaked because excess moisture can cause mold or damage. Leather office chairs should not get too wet. Instead, use a slightly damp cloth and follow up with a leather conditioner.
