Choosing the right material for your office chair

If you find yourself overwhelmed by the vast array of choices available, we've compiled a useful guide to assist you in identifying key factors to consider when choosing fabric for your office chair.

Material Options

FABRICS

Fabrics are a favored material for office chairs, offering a wide selection of colors and a pleasant tactile experience. They are durable, making them suitable for everyday use, and provide comfort, particularly in cooler environments, unlike leather or vinyl chairs.

The main challenge with fabric chairs is their cleaning difficulty, especially after spills. Yet, proper cleaning techniques can restore their appearance effectively.

Wool and polyester are popular fabrics used in office chair upholstery, each offering distinct characteristics.

• Wool is a natural fiber known for its durability, comfort, and flame resistance, making it an excellent choice for high-quality, comfortable office chairs that can withstand daily use. Its natural properties also allow for air circulation, providing thermal comfort in various climates.
• Polyester is a synthetic fiber that excels in terms of strength, resistance to fading and wrinkling, and ease of maintenance. Polyester fabrics are often used in office chairs for their ability to hold vibrant colors, their durability under heavy use, and their lower cost compared to natural fibers like wool.

Both fabrics can be found in a range of textures and colors, catering to different aesthetic preferences and functional requirements in office environments.

MESH

Mesh chairs excel in comfort and ventilation, ideal for hot climates. Despite their comfort, some individuals might prefer fabric chairs for additional warmth, and color options may be limited due to their specific manufacturing for each chair model.

LEATHER

Leather chairs add an element of sophistication and luxury. However, they come with a higher price tag. While leather is simpler to clean compared to fabric, it requires protection from sunlight and consistent maintenance to maintain its appeal over time.

PLASTIC

Plastic chairs are durable, cost-effective, and easy to maintain. Although they may not offer the same level of comfort as padded seats, contemporary designs have improved their comfort, particularly those with integrated cushions. They are exceptionally easy to clean, spill-resistant, and lightweight.

Despite plastic's environmental impact, certain manufacturers like Flokk are now producing chairs from recycled plastic, which retains the durability of traditional plastic.