Like everything else in this world, computer chairs don’t last forever. While you can keep using a chair until it breaks down completely, there will come a point when it needs to be replaced before that happens. You may find that your seat cushion doesn’t offer the same comfort and support it once did. Or, perhaps the chair is covered in stains and has an unpleasant smell. Whatever the case, you will need to consider upgrading sooner or later.
But, the big question is: how long do computer chairs last? And more importantly, how can you get a computer chair that lasts as long as possible? That’s what we’re here to discuss today.
Keep on reading to learn about the average lifespan of computer chairs; the factors affecting said lifespan, and how you can find a computer chair that will be worth every penny for its durability.
How Long Do Computer Chairs Last On Average?
There is no hard and fast answer to the question: how long do computer chairs last? The lifespan of a computer chair depends on a number of factors, including the quality of the chair itself; how well you take care of it, and how frequently you use it.
But in general, a quality chair will last at least five years. Luckily, there are computer chairs that can last for 10 years–sometimes even longer! More on that later. First, let’s talk about the factors that affect how long computer chairs last.
Factors Affecting How Long Computer Chairs Last
Not all computer chairs are made equal. This is why you can’t really tell how long a computer chair will last without considering the factors first. These include the quality and durability of the chair itself, how well you take care of it, and how hard you are on it. Let’s break each of these down in-depth for you below:
Quality & Durability Of The Computer Chair Itself
The most important factor that determines the lifespan of a computer chair is its quality, which, in turn, affects its durability. A computer chair made with high-quality materials and superior craftsmanship will last way longer than a computer chair haphazardly constructed with lower quality, cheaper materials.
For instance, a computer chair made with stronger metal parts and more durable leather will last longer than, say, a chair made with poor-quality metal and weak fabrics.
However, the quality of a computer chair also largely determines its price. Hence, you might find the majority of high-quality computer chairs to be more expensive than your average office chair.
Nevertheless, you can still find affordable computer chairs if you’re on a tight budget. But if you’re willing to invest more money in a higher-quality chair, we highly recommend you do so.
To determine if a computer chair is made from high-quality materials, you have to do your research. First, you need to find a reputable brand that is known for upholding high quality standards. Reviews, certifications, and general brand reputation all speak for themselves.
Next, you have to familiarize yourself with the different materials computer chairs are made out of. Chairs can have plastic or steel bases; the latter being the stronger option. As for the cushioning, common options include leather, vinyl, and mesh. We will discuss these fabrics in deeper detail later on.
Are You Using The Right Type of Computer Chair?
Using the wrong type of computer chair can also reduce its lifespan. You wouldn’t use a family sedan to go off-roading, would you? The same analogy applies to computer chairs. You can have a high-quality computer chair with all the right parts, but if you use it for the wrong purpose, it is going to degrade much faster.
With that in mind, it’s important to determine what you’re going to use the chair for before buying one. For example, if you’re buying a computer chair for work, you need a chair that can withstand 8 to 10 hours of sitting every day.
How Well Do You Take Care Of The Chair?
Contrary to popular belief, a computer chair is not completely maintenance-free. Unlike a regular chair, a computer chair has mobile parts that will need to be oiled and sometimes replaced regularly (e.g. the wheels).
More than that, a computer chair needs regular cleaning, especially if it is made with mesh fabric that is much easier to stain than leather. Hence, knowing how to clean your ergonomic chair properly will help keep sweat, dirt, and stains from degrading it too quickly. If you don’t clean your computer chair regularly–or worse, don’t clean it at all–you are effectively shortening its lifespan by years.
A good tip is to protect your chair with a seat cover, especially if you like to eat while working on your desk. A seat cover will catch any fluids and debris that could otherwise stain your chair.
How Hard Are You On The Chair?
Just like a sofa, a bed, or any other piece of furniture, a computer chair will degrade faster the more frequently you sit on it. How long you sit on your chair per day also comes into play. But, of course, you can’t avoid sitting on your chair for the sake of preserving it.
In general, a computer chair’s lifespan becomes shorter the more frequently it is used. This is part of the reason why you need a durable computer chair that can withstand hours upon hours of sitting.
Another factor to consider is how gentle you are with your computer chair. For example, if you have a habit of sitting down heavily on it or being rough with the adjustable parts, you could be shortening the lifespan of your chair. Hence, it is also important to treat your chair gently to avoid unnecessary stress on its parts.
How To Get A Computer Chair That Lasts Forever
Computer chairs aren’t cheap, which is why you need to make sure that you’re investing in the right chair. And now, we’re going to provide some advice on how to do just that. Here are some tips on how to buy a computer chair that lasts forever:
What Types Of Computer Chair Materials Last The Longest?
As we’ve mentioned before, the quality of materials largely determines the lifespan of a computer chair. However, the type of material also matters.
For computer chairs, the most durable material is vinyl. Vinyl is the most durable type of plastic on Earth, which makes it a great choice for office chairs. However, it is not very breathable.
If you want a chair that will keep you cool and comfortable throughout the workday, go with high-quality mesh fabric. Mesh is ideal for long periods of sitting, and the high-quality versions of this fabric are proven to last for years.
Another good tip is to choose a computer chair that comes with roller-blade wheels made from high-quality rubber. These types of wheels last much longer than cheap caster wheels that most computer chairs have out of the box. Plus, they are less likely to damage carpet, and they offer much better mobility than any other type of wheels.
Check The Reviews To See How Long Specific Computer Chairs Are Lasting
Sometimes, reviews contain all the information you need about a specific office chair, including its lifespan. So, when looking for a new computer chair, always check the reviews first. See what people are saying about its durability and quality overall. If the chairs are falling apart in the first few months or even the first year or two, you’ll find users coming back to report their disdain. And if you still need more info, try checking on forums like Reddit or third-party review websites. This is where you’ll find unbiased reviews.
Shop Brands That Offer An Extended Warranty To Protect Your Investment
An extended warranty is a sign that a company is confident enough about the durability of its product. Hence, finding a computer chair that comes with an extended warranty is the best way to protect your investment.
Most brands offer standard warranties for a year or two. If you don’t want to take that risk, find a brand that offers an extended warranty of more than 10 years. In this way, you can rest assured that you can get your money back if your computer chair does not meet your standards.
And even when that warranty expires, you will have gotten your money’s worth after 10 or more years of use.
ErgoTune Computer Chairs Are Sure To Stand The Test Of Time
So, how long do computer chairs last?
It all depends on the quality of the chair itself, and ultimately, how well you take care of your chair in the long run. The higher the quality and the better you take care of your computer chair, the longer it will last.
All that said, get a chair that is guaranteed to last a long time–even if you skimp on maintenance. Luckily, ErgoTune has exactly what you need.
Our chairs last forever - which is why they’re considered the top ergonomic computer chairs in Australia. You don’t have to worry about losing your money–our ergonomic chairs come with a 12-year warranty! That’s how confident we are about the superior quality and durability of our products.
More importantly, our chairs are designed to last forever and a day. Each chair is made with indestructible DuraWeave hybrid mesh technology, certified world-class materials, and a design that is tested by our engineers themselves!
Still need more convincing? Our ergonomic chairs have been BIFMA tested (twice!) to ensure that they will stand the test of time. Plus, our DuraWeave hybrid mesh is ISO-certified, OEKO-TEX-approved, and FR-One accredited.
As you can see, you can’t go wrong with ErgoTune. So, give yourself the chair you deserve and get the best ergonomic chair in Australia today!
