Buying a used office chair can be a smart, cost-effective decision. However, before you settle in and start using it, cleaning the chair thoroughly is essential—not just for appearance, but also for hygiene and longevity. A well-cleaned chair can feel nearly brand new, and the process isn’t as difficult as you might think.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to clean a used office chair, step by step.
1. Assess the Chair Material
Before you grab the nearest cleaning spray, check what materials the chair is made from. Office chairs often combine several materials:
- Mesh: Common on modern ergonomic chairs. Breathable but traps dust.
- Fabric: Absorbs spills and dust, needs deeper cleaning.
- Leather or PU Leather: Easy to wipe down but can crack without conditioning.
- Plastic or Metal Components: Typically the base, arms, and casters.
Each material needs slightly different cleaning methods and products.
2. Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
You'll need:
- Vacuum with a brush attachment
- Microfiber cloths
- Dish soap or mild detergent
- Warm water
- Soft scrub brush or old toothbrush
- Rubbing alcohol (for spot cleaning)
- Disinfectant spray or wipes (non-bleach)
- Leather conditioner (if applicable)
- A bucket or spray bottle
Optional: A fabric or upholstery cleaner for deep cleaning.
3. Vacuum Thoroughly
Start by vacuuming the entire chair, especially fabric or mesh parts. Use the brush attachment to lift dust, hair, and debris from crevices and under cushions. Don’t forget to vacuum under the seat and around the wheels.
4. Spot Clean Stains
Mix a few drops of dish soap into warm water. Dip a cloth or soft brush into the solution and gently scrub any visible stains. For tougher spots:
- Fabric: Use a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a cloth and blot the stain.
- Mesh: A toothbrush works well to loosen embedded dirt.
- Leather or PU Leather: Use a cloth dampened with soapy water—do not oversaturate. Avoid alcohol as it may dry out the surface.
Test cleaning solutions in a hidden area first to avoid discoloration.
5. Clean the Entire Surface
Use your soapy water solution or an appropriate cleaner to gently wipe down all surfaces of the best office chair:
- Fabric: Lightly scrub and blot with a damp cloth. Avoid soaking.
- Mesh: Spray with a fine mist and blot or brush gently.
- Leather: Use a slightly damp cloth, followed by a dry one.
- Plastic/Metal: Wipe down with a cloth dipped in soapy water, then wipe dry.
6. Disinfect High-Touch Areas
Use disinfectant wipes or spray (without bleach to avoid damage) on the armrests, backrest, levers, and base. These are areas where germs are most likely to accumulate.
Let the disinfectant sit for the recommended contact time (usually a few minutes), then wipe with a dry cloth.
7. Clean the Casters (Wheels)
Flip the chair over to access the casters. Hair, dust, and debris often get tangled in the wheels, which can affect movement.
- Use tweezers or your hands (with gloves) to pull out debris.
- Wipe the wheels with a damp cloth.
- For deep cleaning, pop the wheels off (if possible), soak them in soapy water, scrub, and dry thoroughly before reattaching.
8. Condition Leather (If Applicable)
If your chair is real leather, apply a leather conditioner once it’s clean and dry. This will help keep the material soft, supple, and crack-free.
9. Air Dry Thoroughly
Place the chair in a well-ventilated area to dry completely before using it again. This helps prevent mold and musty smells, especially in fabric or foam-padded chairs.
10. Optional: Deodorize
If the chair still smells after cleaning, sprinkle baking soda over the fabric or mesh, let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum it up. You can also use a fabric-safe deodorizing spray for a finishing touch.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning a used office chair isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about hygiene, comfort, and maximizing the value of your investment. With a bit of time and the right supplies, you can turn a secondhand chair into a fresh, clean, and comfortable seat ready for long hours of productivity.
Remember to clean your chair regularly—even if it’s not “used”—to keep it looking good and functioning well for years to come.
