The ultimate guide to choosing the best office chair

Are you chair-wise? When it comes to choosing the right office chair you need to make sure you are full of chair-related knowledge.  Chairs are arguably one of the most important pieces of furniture that makes up your office space, so it’s important you know the lingo when it comes to choosing your next office chair.

If the average business person were to determine how much time they spend in their office chair, they would be shocked! The average office worker sits for over 7 hours a day – add that up over the weeks, months, and years and that figure soon escalates.  This is why a comfortable office chair needs to be provided by your employer. It’s said that many people in the UK are now spending more time in front of a computer than they spend sleeping.  Some experts have even gone as far as to say that the office chair is worse for your health than smoking!  Therefore it makes sense to have a chair in the office that is comfortable and supportive.

Many ergonomic studies shows that a supportive office chair increases productivity and maximises efficiency from employees. A bad office chair can cause health problems such as back strain and leg problems this can impact an employee’s productivity, which is why it is so important to spend money on good office seating.

What to Look For in an Office Chair

Office chairs are part of the décor in any office and many people try to make sure they look good without considering the health influences the chair will have on the person who uses it.  It’s important to think about style, but it’s just as important to think about the shape and comfort too.

Small compact chairs are perfect for offices with limited space, but they might not be ideal to use for a full working day, look for a Task or Operator chair, ’24 hour’ chairs or ‘posture’ chairs for those who need additional support. For managers or directors, the designer chairs are often more popular as they might not spend as long sat at their desks – so style over substance can be a priority.

Style wise you can choose from breathable mesh backs, to soft sponge seats to suit your needs, but each user’s needs are different, so it’s not always a one size fits all for your whole office.  More companies are using chairs to add colour or branding to their offices, with bright mesh or fabric backs to their chairs – but ensure that the chair is still fit for purpose.

Looking for something more extravagant? Then try executive leather chairs; they’re perfect for manager chairs, and you can pair them up in corporate meeting rooms and individual offices.

It’s all about the ergonomics

So what is ergonomics and how will that help you buy a chair? Ergonomics is about how we, humans, interact with objects, and in this context – chairs. Ergonomically designed chairs provide optimal comfort and efficiency.  Even the most basic of chairs now feature adjustment levers, so ensure you use them.

Gaining the perfect seat height is one of the most important factors when choosing an ergonomically designed chair. Ergonomic chairs also need adjustable seat depth and modifiable backrest support. A chair’s recline is as equally as important, as are armrests.

The fun feature of an efficient chair is the swivel function. The freedom to move from side to side without having to strain your back will benefit you in the long term. Back pain is one of the biggest causes for work absence in the UK and ergonomically engineered chairs will significantly reduce this problem.  An ergonomic or posture related chair will often cost you more up front, but can save you and your health in the long term.

Find the Best Office Chair Available At Bluespot Furniture

At Bluespot Furniture we stock a whole host of office chairs, which are designed to deliver comfort, durability, practicality and affordability. Ranging from the standard swivel to the large executive leather chair, there’s something for every environment.

All our furniture is made in the UK from high quality materials, to exacting standards. Choose Bluespot Furniture, and you’ll benefit from free, next day delivery, honest advice, and a 10-year guarantee on all our products.

For further information on any of our products or services, call a friendly member of our experienced sales team on 0800 8044 760, or email help@bluespotfurniture.com today.