In the familiar nooks of our homes, many of us have transitioned from casual loungers to dedicated professionals, navigating the challenges and perks of remote work. As our kitchen tables, bedroom corners, and dedicated home offices become the new boardrooms, a silent companion is witnessing our triumphs and toils – the humble office chair. 

As we balance the demands of digital screens, video calls, and continuous keyboard clatters in our newfound work environments, ergonomic office chairs emerge as the unsung heroes – championing our spinal health and comfort. With the trend of work-from-home refusing to go away anytime soon, investing in an ergonomic chair has become a necessity for sustained productivity and well-being. 

The term ‘ergonomics’ describes how objects are designed for safe and effective human usage. An ergonomic chair is designed to support the user’s body – especially the spine – and ensure correct posture while sitting. 

Traditionally, ergonomic chairs were all function and no form – often bulky and hardly blending seamlessly into a stylish home setting. Modern ergonomic office chairs are designed with aesthetics in mind. They not only support your spine but also complement your interior décor. This dual emphasis ensures that your home office is both productive and stylish. 

Key Features of an Ergonomic Chair 

• Adjustable Seat Height: This allows users to adjust the ergonomic chair’s height, so that their feet can rest flat on the ground – ensuring the thighs are parallel or slightly descending towards the floor. The ideal mechanism for this is a pneumatic adjustment lever. 
• Seat Depth and Width: A deep, wide seat supports any user comfortably. Ensure there is a slight gap between the back of your knees and the front of the seat when you sit back. 
• Lumbar Support: A pronounced lumbar support aligns with and supports the inward curve of your lower spine. This is critical in preventing lumbar strain, and is adjustable in height & depth. 
• Backrest: This feature supports the natural curve of your spine, including the lumbar region. It should be adjustable in tilt and may offer locking mechanisms to secure the angle of the backrest according to user preference. 
• Seat Material: The material used for the seat and back have sufficient padding for comfort. Memory foam offers sustained comfort, while breathable fabrics or mesh helps regulate temperature. 
• Adjustable Armrests: These allow the user’s arms to rest comfortably, with shoulders relaxed. This adjustment helps to prevent shoulder strain and aids in alleviating pressure from the wrists while typing. 
• Swivel and Casters: A chair should easily rotate, allowing the user to access different parts of their workspace without strain. Casters, or wheels, should move smoothly for easy movement without having to standing up. 
• Headrest: While not standard on all ergonomic chairs, a headrest can provide additional neck & head support, which is especially useful for users with neck issues or those who spend long periods sitting. 
• Tilt Mechanism: An ergonomic chair should allow for rocking or tilting motion. Some chairs offer tension adjustment, that controls the resistance when leaning back. 
• Stable Base: Typically, a five-point base is recommended for stability, ensuring the chair remains grounded and doesn’t tip over easily.

How to Benefit from an Ergonomic Chair 

1. The feet should rest flat on the ground (or on a footrest) 
2. The knees should be at a 90-degree angle 
3. There should be a gap between the back of your knees and the chair seat 
4. Lumbar support should support the lower back 
5. Shoulders should be relaxed, not hunched or elevated 
6. Forearms should be parallel to the ground or slightly declined 

6 most common ergonomic office chairs 

1. Task Chairs: Suitable for general office work, these are the most commonly used ergonomic chairs, and are equipped with swivel, height adjustment, and tilt functions. They might not always offer the extensive adjustability features of other ergonomic chair types, but are perfect for short-duration tasks. 
2. Executive Chairs: Often larger and more padded than task chairs, these come with a high backrest that may support the entire back and shoulders. Generally equipped with adjustable features and are designed for prolonged usage, these chairs are suitable for managerial and executive roles. 
3. Drafting Chairs: Specifically designed for people who work at elevated desk surfaces, like architects and graphic designers. Feature a foot ring or platform to support the feet since the height is often elevated, compared to standard chairs. 
4. Kneeling Chairs: Designed to reduce lower back strain by distributing the user’s weight between the shins and buttocks. These don’t have a backrest, and can help promote an upright posture. 
5. Reclining Chairs: Equipped with a reclining backrest, these chairs often come with a footrest. Suitable for those who might need to take short breaks in between work without leaving their workstation. 
6. Big and Tall Chairs: Specifically designed for larger and taller individuals, offering wider and deeper seats along with reinforced support. 

Picking the Right Ergonomic Chair for You 

• Understand Your Needs: Consider how many hours a day you’ll be sitting. If it’s a significant number, you’ll need a chair with robust ergonomic features. 
• Measure Your Workspace: Ensure the chair will fit comfortably, especially if you’re working in a constrained area. 
• Desk Compatibility: The chair’s height should allow you to comfortably use your computer keyboard with your shoulders relaxed and elbows bent at a 90-degree angle. 
• Breathability: Materials like mesh can be breathable, especially for longer sitting durations. Ensure the chair material is durable and easy to clean. 
• User Reviews: Read product reviews to get insights from others who have purchased the same chair. It can give you a realistic perspective on comfort, durability, and potential issues. 
• Special Needs: If you have pre-existing health issues, such as back pain or carpal tunnel syndrome, you should consult a healthcare professional or ergonomic specialist for personalised recommendations. 

Maintaining Your Ergonomic Office Chair 

• Regular Cleaning: If your chair is upholstered, vacuum it regularly to remove dust and debris. For leather chairs, use a specialised leather cleaner. Wipe down mesh or plastic surfaces with a damp cloth. To clean metal components, like the base or armrest supports, use a wet cloth. 
• Tighten Loose Screws and Bolts: Over time, the screws and bolts on your chair might become loose due to regular use. Check all fastenings periodically, and tighten them if needed. 
• Inspect Casters and Wheels: Clean the wheels regularly to ensure they roll smoothly. Hair, dust, and other debris can get entangled in them. Replace the wheels if they wear out or get damaged. 
• Lubricate When Necessary: Some chair parts, like the swivel mechanism, can benefit from occasional lubrication. Use a non-greasy lubricant, and ensure you don’t over-apply. 
• Protect from Direct Sunlight: If your office space receives a lot of direct sunlight, try to position the chair away from it when not in use. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can fade the chair’s colour and weaken some materials. 

In this evolving landscape of working from home, the lines between functionality and aesthetics can get blurred. Buying an ergonomic office chair for remote work is not just about owning a piece of furniture – it’s about researching well and finding a solution that supports your long hours and resonates with your style. 

Recognising the dual need for comfort and aesthetics in today’s home offices, the office chair collection at metercube is curated with a keen eye on contemporary design, without compromising on purpose.