Comfortable chairs for your home need to do more than look good. They should suit your table, stand firmly, feel comfortable to sit on and be easy to clean in everyday use. Different rooms have different requirements, though: a dining chair may be used every day, a home office chair often for several hours at a time, while a gaming bean bag or camping chair should be flexible and easy to move around.
Many disappointing purchases are not down to the price, but to unclear product details. Check these three common pitfalls before you buy:
For dining chairs and Scandinavian kitchen chairs, the seat height needs to work with the table height. A seat height of around 45 to 49 cm often suits standard dining tables, but you should check it against your height and the clearance beneath the table. Armrests can make a chair more comfortable, but they need to fit under or alongside the table.
A swivel chair with armrests also needs extra room to rotate. A model with 360° swivel function needs enough space around the seat to move freely. A return mechanism with a 180° swivel range can be useful if you want the chair to turn back into position when you stand up.
For a bean bag with footstool or a gaming bean bag, other factors matter: check the overall dimensions, seating position and floor space required. A model measuring 97 × 93 × 77 cm takes up considerably more room than a compact dining chair.
Polyester, microfibre, chenille, bouclé and faux leather all feel different and require different cleaning methods. Beige velvet chairs and teddy chairs create a cosy look, but need to be cared for according to their material. Polyester upholstery can be vacuumed regularly using an upholstery nozzle. As a rule, stains should be treated locally with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Vigorous rubbing, harsh chemicals and excessive moisture can damage the surface.
Upholstered chairs with smooth PU faux leather or a plastic back are especially practical in busy households. If you have children or are choosing a chair for the dining area, the cleaning instructions matter more than the material’s appearance alone.
Check the maximum static load shown and whether it applies to an individual chair. The WOLTU model in this selection is listed as supporting a static load of up to 150 kg; the Kaufhof swivel chairs are each listed at 120 kg. These limits must not be exceeded. The chairs are not designed for standing on or using as step stools.
For chairs with metal frames, check the welds, feet and adjustable glides. Height-adjustable threaded feet can compensate for uneven floors. For flat-pack furniture, it’s a good idea to check all the screws after assembly and again after the first few days of use.
The models below suit a range of homes and uses. What matters is not a general verdict on quality, but how well a chair meets your specific needs.
Why this product suits this profile: This set of two is suitable for the kitchen or dining room, or as extra seating. The plastic backs and PU faux leather can be wiped clean with a damp cloth.
The product details include the seat height, seat width, materials and a maximum static load of 150 kg. This makes it easier to check whether the chair will suit your table and available space before you buy.
Supplied as a set of two, with FSC-certified solid wood legs according to the product details and pre-fitted floor protectors.
Why this product suits this profile: With armrests, a high backrest, foam padding and 360° swivel function, these chairs are suited to the dining area, lounge or home office.
The upholstery is clearly identified as polyester velvet, and care instructions are provided. Adjustable threaded feet help keep the chairs level, and the stated load capacity is 120 kg.
Two chairs, each measuring 60.5 × 63 × 85 cm, with swivel function and height-adjustable feet.
Why this product suits this profile: These folding camping chairs are designed for outdoor enthusiasts who need two portable seats for camping, the beach, fishing or the garden.
The package includes two chairs and two carry bags. Check the folded dimensions, weight and material against the storage space available before transporting them.
Each chair weighs around 2.5 kg and features a steel frame, Oxford fabric, mesh panel and cup holder, with a stated load capacity of 150 kg.
Other options include the beige teddy chair with 180° swivel function and return mechanism, and the GTIMEX bean bag with footstool. The GTIMEX model is listed with chenille upholstery, memory foam filling, a static load capacity of 135 kg and a separate footstool. For longer periods of sitting, though, consider whether its soft, low seating position suits your personal habits. The Kaufhof teddy chair is a better choice if you’re looking for armrests, a high back and fabric upholstery.
We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety regulations in force in the EU.
For longer periods of sitting, it’s important to choose the right seat height and depth, a supportive backrest and appropriate padding. A swivel chair with armrests can make it easier to stand up and move around. If you work at a desk regularly, also check for height-adjustable features and make sure the table is at the right height. It’s not possible to make a blanket judgement about ergonomic suitability without taking your individual needs into account.
Polyester velvet and teddy fabric upholstery should be vacuumed gently and regularly. Small marks can be treated with a slightly damp cloth and mild detergent, provided the manufacturer’s instructions allow it. Test cleaning products on an inconspicuous area first and avoid vigorous rubbing.
A set of two can make buying easier and create a coordinated look. Whether it offers better value depends on the deal, delivery costs, assembly required and how many chairs you need. Also check whether your order will arrive in one or more packages, and whether all the assembly fittings are included.