Cleaning an office chair – instructions for each material and part

Her desk is tidy, the floor vacuumed – all that's left is the office chair . It may look clean, but it secretly collects dust, crumbs, and sweat.

This guide will show you how to properly clean every part of your chair – depending on the material and level of soiling. Simple, effective, and without special equipment.

Cleaning a leather or imitation leather chair

Leather requires specific care – incorrect products can cause cracks, loss of shine, or a sticky surface. Synthetic leather (PU) is also sensitive to alcohol or harsh cleaners. Here's how to clean both types correctly and appropriately for the material.

Genuine leather

1. Wipe away dust with a dry, soft cotton or microfiber cloth.
2. Mix a cleaning solution of 1 tsp saddle soap or pH-neutral leather cleaner with 250 ml lukewarm water.
3. Lightly dampen a soft cloth, wipe the surface without pressure, avoid circular motions.
4. Gently dab soiled areas; do not rub.
5. Dry immediately with a dry cloth to prevent moisture from penetrating the leather.
6. Then massage in a small amount of genuine leather care oil or beeswax and leave on for 10–15 minutes.
7. Use only low-odor, solvent-free care products without silicone or fragrances.
8. Do not use disinfectants, glass cleaners, alcohol-based household cleaners or cleaning wipes.

Synthetic leather (PU)

1. Remove loose particles with a vacuum cleaner (brush attachment).
2. Prepare a mild cleaning solution using 1 teaspoon of dish soap to 500 ml of water.
3. Wipe the surface lengthwise with a slightly damp microfiber cloth.
4. For stains, optionally use a PU-friendly plastic cleaner; test on an inconspicuous area beforehand.
5. Remove residue with clean water and a separate cloth.
6. Dry thoroughly, especially at seams and edges.
7. No oil, no wax – just dry care with an antistatic cloth or special plastic care products.
8. Do not use alcohol-based sprays, scouring agents, or harsh scented cleaners.

Tip for allergy sufferers or households with children: Use only fragrance-free, dye-free cleaning and care products with a low VOC value.

Thoroughly clean a fabric chair – without soaking or leaving residue.

Fabric upholstery quickly absorbs dirt, odors, and liquids. Without the right method, stains, mold, or permanent discoloration can occur. Here's how to clean effectively and appropriately for the material.

• Thoroughly vacuum upholstery with a vacuum cleaner (upholstery nozzle), including folds and seams.
• To combat odors, sprinkle 2-3 tablespoons of baking soda evenly onto each seat, leave to work for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight), then vacuum.
• Select cleaning agent according to fabric code (usually found under the seat):
• W = water-based cleaners allowed
• S = solvent-free dry cleaner only
• B/W = both are allowed
• X = vacuuming only, no moisture
• For code W or S/W, mix a solution of 1 teaspoon of fragrance-free, pH-neutral detergent to 500 ml of cold water.
• Lightly dampen the microfiber cloth, dab stains, never rub or soak them.
• Brush out stubborn stains with a soft brush and light pressure in one direction.
• Remove residue with a second cloth and clean water.
• Never get cushions too wet – too much moisture penetrates the foam, promoting mold and odor.
• After cleaning, allow to air dry completely in a well-ventilated, shady place, not on a radiator.
• Optionally, apply a fabric protection spray (e.g., lotus effect) only when the fabric is completely dry.
• Use only low-odor, solvent-free cleaning products – especially around children, pets, or allergy sufferers.

Cleaning a net chair – without pressure, without residue

Mesh fabric is breathable and lightweight, but susceptible to abrasion and deformation from moisture or improper brushing. With the correct method, the material remains clean and stable.

1. Vacuum the entire chair with a vacuum cleaner (brush attachment, low suction setting), especially the seat, backrest and transitions to the frame.
2. Mix a mild cleaning solution with 1-2 teaspoons of fragrance-free dish soap to 500 ml of lukewarm water.
3. Lightly dampen a soft microfiber cloth and gently dab the mesh surfaces in one direction, do not rub.
4. For stains, use a very soft brush (e.g., a baby toothbrush), only on the spot and without pressure.
5. Wipe frames made of plastic or coated metal with a separate cloth and the same solution, then wipe dry.
6. Gently remove any residue with a second cloth and clean water, avoiding excessive moisture.
7. Allow the mesh fabric to dry completely in the air; do not place it in the sun or on radiators.
8. Do not use alcohol-based products, scouring pads, all-purpose cleaners, or disinfectant wipes.
9. For households with sensitive individuals, soap-free, allergy-friendly textile cleaners are recommended (e.g., without fragrances and dyes, with a low VOC value).

Clean the wheels, mechanism and frame – nothing is blocked, nothing is rusting

Casters, gas spring , frame, and armrests are among the most heavily used parts of an office chair – and they collect dirt, hair, skin oils, and dust. Regular cleaning ensures smooth operation, stability, and a clean appearance.

1. Carefully turn the chair upside down or tilt it sideways to access the casters, base, and joints.
2. Remove casters (if possible) with a gentle pull or screwdriver; clean permanently installed casters on site.
3. Remove hair, lint and dirt with tweezers or a brush; loosen fine particles with a toothpick tip or compressed air.
4. Moisten a damp cloth with a solution of 1 teaspoon of dish soap to 300 ml of water and clean the rollers from the outside.
5. Then wipe thoroughly with a dry cloth, especially on axles and in crevices.
6. Treat bearings or rotating joints with 1-2 sprays of silicone spray, remove residue with a cloth.
7. For sensitive households, use silicone-free, low-odor lubricants with a low VOC content.

Clean armrests according to the material

1. Wipe plastic or PU armrests with a slightly damp microfiber cloth and a solution of dish soap and water (1 tsp to 300 ml water), then dry.
2. Carefully clean padded armrests in specific spots – e.g. with a light cloth and, if necessary, a 1:1 diluted vinegar solution to remove odors, then wipe with a slightly damp cloth and water.
3. Dust wooden armrests with a dry or slightly damp cloth; for oiled wood, occasionally apply a few drops of wood care oil in a thin layer.
4. Clean chrome-plated or powder-coated metal arms with a soft, dry cloth, refresh with polish if necessary and wipe dry.
5. Do not use alcohol-based disinfectants, abrasives, or aggressive all-purpose cleaners – these will damage the coating, upholstery adhesive, or surface.

Quick overview: Office chair cleaning by material

Conclusion – a clean chair, a better workday

With proper cleaning, your office chair will remain not only hygienic but also functional and durable – regardless of whether it's made of fabric, leather, or mesh. Regular vacuuming, gentle cleaning, and targeted care prevent odors, material damage, and unnecessary wear and tear. Small steps, big impact – and all without special equipment.

SIHOO tip: Our ergonomic chairs are designed to be easy to clean and durable for everyday use. Maintain your SIHOO chair regularly for lasting seating comfort and a clean working environment.

FAQs

How do you properly clean a fabric office chair?

Vacuum, then wipe with diluted detergent until slightly damp and allow to dry thoroughly.

Can mesh covers be cleaned with brushes?

Yes, but only with very soft brushes without pressure – no rubbing or soaking.

Which cleaning products are suitable for leather chairs?

pH-neutral leather soap or home remedies such as diluted vinegar – no alcohol-based cleaners.