If your office chair is squeaking every time you move or feels a bit wobbly, you’re not alone. And you don’t have to put up with it. These issues are common, but they can also be signs your chair needs a bit of attention. The good news is, most of the time, it’s nothing major and can be fixed at home with a few tools and a bit of care.
Here’s how to figure out what’s going on and how to get your chair back to smooth, silent operation.
First, Figure Out What’s Causing the Problem
Start by flipping your chair over and having a good look. A squeak usually means something's loose or dry. A wobble can come from a dodgy caster, a worn base, or something bent or out of line.
Fixing a Squeaky Chair
1. Tighten It Up
Grab a screwdriver or Allen key and check all the bolts and screws under the seat and backrest. Over time, they loosen with everyday use, especially if the chair gets adjusted a lot. Tighten everything snugly, but don’t overdo it or you could strip the threads.
2. Add Some Lubrication
If tightening doesn’t sort the noise, try a spray of silicone-based lubricant (like CRC or WD-40) on the wheels, tilt mechanism, or gas lift. Just a little goes a long way. Move the chair around a bit to help it settle in.
3. Replace Worn Out Parts
If something still sounds off, check the swivel or lift mechanisms. If they’re rusty, cracked, or not working properly, you might need a replacement part. You can usually get spares online if you know the chair model.
Fixing a Wobbly Chair
1. Check the Casters
If the chair rocks or leans oddly, one of the wheels could be worn or damaged. Flip the chair over and check for cracks, uneven rolling, or wobble. Replacing a dodgy caster is quick. Just pull the old one out and push or screw in the new one.
2. Inspect the Base
Look for hairline cracks in the base or signs of fatigue, especially near where the legs meet the centre. Small cracks can sometimes be patched with epoxy, but if it’s seriously damaged, you’ll need a new base.
3. Balance the Legs
In some cases, one of the legs might be slightly bent or off. If it’s a metal base, you might be able to gently bend it back into position. Otherwise, replacing the base or adjusting a leg height (if possible) could help.
Ongoing Maintenance to Keep It Quiet and Steady
You don’t need to do much, but a bit of regular care can keep your chair in great shape:
- Vacuum and wipe it down every now and then to stop dust building up in moving parts.
- Check the screws once a month and tighten anything that’s come loose.
- Apply a bit of lubricant once a year, especially if you notice creaking or stiffness.
When It’s Time to Call in a Pro
Most fixes are DIY-friendly, but some issues are best left to professionals. If your chair still wobbles or squeaks after you’ve tightened and oiled everything, or if the issue keeps coming back, there might be an internal part failing. In that case, check if your chair’s still under warranty or ask a technician for help.
A noisy or wobbly chair can ruin your focus, mess with your posture, and just be plain annoying. But in most cases, fixing it is simple. With a quick inspection, some basic tools, and a few minutes of your time, you can bring your chair back to life.
At Discount Office, we’ve seen it all, and we can get parts and accessories to help you keep your chair going strong. A little maintenance now can save you from bigger problems down the line, and make your workspace that much more comfortable.
