7 Practical Ways To Increase Your Office Chair Height

Comfort and proper ergonomics play a crucial role in maintaining productivity and overall well-being while working in an office or from home.

One common issue faced by many individuals is an office chair that is too low for their desk or personal preferences, which can lead to discomfort and poor posture.

This article aims to provide you with a comprehensive guide on various techniques to elevate your office chair, ensuring optimal comfort and productivity throughout your workday.

1. Add a Seat Cushion

A seat cushion is an affordable and easy way to add extra height to your chair. Choose a cushion with a non-slip bottom to prevent it from sliding off the seat.

Memory foam and gel cushions are popular choices as they provide both comfort and support.

Measure your chair’s seat before purchasing a cushion to ensure a proper fit. Consider selecting a cushion with a washable cover for easy cleaning and maintenance.

➤ Discover the Best Ergonomic Seat Cushions of 2023

2. Use Chair Risers or Furniture Lifts

Chair risers or furniture lifts are designed to raise the height of your chair by attaching it to the legs or base. These can be found in different sizes and materials, including plastic and metal. Some options available include:

Stackable risers: These allow you to customize the height by stacking multiple risers together. Ensure they are securely locked in place to avoid instability.
Adjustable risers: Some chair risers come with adjustable heights, providing more flexibility and precision in achieving the desired elevation.
DIY risers: If you’re handy and prefer a customized solution, you can create your own chair risers using materials such as PVC pipe, wooden blocks, or metal tubing. Make sure the materials used are strong enough to support the chair’s weight and are securely attached to prevent slipping.

Before purchasing, measure the diameter of your chair’s legs or base to ensure the risers fit securely. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the risers correctly.

3. Replace The Chair’s Casters or Wheels

Larger casters or wheels can be installed on your chair to increase its height. When choosing replacement casters, make sure they are compatible with your chair’s base and can support its weight. Consider the following factors when selecting new casters:

Surface compatibility: Choose casters that work well on the type of flooring in your workspace, such as carpet or hard floors.
Locking mechanism: Some casters come with a locking feature, which can provide additional stability when the chair is stationary.
Material and design: Opt for high-quality materials and designs that complement your chair’s aesthetics.

➤ Discover the Best Replacement Caster Wheels for Office Chairs in 2023

4. Replace The Gas Lift Cylinder

If your chair’s pneumatic height adjustment mechanism is malfunctioning or not providing sufficient height, you can replace the gas lift cylinder.

This will require some disassembly of the chair, so it’s essential to have the appropriate tools and follow safety precautions.

Make sure to purchase a replacement cylinder that is compatible with your chair’s make and model.

➤ Learn How To Change a Gas Cylinder

5. Use a Block Platform

Another option to raise the height of your office chair is to use a block platform. This method involves placing a sturdy, flat platform beneath the chair’s base, effectively raising the entire chair.

You can purchase pre-made platforms or build a custom one using materials such as wood or high-density foam.

Make sure the platform is large enough to accommodate your chair’s base and has a non-slip surface to prevent the chair from sliding.

To ensure stability and safety, it’s crucial to choose a platform that can support the weight of both the chair and the user. When creating a custom block platform, consider the following tips:

Measure twice, cut once: Accurately measure the dimensions of your chair’s base and cut the materials accordingly to ensure a perfect fit.
Sand and finish the edges: If using wood, sand the edges to remove any splinters or sharp corners and apply a finish to protect the surface and enhance its appearance.
Attach non-slip material: To prevent the chair from sliding, attach non-slip material such as rubber or anti-skid pads to the top and bottom surfaces of the platform.
Test for stability: Before using the platform, place the chair on top and gently test it to ensure it remains stable and secure during use.

6. Modify the Chair’s Base

In some cases, you can replace or modify the chair’s base to achieve a higher seating position. For instance, you can opt for a taller or custom-made base that matches the chair’s design and meets your desired height requirement.

Keep in mind that this method may require more technical skills and tools to implement. Consult a professional if you’re uncertain about how to proceed.

7. Get an Adjustable Footrest

While an adjustable footrest doesn’t directly increase the height of your chair, it can help maintain proper ergonomics when using other methods to raise the chair.

By using an adjustable footrest, you can ensure that your feet remain comfortably flat on the footrest while your knees are bent at a 90-degree angle, even as the chair height increases.

➤ Discover the Best Under-Desk Foot Rests of 2023