An office Chair Plays a Crucial Role in any workspace environment and greatly affects your productivity and overall well-being. A Clean and Fresh chair keeps your office good and allows you to do your work with relaxation. But as time passes with daily use, these chairs can accumulate unpleasant bad odors such as urine, sweat, musty or smoke smell from sweat, spills, and other sources.
So If your chair also disturbs you, due to its bad smell, then In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about the reasons and guide you to 9 effective methods to remove smell from your office chair and keep it maintained.
Different Types Of Office Chairs and Their Cleaning Guide
There are different types of chairs and their different design available on the market, such as Leather chairs, Mesh chairs, or Fabric chairs. Each chair has its unique design that influences how easily it accumulates odors. So First of all it is Important to understand the type of chair you have and how its design may contribute to odor buildup.
In general, chairs made of materials like leather or vinyl are less likely to absorb odors as compared to fabric chairs. On the other hand, mesh chairs may have more crevices where the smell can become trapped, and it makes it more difficult for anyone to clean.
However, If you have any type of office chair like a computer, desk, or even any other fabric chair, It is important to regularly clean and maintain it to prevent bad smell. So Let’s Start the Process!
Why Does Your Office Chair Smell and How to Identify the Source of Odor?
There are many reasons your office chair starts to emit an unpleasant smell. One of the common reasons is regular use, especially in the hot weather when we sweat more. The chair’s cushion and fabric can easily absorb sweat, which causes a musty smell.
However your chair can emit smell because of other reasons like spills, food particles stuck in between the crevices, and If you have pets in your home, then pet odors can also transfer to your chair. So first of all you need to identify where the smell is coming from so you can effectively remove it. Here we have listed steps to identify:
- Take a closer look at the Office Chair and Inspect each part such as the Headrest, Armrests, Seat Cushion, Back cushion, and other areas, And see, if there are any visible spills stains, or food particles that may have become stuck in the crevices.
- Another way to identify the source of odor is by using your nose. Smell each part of the chair and determine which area has the strongest smell.
- If the smell is not easily identifiable, then try using a blacklight. First, turn off the lights in your office and then shine a black light on your chair. This ultraviolet light that is in your hand will show you any hidden stains or spills that may be causing odors.
Through this, you can identify the areas and make an idea in your mind about how you have to clean the chair.
Should you Clean or Replace Your Office Chair?
If you are thinking of cleaning your office chair yourself or replacing it, then it depends on a few critical factors. The first thing to consider is the extent of the odor problem. If you checked and only found a few stains or spills, and also you think you can clean it then you should try the given 9 methods.
However, if there is a significant odor issue that you can’t seem to get rid of despite your best efforts, and you also want to replace your office chair, then it is probably time to invest in a new one.
Note: If your chair is old and has already been cleaned many times, then it may be time for a replacement as well. These deep clean methods are best for newer chairs that have not been severely worn out.
9 Effective DIYs and Natural Methods to Remove Office Chair Smell
It may seem difficult but don’t worry. With the right methods, you can easily clean your chair properly and freshen up it. Here are 9 effective DIY and natural methods you can try to remove the smell from your office chair:
- Apply baking soda to the chair’s fabric
- Use a vinegar solution
- Use activated charcoal to absorb odors
- Sprinkle coffee grounds on your chair
- Clean with hydrogen peroxide solution
- Use an enzyme cleaner specifically designed for fabric
- Create a lemon juice and water mixture to spray on the chair
- Make a DIY fabric refresher spray with essential oils
- Place your Chair in Direct Sunlight
Once you know these ways, you can try them out to see which one works best for your chair and situation. We are going to discuss these practically for your convenience here in this article.
1. Apply Baking Soda
One of the simplest and most effective ways to clean the smell is using baking soda. It is a natural method, so how to apply it?
Start by generously sprinkling baking soda over the entire surface of the chair. But ensure that the powder covers all the fabric areas, including the seat, back, and armrests, and also the crevices of your chair.
Leave the baking soda on the chair overnight or for at least 8 hours. After that, use a vacuum cleaner properly on each part of the chair where you have applied, to remove all of it completely. And then check the odor, If it’s still there, we suggest you try this method again.
2. Vinegar Solution Method
First, take a spray bottle and fill it with equal parts of water and white vinegar. Test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the chair and see If it causes any color damage. If there is no change in the color, then it is safe. So you can spray the solution on a larger surface area of the chair leave it for a few minutes and then wipe it off with a clean cloth or paper towel.
But if the color is changed or damaged while checking, then you should not apply this method. Maybe your chair fabric is not suitable for this solution. Then you can try other methods.
3. Activated Charcoal Method
Activated Charcoal is also the best and most effective method to get the smell out, as this is a natural odor absorber. You can buy activated charcoal in powder form, pour it into a bowl, and place the bowl under your chair or inside any part of the chair where there is an odor. Leave it there for at least a day or two or according to the odor coming from the chair. This is a slow process, but it is an effective way.
After waiting 1 to 2 days, throw away the used charcoal powder and vacuum your chair thoroughly so that all the charcoal particles are removed.
4. Coffee Grounds Method
As you learned about the activated charcoal method, coffee grounds can also absorb odors from your office chair. If you drink coffee then it is a must you have coffee grounds in your house. If not, buy a small amount of coffee and collect the used grounds for this method, and follow these:
- Place the coffee grounds in a bowl
- Spread them over a baking sheet or aluminum foil
- Bake for 10-15 minutes at 300°F (149°C) until they are dry
- Place the dried coffee grounds in a bowl or container and then place it under your chair or in any part where you think the smell is the most.
Leave your chair for at least 24 hours, and then remove and discard the used coffee grounds. After 1 day, inspect your chair fully to see if there is still any lingering odor. If yes, you can try this method again for more effectiveness.
5. Hydrogen Peroxide Solution Method
Hydrogen Peroxide Solution is a safe and fast method if you have pets or small children around. Start by mixing equal parts of water and hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle. Again, test the solution on a small, hidden area of your chair’s fabric to make sure there are no negative effects.
If all is well, spray this solution onto the affected areas of your chair and wait for 10-15 minutes before wiping off the solution with a clean cloth. Let your chair dry completely before using it again.
6. Enzyme Cleaner Method
Enzyme cleaners are designed specifically for removing tough odors from fabric. You can purchase these cleaners at most stores and online retailers. But first of all, look at the char’s fabric and check If there is a tough odor or not. If it is, then use this method otherwise skip it and try other methods.
Apply the cleaner as directed on the packaging, and make sure you have covered all the areas. Leave it on for the recommended time on the packaging, or if you have not found then 30 minutes are enough, then wipe it off with a clean cloth and let the chair dry completely.
7. Lemon Juice Method
Lemons contain natural acids that are great for removing odors, especially tough ones. So take a spray bottle add equal parts of water and lemon juice, and shake it well until the mixture is well blended.
You can also test the solution on a small area of your chair’s fabric and if all is good, then spray it onto the affected areas. Leave it for 10-15 minutes, after that check your chair if it is fully dry or not, if it is dried then use a clean cloth to wipe off the solution.
8. Essential Oils Method
The Essential Oil Method is another natural and effective way to remove odors from your office chair. You can use any essential oil of your choice, Here we would recommend you use lavender or peppermint oil as they are known for especially removing odors.
How to Use Essential Method?
Take a spray bottle and fill it with water, then add 10-15 drops of the essential oil and shake well. Spray the solution all over your chair’s fabric and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then wipe off carefully with a clean cloth. And then wait to let your chair dry completely. Once your chair is dried, check and see, hopefully the odors are gone. If not, you can repeat the process.
9. Place your Office Chair in Sunlight
It is the last but most effective easy and natural method on this list. If you don’t want to make too much effort and also don’t want to use any chemicals, then this method is for you. The sunlight can easily penetrate and remove most of the smell and bacteria from your chair. Take your office chair outside and place it in direct sunlight for a few hours like 3-4 hours. If you are unable to take it outside, then you can open the window and just need to make the source of sunlight.
This sunlight will also kill any bacteria, germs, and mold that are a major cause of smelling bad. After a few hours, check your chair and see if the odor is gone or not. If it’s still there, then you should apply any DIY method mentioned above like water and vinegar or baking soda.
Deep Cleaning: Professional Solutions for Restoring Your Office Chair
If none of the above methods work for you, or you don’t have enough time to try these methods, or If your chair is too damaged to remove the odor, and you are thinking of getting a professional solution from any expert, then It can be a great option for you. Some professionals specialize in deep cleaning and can restore your office chairs very well. They have special tools, solutions, and techniques to perform this procedure, However, while hiring any professional, you just need to check these:-
- Check the reviews and make sure they have previous experience with deep cleaning especially for office chairs.
- Check their service charges, and make sure they fit within your budget.
- Ask about the products and solutions they will be using on your chair to avoid any potential damage.
- Ensure they have insurance and provide a guarantee for their work.
How to Keep Office Chair from Smelling? Tips and Routine
Once you have removed the smell from your office chair through any method or by any professional, you need to know how to maintain it so that it doesn’t disturb you again. Here we have listed a routine and tips that smelling fresh between cleanings. You can apply these:
- Vacuum your chair regularly to remove any dust and debris that may be accumulated while sitting on it.
- Use a fabric or upholstery cleaner at least once a month to clean any surface stains and maintain the overall cleanliness of your chair.
- Properly Clean wheels, gas cylinder, and other components with a damp cloth after every few days.
- Avoid eating and drinking at your desk, as this can cause spills and stains on your chair.
- Fabric deodorizer spray is effective in keeping your office chair smelling fresh between cleanings. Spray it on your chair and let it dry before using.
- If possible, try to keep your office chair in a well-ventilated room so that it doesn’t trap odors. You can also leave a window open when you are not in the room, the sunlight will also act as a natural deodorizer.
- Regularly wash any cushions or removable on your office chair according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will prevent any buildup of odors and smelly bacteria.
FAQs
How often should I clean my office chair to prevent odors?
Regular cleaning is important to prevent odor. We would recommend you clean your office chair lightly once a week and perform a more thorough cleaning once a month. However, if you spill something on your chair, clean it immediately to prevent odors from setting in.
Can I use the same cleaning methods for any type of office chair material?
Not all materials are the same, and some cleaning methods may not be suitable for certain types of fabric or leather. It is important to always check the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and caring for your office chair. If you are unsure then as we mentioned above, you can check a small, and ensure that the method is safe or not.
What is the best method to clean office chair smell?
All the above methods are best and can effectively clean, but it depends on the type of odor, the material of your chair, and also on your budget. However, if you are looking for a quick and easy solution, then the baking soda or essential oils method could be the best option for you. And if you are looking for a cost-effective method, then the vinegar and water solution could be your best bet.
Conclusion
You spend a lot of time in your office chair, and it’s important to keep it clean and fresh. These methods can help you remove odors from your chair and make it smell like new again. Remember we have already listed some routines and tips on how to maintain and prevent odors from developing in the first place. So always follow these while working or spending time on your office chair. If you do, then in the future you won’t need to deal with these pesky smells again.
