The office chair is an essential and often overlooked piece of furniture in any workspace and these are made to provide proper comfort and support while working. So if you are replacing and want to buy a new one but you are not sure of what to choose, Mesh or Leather? Well, these have different and useful features and can be usable in any office.
But today, to clarify the confusion, are mesh or leather chairs better for the office, and which one you should choose? we will discuss the detailed differences between them, their essential features, and their pros, and cons. So, you can make an informed decision based on your needs and preferences. Let’s get started!
Mesh vs Leather office Chair-Their Difference
What is a Leather office chair?
A leather office chair is made from real or faux leather material, and it is usually the more traditional type of chair because of its elegant appearance. Leather chairs typically feature a high backrest, armrests, and a swivel base with wheels for mobility. These chairs are commonly used in executive offices, conference rooms, and home offices. Here we have listed some Pros and cons:
Pros
- As you know, each leather has a premium texture and appearance to it, which gives an elegant look to any office and makes this look more professional.
- As leather is a durable material, it can last for many years without showing signs of wear and tear, It also depends on the type of leather used, and how do you care for it.
- Leather is also easy to clean, you just need to wipe it down with a damp cloth and mild soap if needed.
Cons
- Leather is not very breathable, and it can be uncomfortable to sit in for extended periods, like during long workdays or hot weather, as it can cause sweat and stickiness.
- Leather chairs are generally more expensive than mesh chairs due to the cost of materials and craftsmanship.
- Lastly, regular cleaning is very important in the case of leather chairs, as if not taken care of properly, it can develop cracks and dryness.
What is a Mesh office chair?
Generally, the mesh type chair is made of a strong material stretched over a frame or backrest and it is also popular because of its modern and sleek look. Mesh office chair also has a high backrest, armrests, and a swivel base with wheels as like leather chairs.
But there are some significant differences in its components as you can see in the image above. Here we also have listed some pros and cons to help you better understand.
Pros
- Mesh chairs are highly breathable, and the material allows for better airflow, this is great if you work in a warm environment or tend to get hot while sitting.
- They are also more adjustable, with features like lumbar support and seat depth adjustment, which help a lot to make proper body posture and can prevent back pain.
- The mesh office chair is also generally more affordable than the leather, as you can purchase a standard and normal mesh chair in a lesser amount.
Cons
- Mesh office chairs may lack the luxurious feel of leather chairs, as leather is very smooth and soft to the touch, whereas mesh is more rigid and rough.
- The Mesh material is not as durable as leather, and it may start to sag or tear over time with heavy use.
- Lastly, cleaning is important for both and can be difficult for mesh chairs, as this chair has small holes in it and these holes are difficult to clean properly.
Which one is the most popular office chair?
Both leather and mesh office chairs are quite popular in the market because they have their own unique and usable features. However, according to recent market trends and surveys, mesh office chairs are gaining more, because people like its modern look, breathability, and affordability. But this may vary depending on the type of office and individual preferences.
Some people may prefer the elegant and professional look and they choose leather, while others may prioritize comfort and adjustability and opt for mesh. Therefore, it is important to understand your own needs.
Tips for Choosing the Right Office Chair
Now Once we have discussed the major features and pros and cons of both leather and mesh chair type. Here are a few helpful tips to keep in mind when choosing an office chair that will best fit your needs and preferences:
- First consider the office environment, like the location and temperature, as well as the type of work you do. For example, if you work in a warmer climate or have a tendency to sweat while sitting for long periods, a mesh chair may be the better option for breathability.
- Look at the features offered by both types of chairs and decide which ones are most important to you. Well, there are many features you should look at while buying such as adjustability, lumbar support, armrests, etc.
- As we mentioned, leather chairs are more durable and long-lasting compared to mesh chairs, so keep this in mind if you need a chair that will withstand heavy daily use.
- If you’re still unsure about which type of office chair to choose, then you can compare both products, (if you are buying from the online store) by their customer ratings and reviews to see which one has more positive feedback from real users.
- Lastly, price is a major factor when buying anything. So, compare the prices of different options and choose the one that fits within your budget without compromising on quality.
What about other Types of Chairs?
Once you have considered the specific features and pros and cons of leather and mesh office chairs, still if you can’t choose or if there is any doubt in your mind that you might not need the features of these two types and there are also many other options available in the market, such as ergonomic chairs, kneeling chairs, and ball chairs. These may be better suited for those with certain body issues or preferences, like:
- ergonomic chairs are designed to provide extra lumbar support and promote good posture to prevent back pain.
- Kneeling chairs are designed to reduce pressure on the spine and evenly distribute body weight while sitting.
- Ball chairs are designed to engage your core muscles and improve posture through constant balancing, but may not be suitable for long periods of sitting.
As like each chair has its unique features and benefits, you should consider your individual needs and preferences before making a decision.
FAQs
How long do mesh and leather chairs last?
One of the main questions that may come to mind is how long these chairs last. Well, Mesh chairs typically have a lifespan of 5-10 years, while leather chairs can last 10-20 years with proper care and maintenance, according to their durability, quality and usage.
How to Clean and Maintain These Chairs?
For leather chairs, it is recommended to clean them daily, after use so all the dust will be removed, and every 6 months use a proper leather cleaner and conditioner to prevent cracking and dryness.
For mesh chairs, vacuuming or wiping with a damp cloth is sufficient for regular cleaning, while deep cleaning may require removing the mesh and washing it separately.
Read Our Full Guide: Deep Cleaning Office Chair
Conclusion
In this guide, you have learned about two types, their pros and cons and more guide. However, ultimately you will need to consider your personal preferences, budget, and office environment to choose the best office chair for you.
