Ergonomic Chairs & Stools

How to find the best office chair?

To find the best office chair, we would always recommend trying the chair out first. You can only truly judge whether a chair would suit you, is by physically sitting in it. Visit our showroom to find the right chair.

Are you working from a dining chair?

Did you know that a standard dining table height is between 76 cm-79 cm high and higher, but your office desk would have probably been between 72-74cm high. What is the impact of height difference when working? It may not seem like a big difference, but it is enough to cause you discomfort and pain. What implications does it have on your body? If your desk is too high, most likely you’ll overwork your shoulder and arm muscles. In particular, when your shoulder muscles are contracted all day long which can result in upper back, neck, shoulder and arm discomfort, and could also result in headaches – today's aches and pains could be tomorrow's long-term discomfort, so what can you do about it? Speak to us or download our Guide to working more healthily at home. There are several possible solutions to reduce the long-term risks.

Are you using a four-legged chair?

If you look at any guidelines for an office/task chair “The most common chair in the office today is the simple task chair, with rollers or wheels on the bottom, so firstly a four-legged chair does not allow you to move in and out from the table easily, either position change will require you to lean forward to lift the chair to move it, which is fine on odd occasions but when happening regularly during a working day? Again, what are the implications on your body? This will put pressure on your lower back and legs every time that you move in and out from the table. Specialist Back Clinic suggests “When standing up from a sitting position, move to the front of the seat of your chair. Stand up by straightening your legs. Avoid bending forward at your waist” none of which is possible if you have pulled yourself into the table to work. You put pressure on your lower back every time you move the chair in and out from the table which can result in long term lower back discomfort, so what can you do about it? The height of the chair and dining table is fine when you are eating a meal, but when you are working on your laptop or a separate keyboard, are you at the right height? You will probably find that your wrists are higher than your elbows, which means that you are putting a strain on your wrists, shoulders and neck.

Have you bought a cheap chair or desk online?

Many of us have had no option but to utilise existing furniture or we have purchased a quick fix solution, within a week we have already spoken to some people who are questioning their purchases, desk that are the wrong height, chairs that do not offer any support and many that are now working on a Laptop all day, be aware that there will be thing s that you can do to improve the overall working set up. Our Advice is free.

What is the best ergonomic office chair for back pain?

There is no best ergonomic office chair for back pain. Everybody is different and no one chair is perfect for everyone. The best way to find the perfect chair for yourself is to visit a showroom where you can try the chairs firsthand. If you are experiencing back pain, it is especially important that you choose a chair that provides the right support for yourself.

What features should I look for in a comfortable office chair?

We recommend that a basic comfortable ergonomic office chair should feature the following functions: seat height adjustment, independent back or lumbar support, a forward tilt option and some degree of dynamic movement. Most chairs will offer a variety of functions to improve comfort. We would highly recommend trying the chairs first-hand, to find the right chair for yourself. Visit our showroom.

Is a mesh or upholstered chair better?

Both mesh and upholstered office chairs offer different benefits. Mesh offers a little more give in the material and breathability and usually has a height-adjustable lumbar support. While upholstered office chairs, have more cushioning and can have extra performance foam on a selection of chairs. They usually have the option of an inflatable lumbar support.

What is the correct seat depth?

It is recommended that you can fit two fingers between the front lip of the seat and the back of the user's knee. This enables the right support for your thigh and does not restrict movement at your knee.

Do I need a headrest on my chair?

A headrest on an office chair supports your neck and upper spine when leaning back, reducing strain and improving posture. Whether you need one depends on how often you recline and if you experience neck pain. If you are on phone calls or videos calls often, a headrest could be a great option.

What are the benefits of adjustable armrests?

Adjustable armrests provide additional support to the user's arms and shoulders. Many chairs have different arms to choose from, with functions ranging from height adjustment to depth adjustment, width adjustment, and rotation. Arms promote better posture and personalised comfort.

What is the best office chair for long hours of sitting?

If you're sitting for long periods, the best office chair is one that supports your posture, promotes movement, and adjusts to your body. Look for features like lumbar support, a seat slide, height-adjustable arms, and potentially extra padded foam. Take a look at our range of ergonomic chairs. Everyone’s body is different, so ideally, try before you buy and book a showroom visit.

What makes an office chair ergonomic?

An ergonomic chair is one that adjusts to fit your body — not the other way around. It should support your spine’s natural curve, offer adjustable seat height, back angle, and armrests, and allow for movement while seated. Key features to look for include lumbar support, a seat slide, and an adjustable tilting mechanism. All of our ergonomic chairs are designed with these principles in mind.

What’s the best chair for height-adjustable desks?

The best seating for a height-adjustable desk is one that adapts to your movement. You want something that keeps your posture supported whether you’re sitting, leaning, or transitioning to standing. The Capisco saddle chair is an excellent combination with a height-adjustable desk.

Are stools good for posture?

Dynamic stools can encourage better posture by engaging your core and promoting upright sitting. They’re great for short periods or when used in combination with a height-adjustable desk. They’re not a total replacement for ergonomic task chairs, but they’re a useful part of a dynamic workstation. They are very popular with students, musicians, and artists. Browse our stools collection to explore different styles.

How high should my chair be?

Your chair height should allow your feet to rest flat on the floor, ideally with your knees slightly lower than your hips to reduce strain on your lower back. When seated at your desk, your lower arms should roughly be level with your keyboard/work surface.

What’s the difference between an ergonomic and a basic office chair?

An ergonomic chair is designed to support your body’s natural posture and movements, helping reduce musculoskeletal discomfort. It should at least feature adjustable seat height, lumbar support, height-adjustable backrest, dynamic movement, and seat depth. A basic office chair typically lacks these adjustments, forcing the user to adapt to the chair rather than the other way around. Over time, this can contribute to back, neck, or shoulder pain. An ergonomic chair actively supports your spine’s natural curve and encourages healthy sitting habits.

How do I adjust my chair for good posture?

Start with your feet flat on the floor and adjust the chair height so your knees are slightly lower than your hips. Sit back so your lower spine is supported by the lumbar curve of the backrest. Your elbows should rest comfortably at desk height, with shoulders relaxed. Adjust the armrests so they support your arms without lifting your shoulders. If your chair has seat depth adjustment, ensure a small gap (about two fingers) remains between the seat edge and the back of your knees. Take the time to adjust these points to find what is most comfortable for you.

Do I need armrests on my office chair?

No — armrests are not essential. It depends from person to person, some people find armrests great for extra support, while others find they get in the way. They can help support your arms during typing and rest periods, minimising tension across your shoulders. If you do want armrests, look for ones that adjust in height and width, enabling you to position them correctly for you.

Can ergonomic chairs help with sciatica or lower back pain?

Ergonomic chairs can significantly reduce pressure on the lower spine, helping to ease discomfort from sciatica and back pain. Look for chairs with adjustable/inflatable lumbar support and a forward tilting seat that allows your hips to stay slightly above knee level. These features relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve and encourage healthy posture. However, for persistent pain, it’s best to combine ergonomic seating with movement, stretching, and speak to an expert or get a DSE assessment.

Desks & Workstations

Why is a desk with a centre drawer not a good idea?

A centre drawer often forces you to sit lower than ideal, resulting in lifting the shoulders to use the equipment on the desk surface, leading to upper back and neck issues. Sitting lower can increase the stress and strain on the lower back. It can also interfere with comfortable legroom and prevent you from pulling your chair close enough for good posture. Take a look at our range of height-adjustable desks.

Are standing desks better for your health?

Standing can be great for breaking up long periods of sitting and encouraging better posture. Alternating between sitting and standing throughout the day helps reduce back pain, improve circulation, and even boost concentration. The key is to move more — not just stand still. Our height-adjustable desks give you the flexibility to change positions whenever you need to.

What is the ideal desk height for working?

The standard desk height is typically between 72–74cm for a seated position — but it really depends on your height and the type of chair you use. Your elbows should rest comfortably at 90 degrees, and your forearms should be parallel to the desk surface. Adjustable desks or chairs can help you achieve this. If you're unsure, a DSE assessment can help you set up your desk correctly.

Do I need a sit-stand desk?

If you work at a desk for long periods and struggle with back stiffness, fatigue, or concentration dips, a sit-stand desk can help. It allows you to switch between sitting and standing throughout the day, which encourages movement and better posture. Many of our customers say it helps them stay comfortable throughout the day. Browse our height-adjustable desks to see the options available.

What size desk do I need for dual monitors?

For a dual monitor setup, aim for a desk at least 120–140cm wide to allow space for the screens and accessories. We recommend keeping the screen you use the most in the centre, directly in front of you, and the secondary screen to the side. Make sure the desk is stable. Our desking range offers a wide variety of sizes for each model, making them ideal for a setup with a dual monitor arm.

Are home office desks different from commercial ones?

No, not really — this really depends on where you look and what type of desk you want. The majority of height-adjustable desks are built on the same structure. The main difference between desks is how many motors they have (Usually 1 or 2), how many leg extensions they have (which impacts their height range), the load capacity and the warranty. Commercial offices tend to have rows of desks that are all connected for ease of installation and keeping offices tidy with neat cable management systems. Our range of height-adjustable desks and fixed desks are perfectly suitable for offices and home offices.

How long should I stand at a standing desk?

Experts recommend alternating between sitting and standing throughout the day, aiming for around 15–30 minutes of standing every hour. The key is movement — not remaining in one position too long. Use reminders to change posture regularly, and consider a height-adjustable stool. If you find standing for too long uncomfortable, stand for shorter stints but more frequently.

Should I use an anti-fatigue mat with a standing desk?

This depends on the person and the type of work they are doing. If you are standing for long periods throughout the day, an anti-fatigue mat provides extra cushioning underfoot, encouraging subtle muscle movement that reduces strain on your muscles and joints. Choose a mat with beveled edges and non-slip backing for safety and durability. Speak to an expert before determining if you need an anti-fatigue mat.

What’s the difference between a fixed and a height-adjustable desk?

A fixed-height desk has a static work surface height. A height-adjustable (sit-stand) desk allows you to alternate between sitting and standing, helping reduce fatigue, improve focus, and support long-term spinal health. For those working more than a couple of hours a day at a computer, a height-adjustable desk offers far greater long-term comfort.

Are corner desks or straight desks better for ergonomics?

Both can be ergonomic if used correctly. A common issue with corner desks is sitting into the corner, using the angled section for your keyboard and mouse — this often causes overreaching and leaning forward. It’s better to work along a straight edge, keeping your screen in front and your mouse and keyboard close to your body. Straight desks generally offer more flexibility, with a wider choice of height-adjustable options that are often cheaper. Corner desks can still work well if set up correctly with a supportive chair and monitor arm.

How deep should my desk be for good ergonomics?

A desk should be deep enough to position your monitor at a comfortable reading distance — between 60–80cm. This distance helps prevent eye strain and allows room for your keyboard and mouse while keeping your wrists in a natural position. It’s not recommended to use shallower desks as they may save space, but they can restrict movement and encourage poor posture. Deeper desks can cause you to overreach and lean forward to read your screen.

Accessories

How high should my monitor be?

The top third of your screen should be eye level, with the centre of the screen about 15° below your natural line of sight. This helps reduce neck strain and encourages a balanced head position. For most setups, this means raising the monitor using a stand or adjustable arm. If you use bifocal glasses, position the screen slightly lower to avoid tilting your head back.

Should my monitor be directly in front of me?

Yes — your monitor should sit directly in front of you, at a readable distance for yourself. Placing it off to the side causes repetitive neck rotation, leading to discomfort and pain. If you use dual monitors, position the primary one centrally and angle the other slightly inward to form a gentle curve. This keeps your head and neck aligned while minimising twisting and potential neck and shoulder pain.

How do I prevent neck pain from looking at my laptop?

Laptops naturally encourage poor posture because the screen sits too low. Use a laptop stand or stack it on books/boxes so the top of the screen is at eye level, and pair it with an external keyboard and mouse. This stops you from leaning forward and tilting your head, and prevents upper back, neck pain, and potentially long-term pain.

What’s the correct distance between my eyes and screen?

Position your monitor about an arm’s length away (around 50–70cm), so you can read comfortably without leaning forward or squinting. Adjust the distance slightly, work for 20 minutes, then fine-tune until it feels right. For large or dual monitors, keep your main screen directly in front of you and any secondary screens angled slightly toward your line of sight. As your eyes tire during the day, you may find yourself leaning forward — using a monitor arm lets you easily bring the screen closer, helping you maintain good posture and reduce neck and shoulder strain.

Are you working on a laptop?

Many of us may have used laptops in the past but may find that we are now using them all day, if you are using your laptop without any accessories, you will be hunched over the keyboard, the screen will be too low and too close, your head will be tilting forwards so you will be running the risk of discomfort in the upper back, neck, shoulders, wrists etc and this risk can be easily reduced with very little cost.

Do I need a monitor arm for my desk setup?

A monitor arm can greatly improve your posture. It lets you position your screen at the correct eye level, keeping your head balanced, reducing strain on your neck and shoulders. Plus, it clears desk space and keeps your setup tidy. Our range of monitor arms includes single, dual, and gas-spring models to suit any workspace.

Should I use a footrest under my desk?

Using a footrest is generally not recommended for most people unless they are very short. It's important for your knees to be slightly lower than your hips when sitting to promote proper posture and comfort. For most individuals, having a footrest may disrupt this alignment. A height-adjustable desk enables you to sit at the right height in your chair with feet flat on the floor and keep your forearms parallel with your desk surface.

How do I stop glare on my monitor?

Reduce glare by positioning your screen perpendicular to windows or light sources, rather than directly facing or backing them. Adjust brightness and contrast to match the room’s lighting, adjust your blinds or curtains, and consider using anti-glare screen protectors. An adjustable monitor arm is also a great option to easily adjust your screens position throughout the day.

How do I manage cables neatly in my home office?

Cable management isn’t just aesthetic — it improves safety and reduces distractions. Use cable trays, clips, or under-desk baskets to keep cords organised and off the floor. Group cables together with ties or sleeves, and position sockets behind or under your desk. Some desks, including many ergonomic models, have built-in cable ports or channels to help you maintain a tidy, professional workspace. Healthy Home & Office offers an electrical package including: a cable tray, cable spring, desktop power unit, under-desk power unit, and main power cable - contact us to find out more.

Home Office Design & Setup

What’s a good chair if I don’t have room for a big office chair?

Compact ergonomic chairs or active stools are perfect for smaller spaces. Look for models with smaller bases, slim backrests, adjustable features, and potentially without arms. Ergonomic chairs such as the HÅG Capisco/Capisco Puls or Younit Stool encourage movement and good posture without taking up much room. They’re ideal for small home offices or shared living areas.

Are you working from a sofa or a bed?

Many of us have sat in the office and dreamed of being able to work from our bed or sofa, but what is the impact of working from our laptops lying down? Either option is an absolute NO, laying on the bed with your laptop on your legs or to the side will result in head tilting forwards and twisting of the upper back and neck, sitting on the sofa with the laptop on your lap, on the arm of the sofa or on a coffee table in front of you – all will result in your head tilting forwards causing stress/strain in the upper back and neck, arms of the sofa will result in you twisting your upper back and neck, laptop on the coffee table will result in you leaning forward and extending your arms. None of them offer a sensible solution if you are planning on working for any length of time and all of them offer stress/strain on various parts of the body. Speak to us – there will be things you can do to make a four-legged chair more comfortable but also consider the options, as longer term a four-legged chair is not a healthy solution for all day working!

How do I make my home office more ergonomic?

Start by making sure your chair and desk support good posture. Your screen should be at eye level, your feet flat on the floor, and your forearms should be parallel with the desk surface with elbows at 90 degrees. Use a monitor arm or laptop stand if needed to raise your screen. Even small accessories can make a big difference. Our home office range is designed to help you work comfortably — and our team can help with tailored advice or a DSE assessment if needed.

What furniture do I need for a small home office?

For a small home office, focus on functional, space-saving furniture. A compact desk, an ergonomic chair, and clever storage (like under-desk drawers or wall shelves) are key. A monitor arm enables you to free up desk surface space. Consider multi-purpose furniture, such as a stool that tucks away neatly. Our Home Office collection is curated for comfort and productivity — even in tight spaces.

What is the best office chair for working from home?

The best chair for home working supports your posture throughout the day and fits well in your space. Look for adjustable lumbar support, seat height and depth, and adjustable tilt. If you're working from a 4-legged chair, a great improvement would be a chair from our budget chair range, offering basic functionality without the price tag. Or you can have a look at our ergonomic chair range, which offers more functionality and a wide range of options. For peace of mind, visit our showroom and try before you buy in our Guildford showroom.

How can I reduce clutter and improve focus?

A tidy workspace reduces distraction. Use desk organisers, cable trays, and under-desk storage to keep surfaces clear. Limit what you keep within reach to essentials, and store the rest in drawers or shelves. Incorporate regular five-minute tidy-ups at the end of your day. A clean, uncluttered environment promotes better posture, focus, and overall well-being.

What’s the best lighting for a home office?

Natural light is ideal, but combine it with adjustable task lighting to reduce eye strain. Position your desk near a window, but avoid direct glare on screens. A dimmable LED desk lamp with a neutral white tone (around 4000K) helps maintain focus without harsh shadows. Balanced lighting prevents productivity issues and reduces eye strain.

What colour schemes work best for home offices?

Neutral tones like white, beige, or grey promote calm and focus. Avoid overly bright or dark colours that create visual strain. Accents of natural wood or muted colours add warmth and comfort. The goal is to create a space that feels calm, balanced, and supportive for long-term concentration for yourself.

How do I make my dining table setup more ergonomic?

If you’re temporarily working from a dining table, use a separate keyboard and mouse, raise your screen to eye level, and sit on a supportive, height-adjustable chair if possible. An ergonomic chair like the HÅG Capisco is ideal, as it allows you to sit slightly higher — perfect for dining tables, which are typically taller than standard desks.

What’s the best flooring for a home office chair?

Low-pile carpet, laminate, or hardwood flooring all work well — but always make sure your chair has suitable castors for hard floor or soft floor.

Business & Workplace Furniture

What’s the difference between commercial and home office furniture?

Home office furniture often focuses on space-saving design and aesthetics that fit with your home, while commercial furniture is generally built for durability, heavier use, and often a modular layout. Commercial setups also consider shared spaces, cable management, and health & safety regulations. At Healthy Home & Office, we supply both — whether you're creating a home workspace or furnishing an office for 20 people.

What furniture supports hot desking?

Hot desking works best with adjustable furniture. Height-adjustable desks enable users to easily adjust the desk to their ideal height. Chairs should be easy to adjust on the fly, like our range of ergonomic chairs. Accessories like monitor arms with laptop mounts also make shared setups smoother.

What office setup works best for hybrid workers?

For hybrid workers, flexibility is key. Ideally, your home and office setups should both support good posture and comfort. If you use a laptop, it's recommended to have portable accessories like an ergonomic mouse, compact keyboard and a laptop stand or a monitor arm with a laptop mount at each setup. At the office, height-adjustable desks are the best option as they support hot desking or shared use.

What is soft seating in office design?

Soft seating refers to comfortable, upholstered chairs and sofas used in informal or collaborative areas — like breakout spaces, receptions, or quiet zones. These pieces offer a relaxed alternative to task seating, helping staff recharge or meet casually. Our soft seating range includes modular sofas, lounge chairs, and compact options ideal for flexible office design.

How do breakout areas improve workplace wellbeing?

Breakout spaces give employees a place to relax, think, or chat away from their desks. This helps reduce stress, boost creativity, and promote informal collaboration — all of which contribute to a healthier and more productive workplace. Thoughtful furniture choices (like soft seating, tables, and acoustic screens) make these areas inviting and functional. We help businesses create breakout zones that support wellbeing and performance.

DSE Assessments & Ergonomics

What is a DSE assessment?

A DSE (Display Screen Equipment) assessment is an evaluation of your workstation to ensure it’s set up safely and ergonomically. It looks at your chair, desk, screen position, keyboard use, and overall posture to reduce the risk of strain or injury. Employers are legally required to provide DSE assessments for regular screen users. Learn more about our DSE workstation assessments for individuals and businesses.

Who is responsible for providing a DSE assessment?

If you’re employed and use a computer for more than 1 hour a day, your employer is responsible for making sure you have a proper DSE assessment. This applies whether you're working in the office or from home. The aim is to prevent work-related injuries and support long-term wellbeing. We offer DSE services to help businesses stay compliant and staff stay comfortable.

Do I need a DSE assessment if I work from home?

Yes — if you work from home regularly and use a computer for more than 1 hour a day, you should have a DSE (Display Screen Equipment) assessment. Employers are still responsible for ensuring remote workstations are safe and ergonomically set up, just as they are for office-based staff. A proper assessment can help you avoid discomfort and long-term issues like back pain, eye strain, or repetitive strain injuries. We offer remote and in-person DSE assessments to help home workers create a healthy and compliant setup.

What happens during a DSE workstation assessment?

A DSE assessment looks at how your workstation is set up and how you interact with your equipment throughout the day. It typically covers your chair, desk height, monitor position, keyboard and mouse use, lighting, and posture. The goal is to identify any risks or discomfort and suggest adjustments or equipment changes to make your setup safer and more comfortable. At Healthy Home & Office, our DSE assessments are practical, personal, and designed to help you work better — whether you're at home or in the office.

How do I make my workstation DSE compliant?

To make your workstation DSE compliant, you'll need to ensure that your setup supports safe, comfortable working over long periods. Key steps include adjusting your chair so your feet are flat on the floor, positioning your monitor at eye level, using a keyboard and mouse within easy reach, and avoiding awkward postures. Using equipment like monitor arms and ergonomic chairs can help. If you're unsure, a professional DSE assessment can provide tailored advice to ensure you're fully compliant.