How To Remove Office Chair Armrest

For various reasons, such as cleaning, repair, or replacement, you may find it necessary to remove the armrests from your office chair. Removal methods can vary depending on the type of chair and the specific design of the armrests. In this guide, we will outline a general process that typically applies to many office chairs with armrests. Please note that it's always advisable to consult the chair's manufacturer's instructions, as the process may differ based on the specific model.

Step 1: Identify the Type of Armrest

There are primarily two types of armrests found on office chairs: fixed and adjustable. Fixed armrests are permanently attached to the chair and cannot be adjusted or removed without extensive disassembly. Adjustable armrests, on the other hand, allow for height and sometimes width adjustment. They typically have some sort of release mechanism that allows them to be detached from the chair.

Step 2: Gather Tools

For the removal process, you will likely need the following tools:

Allen wrench (hex key) or Phillips head screwdriver (depending on the type of screws used on your chair)
Pliers (optional)
Cloth or rag for cleaning
Optional: Camera or smartphone (to take pictures of the assembly before disassembly)

Step 3: Prepare the Chair

To ensure a safe and efficient removal process:

Turn the chair upside down, resting it on a soft surface to prevent damage to the upholstery. Alternatively, you can place the chair on its side.
Ensure the chair is stable and won't topple over during the removal process.
If you're concerned about forgetting the reassembly process, take pictures of the armrest assembly before disassembly.

Step 4: Locate and Remove the Screws

Typically, armrests are held in place by screws or bolts. These are usually located underneath the armrest or on the sides where the armrest attaches to the chair's backrest or seat.

Inspect the underside and sides of the armrest for screws or bolts.
Using the appropriate tool (Allen wrench or Phillips head screwdriver), carefully loosen and remove the screws or bolts. Be cautious not to drop the screws or bolts.

Step 5: Detach the Armrest

Once all the screws or bolts are removed, you should be able to detach the armrest from the chair. Depending on the design of the chair, the armrest may simply slide off or it may require some wiggling or gentle prying to release it from its mounting points.

Gently pull or wiggle the armrest to release it from its mounting points.
If the armrest is particularly stubborn, use pliers to carefully pry it off. Be cautious not to damage the chair or the armrest during this process.

Step 6: Clean and Inspect

Once the armrests are removed, take this opportunity to clean them thoroughly. Use a cloth or rag with a suitable cleaning solution to wipe down the armrests, removing any dirt, dust, or stains.

Additionally, inspect the armrests for any damage, wear, or loose parts. If you find any issues, you can decide whether to repair or replace the armrests as needed.

Step 7: Reassembly

When you're ready to reattach the armrests to the chair, simply reverse the steps you took during the removal process.

Align the armrest with its mounting points on the chair.
Insert the screws or bolts and tighten them securely using the appropriate tool.
Double-check that the armrests are securely attached and stable.

Please note that the specific steps and techniques for removing office chair armrests may vary slightly depending on the particular model and design of your chair. If you encounter any difficulties or uncertainties during the process, it's always advisable to consult the manufacturer's instructions or seek assistance from a qualified professional.