Fabric office chairs have always been a popular choice for office workers worldwide and remain one of the most bought office chair types this year. People love fabric office chairs for being affordable and comfortable, thanks to thick cushioning. If you’re looking for a reliable fabric office chair, you’ve come to the right place. We compiled a list of the five best fabric office chairs on the market based on comfort, style, price, functionality, strength, durability, and warranty.
Picking the right chair can be challenging. To ensure you get a good deal, our team of experts extensively researched countless options and tested them on factors such as weight capacity, material quality, adjustability, cost, and online reviews. Our list includes options for various budgets, including our top pick, best value pick, and premium pick. So whether you need an affordable desk chair, a high-end premium office chair, or the best of both worlds, we’ve got something for you.
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Best Fabric Office Chairs
- Reficcer Executive Office Chair – Top Pick
- Serta Hannah 1 Series Office Chair – Best Value
- Steelcase Gesture Series – Premium Pick
- SP Velvet Office Desk Chair – Most Stylish
- Clatina Ergonomic Office Chair – Best for Plus Size
Keep reading to discover our recommended chairs, see our chair comparison table, learn about the pros & cons of fabric office chairs, and the most important things to consider when choosing a fabric office chair.
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Compare Our Picks
Chair Name | Weight Capacity | Warranty | Wheelbase Material |
Reficcer Executive Office Chair – Top Pick | 1 Year | 280 lbs | Nylon |
Serta Hannah 1 Series Office Chair – Best Value | 1 Year | 250 lbs | High-Grade Polymer |
Steelcase Gesture Series – Premium Pick | 12 Years | 400 lbs | High-Grade Nylon |
SP Velvet Office Desk Chair – Most Stylish | 1 Year | 300 lbs | Nylon |
Clatina Ergonomic Office Chair – Best for Plus Size | 2 Years | 400 lbs | Alloy Steel |
First on our list of the best fabric office chairs is our top pick, the Reficcer Executive Office Chair. This chair offers a comfortable and stylish high back design combined with a decent warranty for a pocket-friendly price tag.
This Reficcer model is exactly what you want when searching for a fabric office chair. Thanks to thick high-rebound sponge padding and soft, velvet-like fabric, the chair is ultra-comfortable and soft to the touch. Furthermore, the middle of the backrest has a rhombus-stitched section adding to the style of the chair.
The Reficcer Executive Office Chair has four main adjustable features so you can regulate the chair’s features to your body shape. This includes a 360-degree swivel, pneumatic seat height adjustment, adjustable armrests, and a 90 to 120-degree recline function.
When it comes to strength, this model is relatively sturdy. It has a strong nylon wheelbase, a metal seat frame, and solid nylon casters enabling a maximum weight capacity of 280 lbs. Furthermore, Reficcer covers this model with a decent 1-year manufacturer’s warranty on all chair parts.
In summary, this Reficcer model is a stylish, comfortable, and stable high-back office chair with an affordable price tag and excellent reviews. If you’re interested in more comfortable office chairs, feel free to read our most comfortable office chairs guide.
KEY FEATURES:
- High Back Executive Design
- Soft Gray Fabric Material
- Strong Nylon Wheelbase
- One Year Warranty
- 360-Degree Swivel
- Adjustable Armrests
- Pneumatic Seat Lift
- Rhumbus-Stitched Seat
- 90-120 Degree Recline
- High-Rebound Sponge Padding
- Metal Seat Frame
- Dual Wheel Casters
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Dimensions: 28.3″D x 28.7″W x 47.24″H
- Weight Capacity: 280 lbs
- Material: Nylon, Fabric, Metal
- Weight: 50.6 lbs
- Warranty Length: 1 Year
- Brand: Reficcer
PROS:
- Affordable Price Tag
- Comfortable Sponge Padding
- Excellent Reviews
- Suitable for Tall People
- Decent Weight Capacity
- Wide Seating Area
- Acceptable Warranty
CONS:
- Lacks Some Adjustable Features
Next on our list is our best value pick, the Serta Hannah 1 Series Office Chair. This is another stylish and comfortable fabric chair, except this one is available at a truly bargain price point.
The Hannah 1 Series has that executive-style most desk workers look for. It’s finished in a popular gray color and made from soft-to-touch microfiber fabric. The chair measures 28.25 inches deep and 25.5 inches wide, making it ideal for people with wide hips.
Furthermore, the chair’s seat is padded with non-recycled foam, and the foam is multi-layered in the headrest area, giving users optimal neck support and ultimate comfort while working.
Like our previous pick, the Hannah 1 Series has four adjustable features; a 100 to 122-degree recline function, adjustable armrests, adjustable seat height, and a 360-degree swivel. The chair also has a contoured lumbar zone for additional lower-back posture support.
The only downside to this Serta model is that it’s not exceptionally sturdy. Although it does have a high-grade polymer wheelbase, the maximum weight capacity is relatively low at 250 lbs. On the plus side, the chair is BIFMA certified, meaning it has low chemical emissions, and the manufacturing process is controlled for sustainability.
All in all, the Hannah 1 Series is ideal for those looking for a comfortable and functional fabric desk chair on a limited budget. If you’re interested in more similarly-priced chairs, please read our best office chairs under $200 guide.
KEY FEATURES:
- Smooth Gray Design
- Extra Wide Seat
- Thick Padded Headrest
- Soft Microfiber Material
- High-Grade Polymer Wheelbase
- Alloy Steel Frame
- Thickly Padded Armrests
- Non-Recycled Foam Padding
- Adjustable Seat Height
- 100-122 Degree Recline Function
- BIFMA Certified
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Dimensions: 28.25″D x 25.5″W x 40.25″H
- Weight Capacity: 250 lbs
- Material: High-Grade Polymer, Alloy Steel, Fabric
- Weight: 34.5 lbs
- Warranty Length: 1 year
- Brand: Serta
PROS:
- Bargain Price Tag
- Comfortable Thick Foam Padding
- Ultra-Soft Seat Material
- Good Reviews
- Extra-Wide Seat
- Comfortable Armrests
CONS:
- Lacks a Warranty
- Low Weight Capacity
Third on our list is our premium pick, the highly-rated Steelcase Gesture Series Office Chair. The Gesture Series is hands down one of the best, if not the best, office chairs on the market, so if you want something built to last, look no further.
First of all, the Steelcase Gesture Series has an ergonomic shape and is available in sixteen colors. The seat is made from soft-to-touch connect fabric that’s 100% polyester. Their proprietary seat cushion design leverages built-in air pockets that conform to your body and reduce the pressure that comes from long-term sitting.
Measuring 57 inches tall, this model is perhaps the tallest office chair on the market. If you add in the fully adjustable headrest, it’s a perfect choice for tall people who suffer from neck pain. We even included it in our best office chairs for tall people guide; check it out; it’s worth a read.
What really makes the Gesture Series stand out is its many adjustable features. The long list includes; adjustable lumbar support, 4D adjustable armrests, 90-130 degree recline, adjustable forward tilt, and adjustable seat height. In addition, Steelcase uses its signature LiveBack technology to allow the chair to transform into the ideal shape for the user.
That’s not all. Another significant selling point is the industry-leading warranty. Steelcase offers an outstanding 12-year-long manufacturer’s warranty covering all parts of the chair. It’s the best warranty on the office chair market. Other than that, the Steelcase Series has a strong nylon wheelbase allowing for a heavy-duty maximum weight capacity of 400 lbs.
In summary, if you want the best of the best fabric office chairs, the Gesture Series will fulfill your expectations. Yes, the chair comes with a high-end price tag, but if you consider how long it can last, it’s certainly a wise long-term investment.
KEY FEATURES:
- Ergonomically-Shaped Design
- 12-Year Warranty
- 4D Adjustable Armrests
- Solid Nylon Wheelbase
- Forward Seat Tilt Function
- Adjustable Lumbar Support
- 3D LiveBack Technology
- Made from 98% Recyclable Materials
- 90-130 Degree Recline
- Suitable for Extra Tall People
- Adjustable Headrest
- Smooth Rolling Casters
- BIFMA Certified
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Dimensions: 23″D x 23″W x 57″H
- Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
- Material: Heavy-Duty Nylon, Fabric
- Weight: 78 lbs
- Warranty Length: 12 Years
- Brand: Steelcase
PROS:
- Exceptional Warranty
- Comfortable Seat Padding
- Perfectly Ergonomic
- Heavy-Duty Weight Capacity
- Available in 27 Colors
- Ideal for Tall People
- Made from Recyclable Materials
- Excellent Reviews
- Known as Best on Market
CONS:
- High-End Price Tag
Fourth on our list is our most stylish pick, the SP Velvet Office Desk Chair. Apart from being stylish, this option is affordable, sturdy, and comfortable.
First and foremost, the SP Velvet Office Chair by SeatingPlus Store has a beautiful design pattern and is made from ultra-soft velvet fabric. It’s available in three popular colors; white, pink, and gray. Integrated armrests and a thick, four-layer cushioning system provide ultimate comfort when working for prolonged periods.
This SP office chair comes with some basic adjustable features such as adjustable seat height, adjustable armrests, 360-degree swivel, and a recline function. In addition, the chair has a strong nylon frame with a maximum weight capacity of 300 lbs.
Other than that, SP covers this model with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty, so in case it breaks, you will be entitled to a partial refund, replacement, or repair service.
All in all, if you’re after something stylish, sturdy, comfortable, and reliable, this SP model can be a perfect choice. However, it does lack some ergonomic features, such as adjustable lumbar support. If you’re interested in more stylish options, read our best stylish office chairs guide.
KEY FEATURES:
- Stylish Design Pattern
- Soft Velvet Fabric
- One Year Warranty
- Gas Spring Seat Adjustment
- Thick 4-Layer Seat Cushion
- Integrated Padded Armrests
- Recline Function
- Smooth Rolling Casters
- Nylon Frame
- 360-Degree Swivel
- BIFMA Certified
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Dimensions: 21.5″D x 21.7″W x 41.7″H
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Material: Nylon, Velvet Fabric
- Weight: 41.4 lbs
- Warranty Length: One Year
- Brand: SeatingPlus Store
PROS:
- Affordable Price Tag
- Stylish Fabric Pattern
- Excellent Reviews
- Decent Weight Capacity
- Has a One Year Warranty
CONS:
- Lacks Some Adjustable Features
Last, but not least, on our best fabric desk chairs list is our #1 choice for plus-size people, the Clatina Executive Office Chair. This option is extra-large, ultra-comfortable, ultra-sturdy, and comes with a good warranty.
First and foremost, this Clatina model is made out of ultra-soft velvet fabric and has thick plush padding for ultimate comfort. The chair measures 32.3 inches deep, 28 inches wide, and 47.6 inches tall, making it ideal for plus-size people. If you’re interested in more XXL chairs, feel free to read our best office chairs for plus-size people guide.
When it comes to stability and strength, this Clatina model is certainly one you can count on. It has an ultra-strong alloy steel frame and wheelbase, allowing a heavy-duty maximum weight capacity of 400 lbs. Its also covered by a generous two-year-long manufacturer’s warranty.
Apart from that, the chair has some basic adjustable features, including a 360-degree swivel, adjustable seat height, adjustable armrests, and a 95-110 degree recline function. This allows users to regulate the chair to match their body shape.
In summary, this Clatina model is a perfect option for not just plus-size people but all desk workers. It’s exceptionally comfortable, stable, and has a semi-affordable price tag.
KEY FEATURES:
- Stylish Big & Tall Design
- Two Year Warranty
- Soft Velvet Fabric
- Alloy Steel Frame & Wheelbase
- 95-110 Degree Recline
- Height Adjustable Armrests
- Adjustable Seat Height
- Thick Plush Padding
- 360 Degree Swivel
- BIFMA Certified
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Dimensions: 32.3″D x 28″W x 47.6″H
- Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
- Material: Velvet Fabric, Alloy Steel
- Weight: 54.5 lbs
- Warranty Length: 2 Years
- Brand: Clatina
PROS:
- Heavy-Duty Weight Capacity
- Semi-Affordable
- Ultra Comfortable
- Extra-Wide Seat
- Great Reviews
- Good Warranty
- Suitable for Plus Size
CONS:
- Lacks Lumbar Support
Things to Consider When Choosing a Fabric Office Chair
You must consider many crucial factors when choosing a fabric office chair. Below are the main questions you should ask yourself before making a final decision.
What are the chair’s dimensions?
Checking the chair dimensions is key to ensuring an office chair fits your body shape. Most office chairs are designed for your typical person; not too tall, short, or wide. If you don’t fit into that category, you need to pay close attention to factors like seat height, chair height, and chair width. For example, plus-size people should only go for chairs at least 28 inches wide. Very short people should ensure the minimum seat height is low enough to rest their feet on the floor.
Read More:
How long is the warranty?
A long warranty is always a good thing when shopping for office equipment online. If your chair breaks, the warranty provider will offer a partial refund, replacement, or replacement part as long as the chair broke in the warranty-covered period. It’s essential to check the warranty documents carefully as some brands only cover some parts of the chair, not the whole chair. Simply put, the longer the warranty, the better.
What is the maximum weight capacity?
Another factor you have to check is the maximum weight capacity. It determines how much weight your office chairs handle. Generally speaking, most office chairs have a capacity between 250 and 300 lbs. This is suitable for most people, but not for particularly heavy people. If you’re a heavy person, you should consider a heavy-duty office chair. Nowadays, many brands offer chairs with a capacity between 400 and 500 lbs. In addition, the maximum weight capacity is a good indicator of the overall strength of the chair’s wheelbase.
Read More: Best Office Chairs for Heavy People
Does the chair have good reviews?
Checking the online reviews of an office chair is vital. You can find reviews on the product listing and sites like YouTube and Reddit. We always recommend choosing a chair with primarily positive reviews and an extensive database of reviews. Options with numerous 1-star reviews should be avoided.
What is the wheelbase material?
The wheelbase is key to ensuring the chair can handle your weight. Ideally, you should check if the wheelbase is made from high-quality materials. Alloy steel, for example, is a tough material. Nylon is an ultra-hard type of plastic. Some nylons are stronger than others. Premium brands such as Steelcase only used high-grade nylon. Beware of cheap office chairs with weak wheelbases; checking the weight capacity also helps if you’re trying to determine the strength of the wheelbase.
Is the chair BIFMA certified?
The BIFMA LEVEL certification is only granted to office furniture with low or safe levels of chemical emissions. Many brands who don’t have this certification sell chairs that can potentially release dangerous chemical emissions in your work area. If you want to ensure good air quality in your home office, you should only invest in office equipment that is BIFMA certified.
The Pros & Cons of Fabric Office Chairs
Like all office chair types, fabric office chairs have their pros and cons. Below are the most significant advantages and disadvantages of fabric office chairs in general.
Pros of Fabric Office Chairs
- Affordability – With options starting at less than $200, fabric office chairs are slightly more affordable than mesh and leather desk chairs.
- Comfortability – Multi-layer thick plush foam combined with advanced spring systems make fabric chairs very comfortable to use for prolonged periods.
- Choice of Designs – Most fabric office chairs come in a variety of colors and stitching styles. You can find many options that are up-to-date with modern home decor.
- Durability – Depending on the brand, most fabric office chairs are made from long-lasting materials that are resistant to scratching.
- Ergonomics – Many fabric office chairs come with adjustable lumbar support, which helps you maintain a healthy posture, potentially reducing lower back pain.
Cons of Fabric Office Chairs
- Maintenance – Unlike leather office chairs; fabric types are vulnerable to moisture. Spilling coffee on your chair will most likely create a stain and absorb the coffee odor. In such cases, the fabric chair must be wet-washed, which can be a bit of a hassle.
- Ventilation – Unlike mesh office chairs, the thick plush padding of fabric chairs doesn’t allow air to pass through, potentially causing excessive sweat problems.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, fabric office chairs are certainly good options for those looking for a more comfortable experience than mesh office chairs which can sometimes feel a little too hard to sit on. In addition, they are very affordable compared to leather and mesh chairs, meaning you don’t have to spend a fortune on a reliable product.
With so many options on the market, it can be challenging to pick one office chair. However, if we had to recommend one chair out of all our selections in this guide, it would be Steelcase Gesture Series. Although the Gesture Series is expensive, it’s a high-quality chair that will last ten times longer than cheaper competing products.
We hope our best fabric office chairs guide has helped you find the ideal chair for you. On a final note, thanks for reading. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to contact us. Also, feel free to check out our other office chair reviews and keep reading below for the frequently asked questions associated with mesh office chairs.
