If you are shopping around for a new seat, you are likely comparing mesh vs cushion chairs. Some of the best office chairs, after all, feature one of these two types of materials. Keep reading to learn all about the differences between the two chair types.
Key Takeaways_
- A mesh chair tends to be more breathable, and therefore cooler, than a cushioned chair made from Memory Foam or another type of office chair.
- Cushioned chairs may be more immediately comfortable no matter the body weight, but could lack certain ergonomic adjustment options.
- Both chairs face specific difficulties when it comes to the cleaning process.
Differences Between Mesh Chairs and Cushion Chairs
Selecting the Right Office Chair
Selecting the right office chair is crucial for your comfort and health. Be careful to understand the differences between a mid-back and a high-back chair, as this can greatly affect your posture and back support. For those considering alternative seating, compare the benefits of a kneeling chair versus an office chair to find the best ergonomic fit. If space is a concern, exploring the pros and cons of a folding chair compared to an office chair can help you make an informed decision. Our comprehensive guide on desk chair sizes will help you select a chair that perfectly matches your workspace requirements.
The primary difference between these two types of chairs is that mesh chairs feature mesh surrounding the exterior, with no cushioning to speak of, while cushioned chairs boast large and comfortable cushions to support the posterior and the back. Other differences will be subtle, such as when you are comparing mesh office chairs vs fabric office chairs or mesh vs leather office chairs.
insider tip
You may need to cycle through several external cushions to find the right one for your body.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Finding the Perfect Office Chair
Explore various options and features for the best seating experience. Armless office chairs offer a sleek, minimalist design for any setup. Our recommendations for the best office chairs under $500 provide high-quality, affordable choices. Consider sitting on exercise balls for improved posture and unique ergonomic benefits. Choosing between a drafting chair and an office chair can also impact your comfort and productivity, so select the one that fits your needs.
Cushioned chairs will be more immediately comfortable, so will likely be best for short use sessions. However, heavily cushioned seats tend to lack some of the ergonomic adjustment features found with mesh chairs, as mesh chairs are often ergonomic office chairs. If you are sitting in a chair for eight hours or more every single day, you should always go for an ergonomic chair, regardless of material. In short, you’ll want to learn how to choose the best office chair with back support.
Breathability
Mesh is purpose-built to allow for superior breathability during use. This comes in extremely handy during hot days with no air conditioning, as the added breathability will ensure you stay cool as you sit on the chair. Cushioned chairs have no room for the kinds of porous openings that allow for breathability. In other words, if you typically sit in a humid or hot room, go for the mesh chair. Your sweat-free back will thank you.
STAT: Mesh chairs are very easy for maintenance and are very lightweight. (source)
Cleaning
Chair Maintenance Tips
Address common issues promptly to keep your office chair comfortable and functional. If you slide out of your chair, try simple fixes to stay seated securely. Unusual sounds? Learn how to fix popping noises, or check out our guide on fixing a squeaky chair for a quieter environment. Regular maintenance, like removing hair from chair wheels, ensures smooth movement and extends your chair’s life. For leather chairs, knowing how to fix scratches keeps them looking new.
This is essentially a draw. Cushion chairs can stain easily if you aren’t careful, but as long as you follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions, you should be able to handle just about anything you throw at it. Mesh chairs, on the other, resist stains of all kinds, as they are usually made from synthetic materials of some kind.
warning
Maintaining the stability and cleanliness of your office chair is crucial to avoid hazards. If your chair leans back or forward, learn how to fix it to prevent accidents. Understanding how to fix chair hydraulics can also ensure proper function. Additionally, knowing how to remove blood stains can help keep your workspace hygienic. Addressing these issues promptly will ensure your chair remains safe and reliable.
However, they can be difficult to deep-clean, thanks to the numerous minuscule holes running throughout. Both types of chairs are not too difficult to keep clean, as long as you perform due diligence. Another material that is easy to clean is leather, as most can be wiped clean.
