Back to blog
Article
How to Disassemble an Office Chair
Admin October 22, 2026
Disassembling an office chair requires specific steps based on its model and design. Here are the common procedures:

1. Headrest Removal
- Pull the headrest to its highest position and locate the thin metal strip in the middle (usually a snap-fit structure). Press down firmly with your thumb or palm until the snap releases, then pull the headrest straight out vertically. If the metal strip is slippery or difficult to hold, insert a discarded hard card (such as a bank card) between the metal strip and the headrest connection to assist with pressing.
- Note: Some headrests may require rotation to unlock before removal. Check for rotation markings or try rotating slightly before pulling.
2. Armrest Removal
- Invert the chair onto a stable, elevated platform (such as a table) to avoid scratching the floor.
- Use the hex wrench provided with the chair to loosen the fixing screws beneath the armrests. If the screws are located inside the seat frame, use your hand or a tool (such as tweezers) to assist in loosening.
- Tip: If the screws are rusted or too tight, spray a small amount of lubricant (such as WD-40) and wait 5 minutes before proceeding.
3. Backrest and Seat Base Separation
- Locate the fixing screws (usually 2-3) at the connection between the backrest and the seat base. Use the hex wrench to loosen all screws completely, then remove the backrest.
- If the backrest and chassis are connected by a snap-fit structure, press the unlock buttons on both sides of the snap first, then lift the backrest upward.
4. Gas Spring and Five-Star Base Separation
- Step 1: Use a rubber mallet (or a regular hammer with a wooden block) to evenly tap the five legs of the five-star base, separating the gas spring from the base.
- Step 2: Invert the chair and tap the center of the seat base plate to detach the gas spring from the base. If disassembly is difficult, press the height adjustment lever and rock the seat back and forth to assist in separation.
- Safety Tip: The gas spring contains high-pressure gas. Avoid puncturing it with sharp tools during disassembly to prevent explosion risks.
5. Caster Removal
- Pull the casters straight out vertically from the five-star base. If the casters are stuck, rotate them left and right while pulling gently, or use a screwdriver to pry between the caster and the five-star base.
6. Handling Other Components
- Place the seat base face down in the packaging box, then add foam, armrests, backrest, headrest, and casters in order.
- Ensure small items such as the adapter, screw pack, and instruction manual are stored separately to avoid loss.
Precautions:
- It is recommended to take photos of each component's position before disassembly for easier reassembly later.
- If the gas rod is tightly fitted with the chair legs, wrap the gas rod with a hot towel (to soften the plastic snap) before disassembly, but control the temperature to avoid burns.
- Designs vary significantly among different brands (such as Sihoo, Ergotron, Herman Miller). Refer to the product manual or official disassembly video first for guidance.




