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How to Remove the Headrest of an Office Chair

Admin October 08, 2026

The method for removing the headrest (head pillow) of an office chair depends on the type of fastening mechanism used. Here are the common types and steps:

I. Snap-Button Fastening

  1. Locate the Unlock Point: Observe the connection between the headrest post and the backrest. Typically, there are buttons, levers, or snap-button structures on the sides, bottom, or near the top of the backrest. Some designs may be hidden under fabric or plastic covers, requiring gentle pressing or pulling to uncover.
  2. Operation Steps: Press and hold the unlock button or open the snap button with one hand while keeping it pressed, and use the other hand to grasp both sides of the headrest and pull it straight up. If there is significant resistance, tilt the backrest back to its maximum angle to change the direction of force on the snap button and try again. Be careful not to shake the headrest left and right to prevent the snap button from breaking.

II. Pin/Screw Fastening

  1. Check the Fastening Points:
    • Screw Fastening: If there are exposed screws at the base of the headrest post or on the top of the backrest, select the appropriate tool based on the screw type (e.g., Phillips, flathead, or Allen wrench).
    • Pin Fastening: Some designs require pulling the headrest to its highest position to expose the pin hole, then using a tool (such as a thin screwdriver) to gently push the pin out of place.
  2. Operation Steps:
    • Screw Fastening: Use a screwdriver to turn the screws counterclockwise to loosen and remove them. For some models, you may need to invert the chair, use a wrench to remove the screws at the bottom of the backrest, and then use a torque wrench to remove the nuts.
    • Pin Fastening: After removing the pin, simply lift the headrest straight up. After disassembly, keep the screws/pins in a safe place to avoid losing them.

III. Velcro Fastening

Simply peel off the Velcro that attaches the back of the headrest to the backrest. This method is commonly found in simple office chairs or auxiliary headrests. It is easy to operate, but the adhesive strength may weaken over time. When disassembling, peel it off slowly to avoid leaving adhesive residue.

IV. Hidden Fastening (Requires Removing the Back Panel)

  1. Tilt the backrest back to its maximum angle and check the bottom of the back for any snap fasteners or Velcro closures.
  2. After loosening the closure, lift the back panel (such as fabric or plastic) to expose the internal locking mechanism.
  3. Remove the headrest according to the type of locking mechanism (e.g., snap button or screw) using the methods described above. Be careful not to scratch the surface of the backrest during operation.

General Precautions

  • Safety Protection: Lock the chair wheels before operation to prevent tipping; if inverting the chair is necessary, it is recommended to have two people collaborate.
  • Tool Matching: Use screwdrivers or wrenches of the appropriate size to avoid slipping; Allen screws require an L-shaped wrench to increase torque.
  • Force Control: Pull the headrest straight up with vertical force, avoiding shaking it left and right to prevent deformation of the post or damage to the snap button.
  • Instruction Manual Priority: If the product comes with an instruction manual, follow its special design instructions (such as disassembly sequence and tool requirements) first.