10 Smart Ways to Stop Office Chair from Rolling

by Andrew Smith| Last Updated: October 28, 2021

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How to Stop Office Chair from Rolling

Rolling chairs are an integral part of modern offices. In addition to being comfortable, they are convenient. Moreover, they save space.

But what happens when your chair keeps rolling, distracting you from your work while destroying your floor?

Our deeply researched piece provides you with the best ways on how to stop office chair from rolling.

You stop office chair from rolling by using anti-skid mats, replacing your casters, using locking wheels, organizing your workplace, and sitting correctly. You lock the wheels on a rolling chair using a lock or wheel caps. On the other hand, you make casters roll smoothly through maintenance.

Table of Contents

How to Stop Office Chair from Rolling

To stop office chair from rolling, you need to understand the cause of this problem. Amongst the most common reason for a chair to roll is an uneven surface or flooring.

Moreover, rolling can happen if the base of the chair is not resting on the ground.

To check whether your chair is moving, look at its wheels. The wheels ought to point straight ahead when the chair is stationary.

On the contrary, they may start turning slightly when the chair moves.

To stop your office chair from rolling, ensure you securely attach the wheels to the frame so that they cannot turn. You could use anti-slip materials on the bottom of the chair.

Let’s look at how to stop caster wheels from rolling in detail below.

1. Use a Strap or Belt

The first method is using a strap or belt on the back of your seat. Straps prevent you from moving forward and backward while sitting down.

The best way to use this technique is by tying it around both sides of the chair’s backrest. If you want to make sure that the straps don’t slip off during movement, then they should be tied tightly enough not to move at all.

2. Securing the Chair to the Floor

Tie one end of an elastic band to the floor and put it over your seat backrest. This method works well with chairs without armrests because it prevents the chair from sliding backward.

However, if your chair has arms, put the elastic band between the two arms. Then, wrap it around the bottom part of the chair and fasten it securely. Make sure that the ends of the band aren’t too loose; otherwise, it may not work.

3. Attach Something Heavy to the Desk

 If you’re working on a desktop computer, you may find it challenging to keep your chair still. Try attaching heavy objects like book boxes and files to the underside of the desk.

These items help keep your chair steady even though you might feel uncomfortable attaching them to your chair.

4. Use A Plastic Mat Or Area Rug

If your floor is smooth, then your chair will roll? Using a plastic area mat or a rug is not only a simple way, but it’s also cheaper when compared to some other remedies. A plastic mat is way better as it doesn’t slide unexpectedly when you move. A rug, on the other hand, may slide often. 

Your budget determines which one to buy. Place the office chair on top of the mat or area rug. A major drawback to using a plastic mat or area rug is that you cannot freely roll the chair as you do on a smooth floor. The wheels may not move freely, and you might have to wake up to roll the chair when need be.

5. Securely Fasten Your Seats With Straps

You can secure several seats with belts or straps. They come in handy, especially when you’re going through long meetings where you’d rather stay seated.

However, this hack is only best for gathering sessions. It may be impossible to use this in an office setting where each person has their working station.

6. Buy Anti-Rolling Chairs

Anti-rolling chairs are designed specifically to reduce the risk of falling out of your chair. Some models include built-in foot supports which allow you to stand up easily.

Additionally, others feature adjustable lumbar support systems that provide proper posture alignment and minimize fidgeting in your chair.

7. Consider Using Locking Wheels

Locking wheels are great for preventing your chair from slipping forward or backwards. These wheels are affordable and cost around $20.

However, be careful about buying cheap ones since these types tend to break more often. Also, look into purchasing anti-slip mats to complement your chair.

8. Avoid Sitting Too Far From The Front Edge Of Your Chair

Sitting far from the front edge of your chair increases the chances of tipping over. So, always position yourself close to the center of your chair.

Sit upright and straight. If you slouch or lean forward, you’ll end up sitting incorrectly.

Furthermore, you should avoid leaning backward since doing so puts pressure on your lower spine besides increasing rolling chances.

Consider taking short walks around your office after an hour or two of sitting. Moreover, stretch out your muscles before returning to your desk.

Besides ensuring productivity, taking breaks frequently may aid in preventing your chair from rolling. How? Breaks keep your body healthy and energize you. They minimize fatigue in your body that may make you sit improperly and cause your chair to tip over or slide to the side.

9. Remove the Casters

Another simple way to prevent your office chair from rolling is to remove your current caster wheels. Detaching caster wheels from office chairs is relatively straightforward. Often, you only need to pull them out, although some may require you to unscrew them from your chair’s base.

After detaching the wheels, consider wrapping duct tape around the caster sockets and placing your seat on a platform or anti-skid mat. This way, you’ll protect your floor from scratches and markings.

10. Keep it Clean and Organized

Keep your workspace clean. Remove clutter such as papers, books, and magazines. In addition, make sure that there isn’t anything under your feet that would cause your chair to tip over.

Finally, organize all of your materials according to their importance. For example, place essential documents within reach while placing less-used items next to them.

11. Buy Quality Seats

If you have an inexpensive and flimsy office chair with all sorts of problems, getting a new chair with a better grip might be an excellent choice to prevent rolling.

When shopping for quality office chairs, consider investing in high-back designs. High backs provide enhanced support, which helps reduce fatigue. Additionally, they allow users to maintain proper posture throughout extended periods.

Also, choose a chair with a firm seat cushion. You don’t want one that sags or slides forward.

How Do I Protect My Hardwood Floors from a Rolling Chair?

One of the best ways to protect your hardwood floor from a rolling chair is to place anti-slip mats underneath the office chair. Anti-slip mats help ensure that the chair doesn’t slip when rolling.

You can also use rubber pads in place of anti-slip mats. Rubber pads absorb shock and lessen the damage caused by the chair moving across the floor.

However, if you are unable to install anti-slip mats or rubber pads, you must take additional measures to protect your floors.

First, try using non-skid tape to cover the area where the chair moves. These tapes help minimize rolling action.

Second, employ measures to prevent your chair from rolling, like replacing the wheels and fixating the chair.

How Do You Make Casters Roll Smoothly?

Casters roll smoothly when you clean them. Ensure there is no hair, thread, or dirt obstructing their oscillations.

Moreover, you should lubricate your casters once in a while. Oiling the wheels twice a year should be fine to keep them rolling without difficulty and noises.

Also, ensure you clean your surfaces and protect them from cracks and crevices. 

How Do You Lock Wheels on a Rolling Chair?

There are several methods available to lock wheels on a rolling chair. One way is to purchase locking wheel caps. Locking wheel caps make sure that the wheels stay locked even after prolonged usage.

Another method involves installing locks onto the casters. Installing locks requires some technical expertise, so you may need to pay for professional services.

Moreover, you can wrap duct tape around your casters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Chair Mat Necessary?

A chair mat is not necessary when you have non-marking feet. Nonetheless, it does come in handy on slippery floors. A mat provides traction between the ground and the bottom of the chair. This prevents the chair from slipping and sliding.

In fact, most people who own a mat prefer having it because it also makes walking easier.

What Are the Best Types of Mats to Use on Your Flooring?

The best types of mats to use on your flooring include non-slip mats, carpet pads, and rubber mats.

Conclusion

With all these tips, your working hours should move smoothly without having to struggle with a faulty chair.

Which amongst the ways on how to stop office chair from rolling above do you find the simplest? Also, which ones work better?

Author

  • Andrew Smith

    Andrew Smith is the founder of CozySeating, is a father of 2, and an engineer from one of the leading furniture stores in the country. Due to his 10 years of experience, he has proved to be the best person to offer advice to clients regarding different seating furniture based on their needs and performance. Besides, he is a specialist in product reviews and always keeps up with the current trends in the market.

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