In an era where sustainability and cost savings are increasingly important, furniture refurbishment presents a compelling solution for environmentally conscious businesses and professionals.
The trend of buying used items has become so “cool” that terms like “SECOND-LIFE” or “PRE-LOVED” have replaced the once-negative connotation of “USED.”
Even public administrations in Europe, through initiatives like GPP (and CAM in Italy), consider furniture refurbishment one of the most virtuous practices of the circular economy and environmental sustainability, particularly when applied to office chairs.
In this post, we will discuss furniture refurbishment, focusing specifically on office chairs and outlining a profile of a refurbishable office chair.
Contents
The Profile of a Refurbishable Office Chair
Thanks to refurbishment, the product’s life cycle is extended, reducing the need for new materials and lightening landfills by avoiding disposal of products still fit for use. However, not all products are suitable for refurbishment.
Here are the key points for identifying a refurbishable office chair:
1. Quality
The chair must be durable and designed to last as long as possible. This rules out many “low-cost” products because price can no longer be the main deciding factor.
2. Warranties and Certifications
The chair should come with warranties and certifications to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
3. Modularity
The chair must be designed for easy refurbishment, with replaceable components. Chairs with standardized and accessible parts simplify repairs and maintenance.
4. Availability of Spare Parts
Having standard parts and components available in the future is essential for refurbishing the chair. Be cautious of products that are too sophisticated or deviate from standards.
5. Materials
The chair should ideally be made from sustainable and recyclable materials that can be disposed of without compromising the product’s environmental performance.
Modularity, durability, and availability of spare parts are fundamental requirements that at SbS, as a producer of chair components, we offer to seat manufacturers through our innovative KitFit service.
There are also 3 additional aspects to consider, not part of the profile of a refurbishable chair, but rather recommendations to facilitate refurbishment:
Maintenance
Implement regular maintenance programs for office chairs to prevent damage and reduce the need for frequent replacements. Preventive maintenance may include lubricating moving parts, checking stability, and deep cleaning materials.
Training
Educate and raise awareness among staff using the product about the importance of chair care and maintenance, promoting practices that extend its lifespan.
Refurbishment Agreements
If the product is refurbishable, agreements can be made with companies specialized in furniture refurbishment to repair and renew existing chairs. These services may include replacing upholstery, repairing mechanical components, and updating worn parts.
In conclusion, by following these simple instructions, it is possible to purchase an office chair designed to last and be easily refurbished, offering savings for the end user and benefits for the environment.
