How to Spot a High-Quality Refurbished Office Chair (Before You Buy)

Buying a refurbished office chair can be one of the smartest investments you make — but only if you know what to look for.

At Arte Curated, we handpick premium chairs from iconic brands and professionally restore them to give you style, comfort, and performance without the brand-new price tag. But how can you tell if a refurbished chair is truly worth it?

Here are five expert tips to help you spot the real deal:

✅ 1. Check the Frame and Build Quality

Top-tier office chairs are built to last — but they still need a solid foundation. When assessing a refurbished model, look for:

No cracks or warping in the frame
Smooth movement when reclining or adjusting
A solid, balanced feel when you sit

If the chair wobbles or squeaks, it’s not been properly restored.

🔁 2. Look for Professionally Replaced Parts

A good refurbishment isn’t just about cleaning — it includes replacing worn or damaged components. At Arte Curated, we often replace:

Gas lifts
Casters
Armrest pads
Lumbar support mechanisms

This ensures you’re getting a chair that performs like new, not just looks like it.

🧽 3. Don’t Be Fooled by “Cleaned Up” Only

A deep clean is important — but true refurbishment goes further. We sanitize every chair, treat the upholstery, and recondition materials for comfort and hygiene.

Cheap resellers may wipe down the surface, but skip the detailed work inside.

🔍 4. Look for Brand Labels and Model Numbers

Genuine refurbished chairs should include original brand markings — like those from Herman Miller, Steelcase, or Humanscale.

At Arte Curated, we display model names clearly and verify every item before resale. No fakes, no clones, no surprises.

🛡 5. Ask About the Warranty

A proper refurbishment should come with a guarantee. If a seller doesn’t back their work, that’s a red flag.

Every Arte Curated chair includes warranty options and clear return policies — because we stand behind what we sell.

🧠 Final Thought: Trust the Source

Refurbished chairs can be an incredible deal — but only when done right. Whether you’re upgrading your home office or outfitting a full workspace, choose a seller who knows what quality looks (and feels) like.