
A squeaky office chair can be incredibly distracting, especially when you’re trying to focus. I’ve had my fair share of squeaky chair moments.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through simple, step-by-step solutions for how to fix a squeaky office chair — from lubricating the joints to tightening loose components — so you can get back to a quieter workspace.
Project difficulty: Beginner Estimated time to complete: 1 to 2 hours. Project cost: If no pieces need to be replaced, you can expect to spend around $12 to $25 (for the lubricant, screwdriver, and screws). *If you need to replace damaged pieces, including the gas cylinder, the costs can reach up to $100. |
1. Flip the Chair to Inspect the Source of the Squeak

The first step in fixing your squeaky office chair is to turn it upside down, placing the seat on a stable surface like a table, countertop, or even a bed. Placing it on top of the bed is the best way to go if you don’t want to risk scratching your dining table (like I did once).
Make sure the chair’s legs are pointing up toward the ceiling. This position will make it easier to access all the chair’s components and allow you to pinpoint the exact source of the squeak.
Tip: If your chair has armrests, you might want to remove them in this step so the chair is more stable and easier to work on. My chair’s armrests are not removable so this makes it a bit trickier (as you can see in the picture). If your chair doesn’t have armrests, you might want to consider getting them. Read more about it in our article: “What to Look for in an Office Chair.”
2. Examine all Hardware
Now that your chair is securely positioned, take a close look at all the bolts, screws, and other hardware components. Sometimes, the squeak can be a simple fix — just a loose bolt or screw that needs tightening.
This is also the perfect time to check for any signs of damage or rust on the parts (including bolts, screws, springs, and wheels), as broken or corroded components might require replacement. By identifying any problem areas now, you’ll be better prepared to take action in the next steps and have a clear plan for tackling each issue.
3. Remove Bolts and Screws

To inspect each component thoroughly, especially for rust or wear, you may need to remove some bolts and screws. This will allow you to get a closer look at parts that might be causing the squeak and ensure everything is in good condition.
Removing these fasteners will also make it easier to apply lubricant and remove the damaged parts in the next steps.
Tip: Keep track of all removed parts to ensure an easy reassembly later on.
4. Replace Damaged Parts
If you’ve noticed any rust or damage on bolts, screws, or springs, it’s important to replace them to eliminate the squeak fully. For simple components like screws and bolts, take the rusted pieces to your local hardware store to find exact matches.
However, for more complex parts, such as the chair’s cylinder, it’s best to contact the manufacturer directly for a replacement or consider buying a new chair. Trying to fix the chair’s cylinder yourself could be dangerous, as it can lead to a sudden release of pressure and cause injury.
5. Apply Lubricant
Now, before reassembling your chair, it’s time for one of the most crucial steps in fixing that squeak: applying lubricant. Choose a reliable lubricant, like WD-40, and spray it directly onto the chair’s moving parts and mechanisms.
Be thorough, ensuring you reach joints, springs, and areas prone to friction. After applying the lubricant, use a paper towel to wipe off any excess to prevent buildup. This step will help reduce the friction that’s likely causing the squeak but also help protect against future rust.
Tip: Protect your floor, table, or countertop with newspaper before doing this step.
6. Reassemble
With everything inspected and lubricated, it’s time to put your chair back together. To ensure each piece goes back exactly as it was, refer to the instruction manual or search for it online, if needed. Here’s a general guide for reassembling most types of office chairs:
- Place the gas strut securely into the five-star base.
- Bolt the seat to the main mechanism, ensuring the screw heads are properly tightened.
- Slide the metal securing plank into the chair back. Join with a screw.
- Fit the chair seat onto the gas strut.
- Slot the chair backrest securely onto the seat.
- Reattach the armrests, making sure they’re in place.
7. Tighten Components
This step is also super important for a stable, squeak-free chair. Go over every bolt and screw with an Allen key, making sure each one is fully tightened. Take extra care to ensure that no screw is misaligned, as even a slightly loose or misaligned component can cause an annoying noise.
For some reason, my chair’s screws always seem looser after a few months, so I like to tighten them every six months or so, even if it’s not squeaking. This helps prevent problems before they start. It’s a simple habit that keeps my chair sturdy and quiet.
8. Turn the Chair Upright

Now that everything’s reassembled and tightened, it’s time to test your work. Turn the chair upright and carefully sit on it. Begin by swiveling from side to side and gently reclining to see if any squeaks persist.
If the chair remains quiet and stable, you’ve successfully fixed the issue. Congrats! If there’s still noise, check if any parts need further tightening or more WD-40.
9. Check the Wheels
Don’t forget to test the wheels as the final step in your chair maintenance. Roll the chair back and forth, both while sitting on it and when it’s unoccupied, to check for any squeaks or stiffness in the wheels. If you notice any noise, apply a light spray of silicone lubricant directly onto each wheel’s moving parts.
FAQ
What Causes a Squeaky Chair?
A squeaky chair can be caused by various factors. Here are some common culprits:
- Loose or misaligned screws and bolts
- Damaged parts or structural components
- Rusty parts in need of replacement
- Worn-out gas lift piston
- Dirt or debris caught in the wheels
- Shaky or unstable legs
Note: Shaky legs might be causing your chair to be wobbly instead of squeaky. Read our article — “How to Fix a Wobbly Office Chair” — for more information.
What Kind of Lubricant Can I Use on My Squeaky Chair?
The best types of lubricants to use on your squeaky chair are silicone-based sprays or water-resistant sprays like WD-40. Silicone sprays work well on plastic and metal components, reducing friction, while WD-40 provides long-lasting protection and helps prevent rust.
What Not to Do: Avoid the mistake I made once when fixing squeaky mechanisms — using hair oil in a pinch when I didn’t have the right lubricant. It didn’t fix the squeak and just delayed buying what I really needed. Stick to proper lubricant to save time and ensure a lasting fix.
Get Your Chair in Top Shape
A squeaky office chair can be a minor annoyance, but a few simple adjustments can make all the difference in extending the life of your chair and improving your daily work experience.
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Main Image Credit: Andrii / Adobe Stock / License