7 Tips for Buying Dining Chairs

 7 Tips for Buying Dining Chairs

There are lots of options when choosing dining chairs if you shop around, but finding the perfect dining chairs that will go with an existing dining table is not the easiest of tasks.

You may just need simple dining chairs to complete the look, maybe you are looking for something cool and modern looking for your dining room, or maybe you prefer a more classic look. Whatever you personal taste is, you will want to ensure that you buy chairs that will not only match your dining room décor but will be comfortable for you and your family.

Read on to learn more about what you need to know when you shop for dining chairs.

1. Find the Perfect Shape and Size

The shape of the chair is very important. You can choose from a number of different styles, including angular, slotted, and round.

  • For a more modern look, choose a round chair with straight legs and low backs.
  • For a more classic look choose elegant upholstered chairs that have tall backrests.
  • For the Nordic or natural look for opt for wood.

Dining tables and dining chairs come in all different sizes, so when you find the right shape for your space, do remember to measure the height of your table to make sure that whatever chairs you choose will fit comfortably underneath and allow just enough (and not too much) room for your knees.

The angle of the backrest will also impact the style of your chair. You can find chairs with straight, curved, and swan backrests, all with varying styles. Swan backrests will give your dining room that mid-century modern look.

2. Consider Your Budget

If you have a limited budget, it can be difficult to find chairs that are suitable. But, don’t worry – there are a number of budget-friendly styles that are designed to look and feel expensive. If you have a small budget, consider getting a chair that has a simple elegant appearance.

  • For a budget-friendly look, choose a simple chair that looks expensive. The Mid Century Modern DSW chairs above, look cool and contemporary but they cost just under $100 for the set of four chairs.

You can choose between fabric or wooden dining chairs. Both have different looks, wooden chairs tend to be more durable than upholstered chairs and will look good in your home for years.

  • However, if you have the budget you may be in the market to invest in a high-quality chair. Go for dining chairs by one of many well-known chair/furniture designers, that way your chairs will not only be an investment piece but works of art!

3. Consider the Material

You’ll want to consider the material your chair is made of. If you’re looking for a chair that can hold up well, you’ll want to choose a chair that’s made of sturdy material. For example, you can go for a wooden chair.

The bottom line is, you’ll want to make sure the chair you choose has the strength you need.

If you’re buying fabric/upholstered dining chairs, they can look more high-end and are often more comfortable than their wooden counterparts. A fabric chair also creates a more cozy setting for a dining room which can enhance the style of your home.

They also offer more of a classic or traditional look. If you’re in the market for a fabric chair, make sure there is enough padding in the seat so they are comfortable to sit in.

And what's more, a fabric chair can last just as long - or even last longer than a wooden chair if the quality of the fabric is good and easy to keep clean.

4. Make Sure Your Chair Seats You Properly

When buying dining chairs, you’ll need to make sure you buy a chair that’s designed for your shape or size. If you are tall or have taller people in your family, it’s best to look for a chair with a taller back. If you’re on the shorter side, you’ll want a smaller chair. Chairs should also be comfortable. You should be able to relax and sit comfortably on the chair.

If you have a family with small children, you’ll want to choose a chair that has a comfortable height. If you have a family with older children, you’ll want to choose a chair that has enough space.

5. Make Sure Your Chair Legs Go With Your Floor

If you’re buying a dining chair with wooden legs, you’ll need to make sure they either match or complement your dining table's legs - and also your floor. If you have a wooden floor you may find that a contrasting wood color for your dining chairs and table will help to showcase your dining set more.

Equally, if you have a lot of other furniture nearby you may prefer your chair and tables legs to be more neutral and toned down to give your furniture a more harmonious and tranquil look.

6. Choose a Chair That Fits in With Your Living Room

If you’re buying a chair for your living room, you’ll need to choose a chair that matches your living room. If you have a contemporary home, you’ll want to choose chairs with a contemporary look. If you’re going for a traditional look, - and you can’t really go wrong with a traditional design, you’ll want to choose chairs with a more traditional design.

7. Consider the Maintenance

You’ll want to make sure you’re buying a chair that’s easy to maintain. If you have a young family, you don’t want to get a dining set that is difficult to clean. So you’ll might want to go for a more casual chair for durability and ease of cleaning. Potentially modern, high-end chairs could require a lot of maintenance to keep looking good.