Gaming chairs see hours of daily use, which means sweat, skin oils, crumbs and dust build up quickly. Most are covered in either PU or PVC (faux) leather, fabric, or mesh, and each material needs a different approach. Check the manufacturer’s care guide first, since specific models can have particular recommendations.
Check the material and care label
Look at the label under the seat or the manufacturer’s website. If you cannot find it, test your cleaning method on a hidden area, such as the underside of the seat or the back near the bottom. If the chair is fabric with a cleaning code (W, S, WS or X), our guide to spot cleaning upholstery explains what the codes mean.
Supplies
- Vacuum with a soft brush and crevice tool
- Microfiber cloths
- Mild liquid dish soap
- Soft brush or old toothbrush
- Baking soda
- Plain water
- PU or leather conditioner (for faux or real leather chairs, if the maker recommends it)
Routine cleaning
Once a week or so, vacuum the seat, back and seams, and wipe armrests. Regular dusting stops grit from wearing down the surface and keeps deep cleaning easier.
PU and PVC leather chairs
- Remove dust with a dry microfiber cloth or a vacuum with a soft brush.
- Mix a few drops of mild dish soap into warm water.
- Dampen a microfiber cloth and wring it out well, so water does not run into seams or perforations. Wipe gently without scrubbing.
- Wipe again with a cloth dampened with plain water to remove soap.
- Dry right away with a clean towel.
- If the manufacturer allows it, apply a small amount of conditioner to keep the surface supple.
Avoid alcohol-heavy wipes, harsh solvents and abrasive scrubbers, which can strip the finish and speed up cracking and peeling. Once PU is flaking, cleaning will not restore it. For a larger piece with the same finish, see how to clean a polyurethane couch.
Fabric and mesh chairs
- Vacuum thoroughly with a brush or crevice tool to pull dust and hair out of seams and mesh.
- Test a soapy solution in a hidden spot.
- Lightly dampen a cloth in soapy water and blot stains. Do not saturate the foam.
- Blot with a cloth dampened with plain water.
- Let it dry fully in a ventilated room, with a fan if needed.
For stubborn spots, see how to clean a chair seat, which covers different seat materials in more detail. A fabric chair that is marked with an X code should be vacuumed only or cleaned by a professional.
Armrests, base and casters
Armrests often get the grimiest. Wipe them with the same soapy cloth, matched to the armrest material. For the base and casters, remove hair and debris wound around the wheels with a pair of tweezers or scissors (with care), then wipe the base with a damp cloth. Do not oil moving parts or spray cleaners into the height mechanism unless the manufacturer recommends it.
Getting rid of odors
A stinky chair is usually caused by sweat and bacteria in the padding. Try these in order:
- Clean the surface as above.
- For fabric or mesh, sprinkle baking soda, leave it for several hours, then vacuum.
- Air the chair in a well-ventilated room, out of strong direct sun, which can fade fabric or dry out faux leather.
- If a spill or pet accident soaked in, an enzyme cleaner made for that purpose may help, if the material permits.
Avoid heavy perfume sprays, which can mix with sweat smells and irritate some people.
Disinfecting carefully
Disinfectant wipes and sprays can damage PU and leather finishes, and not all are intended for fabric. Check the label of both the product and the chair. A mild soap-and-water clean removes much of the dirt and germs. If you want a disinfectant, follow the manufacturer’s guidance and the product’s contact time, then wipe residue with a damp cloth.
Safety
- Never mix bleach with ammonia or vinegar. The fumes can be toxic.
- Do not use bleach on a gaming chair.
- Rubbing alcohol is flammable and can damage some finishes. Keep it away from heat, and test it first.
- Ventilate the room while cleaning.
- Keep children and pets away from wet surfaces and cleaning products, and keep products stored out of reach.
How often to clean, and chair lifespan
A light weekly dusting and a more thorough clean every month or two is a reasonable pattern for a heavily used chair. Lifespan depends on the chair, how it is used and how it is cared for, so any figure is only a rough guide. Signs it may be time to replace the chair include a collapsing gas lift, crumbling foam, wobbling or broken mechanisms, and peeling or cracked covers.
FAQ
How do I clean my fabric gaming chair?
Vacuum it thoroughly, spot test, dab with mild soapy water, blot with plain water and let it dry fully.
How do I clean a stinky gaming chair?
Clean the surface, use baking soda on fabric, and air it out. Persistent smells may come from deep in the foam.
What is the average lifespan of a gaming chair?
It varies widely depending on build quality and use. Replace it when the structure or cushioning fails.
How do I get bad odor out of a chair?
Use baking soda, airing and gentle cleaning. For a canvas-style sofa or similar fabrics, how to clean a canvas couch covers similar odor methods.