How to Add a Headrest to an Office Chair?

Did you know that the headrest on your office chair is important for comfort and proper ergonomics?

The headrest is essential for providing adequate support to your shoulders and neck. If the headrest on your office chair isn’t up to your standards, you can replace it with a new one.

When you want to add a headrest to your office chair, it’s a very easy process. You’ll need to choose the right headrest for you, remove the existing headrest (if there is one), and fasten in the new one.

What you may not have known is that many office chairs that don’t have a headrest still have the option of adding one. On this page, we’re going to cover the instructions on how to add a headrest to an office chair.

Keep reading to find out how to make your office chair more comfortable.

Choose the right headrest

The first step is the same, no matter which type of office chair you are working with. You will need to choose the right headrest. There are many different headrests available, so first you will need to determine which one will fit on your office chair. Once you know which options you can work with, it will make it easier to narrow down the choices. 

Before we tell you how to add a new headrest to your office chair, we should discuss the 3 most common types of headrests that you can get. 

• Height adjustable headrest: you can adjust the headrest to be suitable for people of different heights.
• Fully adjustable headrest: these headrests allow you to adjust the height and also tilt the headrest for ultimate comfort. 
• Built-in headrest: larger headset with a backrest as well. (These are similar to the big chairs that many bosses sit in)
• Headrest with pillow: some chairs will come with a pillow headrest. There are a variety of these headrests available. Some come with adjustable features while others are basic.

Adding a headrest that is aligned to the top of the chair

It’s important that you start by choosing a headrest that is compatible with your chair. This is important to ensure that the headrest will fit properly on your chair. 

1. Start by removing the nameplate screw from the headrest. Use a flat screwdriver to get the screw out.
2. Examine the office chair to make sure it has 2 small holes at the back towards the top. If it doesn’t, you will need to drill them to align with the headrest.
3. Carefully set up the headrest so it is in place and aligned with the two holes. Make sure the headrest is at the right height before fastening it in place.
4. Using a wrench, tighten the nameplate screws. Make sure they are tightened all the way so the headrest will not move out ouf place.

Adding a headrest that is attached with metal clips

Some office chairs are compatible with headrests that are attached to the chair on both the left and right side. They are attached with metal clips. If this is the type of headrest you will be installing, follow these instructions:

1. Once you have your headrest ready, start by adding the metal clips to the chair. Put them on both the left and right side of the office chair. Make sure the tabs are facing the back.
2. When doing this, you’ll want to slide the clips down and allow them to rest on the small bump.
3. Next you will want to put the headrest in place. When doing this step, it’s important that the headrest gets placed on the chair with the front edge overe the top of the chair’s edge. 
4. Before fastening the headrest, adjust it to the right height. 
5. Once the headrest is fitted onto the clips, you will be able to tighten the screws in place. Make sure all the screws are tighten on both sides and the middle. 

Can you make a DIY headrest for an office chair?

If your office chair doesn’t come with the option to add a headrest, you are not out of luck. An easy way to solve this problem is with a DIY headrest. This can be made with pillows, cushions, or even styrofoam. 

When making a headrest with pillows or cushions, place one pillow towards the top on the back of your chair. Use tape or rope to hold it in place. Next, you can place a smaller cushion in the front, which your head will be able to rest on.

If you find the pillow technique to be too flimsy, you can also make a headrest from styrofoam. We recommend using soft styrofoam to avoid discomfort in your neck and back. 

1. Measure the exact height you need for the styrofoam headrest. Cut it to the right size and shape.
2. Cut a small gap at the bottom of the headrest so you will be able to fit it onto te chair. (This works well for wooden chairs as well).
3. Using rope, string, or zip-ties to fasten the new headrest in place. Make sure it is secure and will not fall off once you place some pressure on it.
4. One your new styrofoam headrest is in place, you’ll want to cover it up. We recommending hiding it with a nice fabric. The fabric will also help hold it in place. If you don’t have fabric, you could use a blanket or old bedsheet.  

Final thoughts

Read more:

• Replacing Gas lift from Office Chair

If you spend a lot of time in your office chair, then you will need the right support to stay comfortable. A headrest is very important for neck and shoulder support. One thing we highly recommend when adding a new headrest to your office chair is to always fasten it as tight as possible to prevent it from moving.

This will ensure your headrest stays at the right height for your best ergonomics. When your chair is in the right position, you are less likely to experience pain in your back and neck which is often a result of sitting in poor office chairs for long periods of time.