How to Stop a Swivel Chair From Swiveling

Do you love your swivel chair but hate it when it spins around uncontrollably? Have you ever felt dizzy, annoyed, or unsafe because of your swivel chair’s motion? If you are looking for a simple and effective way to stop your swivel chair from swiveling, then this blog is for you. In this blog, we will share with you eight clever and effective ways for how to stop a swivel chair from swiveling using some common tools and materials that you can find at home or in any hardware store. By following these easy steps, you will be able to enjoy a more comfortable and controlled seating experience.

How to Stop a Swivel Chair From Swiveling

8 Clever Ways for How to Stop a Swivel Chair From Swiveling

Here are the eight clever and effective ways for how to stop a swivel chair from swiveling:

1. Adjust the Tension on the Swivel Mechanism

This is the simplest and most common way to stop a swivel chair from swiveling. All you need to do is locate the knob or lever underneath the seat of the chair that controls the swivel function and turn it until the chair no longer swivels easily. You can also use a key or a screwdriver to adjust the tension if there is no knob or lever available. This method is suitable for most types of swivel chairs, including recliners and office chairs.

  • Benefits: This method is easy, quick, and reversible. You can adjust the tension according to your preference and change it anytime you want.
  • Drawbacks: This method may not work for some chairs that have a different swivel mechanism or no tension adjustment option. Also, this method may not completely stop the swivel chair from turning but only make it harder to do so.

2. Screw the Chair Base and the Swivel Base Together

This is another effective way to lock your swivel chair in place. You will need a drill, some screws, and some spacer bushings for this method. You will have to flip the chair upside down and drill holes through both the top and bottom plates of the swivel mechanism. Then, you will insert screws through the holes and tighten them using spacer bushings. This will prevent the seat from swiveling and transform your chair into a stationary seat.

Using Spacer Bushings
  • Benefits: This method is permanent, secure, and stable. You can be sure that your chair will not move or spin at all once you screw the plates together.
  • Drawbacks: This method is irreversible, complex, and risky. You will have to drill holes in your chair, which may damage its appearance and functionality. You will also need some skills and tools to perform this method correctly and safely.

3. Insert a Wedge Between the Chair Base and the Swivel Pole

This is a quick and easy way to stop a swivel chair from swiveling using some rubber wedges that you can buy or make yourself. You will have to insert a small rubber wedge between the chair base and the swiveling pole and gently hammer it into place. This will create friction and limit the range of motion of the swivel chair. You can also use tape, glue, rubber bands, sticky pads, or rubber cement to secure the wedge if it comes off.

  • Benefits: This method is simple, cheap, and adjustable. You can use any material that fits between the base and the pole as a wedge, such as wood, plastic, or metal. You can also remove or replace the wedge anytime you want.
  • Drawbacks: This method is temporary, unreliable, and unsightly. The wedge may fall off or wear out over time, causing your chair to swivel again. The wedge may also look out of place or damage your floor if it sticks out too much.

4. Use a Locking Mechanism on Your Swivel Recliner

Some swivel recliners come with a built-in locking mechanism that allows you to stop them from swiveling with a simple switch or button. This is an ideal solution for those who want to enjoy both the benefits of a swivel recliner and a stationary recliner. To use this feature, you will have to locate the switch or button on your recliner that controls the locking mechanism and activate it when you want to stop your recliner from swiveling.

  • Benefits: This method is convenient, effective, and versatile. You can easily switch between a swivel recliner and a stationary recliner with just one click or push.
  • Drawbacks: This method is limited, expensive, and rare. Not all swivel recliners have this feature, and those that do may cost more than regular ones. Also, this feature may malfunction or break down over time, rendering it useless.
A Stationary Recliner

5. Use Non-slip Rug Pads or Furniture Grippers for Rocker Recliners

Rocker recliners are another type of recliner that can swivel as well as rock back and forth. Some people may find this motion relaxing, but others may find it annoying or uncomfortable. To stop a rocker recliner from swiveling, you can use some non-slip rug pads or furniture grippers that are designed to prevent furniture from sliding or moving on the floor. You will have to place these pads or grippers under the base of your rocker recliner and press them firmly to make them stick. This will reduce the swiveling and rocking of your recliner and make it more stable and steady.

  • Benefits: This method is simple, inexpensive, and reversible. You can use any non-slip pads or grippers that are suitable for your floor type and size. You can also remove them anytime you want without damaging your recliner or floor.
  • Drawbacks: This method is partial, weak, and temporary. It may not completely stop your recliner from swiveling or rocking, but only reduce it to some extent. It may also lose its grip or effectiveness over time, especially if you move your recliner frequently or forcefully.

6. Attach Rings and Hooks Under the Desk for a Stationary Seat

This is a clever and advanced technique to stop a swivel chair from turning using some rings and hooks that you can attach under your desk. You will need a drill, some screws, some metal rings, and some metal hooks for this method. You will have to drill holes under your desk and screw the rings and hooks in place. Then, you will have to loop the rings around the legs of your swivel chair and hook them to the hooks under the desk. This will secure your chair to your desk and prevent it from swiveling or moving away.

  • Benefits: This method is ingenious, strong, and adjustable. You can use this method for any type of swivel chair that has legs that can fit through the rings. You can also unhook your chair from your desk anytime you want to move it or swivel it.
  • Drawbacks: This method is complex, costly, and invasive. You will have to drill holes in your desk, which may damage its appearance and structure. You will also need some skills and tools to perform this method correctly and safely.
Screw the Rings and Hooks

7. Use a Glue Gun and Sticky Pads for a More Permanent Solution

This is another clever and advanced technique to stop a swivel chair from turning using some glue gun and sticky pads that you can apply to the swivel mechanism of your chair. You will need a glue gun, some glue sticks, and some sticky pads for this method. You will have to flip your chair upside down and apply some glue on the top plate of the swivel mechanism. Then, you will have to stick some sticky pads on the bottom plate of the swivel mechanism. Finally, you will have to press the two plates together firmly until the glue dries and the pads stick. This will bond the two plates together and stop your chair from swiveling.

  • Benefits: This method is creative, cheap, and effective. You can use this method for any type of swivel chair that has a standard swivel mechanism with two plates. You can also use any glue or sticky pads that are strong enough to hold the plates together.
  • Drawbacks: This method is irreversible, messy, and risky. Once you glue the plates together, you will not be able to separate them or swivel your chair again. You may also damage your chair or hurt yourself if you use too much glue or apply it incorrectly.

8. Seal Crevices and Implement Lock-out Devices

This is the final and ultimate technique to stop a swivel chair from turning using some rubber cement and newspaper clippings to seal crevices in the rotating mechanism of your chair. You will also need some safety latch locks or self-locking latches to implement lock-out devices on your chair. You will have to flip your chair upside down and fill any gaps or holes in the swivel mechanism with rubber cement and newspaper clippings. Then, you will have to attach safety latch locks or self-locking latches on the base of your chair and lock them in place. This will seal the swivel mechanism and lock out any movement of your chair.

  • Benefits: This method is extreme, powerful, and foolproof. You can use this method for any type of swivel chair that has a rotating mechanism with crevices that can be sealed. You can also use any lock-out devices that are compatible with your chair base.
  • Drawbacks: This method is drastic, expensive, and dangerous. You will have to permanently alter your chair by sealing its swivel mechanism and locking its base. You may also harm yourself or others if you use too much rubber cement or lock-out devices improperly.
Sealing Its Swivel Mechanism

FAQs About How to Stop a Swivel Chair From Swiveling

Why Does My Chair Spin by Itself?

Your chair may spin by itself due to issues like an imbalanced seat, loose swivel plate, or damaged casters. Tighten screws, replace casters, or use a lock to prevent spinning. Addressing these issues will maintain chair stability and functionality.

Why Do Chairs Swivel?

Chairs swivel to offer 360-degree rotation, providing convenience and flexibility in various settings. They are designed with a central leg, allowing easy movement and interaction. Swivel chairs are used in offices, living rooms, vehicles, and more, adding both functionality and style to spaces.

Is Swivel on Chair a Good Idea?

Yes, having a swivel feature on a chair can be a good idea. Swivel chairs offer increased mobility, easy rotation, and adaptability to different styles. They are versatile and suitable for social gatherings and offices. However, consider safety and practicality for your specific needs before choosing a swivel chair.

Conclusion

In this blog, we have shown you eight clever and effective ways how to stop a swivel chair from swiveling using different methods and materials. These methods are suitable for different types of swivel chairs, purposes, and preferences. You can choose the method that works best for you, or you can combine them for extra stability and comfort.

Before you decide on a method, however, you should consider some factors such as your comfort, safety, and DIY experience. Some methods may be easier or harder than others, depending on your skill level and the tools available. Some methods may also be more or less comfortable or safe than others, depending on your personal preference and situation. You should weigh the pros and cons of each method carefully and make an informed decision.

We hope you found this blog helpful and informative. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to leave a comment below. Thank you for reading and happy swiveling!

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