How to Measure Yourself for a Fireside Chair: A Step-by-Step Guide for Comfort and Support

Choosing the right fireside chair isn’t just about how it looks - it’s about how it feels and supports you day to day. Whether you’re looking for a chair to help with mobility, improve posture, or simply make sitting and standing easier, getting the right measurements is key. Here’s a simple guide to help you measure yourself (or a loved one) for the perfect fireside chair fit.

1. Start with Safety and Support

Before taking any measurements, make sure the person being measured is sitting safely in a sturdy chair. Feet should rest flat on the floor, and the back should be supported but upright, not slouched. Having a helper nearby can make the process easier and safer, especially if balance is a concern.

2. Measure Seat Height

Why it matters: The right seat height helps you stand up and sit down without straining your knees, hips, or back.

How to measure:

• Sit in a comfortable, upright position.
• Measure from the floor to the back of the knee.
• The seat height of your fireside chair should match or be just slightly lower than this measurement (by about 1 inch or 2.5 cm).

Tip: If the seat is too high, your feet may dangle and cause pressure under the hamstrings. Too low, and it’ll be harder to stand up safely.

3. Measure Seat Depth

Why it matters: The right seat depth supports your thighs without pressing into the back of your knees.

How to measure:

• Sit all the way back in the chair.
• Measure from the back of your bottom to the back of your knee.
• Subtract about 2 inches (5 cm) - this gives you your ideal seat depth.

Tip: Shorter people often prefer shallower seats; taller people need deeper ones for full leg support.

4. Measure Seat Width

Why it matters: You need enough room to sit comfortably without feeling squeezed - but not so much that you lose side support.

How to measure:

• Sit in a natural position.
• Measure the widest part of your hips or thighs.
• Add about 1 inch (2.5 cm) for comfortable clearance.

Tip: If you use any mobility aids or cushions, include them when taking measurements.

5. Measure Back Height

Why it matters: The chair’s back should support your spine and shoulders, and possibly your head - depending on your needs.

How to measure:

Sit upright and measure from your seat to:

• The top of your shoulders for medium-back chairs.
• The top of your head for high-back chairs.

Tip: If you spend long periods sitting, a higher back can help prevent fatigue and offer more support.

6. Armrest Height

Why it matters: Properly positioned armrests can help you push up safely and reduce strain on your shoulders.

How to measure:

• Sit comfortably with your arms relaxed at your sides and elbows bent at about 90 degrees.
• Measure from the seat to your elbow.
• Your chair’s armrests should be around that height so your arms rest naturally.

7. Think About Your Needs

Beyond measurements, think about your personal comfort and mobility:

• Firmness: A firmer seat makes it easier to stand up.
• Back style: Wingback and high-back chairs offer more support and warmth.
• Materials: Washable or wipeable fabrics are easier to maintain.
• Feet or castors: Glides are stable; castors can make movement easier on carpet.

If you’re unsure, or have any other queries, our expert team will be happy to help measure you. Many of our mobility ranges come in a selection of dimensions, so if you find a style you like there's a good chance it comes in your size as well.

8. Recheck Regularly

Our bodies and needs change over time. If you notice your feet no longer touch the floor comfortably, or you’re finding it harder to stand, it might be time to reassess your chair’s fit.

In Summary
Getting your fireside chair measurements right makes all the difference - for posture, comfort, and independence. With the right seat height, depth, width, and support, your chair becomes more than just furniture; it becomes part of your daily well-being.