Buying a used or refurbished Herman Miller chair

Identify the model and size

Herman Miller chairs carry a label under the seat with model and date information. Ask the seller for a clear photo of it. For an Aeron, the size letter is usually marked on the chair, often on the back of the spine or on the frame. Sizes A, B and C fit different body sizes; our Aeron sizes explainer covers which to pick.

Note whether the chair is the original Aeron or the remastered version, which uses different mesh and back support options. Both are good, but parts are not always interchangeable.

Inspection checklist

If you can, inspect in person. Otherwise ask for photos and a video of each control working.

• Label under the seat present and readable
• Gas lift holds height and goes up and down smoothly
• Tilt lock holds upright and releases
• Tilt tension changes when adjusted
• Arms adjust and lock, arm pads not split
• Mesh not torn, frayed or sagging
• Frame and base free of cracks
• All five castors present and rolling
• Back support or PostureFit adjusts

Parts that wear and what they cost to fix

Some parts are cheap and easy to swap; others cost enough to change the deal. Prices vary, so this table only compares effort and relative cost.

Avoiding fakes

Copies of popular Herman Miller designs exist, especially of the Aeron and the Eames lounge chair. Warning signs include a missing label, a price far below other used examples, poor mesh quality, rough moulding and a seller with no history. Compare details with photos on Herman Miller's website.

Buying from an established refurbisher with a returns policy and its own warranty reduces the risk.

Used, refurbished or new?

A private sale is usually cheapest but has no warranty and no returns. A refurbisher usually cleans the chair, replaces worn parts and offers a short warranty. A new chair from an authorised dealer carries Herman Miller's full warranty; our warranty explainer covers the terms.

Also compare with a new mid-range chair. Several have adjustable lumbar, seat depth and 4D arms with a few years of warranty. Our Herman Miller alternatives guide compares them.

Questions to ask the seller

Ask where the chair came from. Many used Herman Miller chairs in the UK come from office clearances, which often means heavy daily use but regular cleaning. Ask how old it is, whether any parts have been replaced, and whether there are pets or smokers in the home, as fabric and foam can hold smells.

Ask for a short video of the seat rising and falling, the tilt locking and the arms moving. A seller who will not show the chair working, or who refuses an inspection, is a reason to walk away. Check whether delivery is offered, as these chairs are heavy and bulky to collect.

Cleaning and setting up a used chair

Clean the chair before use. Mesh can be vacuumed and wiped with a mild solution; our cleaning guide covers each material. Then set the chair up from scratch, as the previous owner's settings will not suit you. Our adjustment guide walks through each control.

Compare new alternatives →

Frequently asked questions

Should I buy a used Herman Miller chair? It can be good value if the chair passes inspection and is priced as having no warranty.

Is the warranty valid on a used Herman Miller? Usually not. Herman Miller's warranty generally covers the original purchaser only.

How do I know what size Aeron I am buying? Look for the size letter marked on the chair and ask the seller for a photo.

Is refurbished worth it over private sale? Often, for the cleaning, part replacement, returns and short warranty a refurbisher provides.