Frequently Asked Questions About Egg Chairs
Egg chairs have captured the imagination of design enthusiasts since Arne Jacobsen first introduced his iconic creation in 1958. Today's market offers dozens of variations, from classic reproductions to hanging models and outdoor wicker designs. This variety creates confusion for buyers trying to understand what distinguishes a quality egg chair from a poorly made imitation.
We've compiled answers to the most common questions about egg chairs based on decades of furniture industry experience and consumer feedback. These answers cut through marketing hype to provide practical information about costs, placement, materials, and maintenance. You'll find specific recommendations for different use cases, from creating a cozy reading nook with a bedroom fluffy egg chair to selecting an outdoor wicker egg chair that will survive years of weather exposure.
The information below draws on industry standards, manufacturer specifications, and real-world testing data. We've included price ranges that reflect current market conditions as of 2024, though individual retailers may vary. For more detailed information about specific styles, check our main guide and about pages.
What is an egg chair?
An egg chair is a distinctive oval-shaped chair with high curved sides that resembles an egg when viewed from the side. The original design by Arne Jacobsen from 1958 features a molded fiberglass shell upholstered in leather or fabric, mounted on a swivel base with a tilt mechanism. The high sides create a semi-enclosed space that provides visual and acoustic privacy, making it ideal for reading or relaxing. Modern variations include hanging models suspended from stands or ceiling mounts, outdoor wicker versions, and oversized fluffy designs. The defining characteristic across all types is the enveloping curved form that cocoons the sitter while making a bold visual statement in any room.
How much does an egg chair cost?
Egg chair prices span a wide range depending on authenticity, materials, and construction quality. Budget hanging egg chairs start around $150-$250 but often use thin materials and weak frames. Mid-range options from reputable manufacturers cost $400-$1,200 and offer decent durability with better cushioning and sturdier frames. The outdoor wicker egg chair typically falls in the $300-$1,200 range depending on wicker quality and frame construction. High-end reproductions of the classic Arne Jacobsen design run $1,500-$3,000 with quality materials and proper mechanisms. Authentic Fritz Hansen Egg Chairs, still manufactured in Denmark using Jacobsen's original specifications, cost $9,000-$12,500. For most homeowners, the $500-$1,500 range offers the best balance of quality and value, providing chairs that will last 5-10 years with proper care.
Where should I place an egg chair in my home?
Egg chairs work best in spaces where you want to create a defined seating area with visual impact. Living room corners are ideal—the chair's curved back fits naturally into 90-degree angles while the distinctive shape draws the eye and anchors the space. Bedrooms benefit from egg chairs positioned near windows to create reading nooks, with enough clearance (at least 3 feet) to swivel comfortably. Home offices can use egg chairs as alternative seating for phone calls or breaks from desk work, positioned away from the main work surface. For hanging models, consider ceiling height—you need at least 8 feet of clearance, preferably 9 feet, to prevent tall occupants from hitting their heads when standing. Avoid high-traffic pathways since the chair extends significantly when swiveling. Outdoor egg chairs should be placed on level surfaces away from direct sprinkler spray, with at least partial shade to extend cushion life.
Are egg chairs comfortable for long periods?
Comfort varies dramatically based on design quality and personal body type. Well-designed egg chairs with proper lumbar support and adequate cushioning can be comfortable for 1-2 hours of reading or relaxing. The original Arne Jacobsen design includes a slight recline and curved back that supports the spine's natural curve, making it suitable for extended sitting. However, the enclosed sides limit position changes, which some people find restrictive after 30-45 minutes. Hanging egg chairs tend to be less suitable for long-term sitting because the suspended design creates a slight backward lean that can strain the lower back. The bedroom fluffy egg chair models prioritize plushness over support, making them cozy for short periods but lacking the structure needed for proper posture during extended use. People over 6 feet tall or weighing more than 220 pounds should test chairs before buying, as many models feel cramped for larger body types.
Can egg chairs be used outdoors year-round?
Only egg chairs specifically designed for outdoor use with weatherproof materials can handle year-round exposure, and even these benefit from seasonal protection. Outdoor wicker egg chairs made from synthetic PE rattan over powder-coated aluminum or steel frames resist moisture, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations between 20°F and 110°F. However, cushions remain the weak point—even outdoor-rated fabrics and quick-dry foam degrade faster when left uncovered during rain and snow. In mild climates like Southern California or Florida, quality outdoor egg chairs can stay outside year-round with waterproof covers during storms. Northern climates with freezing temperatures, snow, and ice should bring cushions indoors during winter and ideally store the entire chair in a garage or shed. Hanging egg chairs face additional challenges from wind, which can cause excessive swaying and stress on mounting hardware. Most manufacturers recommend removing hanging chairs or securing them during storms with winds exceeding 25 mph.
What's the difference between a pod chair and an egg chair?
The terms overlap significantly, but pod chairs typically feature a more enclosed, spherical design while egg chairs have the characteristic oval profile when viewed from the side. Pod chairs, also called ball chairs or globe chairs, often have a circular opening and completely surround the sitter except for the front entrance. The egg pod chair represents a hybrid design with more enclosure than a standard egg chair but not as fully enclosed as a true pod. Functionally, pod chairs provide more sound dampening and visual privacy, making them popular in open offices and busy households. Egg chairs offer easier entry and exit due to their open top and typically include swivel bases for greater mobility. The men in black egg chair, which appeared in the 1997 film, was actually an Eero Aarnio Ball Chair (a pod design) rather than a true egg chair, though the terms are often confused. Both styles serve similar purposes as statement furniture and private retreats within larger spaces.
How do I maintain and clean an egg chair?
Maintenance requirements depend entirely on your chair's materials. Leather egg chairs need conditioning every 3-6 months with leather cream to prevent cracking, plus immediate cleanup of spills with a damp cloth. Fabric upholstery should be vacuumed weekly using an upholstery attachment to remove dust and debris from crevices. For spot cleaning, use a fabric cleaner appropriate for your upholstery type—test in an inconspicuous area first since some fabrics water-spot easily. The bedroom fluffy egg chair with sherpa or faux fur requires gentle brushing with a soft-bristle brush to maintain texture, plus occasional spot cleaning with mild detergent. Outdoor wicker egg chairs need hosing down monthly to remove pollen and dirt, with annual deep cleaning using mild soap and a soft brush. Check all hardware and connections every 6 months, tightening any loose bolts and applying silicone spray to swivel mechanisms. Hanging chairs require additional inspection of chains, cables, and mounting hardware for signs of wear, corrosion, or stress cracks that could lead to failure.
Are there egg chairs suitable for kids?
Several manufacturers produce scaled-down egg chairs specifically for children, with the IKEA offers both adult and children's versions being among the most affordable options at around $70-$100. These junior versions typically measure 24-30 inches tall compared to 42-48 inches for adult chairs, with weight capacities of 100-150 pounds suitable for children up to age 12. The smaller size makes them less intimidating for young children while still providing the cozy, enclosed feeling that makes egg chairs appealing. Safety features in quality kids' egg chairs include wider, more stable bases that resist tipping, rounded edges without sharp corners, and lighter overall weight so children can't seriously injure themselves if the chair tips. Hanging egg chairs are generally not recommended for unsupervised children under age 8 due to pinch points in chains and the risk of excessive swinging leading to falls. Some parents successfully use adult-sized egg chairs for teens and tweens, particularly the fluffy styles that accommodate growing bodies and appeal to adolescent aesthetics with colors like purple egg chair options.
Can I find egg chairs at major furniture retailers?
Yes, most major furniture retailers now carry egg chairs in various styles due to their sustained popularity. The wayfair egg chair selection includes dozens of options ranging from budget hanging chairs around $200 to premium reproductions over $2,000, with detailed customer reviews helping guide purchase decisions. IKEA offers both adult and children's versions at budget-friendly prices, though their selection tends toward simpler designs without premium materials. Target, Amazon, and Walmart stock primarily hanging egg chairs and outdoor wicker models in the $150-$600 range, focusing on accessibility over high-end design. For authentic Arne Jacobsen designs and premium reproductions, specialty modern furniture retailers like Design Within Reach, YLiving, and Manhattan Home Design provide better options with proper warranties and return policies. Local furniture stores increasingly stock egg chairs as display pieces, allowing you to test comfort before buying—a significant advantage since photos rarely convey how a chair actually feels. Online purchases offer wider selection and often better prices, but factor in return shipping costs that can exceed $100 for large, heavy egg chairs.
Egg Chair Maintenance Schedule by Material Type
| Material Type | Weekly Tasks | Monthly Tasks | Seasonal Tasks | Expected Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leather upholstery | Dust with soft cloth | Wipe with damp cloth | Condition with leather cream | 15-20 years |
| Fabric upholstery | Vacuum with brush attachment | Spot clean stains | Professional cleaning | 8-12 years |
| Outdoor wicker | Remove loose debris | Hose down frame | Deep clean, check hardware | 5-10 years |
| Fluffy/Sherpa | Fluff and reshape | Brush to restore texture | Spot clean as needed | 3-5 years |
| Hanging hardware | Visual inspection | Check for corrosion | Tighten all connections | 10+ years |
Additional Resources
- U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission provides guidelines for furniture stability that apply to egg chairs, particularly regarding tip-over prevention for children's furniture.
- National Institute of Standards and Technology - Weight and measurement standards from the National Institute of Standards and Technology help ensure consistent sizing across furniture manufacturers.