Second-hand chairs: how to choose the right dining chair (without making a bad purchase

Looking for new dining chairs but don't want to pay top price? Then second-chance chairs are a truly smart option. You're buying a new and unused product at a discount because it's a returned item. The selection changes regularly, and many items have limited availability.

Curious what's available online right now?
View the current second-chance selection

What exactly are second-chance chairs?

Second-chance chairs are returned items: they've been sent back by customers because, for example, they didn't fit the space or taste. The product itself is new and unused. Sometimes it's repackaged and the box might show slight signs of wear, but the chair is in excellent condition.

Step 1: Determine what kind of chair you need

Will you go for dining chairs, bar stools, or a mix?

• Dining chairs: for the dining table, often 45–50 cm seat height.
• Bar stools: for a bar or kitchen island, usually 65 cm (kitchen bar) or 75 cm (high bar).
• Mix & match: can be great fun, but keep colors/materials calm.

With or without armrests?

With armrests is often a bit more relaxed, but takes up more space. Without armrests is more compact and often more practical if you're sitting at a table with multiple chairs.

Step 2: The most important measurements (very practical)

How much space does a chair need?

• Roughly estimate 55–65 cm width per chair (depending on the model).
• Keep at least 80–90 cm clear behind the chair for easy movement/passage.

Seat height vs. table height

Most dining tables are around 75 cm high. A good guideline is 25–30 cm space between the seat and the tabletop.

Tip: In doubt? Measure your current chair and compare it to what you find comfortable.

Step 3: Choose material that suits your life

Fabric / Velvet

Immediately adds warmth and a luxurious look. Ideal if you want atmosphere. A bit more sensitive to stains (depending on use).

Leather / Faux leather

Easy to clean and often super practical. Suits an industrial or modern interior well.

Plastic

Sleek, light, and easy to wipe down. Useful if you're looking for something "airy."

Metal / Black base

Commonly seen and easy to combine. Black metal works in almost any interior.

Which style suits your interior?

Industrial

Think: metal, leather (look), sturdy shapes, black base.

Modern

Clean lines, calm colors, often minimalistic.

Hotel chic

Velvet, rounded shapes, warm tones, a bit more luxurious.

Quick tip: choose 1 "statement" (e.g., fabric/velvet) and keep the rest calm (e.g., black base). You'll almost always get it right.

Common mistakes (and how you can avoid them)

• Buying only on looks → also check comfort and size.
• Chairs too wide for a small table → calculate your width per chair.
• Not accounting for walking space → at least 80–90 cm behind the chair.
• Incorrect seat height → maintain 25–30 cm between the seat and the tabletop.

FAQ: Second-chance chairs

Are second-chance chairs second-hand?

No. They are returned items that are new and unused (sometimes repackaged).

Are they damaged?

No. The chair itself is in excellent condition. Sometimes the packaging may show slight signs of wear.

How often is new stock added?

Regularly. It pays to check the page more often.

Popular categories

• Chairs
• Tables
• Lighting
• Accessories

View the current second-chance selection

Want to see immediately which chairs (and other items) are currently available?
Go to Second-chance furniture