Best Upholstered Dining Chairs: How to Choose

The best upholstered dining chair is one that suits your table, feels comfortable for the way you dine, and has a fabric you can care for over time. Our Set of 4 Wingback Tufted Upholstered Dining Chairs with Wood Legs is an option if you want a coordinated set with linen fabric and a traditional wingback shape.

We like to start with how the room is used: a formal dining room may call for a tailored look, while a busy family table may benefit from upholstery chosen with frequent cleaning in mind. For more on this style, read our guide to wingback tufted dining chairs.

Wingback chairs can give a dining area a more defined, traditional appearance, while simpler upholstered chairs may be easier to pair with a variety of table styles. Tufting adds visual detail, but its recessed areas can collect crumbs, so a smooth upholstered surface may be a more practical choice if quick cleanup is your priority.

Before choosing a chair, measure your table height and the available floor space, allowing room to pull each chair out and walk behind it. Consider the chair’s overall width as well as its seat height, especially if your table has a low apron or you want several chairs to sit comfortably side by side.

Linen offers a natural, textured look that works well in relaxed and traditional dining rooms, but you should consider how readily the fabric may show spills or wrinkles. Performance fabrics can be worth considering for a heavily used dining area, though their cleaning requirements and resistance to stains vary by material.

Think about whether you prefer a fabric’s appearance or easier everyday maintenance when making your choice. For any upholstered chair, follow the applicable care instructions, attend to spills promptly, and test a cleaning method in an inconspicuous area before treating a visible spot.

A chair that feels right for a quick meal may feel different during a long dinner, so consider the seat height, back support, and how much room you need to shift position. If you have the opportunity to try a chair, sit with your feet supported and see whether you can reach the table comfortably without raising your shoulders.

Our featured set includes four chairs, which can help you create a consistent look around a dining table. Measure the table and room before deciding whether four chairs fit your layout, including when guests are seated and when the chairs are pulled out.