Editor's note: This page was originally published in 2014 and has been updated in April 2026.
Owning an Eames Lounge Chair is a long term investment. With proper care, the leather stays supple and the wood veneer retains its finish for decades. Here is what you need to know to keep your chair in good condition, and where to go when it needs professional attention.
Leather Care
The leather on an authentic Herman Miller Eames Lounge Chair is high quality and durable, but it does need occasional attention to stay that way.
For regular cleaning, wipe the cushions down with a soft, dry or slightly damp cloth to remove dust and surface dirt. Avoid harsh cleaners or anything solvent based, as these will dry out and crack the leather over time.
Every six to twelve months, apply a quality leather conditioner to keep the leather from drying out. This is especially important in dry climates or heated interiors. A small amount goes a long way. Work it in gently with a soft cloth and let it absorb fully before using the chair.
If your leather has developed cracks or significant wear, a professional leather restoration service can often bring it back. See the repair shops listed below.
Wood Veneer Care
Vintage Eames chairs made before 1980 have a gunstock oil finish. Modern versions use a lacquer finish. The care approach differs slightly between the two.
For lacquer finished shells, a soft dry cloth is all you need for regular cleaning. Avoid water and cleaning sprays directly on the wood.
For gunstock oil finished shells, the wood can be refreshed periodically with gunstock oil. Before applying, lightly open the grain using 000 grade steel wool, then apply the oil sparingly and wipe away the excess. One important note: if your existing gunstock oil has congealed in the tin, it is no longer good. Use fresh oil only.
Keep the chair out of direct sunlight where possible. Prolonged UV exposure will fade and dry out both the leather and the veneer over time.
Hardware and Mechanism
The aluminum base and shock mounts require very little maintenance. If the chair develops any wobble or the shock mounts feel stiff, this is usually a sign the rubber cushions between the shells need replacing. These are available directly from Herman Miller or through authorized dealers.
The chair does not recline, so if yours is suddenly reclining it is not an Eames Lounge Chair or something has been modified.
Repair Shops
For professional restoration and repairs, here are two reputable specialists:
Pivot Interiors (Authorized Herman Miller repairs) pivotinteriors.com
Strictly Modern Furniture Restoration strictlymodernfurniture.com
If you are outside the US, Herman Miller's international dealer network can connect you with authorized service providers in your region. Visit hermanmiller.com to find a dealer near you.
Have a care question?
Feel free to reach out via the contact page. If you have found a good restorer or repair specialist not listed here, let us know and we will add them.