How to Remove Wheels from a Rolling Chair: A Step-by-Step Easy Guide

Whether you need to replace damaged wheels, clean the underside of the chair, fit the office chair into a tight space, or transport it, mastering the correct way to remove wheels from a rolling chair is a highly practical skill. Most wheeled office chairs feature a standardized design, and the removal process is not complicated—it only requires basic tools and a few minutes. This guide will provide you with clear, safe steps applicable to common five-star base pneumatic office chairs.

I. Preparation

Before you start, please ensure the following:

Clear the chair: Remove any items from the seat cushion, and it is best to place the chair upside down on a clean floor or tabletop.

Prepare tools (depending on the wheel type):

Flathead screwdriver or small pry bar (most commonly used)

Rubber mallet (optional, for gentle tapping to loosen wheels)

Gloves (to protect your hands from scratches)

⚠️ Note: Most modern office chair wheels are stem casters, which are not fixed with screws and can be pulled out directly. However, some older or special models may use bolt-on fixation, requiring additional tools.

II. Determine the Wheel Type

Office chair wheels are generally divided into two categories:

Stem Casters

The wheel has a metal or plastic stem on top that inserts directly into the hole on the chair base. This is the most common type at present and easy to remove.

Bolt-on Casters

The wheel is fixed to the base from above or below with screws, requiring a wrench or Allen key for removal.

This guide focuses on the most common stem casters.

III. Removal Steps (for Stem Casters)

Step 1: Place the chair upside down

Gently flip the office chair over so that the five-star base faces up and the wheels point toward the ceiling. You can place it on a soft pad or carpet to avoid scratching the chair surface.

Step 2: Inspect the wheel connection

Check the junction between the wheel and the base. Stem casters are usually fully inserted into the base holes, with no visible screws on the outside.

Step 3: Pry out the wheel with a flathead screwdriver

Insert the flat end of the flathead screwdriver into the gap between the wheel bracket and the base.

Gently pry downward (using the base as a fulcrum) while pulling the wheel outward with your hand.

The wheel will gradually loosen and pop out. If it is tight, pry evenly around the wheel to avoid cracking the base due to excessive force on one side.