Check the chair label and assembly drawings
Find the model and revision on the chair’s label, instructions or order. Ask the maker whether that exact configuration can be used without arms. An armrest may share fasteners with the backrest, or form part of the link between the seat and back. A separate screw head by itself does not show that the chair is approved for armless use.
Look for a matching armless assembly drawing or an arm kit the maker explicitly describes as optional. Check whether the armless configuration uses different screws, covers or spacers. If an arm shares a fitting or you cannot identify the chair, ask the maker or its service provider before taking anything apart.
IKEA FLINTAN uses a separate optional arm kit
IKEA shows the black FLINTAN chair, article 504.890.31, as a complete armless chair. Its current black bundle 494.244.70 adds the separately documented arm pair 104.890.33. Ask the Amazon seller to confirm those article numbers if they are absent from the listing. IKEA’s instructions apply to the corresponding parts. Earlier FLINTAN revisions may take different fittings.
Fixed-depth seat with optional arms
IKEA FLINTAN with arms, black
IKEA lists the FLINTAN chair and matching arms as separate components. The chair has a 49 cm listed seat depth and a 45–58 cm seat-height range.
Match the chair and arm article numbers before fitting or removing the arms. Check the seat depth and the space around the chair base.
- 45–58 cm seat height
- 49 cm seat depth
- Matching arms attach separately
Read the chair and arm documents together. The chair is assembled on its own and the separate kit attaches at the approved points. If a fastener is missing or the drawing does not match your chair, ask IKEA for the correct part or instructions before using the altered chair.
Compare armless and flip-up options
If you always need a clear side entrance, a factory-armless chair is another option. The black Yaheetech example has a 43–56 cm listed seat-height range. Its overall width is 55 cm according to the listing, so measure the base through a turn as well as the seat.
For a higher seat range
Yaheetech armless mesh chair, black
This armless swivel chair has a mesh back and a published seat-height range of 43–56 cm.
Check the swivel base at its widest point and try the chair in your working position.
- 43–56 cm seat height
- 55 cm listed overall width
- Armless mesh back
A flip-up arm may suit a chair you need to park or approach from the side. Its hinges still take up space. Set the chair at typing height and check the hinge against desk legs, drawers and a narrow chair bay. See the flip-up armrest guide for those checks.
Check desk fit after any approved change
Measure how far the chair can roll towards the keyboard at your working height. Watch the edges of the seat and its base as well as your knees. Leave space to turn out comfortably. If you usually rest your forearms on the chair, decide where they will be supported in the new setup.
Keep the maker’s fasteners and covers together with the manual if you plan to refit the arms later. Check that the seat, backrest and adjustment controls operate normally after reassembly and follow the maker’s inspection instructions.
Common questions
Can I remove the arms from any office chair?
Use the maker’s instructions for your exact model. Some arms share fittings with the chair structure.
Are flip-up arms removable?
Flip-up describes how the arms move in use. Check the manual for separate approval to remove them.
How do I identify a FLINTAN arm kit?
Compare the article number on the chair and arm packaging with IKEA’s instructions for your revision.
Is it enough that the arm has its own screws?
Check the assembly drawing and approved configurations. The screws can still affect how the back or seat is retained.
Will removing approved arms make the chair fit my desk?
Measure the base, seat, thighs and chair movement too. The arms may be only one point of contact.
Sources and selection
Sources and Amazon UK listings checked in November 2026. Fit examples use published specifications. The selected Amazon UK listings supply the specifications for Yaheetech armless mesh chair, black.