Setting Up Your Home Office: Ergonomic & Affordable in 7 Steps
Reading time: approx. 10 minutes
Say goodbye to back pain – here’s how to create a professional home office setup in just 30 minutes that protects your back and your wallet.
Tip: At the end of this article, you’ll find a handy checklist to download so you won’t miss a single step.
Plan Your Workspace (Space & Budget)
Before you start, decide where to place your home office. Even in small spaces, an ergonomic setup is absolutely possible.
1. Space Requirements
- Minimum 120 x 80 cm for your desk
- 80 cm clearance from wall or furniture
- Enough space for chair movement
Budget tip: Set your priorities! A good office chair and sturdy desk are more important than decoration. For under CHF 300.–, you can get a solid basic setup.
2. Adjust Your Office Chair Correctly
A high-quality office chair is an investment in your health. Key settings:
- Seat height: feet flat on the floor
- Seat depth: 2–3 fingers between seat edge and knee
- Backrest: supports lower back (lumbar area)
- Armrests: level with desk height
Money saver: You can find ergonomic chairs with essential adjustments for under CHF 100.–. We also offer ergonomic stools as an alternative.
3. Set the Correct Desk Height
The right desk height is key for comfortable, pain-free work. Here is how it's done:
- Ideal height: 65–75 cm (depending on your height)
- Forearms should rest horizontally on the desk
- SKeep shoulders relaxed
Budget tip: Height-adjustable desks can be found for under CHF 150.–, a worthwhile investment in your long-term health.
4. Monitor & Lighting Setup
Proper screen and lighting placement prevent eye strain and headaches.
Monitor:
- Distance: about one arm’s length (60–70 cm)
- Height: top edge at or slightly below eye level
- Tilt: 5–10° backwards
Lighting:
- Allow daylight from the side
- Avoid light sources behind you (reflections!)
- Add a desk lamp for darker days
Money saver: A monitor stand (CHF 30–50.–) helps you reach perfect height easily.
5. Cable & Storage Solutions
A tidy workspace saves time and reduces stress. So make sure to pay attention to your workspace.
Useful accessories:
- Cable tray under the desk (from CHF 10.–)
- Mobile drawer unit for files (from CHF 60.–)
- Wall shelves to free up desk space
Budget tip: Cable clips and hooks cost only a few francs but keep your desk neat and organised.
6. Breaks & Movement – Suva Ergonomics Tips
Even the best setup can’t replace movement. Plan active breaks:
- 5 minutes of movement every hour
- Change position regularly
- Stretch neck and shoulders
- Suva rule: “The best posture is the next posture”
Suva offers free office exercise guides online. A walking pad also boosts activity without taking extra time.
7. Home Office Tax Deductions in Switzerland
In Switzerland, some home office expenses are tax-deductible:
- Proportional rent (if used regularly)
- Office furniture (desk, chair)
- IT equipment
Important: Keep all receipts and check with your cantonal tax office, as regulations vary by canton.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal desk height?
How to set up a small home office?
How much does an ergonomic setup cost?
How much light do I need?
Free Home Office Checklist
To ensure you don't forget anything when setting up your home office, we have summarised all the important points in a clear checklist. Download our “Home Office Setup in 7 Steps” checklist as a free PDF and tick off each task as you go.
Conclusion
With the right basics, you can quickly and affordably set up an ergonomic home office. A height-adjustable desk and ergonomic chair are the best investments you can make.
In our Swiss online shop, you’ll find complete home office sets perfectly matched – with 24h delivery so you can get started tomorrow.
First published: 05.11.2025