Can You DIY an Ergonomic Setup? What to Buy vs. What to Build”

Creating an ergonomic workspace doesn’t always mean breaking the bank. While investing in professional ergonomic equipment has clear benefits, there are also plenty of ways to DIY your setup for comfort and efficiency. The key is knowing which items are worth buying and which ones you can safely and effectively build or adapt at home.

Here’s a practical guide to help you decide what to buy versus what to build when creating your ideal ergonomic workstation.

1. Ergonomic Desk: Buy It

While a DIY desk may look appealing, it’s tough to replicate the precision and durability of a professionally engineered sit-stand desk. Height adjustability, weight capacity, and smooth lifting mechanisms are all essential features that can be hard to build safely at home.

A ready-made option like the AnthroDesk Electric Sit-to-Stand Desk offers smooth height transitions, sturdy construction, and programmable settings — giving you reliable ergonomics and convenience.

DIY alternative:
If you’re on a tight budget, you can place a sturdy tabletop on adjustable trestles or stackable risers to achieve temporary standing height. However, this is best as a short-term solution. For long-term comfort, investing in a proper sit-stand desk is well worth it.

2. Ergonomic Chair: Buy It

An ergonomic chair is the cornerstone of posture support, and this is one area where DIY options fall short. A well-designed chair includes precise lumbar support, adjustable height, tilt, and armrests — features that can’t easily be recreated at home.

A chair like the AnthroDesk Ergonomic High-Back Office Chair provides customizable comfort with adjustable features designed to fit your body, not the other way around.

DIY alternative:
If you must use a non-ergonomic chair temporarily, add a small cushion for lumbar support and use a rolled towel behind your lower back. You can also adjust your sitting height by placing a firm cushion under you or using a footrest like the AnthroDesk Adjustable Ergonomic Footrest to maintain proper leg alignment.

3. Monitor Setup: Can Be DIYed (With Care)

Your monitor should sit at eye level, about an arm’s length away. If your screen is too low, you can raise it using books, wooden blocks, or a laptop stand until your gaze naturally meets the top third of the screen.

Still, for stability and adjustability, investing in a monitor mount or stand is ideal. These allow for precise height and tilt adjustments, helping reduce neck strain — and they free up desk space too.

Pro tip:
Dual monitors? A dual monitor mount keeps both screens aligned and ergonomic, unlike makeshift risers that can shift over time.

4. Keyboard and Mouse Placement: Mix of Buy and DIY

Your keyboard and mouse should allow your arms to rest comfortably at your sides with your elbows at about a 90-degree angle.

You can DIY a keyboard riser using a small shelf or tray, but it’s better to invest in an ergonomic keyboard tray , which helps maintain neutral wrist positioning.

DIY accessory:
A rolled-up towel can serve as a temporary wrist rest, offering a bit of cushion for comfort.

5. Cable Management: DIY It

Cable clutter doesn’t just look messy — it can create tripping hazards and make cleaning a hassle. Luckily, this is one area where DIY solutions shine.

Use Velcro straps, binder clips, or adhesive hooks to keep cables neatly tucked away. You can also attach a small basket or cable tray under your desk to organize power strips and adapters.

For a cleaner, ready-made option, AnthroDesk also offers cable management accessories that pair seamlessly with their desks.

6. Lighting: DIY or Buy Depending on Your Space

Good lighting reduces eye strain and boosts focus. Natural light is ideal, but if that’s not an option, consider adding a desk lamp with adjustable brightness and colour temperature.

You can DIY better lighting by repositioning your workspace near a window or using reflectors to bounce light evenly across your desk.

Buy it if: You often work at night or in low-light conditions — a quality LED desk lamp with adjustable angles will make a world of difference.

7. Anti-Fatigue Mats: Buy It

If you use a standing desk, an anti-fatigue mat is a must. These mats reduce strain on your feet, legs, and lower back while encouraging subtle movement that improves circulation.

AnthroDesk’s Anti-Fatigue Standing Mat is designed to provide all-day standing comfort, making it a small investment that pays off in long-term well-being.

DIY alternative:
A folded yoga mat or thick rug can provide minimal cushioning, but it won’t offer the same balance and support as a purpose-made anti-fatigue mat.

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to spend a fortune to build a comfortable, ergonomic workspace. Some items, like desks, chairs, and anti-fatigue mats, are best purchased for safety and long-term performance. Others, like monitor risers and cable management, can easily be DIYed with everyday materials.

The perfect ergonomic setup is about balance — combining smart investments with creative adjustments that fit your budget and needs.

Explore AnthroDesk’s ergonomic essentials to find the perfect pieces to complement your DIY workspace and create a setup that supports comfort, health, and productivity every day.