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6 DIY Ergonomic Footrest Ideas

In the world of home office setups, comfort is king. One often-overlooked element that can significantly enhance your workspace comfort is a footrest.

An ergonomic footrest promotes better posture, reduces strain on your lower back, and improves overall well-being during long hours of desk work. If you’re a DIY enthusiast, why not create your own customized footrest? 

In this article, we’ll explore several creative and budget-friendly DIY ergonomic footrest ideas that cater to different needs and preferences.


Ideas to Make Your Own Ergonomic Footrest

Stacked Foam Rollers

If you’re a fitness enthusiast, you might already have foam rollers at home. Stacking a few foam rollers of varying sizes can create a cushioned and adjustable footrest. The foam material is gentle on your feet and can also help improve circulation.

Simply arrange the rollers horizontally under your desk, securing them with non-slip mats or Velcro strips to prevent them from moving around. You can adjust the height by adding or removing rollers, making this a versatile option.

Wooden Block Footrest

For a sturdy and minimalist option, a wooden block footrest is an excellent choice. Find a piece of wood that’s about the width of your desk and around 4-6 inches in height. Sand down any rough edges and consider adding a coat of paint or stain to match your office decor. You can also attach rubber pads or felt to the bottom to prevent it from sliding.

Repurposed Books or Magazines

If you’re looking for a quick and easy footrest, repurposing items you already have at home can be an eco-friendly solution. Stack a few thick books or magazines to your desired height and secure them with an elastic band or ribbon to keep them from shifting. You can also wrap them in fabric or use decorative paper to give them a more polished look.

PVC Pipe Footrest

For a more unique and industrial look, consider creating a footrest using PVC pipes. This project requires some basic tools and materials, but the result is a customizable and durable footrest.

Cut PVC pipes into sections, connect them with elbow joints, and create a frame that fits under your desk. You can cover the top with a cushioned mat or fabric for added comfort.

Cushion-Padded Footrest

Comfort is key, and a cushion-padded footrest is the perfect blend of softness and support. Start with a wooden or plastic base and attach a thick cushion or pillow on top. Secure the cushion with fabric and a staple gun, making sure it’s tightly fitted. You can also use memory foam for extra comfort.

Recycled Pallet Footrest

If you’re into rustic decor, a recycled pallet footrest might be the perfect project for you. Pallets are often available for free or at a low cost, and with a little bit of sanding and painting, you can transform them into stylish footrests.

Cut the pallet to size, smooth out any rough edges, and add a coat of paint or varnish. You can also attach wheels to the bottom for easy movement, making this a functional and fashionable addition to your office.


Final Note

Making your own footrest allows you to enhance your workspace comfort but also take pride in a project that’s uniquely yours. So, gather your materials and get crafting—your feet will thank you!

Tricia Montano

Tricia founded Pain Free Working in 2019 due to suffering from degenerative disc disease in her L5-S1 from working an office job for the past 18 years. She and her team strive on finding and reviewing the best office equipment to help fellow pain sufferers find relief and to enable people like her to do their jobs comfortably.