When it comes to furniture design, the final decision comes down to whether to use furniture glides or furniture casters. One option may be more suitable than the other depending on the homeowner’s preference.

If your company sells furniture and you’re not sure if it’s best to incorporate glides or casters into your designs, read on. In this blog, we will help you understand the benefits and drawbacks of glides and casters.

Glides Vs. Casters: What Are They?

Glides are stationary pieces that are attached to the bottom of furniture legs. They are designed to protect floors and provide stability. They come in different shapes and sizes and are typically made of hard plastic, rubber, or felt.

Glides are non-swiveling and non-rolling, making them ideal for chairs and tables in a dining room or living room. Glides are also easy to clean and they do not damage floors or carpeting.

On the other hand, casters are wheels that are attached to the bottom of furniture legs or the base of the furniture. Casters allow furniture to move easily; they are ideal for office chairs or mobile storage cabinets.

Casters come in different sizes and materials and they may be either swiveling or fixed. They are often made of hard plastic or rubber and can be locked in place when the furniture needs to remain stationary.

Types of Furniture Glides

There are different types of furniture glides available in today’s market. Here are some types of furniture glides you may want to choose from:

• Felt glides: Felt glides, which are made of soft materials like wool or synthetic fibers, provide a quiet and seamless movement while protecting flooring from scratches and scuffs.
• Rubber glides: These glides are made of synthetic rubber and provide good shock absorption. They are perfect for use on uneven floors or in high-impact locations.
• Plastic glides: Usually constructed with high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or nylon, plastic glides are strong, cheap, and suited for most types of flooring.
• Combination glides: These glides are made from a combination of materials, such as metal and plastic or felt and rubber, to provide various benefits such as durability, quiet movement, and floor protection.

Depending on the function of your furniture, glides or casters may be more beneficial.

Types of Furniture Casters

Here are some of the most commonly used furniture casters on the market:

• Swivel casters: These casters rotate 360 degrees, making movement and direction change simple. They are frequently used on tables and chairs.
• Rigid casters: These are meant to move in just one direction, giving stability and support to heavy furniture like cabinets or workbenches.
• Casters with brakes: They contain a latching mechanism that holds the furniture stable when not in use, enhancing security and stability.
• Heavy-duty casters: Heavy-duty casters are made to withstand heavy loads and are typically seen on industrial and commercial equipment and machinery.

Always do your research for the best casters on your furniture. Call a professional like LINCO for added guidance and the best results.

Choosing Between Glides and Casters

The choice between glides and casters for furniture depends on the purpose of the furniture, the type of flooring, and where the furniture will be used. Below are some situations where one may be more suitable than the other:

Glides are ideal when:

• The furniture needs to be stationary and stable
• The flooring is delicate or may be easily damaged

Casters are ideal when:

• The furniture needs to be mobile and easily moved around
• The flooring is durable and can withstand the weight of the furniture and the wheels

In some circumstances, having slides and casters on furniture can be advantageous. A mobile storage cabinet, for example, can include casters for simple mobility and glides for stability while in a fixed position.

Final Thoughts

When choosing between glides for furniture or casters for furniture, there is no clear winner. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice ultimately depends on the purpose of your products.

If you’re looking for high-quality furniture casters, check out LINCO. We offer a wide range of products to choose from, and our expert team can assist you every step of the way. Don’t hesitate to reach out today!