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Design 101
Ultimate Recliner Buying Guide: How to Choose the Perfect Chair for Comfort and Style
October 10, 2024
When you're ready to lean back and put your feet up, the best chair for relaxation is the one that is named for its purpose: the recliner. Just activate the mechanism, and the back of the chair reclines while a footrest raises.
Shopping for recliners and choosing from the many kinds available can be overwhelming. With this helpful recliner buying guide, you can sit back and relax, just not as far as you'll be able to sit back once your recliner arrives.
How Does a Recliner Chair Work?
Reclining chairs are essentially upholstered armchairs that lean back with either the push of a button, the flip of a handle, or a backward push. They include a range of reclining or upright positions for ultimate comfort and the ability to glide or swivel in certain models.
Recliners come in many common materials and sizes, from small and compact to oversize. Look for reclining sofas and sectionals if you want more room to relax.
Average Size of a Recliner Chair
Standard recliner versions generally span from 30 inches – 40 inches. Oversized recliner options measure larger than 40 inches. Decide on how much space you need and if you want to opt for a reclining sofa or sectional.
Recliners come in several different sizes. Think about who will use the chair most and factor in their height. The goal is to find a fit in which your feet don’t dangle over the edge of the chair when reclined.
Types of Recliners
When we think of recliners, most of us picture an old leather or upholstered recliner with a lever at the side. But these days modern recliners are available in different power and manual options.
Manual recliners
Manually pull on a built-in lever — typically on the right side of the chair — to move the seat from upright to reclined. The chair returns to its original position by pushing the footrest back down into place.
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Push back recliner
This chair is reclined by using your body weight to exert pressure upon the back of the chair, as opposed to a lever or a button. They return to their original position when you push the footrest back into place.
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Rocking & gliding recliners
Rocking chairs, gliders, and swivel chairs also come in varieties that can recline. Nursing moms, new moms, and anyone who appreciates a chair with movement can find rocker recliners, glider recliners, and recliners with swivel bases.
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Classic oversized recliner
An oversized reclining chair gives you ample space to lounge out comfortably, sit with an extra person, or leave room for your pet. They usually measure a minimum of 50” wide.
Power Recliners
Power recliner chairs have a built-in motor that pairs with a button on the side of the chair or a separate remote for ease of use. With just one press of the electronically powered button, you can recline the chair to the angle of your choice. Some models include elements that let you adjust the headrest, back seat, and footrest. These recliners tend to be on the more expensive end of the spectrum and need to be placed near an electrical outlet.
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Lift recliners
Recliners also come in varieties that can help you lay flat or stand up, depending on your needs. If you really want to stretch out completely, a lay-flat recliner reclines into a horizontal position. Lift recliners help you rise from sitting to standing with the push of a button.
Power Recliners vs Manual Recliner Chairs
Pushback recliners are simple to use. Simply push on the back of the chair, and the recliner will slip into reclined position. Pushback recliners require a touch of physical strength but tend to be more affordable than power recliners.
Manual recliners use a lever to initiate a mechanism that forces the chair into recline position. Like pushback recliners, a touch of physical strength may be required for these more affordable recliners that use levers.
The push of a button takes care of everything with a power recliner. While easier to operate, power recliners tend to be heavier and more expensive. Because the motor can burn out, it may need more repair than manual recliners. If you're considering purchasing a power recliner, choose a space near an outlet so you can plug in your chair
Choosing a Recliner Chair Material
Your material of choice depends on how often you use your chair as well as the style of the overall room. Living room chairs withstand a lot of wear and tear, so you want to choose a fabric that will hold up to your lifestyle.
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Leather recliner
Leather recliners exude a classic, luxurious feel while being durable and easy to clean. They offer a sleek look that complements both modern and traditional decor. When choosing a leather recliner, opt for high-quality leather for better comfort, longevity, and a refined appearance.
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Fabric recliners
Fabric recliners offer a wide variety of colors and textures, making it easy to match them with any room decor. They're typically softer and more breathable than leather, providing a cozy feel, especially for long periods of use. When choosing a fabric recliner, consider durable, stain-resistant options for easier maintenance and long-lasting comfort.
Shop nowStyling Your Recliner
Where To Place Your Recliner?
As with most furniture purchases, the available space impacts the size of recliner that will work best. Measure your living room, the space you're considering placing the recliner, and the surrounding furniture. Plan to leave between 6 and 36 inches between the recliner and adjacent furniture and walls.
Remember to measure your doorways to ensure they're wide enough for your new recliner to get through for delivery. There is nothing worse than bringing home an exciting new purchase only to have it stuck on your front porch.
What Size Recliner Should You Choose?
Recliners come in various sizes from petite to medium to extra tall. Small recliners work best for shorter people, while taller individuals might enjoy the space of an extra tall recliners. Recliners also come in various widths from 35 to 50 inches to accommodate people of all sizes. There are even kid-sized recliners available.
Find the Perfect Recliner for Your Home
With this recliner buying guide, you can choose a new recliner that complements your design while also providing the added comfort of being able to sit back and relax. Put your feet up and enjoy your new recliner.
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