Recliner Buying Guide
Recliner Location
Before you start shopping for this type of chair, think about where you’ll put it in your home. That will determine how big it should be and what material would be best. Is there a lot of space for the recliner in the room you’ll put it in? If so, you can buy a standard recliner — or even a ‘big & tall’ recliner —without worrying about it bumping the wall when you lie back in it.
If you’re short on space, you might need to look into recliners for small spaces — which tend to be shorter and won’t recline too far back. You can also look at wallaway recliners, which are engineered in a way that they don’t hit the wall behind them as they recline.
If you want a comfortable chair you can sink into after work every day, choose a recliner with a material and style that feels cozy to you. You can even buy a customizable recliner chair to ensure you get what you need for the utmost comfort.
Type of Recliner Base
Recliners come with a variety of bases, so choose depending on how you want your chair to operate. For example, swivel gliders don’t just recline back; they also rotate so you can twist any way you want.
Rocker gliders can rock back and forth, while lift chairs make it easy for you to get up out of your recliner when you’re ready to stand again. There are so many options, that you should be able to find a base that works perfectly for your needs.
Extra Features
Gone are the days when recliners were simply soft chairs that recline back with the pull of a lever. Now, you have a lot more choices.
You can also buy recliners with USB ports for charging your phone, and, of course, a cup holder or two.
Zero Gravity Recliners
Zero gravity is another feature found in recliners. It elevates the feet to heart level, which provides a wealth of health benefits, including improved circulation and taking the stress off of the spine, hips and knees. Many people use zero gravity to offset physical ache and pains – but zero gravity is also a great preventative tool.
In a power lumbar recliner, a reclining mechanism pushes the lower backrest forward, eliminating gaps behind your lower back. This promotes total back support, allowing your lower back muscles to relax and taking the pressure off your joints. Power lumbar recliners work by pressing a button, usually found on a panel along the armrest.
If you’re ready to shop for recliners for your home, feel free to browse our online selection. You can also visit your local Living Spaces store to try out each recliner for yourself.
The Best Type of Recliner Chair to Buy for Your Personal Lounging Style
Discover luxurious comfort like never before with the perfect recliner chair for your lounging style.
1. The Classic Recliner
Best for: Those who simply want to sit back and relax in a timeless, easy-to-operate design.
Why we love it: In a traditional design with a modern touch, a classic recliner offers power motion capabilities – to help you find your most comfortable position at the touch of a button!
2. The Swivel Glider Recliner
Best for: Those looking for the ultimate in multi-tasking furniture.
Why we love it: The convenience of an office chair, comfort of a rocking chair and ergonomics of a recliner, all-in-one.
3. The Wallaway Recliner
Best for: Those looking to make the most of smaller spaces.
Why we love it: The entire body of a wallaway recliner moves up and forward as you recline back, allowing you to place it as near to a wall as you want without having to worry about blocking the recliner's path when in use.
4. The Lift Recliner
Best for: Those who appreciate the luxurious comfort of a quality recliner but find it difficult to get up and out of the chair.
Why we love it: In a power lift recliner, the button on the armrest or remote control will recline you as far back as you want – and, when you're done lounging, gently bring you back up to a standing position.
5. The Custom Recliner
Best for: Those with out-of-the box style.
Why we love it: Once you've found your perfect reclining type, the custom recliner will let you mix it up with upholstery options that make the most sense for your comfort needs and unique style!
How to Operate a Recliner
To operate a manual recliner: On a manual recliner, there is a lever, usually on the right side of the recliner under the armrest. To operate the recliner, you will need to push down (or pull up, depending on the model) the lever, releasing it once the chair has extended back at the angle you prefer.
To operate a power recliner: On a power recliner, you will notice a button (in place of the lever found on manual recliners). Operating a power recliner is simple: push the button to get the recliner moving, releasing your finger once the recliner is extended at the angle you prefer.
Editors' Picks: 3 Ways to Enjoy Our Favorite Recliners
1. Family Night
Sometimes, nothing beats a cozy night in with the family. And nothing sets the scene for a night of movies, games, laughter and good conversation quite like a sprawling, snuggle-worthy reclining sectional. Whether you're gathered together for movie night or a good old-fashioned board game, one thing's for certain: With adjustable headrests, comfy pillows and soft blankets, there’s not a bad seat in the house!
2. Video Game Night
Whether it’s a reclining loveseat, sofa or chair, more reclining tech means more comfort for you – so you can focus on the game. The right recliner turns video game night into a winning experience. Get in the zone with buttery-soft upholstery, personal cup holders and power reclining features. Then sit back, relax and crush the competition.
3. Work From Home
Gear up for productivity! With ergonomic seating in a relaxed WFH space, who needs coworkers? This easy-to-work-in reclining lounge chair comes with an adjustable headrest and matching ottoman. For best results, place next to a bookcase. Hard work never felt so comfortable.
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Editorial Disclaimer: Articles featuring tips and advice are intended for educational purposes and only as general recommendations. Always practice personal discretion when using and caring for furniture, decor and related items.
