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How to Measure Your Space for a Recliner


Here’s how to choose the right recliner size for your space!

1. Measure the Width.

Measure the width of the recliner from the left armrest to the right armrest (from outer edge to outer edge).

2. Measure the Length, Fully Reclined.

Make sure the recliner is fully reclined, and then measure the length of the recliner from the top of the headrest to the bottom of the footrest.

3. Measure Your Space.

Measure the area where you plan to place the recliner. If you plan to place it near a wall, make sure there is enough room to allow for at least five to ten inches of space between the wall and the head of the recliner at full extension. If you plan to place a coffee table in front of it, make sure there is enough room to allow for at least five to ten inches of space between the table and the foot of the recliner.

— Common Recliner Sizes Chart —

 Recliner Size  Common Recliner Dimensions Recommended Space Size Most Popular Recliners 
 Small Recliner
  1. W: 29.1" D: 37" H: 41"
  2. W: 29.5” D: 33.5" H: 39.8”
  3. W: 30” D: 36" H: 41"
  4. W: 30" D: 36” H: 42.8"
  5. W: 30” D: 37.4” H: 41”
 

A space should be at least 35” wide. Fully reclined, the recliner’s headrest and footrest should be no closer than five inches from the wall or surrounding furniture.

  1. The Denny Smoke Leather Pressback Recliner
  2. The Baxter Power Swivel Glider Recliner
  3. The Douglas Caramel Leather High Leg Recliner
Medium Recliner 
  1. W: 32" D: 33.5" H: 37.5"
  2. W: 32.3" D: 38.5" H: 40.6"
  3. W: 35.5" D: 42" H: 43"
  4. W: 37" D: 38.5" H: 41.5"
  5. W: 38" D: 34" H: 42"
 

A space should be at least 40 to 45 inches wide. Fully reclined, the recliner’s headrest and footrest should be no closer than five inches from the wall or surrounding furniture.

  1. The Amelia Power-Lift Recliner
  2. The Mari Swivel Glider Recliner
  3. The Halo II Buff Power Recliner w/Power Headrest

Large Recliner 

  1. W: 41" D: 38" H: 40.5"
  2. W: 41" D: 40" H: 40.5"
  3. W: 42" D: 40" H: 40"
  4. W: 43" D: 42" H: 40.5"
  5. W: 44" D: 39" H: 39"
 


A space should be at least 50 inches wide. Fully reclined, the recliner’s headrest and footrest should be no closer than five inches from the wall or surrounding furniture.

  1. The Rayna Ink Power Recliner
  2. The Kristen Slate Grey Leather Power Recliner with USB
  3. The Norfolk Grey Power Recliner


Pro Tip!
To ensure that your new recliner will be easy to move on delivery day, remember to measure each doorway in your home leading to the area where you plan to place the recliner.

How to Find the Perfect Recliner for a Small Space

Comfortable recliners designed especially for small spaces? Yes, they really do exist – and here’s exactly how to find them!

1. Measure your space.

If you want to know whether your favorite recliner will fit into your small space – you have to measure you space! Using a measure tape, note the dimensions of the perimeter where you plan to put your recliner, and write them down for later reference.

2. Know the recliner dimensions.

Once you’ve measured the area in which you plan to place your recliner, search for small recliners by size – and particularly recliners that, when fully extended, will still allow for at least five inches of space between themselves and any surrounding walls or furniture.

3. Test it out in the store.

Just because you know a recliner will fit in your space, does not automatically make it your best option. Once you have narrowed down your search by size, actually testing out each of your favorite designs in the store will help to make sure you get your most comfortable feel.

4. Talk to an in-store recliner specialist.

If you have tested and narrowed down your search to two or three recliners but still have questions about material type and features, don’t be afraid to pick the brains of the sales staff. One of the great things about Living Spaces staff members is that they are non-commissioned – and there to help!

5. Use the 3D Room Designer.

Finally, whether you are in the store or online, take advantage of Living Spaces’ free 3D design tool – the 3D Room Designer –, which allows you to create a virtual rendering of your space and see exactly how the styles and sizes of your favorite recliners (and other small space furniture) will fit in!

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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.