When contemporary recliners were first introduced in the late 1920s, they quickly gained popularity as people discovered a new degree of relaxation. You may recline the backrest or raise the footrest with the push of a button or lever. Today, with so many various recliners to select from, you may have all the comfort you need in whatever look you choose, but having so many options makes deciding which one is ideal for you difficult.
For some persons suffering from bodily pains or spinal disorders, a chair may be precisely what the doctor ordered by giving extra neck and lumbar support. When it comes to recliners, though, one size does not fit all. This guide might assist you in determining what you’re searching for to best meet your specific needs.
What Exactly Is a Recliner?
Recliners are upholstered armchairs that may be leaned backward and generally have an extendable footrest in front. Some recliners can recline, rock, swivel, massage, and even lift a person out of their chair.
Before Replacing a Recliner
Good recliners are costly, and most have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years. The chairs can fail due to mechanical, electrical, or cosmetic issues. If it’s anything as easy as a missing screw or bolt, it might completely disable the chair.
A furniture repairman can frequently identify and repair most problems, such as the motor, internal systems, damaged springs, and upholstery. The expense of repair may be little. However, reclining chair repairs often cost between $200 and $350. It is far less expensive than purchasing a new chair. If your chair is well within its 20-year lifespan, consider receiving a repair estimate before investing in a new one.
Considerations for Purchasing a Recliner
Space
Recliners are considerably larger than you believe, and when reclined, they can take up much more room than you think. When considering purchasing a recliner, you’ve most likely considered the optimum location for it. Now, take a rough measurement of the room and measure the space where you want it to go.
It is essential to measure all of the furnishings in the space. Take measurements of all doorways to confirm that it can enter the room. Allow at least five to ten inches between the wall and the recliner’s head at maximum extension. If you intend to put a coffee table in front of it, leave at least five to ten inches between the table and the foot of the chair.
Take a picture of the space and show it to the salesman, especially if you want to match the fabric colors to the other colors in the room, such as your other furniture, curtains, or wall colors. If a chair will fit in your space, get a second opinion from a salesman.
Material
Recliners are available in a variety of textiles, including as leather and imitation leather, performance fabrics, and soft fabrics such as chenille, microfiber, and velvet. People who have dogs or small children should pick performance fabric since it is soft, thick, and stain-resistant. Leather is another fantastic option for houses with children and dogs since it is simpler to clean than most other fabrics—though it is frequently a more expensive option. You also have the option of selecting from a variety of colors.
Size
Recliners are available in a variety of sizes, ranging from small (under 5 feet, 4 inches) to exceptionally tall (taller than 6 feet, 3 inches). The size of the chair should be selected by the individual who will be using it the most. A tiny recliner should have a width of at least 35 inches. A area at least 40 to 45 inches wide is required for a medium chair. The widest recliners will require at least 50 inches of space. Because each manufacturer’s proportions vary, it’s a good idea to go to a showroom and try them on for size.
Features
Swivel or rocker: These recliners perform precisely what their names suggest. They swivel or rock (sometimes both). This style of chair is useful for people who suffer from insomnia since the rocking action encourages sleep. Many individuals sleep in their recliners rather than in a bed. A rocker recliner is especially popular among nursing moms since it gives comfort for the mother while relaxing the infant. With a swivel base, you can turn and face whatever direction you like.
Wall-hugger recliners take up less space and are an excellent alternative for a compact area. Most recliners are available as wall huggers as well as rocker recliners. In a wall-hugger, you prefer to sit up straight, making it easier to get off of the seat. Some wall-hugger recliners may be modified to sit higher, making it simpler for persons with poor knees to get up from them.
- Power-operated: You may recline or return upright with the push of a button, eliminating the need for handles or hand levers.
- USB port or additional accessories: Charge your gadgets while sitting on your chair. There is no need for extension wires or moving your chair closer to an outlet.
- Lay-flat: This feature enables a person to recline flat.
Recliners of many types
You should be able to select a recliner that matches your existing décor while shopping for one. There are also recliners designed to help with orthopedic ailments such as reduced movement or back pain. There are lift recliners and massage recliners—pretty much a chair for any style, taste, and budget.
Chair Lifts
A lift chair is a type of recliner that has a motorized system that raises the chair from its base, making it simpler to get out of the seat. It is normally advised for those who have limited ability to move their legs, and it is useful for persons who have weak knees. Lift chairs come in a variety of forms and sizes, making it simple to choose one that fits any body type. This style of recliner is typically far more costly than rockers or wall-huggers.
Massage Chairs
Rub recliners massage your back and the backs of your legs and can occasionally be heated. They can assist you in lifting or reclining. Sitting in one at the end of a hard day might be soothing. Massage recliners are normally more expensive than rocker or wall-hugger recliners, but you may be able to locate one in your price range because they are available in a wide variety of pricing.
Collections of Classic and Contemporary Art
If you want a recliner but don’t like the way it looks, you may choose a high-leg armchair-style one. For aesthetically-minded home decorators who don’t want to give up on recliners, these recliners are available in wing-back and modern forms. An outstanding selection of textiles in a variety of colors and textures is available. They are often more costly, and most include a push-back reclining mechanism that eliminates the need for a handle or hand level.
Cost
Recliners may be purchased for as little as $250 and as much as $5,000. The usual cost is between $500 and $2,000 for one. Prices rise as you add accessories and features. Your more expensive alternatives include fully motorized recliners, lift chairs, and massage chairs. Online retailers such as Amazon, Wayfair, and Overstock, on the other hand, will sell recliners with these amenities for less than $500.
FAQ
How to Select a Recliner?
Your major goal will be to find the best match for you and your space. Try out different recliners to see what you like and don’t like.
How do you know whether you’ve found the ideal person for you?
The arms should be padded and at a comfortable height. You should have no trouble reaching the reclining mechanism. Your legs and feet should fit comfortably on the footrest when reclining. The backrest should support your back, and the headrest should let your head and neck to rest comfortably.
How can you tell whether a chair is of greater quality?
The chair should be built of durable hardwood with a steel frame. If you buy leather, make sure it’s full-grain or top-grain. To minimize sagging, the cushioning should be constructed of high-density foam. The lever, handles, and reclining movements should all be smooth, easy, and quiet.
How do I determine which size chair to purchase?
The size of the recliner is determined by the amount of available room space and the height of the principal user of the chair. Recliners come in a variety of sizes. Small or tiny is often appropriate for shorter persons, average 5 feet, 3 inches or less. Large recliners are designed for adults 6 feet 3 inches and taller. Most average-sized persons can fit onto medium-sized seats. When reclined, your feet should not dangle far over the side of the chair.
How long will a recliner last?
A new recliner can last anywhere from seven to twenty years, depending on the quality of the chair and the quantity of use. A well-built chair will last 7 to 10 years if used often and on a regular basis. If it’s made of leather, it extends the chair’s life by another five years. Adjust up and down in response to hard use, harsh use by youngsters, or pets honing their claws on the upholstery.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of manual vs. motorized recliners?
The advantage of power recliners is that they are considerably easier to operate and need very little physical strength. You merely need to push a button to get a genuinely luxurious experience. The disadvantages are numerous: they are more heavier, must be placed near an outlet to function, and have motors that might burn out over time.
Where Can I Get a Recliner?
Most furniture stores sell recliners; however, recliner stores have the most options. Recliners can occasionally be found at yard sales, estate sales, and other secondhand buying possibilities. It is usual to try on models in a showroom before purchasing online. Because the salesmen want your business, inquire about discounts. Because brick-and-mortar retailers have higher overhead expenses than online stores, expect in-store prices to reflect this.
Purchasing in-Store
First and foremost, try it on for size before purchasing. It should feel as if you’re sitting in a catching mitt, softly embracing your body’s curves. You should not feel claustrophobic. If you’re not sure if it’s appropriate for you, ask a salesman to assist you in determining whether it’s the proper size for you and whether it will fit in your house. Remember to bring your room dimensions.
Examine the chair carefully for defects in construction, such as seam stitching and lifting mechanisms. If you find faults in the showroom, you should avoid that model. Inquire about the flaw with the salesman to discover whether there is a valid basis for the problem. Items in the showroom should be able to withstand individuals trying them on.
Inquire with the salesperson about delivery alternatives and warranties. Some merchants provide an extended warranty, which may be a good option if you anticipate extensive use or have children or pets.
Purchasing Online
One of the most major advantages of purchasing from an online retailer is that many of them provide free delivery. Furthermore, the selection is broad, and the costs are frequently lower. Some will usually provide “white glove” service or “in-home delivery” for an additional price.
This service include having it brought to the location within your home where you want it, unboxed, assembled (if necessary), and the packaging materials removed. Confirm with the store what shipping choices they have and what is included; this varies by merchant.
Examine the return policies carefully. Customers may be required to pay for return postage by some online shops (unless the item arrived damaged). Returns may be a pain, so be sure you understand all of the terms before making your purchase.