The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Recliner Chair for Your Home

Let’s be honest, who hasn’t dreamt of sprawling out in a recliner after a long day, just like Chandler or Joey in their iconic ‘Friends’ apartment? Picture yourself sinking into one of these plush chairs, kicking back your feet, and letting all your worries melt away! That’s the magic of a recliner chair—the ultimate in living room comfort!

In this guide, we’ll explore the world of recliners, read about all the different types, and find out how to choose the best recliner chair for your home. We’ll help you understand all the factors to keep in mind—right from the space you have available, to the specific features that cater to your comfort needs.

So, grab a cup of tea, settle into your current (perhaps not-so-comfortable) chair, and get ready to give your living space some serious spa vibes! 

Let’s start with the reasons why you should buy a recliner at all.

So, Why Should You Buy a Recliner Chair?

Let’s face it, our days are filled with demands. Work deadlines, endless errands, and social obligations have us on our toes all day, and when we get back home, all we need is to be able to relax and unwind. There, you have your answer— that’s exactly why you should invest in a recliner! 

With just the push of a button (or a gentle pushback), your recliner can move from an upright to a fully reclined position, melting away the stress of your day. Not only do recliner chairs offer an unparalleled level of comfort, but they also provide excellent lumbar support, which can be therapeutic if you’re suffering from back pain.

Whether you’re curling up with a good book, catching up on your favourite show on Netflix, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee, your recliner chair provides the perfect balance of comfort and support. Once you’ve bought one, you’re going to wonder why you ever waited so long!

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Recliner Chair

Let’s help you find the recliner that’s the perfect fit for your needs. Here’s how to get started:

• Read reviews: First, research online reviews from other customers. Reading about other people’s experiences with specific brands can give you valuable feedback, and help you narrow down your choices.
• Measure up: Before you set your heart on a particular recliner, take some measurements!  Where exactly will you be placing your recliner? Look at the available space in your room and make sure that your chosen recliner will not get in the way of doorways or traffic flow. Don’t forget to measure the distance from the wall if you’re thinking of buying a non-wall hugger recliner.
• Size:  Who will be using the recliner most often? Choose a chair with ample width and height to comfortably accommodate their body type.  Try out the recliner in the store to ensure that it’s giving you the proper headrest and lumbar support.
• Material: Recliners come in various upholstery options. Leather recliner chairs offer a luxurious feel but require more maintenance. Fabric options like microfibre provide breathability and are easier to clean. Take into account your lifestyle and preferences when making your choice.
• Test: Don’t just look, sit in different recliners! Pay attention to the cushioning firmness, armrest height, and headrest adjustability. Look for features like lumbar support for added comfort, especially if you have back pain.
• Durability: A recliner is an investment that should last long. Choose a well-made chair with a sturdy frame and high-quality materials. Look for reputable brands known for their durability and craftsmanship.
• Don’t forget style: While comfort is definitely important, don’t forget aesthetics! Choose a recliner that complements your existing décor and fits well in your living space. Pick upholstery in the colour or style that matches your overall palette and décor theme.
• Warranty: Check the warranty offered on the recliner. Are you getting a warranty on just the mechanism, or the upholstery too? A longer warranty period typically indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s quality and durability. Ask the right questions, and read the fine print!

Types of Recliner Chairs

Here’s the lowdown on the most popular types of recliners available in the market.

Rocker Recliners

Rocker recliners, as the name suggests, offer the best of both worlds—the gentle rocking motion of a rocking chair and the ability to recline for ultimate relaxation! If you have a little baby that needs to be lulled to sleep, or you find rocking soothing or helpful for falling asleep, this one’s for you. Some rocker recliners even have a locking mechanism to disable the rocking feature if you prefer a more stationary experience.

Power Recliners

If you find that manually adjusting your recliner is a struggle, power recliners use a motor to adjust the backrest and footrest at the touch of a button—offering convenience and ease of use. This is a great option for those who may have difficulty using a manual reclining mechanism or simply prefer the ultimate relaxation experience. 

Look for power recliners with multiple reclining positions and adjustable lumbar support for the highest degree of comfort. Some models offer cup holders and USB charging ports for added convenience. These recliners can also come with additional features like heat and massage, making them a truly luxe option for your home!

Wall-Hugger Recliners

These recliners are designed to be placed closer to a wall, and sit on a track that allows the chair to move forward as it reclines — eliminating the need for extra space behind the chair. As you lean back, the entire chair glides forward on the track, ensuring maximum reclining comfort without ever needing to touch the wall behind it. 

Wall hugger recliners are perfect for small living spaces where every inch counts. Factor in the wall space you have available when choosing a wall hugger recliner, as some models require more clearance than others.

Massage Recliners

Love a soothing and calming massage, but don’t have the time to visit a spa? A massage recliner will give you a spa-like experience right at home, by incorporating massaging features into the chair’s back and legs! Some massage recliners even offer heat therapy, which proves incredibly useful if you have a tired and aching back. With a number of massage programs and intensity levels to choose from, you can customize your massage experience to your exact needs.

Push-Back Recliners

These are the most basic type of recliner, and recline to a single position when you push back on the backrest with your body weight. Some recliners also have a foot support that lifts up when you push back, allowing you to put your feet up as well. Push-back recliners are typically the most affordable option, making them a good choice for those on a budget. But you should know that they may not offer the same level of comfort or adjustability as other types of recliners, so choose with care.

Two-Position Recliners

These recliner chairs offer two reclining positions—an upright position and a slightly reclined one. They’re a good option if you don’t need a fully reclined position but still want to be able to kick back and relax. Two-position recliners are often a good choice for smaller living spaces, as they don’t require as much clearance to push back as some other types of recliners. They offer a tad more comfort than a standard chair, but without taking up too much space.

Swivel Recliner

Swivel recliners add an extra layer of convenience and functionality to the recliner experience.  These recliners have a base that allows the chair to swivel 360 degrees. This can be a convenient feature for those who want to be able to easily turn the chair to face different directions in the room, without having to get up and move the entire chair. Swivel recliners are also a good option for people who aren’t very mobile, as they can easily turn the chair to face them when they want to sit down or get up.

Tips for Selecting the Perfect Recliner Chair

Choosing the perfect recliner chair is an investment in your comfort and relaxation. Here are some important considerations to keep in mind before you start shopping:

• Mechanisms:  Recliners come with manual, power, and lift mechanisms. Manual recliner chairs require physical effort to operate, while power recliners offer effortless adjustment at the touch of a button. Lift recliners are specifically designed to assist those with mobility limitations.
• Rocking motion:  Do you find rocking motions comforting? If so, a rocker recliner might be a good buy for you. If not, opt for a stationary recliner for maximum stability.
• Swivel for convenience:  Swivel recliners allow you to turn 360 degrees, offering easy access to different parts of the room without needing to get up and move the chair itself. Make sure to check it out before you buy it; some people don’t like the motion too much!
• Reclining angle: How far do you want to recline?  Push-back recliners offer only one reclining position, while some models offer multiple reclining angles for your added comfort.
• Massage magic:  For the ultimate benefits of recliner chairs, choose a massage recliner. These recliners incorporate massaging features into the back and legs, providing a spa-like experience right at home.
• Cup holder:  Do you enjoy a cup of coffee or tea while relaxing? Look for a recliner with a built-in cup holder for added convenience.
• Heat therapy:  Some recliners offer built-in heat therapy, which can further soothe tired muscles and help you relax.
• Budget considerations:  Recliner chairs come in a wide range of price points. Determine your budget beforehand and choose a chair that offers the features you desire within your price range.

Looking for Interior Design Help? 

We hope this guide has equipped you with all the information you need to find the perfect recliner chair for your home! Now, you can unwind and enjoy movie nights, reading sessions, or simply having a snooze.

And if you’re seeking a complete home décor transformation, then do visit any of our HomeLane Experience Centres. We’ve got all you need for a hassle-free home décor journey, from conceptualisation to completion!

FAQs

1. What makes a good recliner?

A good recliner chair should hit the sweet spot between comfort, functionality, and durability. 

• Comfort: Look for features like plush cushioning, adjustable headrests and armrests, and good lumbar support. The recliner should cradle your body and provide a relaxing experience.
• Functionality: Choose the reclining mechanism (manual, power, or lift-assist) that best suits your needs. Features like cup holders, USB charging ports, heat, and massage can further relax you.
• Durability: Choose a recliner that’s built with a sturdy frame and high-quality materials. Look for reputable brands known for their craftsmanship.

2. How much space do I need for a recliner chair?

The space needed for a recliner depends on two main factors:

• Recliner Dimensions: The recliner’s actual size will determine its footprint in the room.
• Reclining Clearance: Check how far the recliner needs to move backwards to fully recline. You’ll need additional space behind the chair to accommodate this movement.

Measure the available space in your room before purchasing a recliner. Allow at least 30-36 inches of clearance behind the recliner for full reclining. Think of buying a wall-hugger recliner if space is limited. These recliners move forward on a track as they recline, minimising the needed clearance behind the chair.

3. What fabric options are available for recliner chairs?

Recliner chairs come in a variety of fabrics, each of which comes with its own pros and cons:

• Leather: Luxurious, easy to clean, and durable, but can be more expensive and a lot cooler to the touch. Also, there are many animal lovers who frown upon the use of leather (in which case artificial leather is an option).
• Fabric: You can choose from different varieties, factoring in colour, texture, and breathability. Choose from options like microfibre (stain-resistant), chenille (soft and comfortable), or velvet (luxurious but requires more care).

If you have small children or pets, you’ll need to get a recliner in a material that’s stain proof and holds up well to rough handling.

4. What different features and functions can recliners have?

Modern recliner chairs offer a variety of features beyond just reclining! These could include the following:

• Reclining Mechanism: Manual, power, and lift-assist options are available.
• Footrest Options: Some recliners offer adjustable footrests.
• Comfort Features: Cup holders, heat, massage, and adjustable lumbar support can give you a better experience.
• Swivel Base: Allows you to easily turn the chair without having to move the entire recliner.
• Built-in Speakers or USB Ports: Add extra value to your purchase.