After dogs, recliners have likely been man’s best friends for a little over a century. There is nothing better than coming home after a very long day – and then sinking into the most comfortable recliner that reminds you of a puffy cloud in heaven.
Granted, not all recliners have been nice and puffy from the very beginning; some may have been actually very hard to sit on. Only the fact that the recline was pure bliss. However, did you know that recliners nowadays have perfected the technology-meets-comfort aspect?
So, if you are looking for a comfy recliner, then you have come to the right place. With this article, you will be able to find the perfect recliner so that you can spend the remainder of your day in peace.
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The Most Important Things to Consider Before Getting a Recliner
Before buying a recliner, there are several things that you might want to keep in mind. Neglecting them may end up in you buying the wrong recliner – one which you may not even be able to use.
The Size of the Room
The worst thing that you can do is probably buy a recliner that will not even fit in your room. And by this, we do not mean its non-reclined position. Sure, it might look all nice and compact when it is all “packed up” – but once it has been reclined, you might realize that it takes more space than you actually thought it would.
To prevent such an unfortunate scenario, you may want to measure the size of the room, and then the recliner. Make sure that you measure the chair when it is also reclined. If you are buying the chair online, make sure that you are checking for dimensions.
Bear in mind that every recliner will need somewhere between 1 and 3 feet of space from your room’s wall. Considering that this will vary from recliner to recliner, you may want to ask the salesperson exactly how much it reclines.Your Body’s Size
Wouldn’t it be awkward to buy a recliner only to realize that you do not fit in it? It can also be problematic if the chair is too big. Since you cannot reach the armrests, you will basically be flailing about, without any support.
If you cannot test the recliner yourself, measure yourself as you are sitting – and then look for the seat measurements. You might want to look for a recliner that has a couple of extra inches to your size.
You might also want to ensure that your head fits comfortably the headrest and that the feet are nicely placed on the footrest.Construction
The construction of the chair is also very important. First things first, look for heavy screws – since you do not want your chair to be falling apart after just a few reclines. You will want something that will last through time.
Furthermore, look for recliners that feature a quiet motor. Let’s say that you are sitting in your recliner, and you feel yourself dozing off. You reach for the lever to recline – but the loud noise of the motor wakes you up and destroys every chance of getting some sleep. The cushion is also very important. Look for recliners that are soft enough to be comfortable – but also firm enough to offer the proper support.
Last but not least, look for easy-to-use handles. You don’t want to turn your reclining session into a battle – so make sure that it is positioned somewhere that you can easily reach it.
Most Comfortable Recliners Comparison Chart
PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
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Homall Single Recliner Chair |
| View On Amazon | |
Ashley Furniture Signature Design |
| View On Amazon | |
BenchMaster Newport Taupe Swivel Recliner |
| View On Amazon | |
JC Home Swivel&Glider Recliner |
| View On Amazon | |
Casa Andrea Milano Slim Recliner |
| View On Amazon | |
JC Home Contemporary Leather Kids Recliner with Cup Holder |
| View On Amazon | |
Flash Furniture Multi-Position Recliner |
| View On Amazon |
Most Comfortable Recliner Reviews – Top Picks
1. Homall Single Recliner Chair
Made with a “tall and big” design, this chair is once more perfect for those who need some extra space during their relaxing time. Upholstered with high-quality PU leather, this chair feels good on the skin and is easily cleaned or maintained (depending on the circumstance).
Aside from its standard position, this recliner has two more reclining modes: a partial one that is perfect for watching TV or relaxing, and a full one that is ideal for taking a nap. The wide and curved armrests are also perfect for you to make the best out of your relaxing time.
Featuring thick, generous padding, this recliner is comfortable while providing you the back support that you need. Plus, considering that it also features a very supportive headrest, you will be able to relax while preventing any further muscle pain.
2. Ashley Furniture Signature Design
If you are looking for the father of all comfortable chairs, then this one is certainly the one that you must go for. This dual motor chair lift recliner will allow you to ease your back – and also elevate your legs so that you are all nice and comfortable.
The brown upholstery is very smooth and stylish. Plus, considering that is it made from faux leather, it is also very easy to clean. Unlike microfiber upholsteries, this one does not absorb stains – and all you will need to do is swipe the place where the substance spilled.
This recliner is generously oversized and can even fit bigger people. Plus, considering that it can go into a fully reclined position, you can also use this chair to get a good night’s rest. It’s highly cushioned, so you will definitely be able to sleep comfortably in it.
3. BenchMaster Newport Taupe Swivel Recliner
You know how they say that spending good money on quality products is worth it. Well, this is the case with the Newport Recliner. The craftsmanship here is impressive, and the taupe bonded leather is second to none when we talk about materials. This chair and swivel will show you precisely what comfort means.
The dimensions of the set can accommodate any body type. The adjustable backrest is just the cherry on top of the sundae. This high-quality unit also features wood walnut finish making it a classy-looking recliner suitable for every household.
But wait, the backrest is not the only thing that moves. The seat can be adjusted forward so that you can get in a very comfy lying position. The backrest can be categorized as a firm, although you will definitely feel softness too. One thing to keep in mind is that this is not a rocking chair.
The color can be defined as cream or beige. It’s definitely not white. The manufacturer gives you a 60-day return period, no questions asked. Also, the ottoman is not sold separately – you have to get the full set.
4. JC Home Swivel&Glider Recliner
This is a classic middle-of-the-pack recliner that will give you high comfort levels and comes at a reasonable price. There is no ottoman here, but the recliner does have a footrest that pops out. Along with the footrest, the backrest also reclines back this giving your body a much-needed comfort position.
The lining is made out of breathable leather, which is a fancy way of saying that it is not genuine leather. But come on now, for this price you cannot get genuine leather. We haven’t mentioned one of the coolest features yet, though. It’s the swivel function. Yes, you can kick-back and still spin at 360 degrees if you wish.
Don’t worry about damaging the chair by overusing it. The frame is made out of sturdy chrome metal, and this goes for the base as well. The filling is 100% Polyurethane, and the lining, as already mentioned, is made out of leather.
What we didn’t like about the chair that much is the fact that the mechanism is not automatic. This means that when you want to get up, you have to push down the footrest yourself. You get to select between brown, creamy white, and grey colors. Bear in mind that the price changes depending on the color you choose.
5. Casa Andrea Milano Slim Recliner
Now here we have a product that differs from most recliners because of its slim design. Now don’t get us wrong, the chair is not small or uncomfortable. It’s just that the armrests and the backrest are thin and will not give you the typical bulky armchair look. According to many, this is an advantage.
The thing with such a recliner is that it may not fit just any living room. Its upholstery will give you a more fashionable look and not a very classic one. We are talking about linen fabric and high-density foam. None of the materials are toxic, and the whole unit is made of hypoallergenic materials.
The reclining mechanism is manual, and to recline the chair, you have to put your arms on it and push backward.
You get a sitting area of about 26.4 x 35 inches, which should be quite enough. What we really liked about this recliner is the fact that it comes in many colors. There’s a little pocket on the right side where you can put magazines and newspapers. In fact, all of this makes the unit excellent for a waiting room or a coffee shop. The weight limit is 250 pounds.
6. JC Home Contemporary Leather Kids Recliner with Cup Holder
A compact a small recliner chair, this product will be an excellent addition to your kid’s room and will make your child feel like a prince or princess in their own comfortable space. At only 26 inches length and 28 inches width, the recliner can be easily accommodated in a corner space. A 100% polyester coating provides a smooth touch, and the models come in a classy black and brown for your boys and a fresh, bright lavender for the interior of a girl’s room. The recliner can be adjusted to three positions, from upright sitting to a full recline, with comfortable leg rest. The cup holder at the armrest is a beautiful feature, where your kid can leave their cup of juice or milk while reading their favorite cartoon book, without worrying about spilling it on the couch.
Ideally, the recliner is a good fit for kids aged 3 to 7. This should factor in when you choose your purchase, as you may want to know how long it will be suitable for use. Another element to consider is that the reclining mechanism is not always easy for a kid to adjust, so you may need to step in to give them a hand.
7. Flash Furniture Multi-Position Recliner
This is a rather popular recliner, mainly because of the value that it presents you with. While the leather isn’t genuine, the mahogany wood base is. It has to be said that the craftsmanship here is absolutely spot on for the price that you pay.
The lining is made of the special LeatherSoft Upholstery. The unit also features polyurethane for extra softness. Speaking of which, the ottoman is made of the exact same materials. However, you cannot purchase it separately. This material might make you sweat a little bit if you sit in shorts or short sleeves. Throwing on a little blanket will solve the issue.
The biggest downside is that we cannot really categorize the chair as a recliner. The backrest does go back a little bit, but there is no dedicated mechanism to bring it back and forth. Also, the unit will not come assembled. If you weren’t handy, you might find it a little bit difficult to put together. There are four color options available, and the weight limit of the chair is 250 pounds.
8. MAGIC UNION Power Lift Massage Recliner Chair
If you are looking for a recliner that both lowers and lifts, then this model is certainly the one for you. This way, when you want to easily get up, this recliner will push you upward – taking away most of the effort from your part. It is a good option for the elderly or those who have problems lifting themselves from a seated position.
Featuring two remote controls, this recliner is very easy to use. By just pressing the right button, you can control every movement – from the backrest and the footrest to the full lift of the chair. It has also been equipped with cup holders and pockets so that you can easily store items safely on the chair.
This recliner also comes with a massage option that has 5 total modes: auto, pulse, wave, press, and normal. Plus, you can choose the areas that you want the massage to focus on (back, lumbar, thigh, and legs). It is the perfect recliner for those who want to completely relax after a long day.
9. Giantex Manual Recliner Chair
If you prefer the manual recliner to the electric one, then this model is certainly an option you should check out. Featuring a foldable design, this can become the perfect napping place for those who want to get some shut-eye. Plus, considering that this chair has a capacity of 250lbs, it is perfect for people who are overweight.
This recliner has been thickly padded to provide ultimate comfort. The backrest is also decent, and the headrest is perfect to provide support for your neck. It is a great way to release the pressure of your strained muscle.
Featuring a quick switch design, this recliner only has you pressing one lever in order to go into a reclined position. All you have to do is click that switch so that the backrest reclines and the footrest goes up. If you are looking for a good recliner on a budget, then this is certainly the one for you.
The Most Comfortable Recliner Chair Buying Guide
Choosing the Type
Depending on how you want to spend your day in that recliner (and particularly, what your sense of style is), there are several types of recliners that you might want to go for:
Two-Position Recliners
The name of this recliner type actually gives away its basic function: to shift between two positions. To put it plainly, you can either go for an upright or a fully-reclined position. Most of these recliners use a lever to put it into its reclined mode – but if you go for an electric recliner, you can do that with the press of a button.
Since they do not have so many extra features or reclining positions, these recliners are likely the cheapest in the batch. They are good for those who are shopping for recliners on a budget – but bear in mind that you might also be sacrificing on their functions.
Rocker Recliners
No, these recliners are probably not the rockers you are thinking of – but they are certainly more comfortable and convenient than two-position recliners. Simply put, a rocker will have several positioning angles.
For instance, the footrest can go all the way up, but the back can be set only a few inches lower. They are appropriate for small rooms since you can place them relatively close to the wall.
Push-Back Recliners
While a rocker recliner generally has a footrest, a push-back recliner usually does not. Also known as a flex-back recliner, this is a type that will have you pushing back into the seat when you want to get into a reclining position.
Considering that the back is the only chair part that actually moves, this type is perfect for smaller rooms. Plus, if you need a footrest, you can easily pair it with an ottoman to meet your needs.
Riser Recliner
A riser (lift) recliner is simply a motorized reclining chair that will lift upward and recline. It is a good option for the elderly since it allows them to get out of the chair effortlessly. At the same time, they are the most expensive of the batch, but they are useful for those who have disabilities or difficulties moving.
Wall Huggers
Wall huggers are some of the best options if you live in a home that is relatively small. Simply put, when this chair “reclines,” the seat will be pushed forward. As a result, you will be able to place this chair much closer to the wall. Not only does it save you space, but it is also generally compact and easy to use.
Big and Tall
Just as their name suggests, these recliners are supposed to be just that: big and tall, and extra larger. Designed to hold more weight compared to your average recliners, these are perfect for those who have a little more “honey” on their hips.
The Most Comfortable Recliner Must-Have Features
You’ve decided on the type, and you have considered the things of importance when picking out the perfect recliner. Now, you have to look for some extra features that you might want to have on your recliner. If you are lucky enough to have all these features in a chair, then you may have just found yourself the perfect recliner.
A Rocker or a Glide Base
Not every rocker chair has an actual rocker feature. However, some of these recliners have the option of rocking back and forth – just like an actual rocking chair. It is the perfect option for those who have problems falling asleep – and it is also ideal for mothers who are nursing their children.
Swivel Base
This type of recliner is a good option if you want to swivel around or pivot in your chair. You will be able to face any direction you want – or even start rocking if the swivel is balanced enough.
Massage Option
If you have the budget to spare, nothing beats a massage option in a recliner. Think about it: you are already relaxed enough in your reclining position. Thus, adding a massage in the mix will feel as if you just reached heaven. So, why not get a recliner that will massage you with just the press of a button?
The massage will technically be a vibration – and depending on the chair, it might feel different from model to model. Ideally, you may want to test the chair before buying it – but if you can’t do that, you may want to get a chair with multiple massage speeds. The standard recliner will have three speeds: low, medium, and high.
You can also go for reclining chairs that will massage certain body areas – such as your neck and shoulders or your feet. On the other hand, you can prefer a separate top-notch neck and shoulder massager or an efficient foot massager.
Flat Lay
They may be called recliners, but not all of them have a flat lay option. Most of them recline to about 45 degrees. So, if you want to recline in a flat position, you may want to ensure that your recliner goes all the way from upright to flat. They are the perfect option for those who enjoy sleeping in their chair.
Pockets and Holder
Sometimes, when watching a movie, you might need a cup holder for your coffee or a pocket to put your remote control. If you tend to “hoard” around you, make sure that the recliner also has enough storage space.
Built-In Charger
Don’t you just hate it when your phone battery runs out, and you have to leave the comfort of your chair to reach an outlet? Also, in this case, connecting it is not really the problem. However, if the outlet is not anywhere close to the chair, you will have to stay phoneless as it charges.
If you buy a chair with a built-in charger, this should no longer be an issue. You can charge your phone and use it while being in the comfort of the chair.
Electric vs. Manual Recliners: Which One Is Better?
The main difference between an electric recliner and a manual one is exactly in their name. An electric recliner has a powerful mechanism that allows you to adjust the chair using electricity.
On the other hand, the manual recliner is adjusted via the traditional pull lever. When deciding which one suits your preferences the most, you have to keep these variables in mind:
Cost
Electric recliners are generally packed with extra features, whereas manual recliners have no electric component. For this reason, a manual recliner will be much more affordable to purchase.
Maintenance
Electric recliners are susceptible to failure or damage to their components, which is why they may require more maintenance. Manual recliners are relatively straightforward – and generally, require little maintenance.
Versatility
Likely one of the best things about an electric recliner is that there are various settings and features that you can go for. From massages to charging features and so on, an electric recliner may give you more than the standard manual recliner.
Longevity
Power recliners do not deal with as much wear as a manual recliner, which is why they tend to last for a longer time – provided they are given the proper maintenance.
In the end, choosing the best recliner for your purposes will depend on what you actually consider a priority.
Sleeping in Your Recliner: Are There Any Health Benefits?
Upon first notice, you probably would have said that sleeping in a bed is a much more suitable choice. However, depending on your health conditions, it might be a much better option to sleep in the recliner. Here are the benefits:
- Improved blood circulation
- Relief to your back
- Anti-snoring and easier breathing
- Soothing for the nerves
- Improved digestion
- Fights osteoporosis pain
A mattress is a good place to sleep – but if you have an issue that calls for the above benefits, you might reap more benefits from sleeping in a recliner.
The Best Technique to Sleeping Comfortably and Better in a Recliner
When sleeping in a recliner, you need to set the heights right. The good thing about recliners is that most of them feature a footrest as well, allowing you to prop your legs up. If you are a pregnant woman or a person suffering from back pain, this is actually highly convenient for you. After all, recliners help to relieve back pain.
You might also want to ensure that the recliner has the right bedding. Not only will it keep you warm, but it will also ensure that you sleep better throughout the night. It is important that you choose a warm blanket if you want to sleep comfortably.
If you need further support to sleep comfortably, you might want to use a pillow under your neck, and an extra pillow under your knees. Once your feet are elevated, you will get to sleep more comfortably than you would in a regular bed.
Ideally, to sleep better in a recliner, you should also ensure that your room is not illuminated and that all your electronics are turned off. This way, your sleep won’t get interrupted by any potential light sources.
Is Sleeping in a Recliner Bad for Your Back?
Recliners can be a hit or a miss when it comes to back support. Some recliners may help you sleep better, with proper back support – whereas others will make you feel as if things have just been made worse.
The answer lies in whether the recliner gives you enough lumbar support or not. So that your lower back is not strained, the recliner will have to fit your body properly as your feet are brought above the heart level.
Sleeping in a recliner is bad for your back only if you do not get proper lumbar support. Thus, you must check that it has adequate support so that your muscles do not tighten and stretch as you are sitting.
FAQs Answered about Recliners
Is a recliner a good thing for your back?
Yes, a recliner can be a very good thing for your back – but only as long as you pick one that has a lumbar support feature. This means that your recliner must have a massage cushion in the lumbar area of your back, allowing no gaps between your body and the recliner’s backrest.
How should I clean and maintain my recliner?
You can clean your recliner just as you would clean a regular piece of furniture: with mild soap and light scrubs – ideally, only when you see that the recliner has been stained. If your recliner is made from fabric (and not leather), you can take a soft brush and then brush away all traces of dirt or pet hair that might stick to its surface.
How many positions does a recliner have?
This will actually depend on the recliner – namely, the type that you purchase. For example, a standard recliner will only have 2 positions – but a more advanced recliner may have 3 or more.
Depending on how much you want to invest, you might even be able to get a recliner with infinite reclining possibilities. This way, you can adjust the positions until you have found the perfect one for you.Is the fabric important when I’m picking out a recliner?
Picking out the right fabric is actually something many people seem to neglect. You need to consider how much time you are planning to spend in that chair, the season, and how breathable it actually is. For instance, it might be difficult for you to sit for a long time during summer on a leather recliner – which is why you might want to go for a microfiber one.
At the same time, you need to consider the environment. If you predict that many drinks or foods are about to stain the chair, then leather-like materials might be much easier to maintain.Do all recliners go into a fully reclined position?
No, not every recliner goes into a fully reclined position. Some may recline at around 45 degrees or more – but never at a full recline. If you want your recliner to allow you to lie completely flat, you should check that it has this option first. Otherwise, you might realize that you have purchased a recliner for you to sleep in – but you can’t sleep in it at all.
Can sleeping in recliners help sleep apnea?
There are some clinical studies that show that the symptoms of sleep apnea disappear when they sleep in angled positions. It may not be a total cure but sleeping at the right angle can improve your sleep significantly. In other words, sleeping upright can help with sleep apnea.
Wrap Up
Finding the most comfortable recliner is certainly not easy. For some, the most crucial part is the back support while others consider the cushioned softness to be the most important aspect. There are also some people who believe that as long as the recliner has enough storage space for snacks, it’s perfect. It is all about the priorities that a particular person has.
Needless to say, you need to know exactly what you are looking for in the most comfortable recliner before making the purchase. Otherwise, you might end up buying something that is very comfortable for you – but not so much for the rest of the family.
Having said that, we hope that our guide helped you find the best recliner for your preferences. Some of the suggestions provided are more appropriate for watching TV or taking power naps – whereas others are the perfect choices for a few hours of rest. You just have to decide what you need the chair for.
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