Different Types of Recliners to Help You Relax & Unwind
Put your feet up.
After a long day, there is nothing better than sitting back and relaxing on your recliner. With their ability to recline and provide a built-in footrest, they're the perfect spot to take a nap or watch your favorite show. When deciding on the best recliner, it’s important to consider reclining type, base type, design, and additional features. Review the following sections to determine how to pick a recliner that meets your needs:
Reclining Types
Reclining Position Options
Recliner Sizes
Recliner Bases
Recliner Designs
Convenient Recliner Features
Reclining Types
The first step in finding your perfect recliner is choosing the right reclining method: either manual or power. Read below to determine which reclining type fits your space and relaxation criteria:
Manual: A manual recliner can be placed anywhere in your room and lets you recline back with a quick manual adjustment. Manual recliners have three different types, and each type has a different way to recline: push back, push a button, or recline with a handle or lever. With a push-back recliner, lean backward into the recliner – your body weight and the pressure you exert on the chair will cause it to recline. Manual recliners with a push button have a button on the side of the recliner that can recline with a quick push of the button. A manual recliner with a handle or lever works similarly to a push button, but it requires pulling the lever to recline. To get back to sitting upright, use your legs to push the footrest down and back into place. You can also choose a reclining sofa, sectional, and living room set to suit the layout of your living room.
Power: Power recliners have built-in motors, letting you adjust your recliner with a quick push of a button. You can stop your recliner at any position, giving you ultimate control of the reclining experience. The button is commonly located on the chair’s side, or a separate remote is provided. Some power recliners allow you to move the headrest, seat back, and footrest. When deciding on the perfect placement for your power recliner, keep in mind that most power recliners need to be plugged into an outlet. Similar to manual recliners, there are power-reclining sofa, sectional, and living room set configurations.
Recliners also offer a range of reclining and upright configurations, including 2-position, 3-position, and infinite positions. Review this section to determine which one meets your lounge needs.
2-Position: These recliners typically have a standard seat position for upright lounging and a full reclining position with the footrest activated.
3-Position: These recliners have three seat options. A standard position for when you want to sit upright, a slightly reclined position for reading or watching TV, and a fully-reclined position for impromptu naps. Both reclining positions activate the footrest.
Infinite Positions: Recliners with infinite reclining positions give you the chance to recline with or without the foot rest, and gives you the choice of activating the footrest regardless of the reclining feature. This allows you to tailor your seat exactly to your liking!
Recliners come in multiple sizes, so there's no excuse not to prioritize your relaxation! Make sure to measure your space and look closely at dimensions to determine which size recliner will fit in your space and provide you with optimal nap space. Read more below.
Small: Small recliners measure less than 38" in width. This makes them the ideal recliner size for tight living room corners and small rooms while still providing you with ample lounge space.
Tip!
Check out The Best Small Recliners That Are Big on Relaxation for space-saving options.
Standard: Standard size recliners typically measure between 39" and 49" wide and have adequate space for you to stretch out with some room to spare.
Oversized: Oversized recliners measure 50" wide or even wider! These are ideal if you want the maximum lounge space or room for an extra person (or pet) to recline with you.
Recliners have various base types, and the base is what allows your recliner to move (or not move). While some recliners stay motionless, you can opt for a recliner that also allows you to glide, swivel, or rock.
Standard: A standard recliner lets you focus on reclining without any other adjustment options. If you have a small space or want a chair that only reclines, this is the best recliner for you if you’d like to sit back and relax.
Glider: Gliders move on a fixed track which makes for a smooth back and forth motion on a linear path. The gliding motion is perfect for soothing a little one to sleep in a nursery, while the recliner lets you sit back and relax.
Rocker: Rocker recliners are on a base of two arch-shaped legs and have a spring that lets the recliner move back and forth on an arched path. While a rocker moves similarly to a glider, its back and forth motion is not quite as smooth, because it is using two legs instead of a fixed track.
Swivel: A swivel recliner has a round metal base with a swivel mechanism, allowing the recliner
to rotate. Swivel recliners are an excellent option for rooms with multiple focal points, allowing you to turn without straining your neck.
Swivel Glider: A perfect combination of two base types, swiveling glider recliners offer the smooth back and forth motion of a glider while letting you turn your chair on a swivel. The track allows you to do both movements smoothly, making it the perfect chair to hold a sleeping baby.
Swivel Rocker: Stuck between a swivel recliner and a rocking recliner? Get the best of both worlds with a swivel rocking recliner. You get the rocking back and forth motion from a traditional rocker while being able to swivel and turn your recliner. Swivel rocker recliners are a great option if you find yourself turning your head often for conversation.
When it comes to choosing the best recliner for you, it’s important to consider the design of the chair. Consider your room’s style and decor. This will help you pick the best recliner design for your space.
Standard Recliner: A standard recliner is what most think of when they picture a reclining chair – an upholstered armchair that allows you to lean back and a footrest that extends out of the front of the chair.
Ergonomic Recliner: An ergonomic reclining chair looks just like a standard recliner but is designed with your posture and body support in mind. With extra cushioning and support in your lower back area and headrest, an ergonomic recliner prioritizes comfort and support over design. Some ergonomic recliners are slimmer in design and include an ottoman to elevate your feet.
Home Theater Recliner: Sit back and enjoy your favorite movie with a home theater recliner. Commonly made of leather, they are thicker than your standard recliner and are designed to provide maximum comfort. Some home theater recliners have built-in cup holders in the armrests, creating the ultimate movie theater experience from the comfort of your home.
Club Recliner: Club recliners are known for their decorative look. While they were once commonly made of leather, you can now expect to see tufted backs, nailheads, and patterned fabric on club recliners. This is the best recliner for drawing the eye and adding style to your space.
Zero-Gravity Recliner: Zero-gravity recliners get their name from their reclining position, which is the same position astronauts are in when they lift off. These recliners give you a weightless feeling, letting you relax and release tension. They are designed to allow your body to recline in a neutral posture where your feet are elevated and aligned with your heart. Be sure to place this recliner in an area with plenty of room to extend horizontally.
Wingback Recliner: If you are looking for a cozy recliner, a wingback is the best recliner for you. It gets its name from the winglike design of the seat back. Wingback recliners are commonly upholstered with a high back and armrests.
Nailhead: For a rustic look, opt for a recliner with nailhead trim. The nailheads are used decoratively, creating an embellishing trim on the front of the arms.
Tufted Back: For a stylish recliner, opt for a recliner with a tufted back. Tufting refers to stitches (or buttons) sewn throughout the piece to keep the stuffing or cushion inside from moving. This sewing technique adds a decorative touch and gives the recliner that classic tufted look.
Upholstery is another key consideration when choosing the right type of recliner. To help you find the right fit, we've outlined the most popular upholstery materials below.
Genuine Leather: Genuine leather is durable, soft, and long-lasting. The neutral tones and unique grain add a natural feel that blends into any style – from traditional to rustic to mid-century modern.
Faux Leather: Faux leather is made from synthetic materials and designed to mimic the look and feel of genuine leather. It's easy to maintain and much more affordable than genuine leather, which makes faux leather an excellent budget-friendly option.
Leather Match: Leather match uses genuine leather on the front part of the recliner and faux leather on less visible areas, such as the back or sides. The two types of leather are closely color-matched to create one seamless piece at a more affordable price point than a full genuine leather recliner.
Polyester: With water-repellant and fade-resistant qualities, polyester upholstery is durable and long-lasting. Polyester is also an affordable option that works well for households with small children or pets.
Velvet: If you're looking for something that feels soft and luxurious, velvet is a great choice. The dense and smooth pile creates a subtle sheen while the fabric itself is quite durable and pill-resistant.
Microsuede/Microfiber: Microfiber is made of incredibly fine fibers bundled tightly together and cut into a short pile for a smooth, suede-like texture. This upholstery fabric is also water-resistant, which makes it easy to wipe up spills and avoid stains.
Chenille: Chenille is made from yarn and woven into loops for a plush, fuzzy finish. This upholstery material adds plenty of warmth and softness to your space, making it a cozy pick for a comfortable recliner.
Linen: Linen is a soft, breathable natural fiber that's moisture-resistant and durable. Though it can be more costly than other fabrics, linen is a comfortable upholstery fabric that can last a long time.
Cotton: Another natural fiber, cotton is an upholstery material that is breathable and soft. The casual feel of this upholstery fabric adds an inviting element to your living room.
Recliners are available with a variety of features that can help accentuate your chair’s design or your relaxation. From a recliner with a tufted back to a recliner with massage capabilities, choose the best recliner with additional features that fit your needs.
Assembled: Recliners can come fully assembled, letting you unpack your chair and relax right away. By opting for an assembled recliner, you can save time (and frustration) trying to put it together.
Storage: Store your remote (or snacks) nearby for easy reach by opting for a recliner with storage included. These recliners feature a pocket on the side of the recliner that blends in with the material of your chair, letting your storage area stay hidden but within reach.
Ottoman: Some recliners (like swivel recliners) include an ottoman where you can rest your feet. It matches your recliner's style and allows you to get comfortable and catch a quick nap.
Adjustable Headrest & Lumbar Support: The perfect reclining experience is different for everyone, and an adjustable headrest and lumbar support help you achieve that perfect experience. Adjust the headrest to fit your head comfortably and adjust the lumbar support to where you need it on your back most, promoting good posture and supporting the natural curve of your back. This feature is also available in sofas, sectionals, and living room sets.
Independent Foot/Back Movement: Customize your reclining experience with a recliner that offers independent foot and back movement. This added movement feature means that you can adjust your back to your preference and raise your feet to the perfect position without impacting other parts of the recliner.
Position Lock: If you are worried about getting up from the recliner when leaning forward, opt for a recliner with a position lock. It allows the recliner to lock into place so that it will not move until unlocked. It’s also a great option if you have little ones that like to play around with furniture.
Massage: Massage recliners have rollers inside the recliner that knead and vibrate, replicating the feeling of a massage. Most recliners focus on the back area, but some offer massaging in the lumbar area, thighs, and even legs. With a touch of a button, you can control the intensity and type of vibration (like wave and pulse). Massage chairs tend to use a standard power cord to power the massage options, so be sure to place the recliner near an outlet. Massage recliners often offer a heat option, making them great for achy joints or sore muscles.
Heat: If you are looking for a way to help sore muscles and joints, a heated recliner may be the best recliner for you. With a click of a button, you can control the heat intensity, letting you customize your heated recliner experience.
Lift Assistant:A recliner with a lift assistant is the best recliner for someone who has difficulty getting up from a chair. It lifts to an upright position that helps guide the person from sitting to standing. It is a great option for someone that has trouble with their knees, legs, or hips.
Wall Hugger: If you have a small space, opt for a wall-hugging recliner. It allows you to place the recliner close to the wall, ultimately saving you space in your living room.
Now that you know how to choose a recliner that exceeds your expectations, get browsing!
