When buying a recliner chair, there are several important factors to consider to ensure you choose the best one that suits your needs and preferences. Here’s a comprehensive buying guide with essential factors to consider:
Last Updated: October 25, 2023
Comfort
The primary purpose of a recliner chair is to provide comfort. Test the chair by sitting in it and adjusting the reclining positions to see if it suits your body shape and offers adequate support for your back, neck, and legs.
Some recliners also offer options like heat, massage, and power lift. Keep these features in mind when considering the comfort aspect. A warm massage while reclined could also mean a nice nap!
Size and Space
Consider the dimensions of the recliner chair to ensure it fits well in the intended space. Measure the available space in your room and make sure the recliner’s size doesn’t overwhelm the area.
There are some recliners that cater to taller and larger people so they’ll take up more space than a traditional reclining chair. Be sure to know the dimensions when the recliner is fully extended as well!
Upholstery Material/Color
Recliner chairs come in various upholstery materials, including leather, fabric, and synthetic materials. Consider factors like durability, ease of cleaning, and comfort when choosing the upholstery. They are also available in a wide range of colors.
If, when trying to match, or come close to the color of other furniture already within your home, you might be able to request a swatch. Furthermore, many times there are more color and material options available than what is shown on a sales floor. Be sure to discuss this with your furniture expert.
Style and Design
Recliner chairs come in various styles and designs to match different aesthetics. Choose a design that complements your existing furniture and decor. Along with color, as mentioned above, there are many different designs to choose from.
Styles like rustic, farmhouse, art nouveau, french renaissance, and mid-century modern can make this decision tricky. Keep in mind your overall home decor style while considering the style and design of your new recliner.
Reclining Mechanism
There are different types of reclining mechanisms, such as manual, power, or push-back recliners. Choose the one that is most convenient for you and fits your lifestyle. Here are some examples:
Weight Capacity
Durability is a factor that you should consider, and one aspect of durability is the reclining chair’s weight capacity. Unfortunately, not all recliners are made the same, and they all have different weight capacities. On the other hand, the good news is that there are still many options for all the different weight classes.
Check the materials used in the construction of the recliner. Look for sturdy frames, durable upholstery, and high-quality padding to ensure the chair lasts for a long time. Also, ask if there is a warranty offered for the chair.
Additional Features
Some recliners come with extra features like built-in massage, heat, cup holders, storage compartments, or USB charging ports. These features can increase comfort and/or convenience. Decide which features are essential for you and choose accordingly.
When visiting a furniture store be sure to ask questions about the added features. Oftentimes the furniture expert that you speak with will be very knowledgeable and might have some recommendations based on your needs.
Read Customer Reviews
Regular people who have purchased the reclining chair that you’re considering in the past can prove to add valuable insight. You can get a sense of the experiences other buyers have had with the recliner model you’re considering. This will help you to weed out models that might not meet your expectations.
Reclining chairs aren’t just for Dad anymore according to this article from Scientific American.
Budget
Recliner chairs are fairly affordable for the most part, but you need to be sure exactly how much you can afford prior to shopping. If you intend to finance your purchase, know exactly what you can afford monthly over several years to be sure you don’t overextend yourself financially. If you to just buy a new recliner outright, know your top-end and don’t go over it no matter the temptation!
Need More Help?
You can contact one of Gardner White’s experts at (248) 481-2208, chat with one online, or visit one of our local Michigan stores.