Buying a recliner isn’t a difficult task, but it is something that requires some consideration. After all, recliners now come in a huge variety of styles and with a host of different functions, so it’s important you pick the chair that best suits your needs.
There’s also more to a recliner chair than just comfort and style. Interestingly, about 68% of doctors recommend recliners for muscle strain as well as pregnancy-related back pain. That’s because sinking into a recliner after a hard day’s work essentially means taking the weight off of your back. By reclining or lying down, you are resting your spine rather than contracting your muscles as you do when you’re sitting down. A great recliner can also give astounding lumbar and neck support, which makes it an agreeable seat for individuals with arthritis or body throbs and spinal dysfunctions. In addition to this, recliners can massage, recline, rock, lift, and more.
You will, therefore, need to think about your needs and why you want the recliner, as well as fit, shape, and the size of the seat. The best fit will give the most solace. Durability is another important consideration.
Here, we will discuss and go into more detail on what you need to consider before buying a recliner.
Size matters
If you plan to purchase a recliner online (there are some great and recommended recliners on sale on the internet), you need to know your body measurements. If you don’t, you’ll have to go into local furniture chairs that have recliners and test a few different sizes for fit and comfort
If you’d prefer to do this at home, simply get a tape measure and note the distance from the back of your knee to your heel. Next, measure the distance from your tailbone to the back of your knee. After this, take a measurement from your arm from your elbow to the end of the palm of your hand, where your fingers touch. Finally, measure your body’s width from your right hip to the left hip.
Once you have your measurements, Home Guides give some great advice on how to find the right-size chair:
“For the correct back support, no gap should exist from your tailbone or lower back when seated against the back and seat cushions, so the measurements from your tailbone to your knees should equal the length of the recliner’s seat cushion. When seated — not reclined — your feet should rest flat on the floor and not dangle or extend to where your heels are resting on the ground. This will create ample knee and back support as well as allow circulation in your legs and feet. Your armrest should extend from your elbow to your hand resting at the end of your palm for wrist support – so the armrest equals your arm length from your elbow to hand – and the width of your chair should have at least a small gap – about 1 inch – from the armrest to both hips. Finally, when the chair is reclined, the heels of your feet should fit comfortably at the edge of the footrest, not dangling over or stopping in the middle; otherwise, the chair will not provide the correct support for your back and legs.”
Think about durability
As a recliner is an expensive piece of furniture, durability, and quality is something that you cannot compromise on. After all, an average recliner should last at least 10 years, so you should get your money’s worth if you invest in the right chair!
In terms of material or upholstery, genuine leather recliners are the most expensive option but they are extremely durable. If you don’t have that budget, PU leather is more affordable and also a good choice. Easy to clean too!
Fabric such as close-knit cotton and microfiber will also stand the test of time. It’s important to remember that the filling of your recliner is also important; it should be durable, and not lose its shape easily, usually, foam or memory foam is best.
Consider why you want a recliner chair
As we mentioned in the introduction, recliner chairs these days come in a huge assortment of styles and with a large range of functions.
Before you shop, it’s important to think about why you want the chair. Is it because it fits well into space spaces? Or is it to alleviate back pain or so you can enjoy a massage from time to time? Do you need a chair that gives you complete body backing along with the lumbar help when you’re in the leaning back position? Or do you need a recliner with a headrest that supports your neck and head in the leaning back position? Consider all these questions before making a purchase.
Make sure you have thought about your reason why so you can compare different chairs functions and see if they tick all your boxes.
Final thoughts…
It’s always hard investing in a key piece of furniture but remember: styles will come and go, it’s size and comfort, durability and function that are the most important considerations. Good luck in your search!
