I know… recliners had a bad reputation for not being the nicest piece of furniture around. But that’s all changed now! You wouldn’t imagine all the different mechanisms, styles, and fabric available to you today. From affordable to high-end models, there’s a recliner just perfect for you and your home. So before saying NO, let me give you the basics about recliners and, then, make a decision.

A Mechanism for Every Need

Nowadays, you can find a multitude of options in the world of recliners. They go from simple push-back to recliners with multiple type of mechanisms. Amongst the most popular are:

The Rocker Recliner: This is a simple chair that rocks and reclines. The rocking movement might help relax people suffering from insomnia or nursing mothers with babies.

The Wall Hugger Recliner: The name says it all. The reclining mechanism uses less space on the back. This is a good option for small spaces as the back will not bump into your wall when in reclining position.

The Lift Chair: These recliners have a power motor that lifts the person up to a position where they can comfortably get up from the chair. These are recommended for people with reduced mobility, problems with legs or knees.

Swivel, glider and massage options are also offered in combination to most reclining types to increase your level of comfort. The key is to know who will be using the chair and for what.

Power or Not to Power

This is an important question. Most manufacturers now offer a power option which means the reclining movement is all done by a motor. Is this good for you? It depends. Power recliners remove all the effort done by the person sitting on them. Almost anybody can operate this whether they are tall or short, weak or strong. Power (motorized) reclining mechanisms also offer limitless reclining positions with back and footrest sometimes being operated independently depending on the manufacturer options. However, power recliners are heavier due to the extra motor and require to be plugged to a wall to function. If you are thinking of moving the recliner from time to time, a battery pack option is your best choice. It allows you to place the recliner away from the AC plug. It’s also ideal if you cannot stand those cords messing up with your décor.

Style That Matches Your Personality

As style and fashion change, so do recliners. You can now find different styles for everyone. If your taste is light and sleek with no puff, then go for a contemporary style like this one below.

This recliner with a wood side rail and sober black fabric appeals to a classic taste.

If it’s the reclining mechanism or “recliner” look that you don’t like, then there are recliners that look like a regular chair. This means they were designed to hide the mechanism as much as possible.

Fabric and Leather Options to Make It Your Own

If you fear a recliner will clash with your home décor. Well, fear not! Many recliners now come with many fabric and leather options. You might even be able to use your OWN fabric.

Size Matters

Recliners come in all shapes and sizes. The first thing to consider is the size of the recliner open, in full extension and around it. This will determine the space needed in the room. Then, think about the size of the people using the chair. If you are planning on sharing it with your partner, make sure both sit comfortably in the recliner. In some cases, recliners are offered in two width options.

If you changed your mind from a No to a YES, I want a recliner,  you should consider shopping around and trying several models. Bring along the people that will be using it the most. Don’t rush, take your time. You don’t want to get it wrong. After all, sitting on your recliner should be a moment of total comfort and relaxation!