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10 Best Recliners for Sleeping – (Reviews & Guide 2023)
Recliners have a very unique place in our cultural zeitgeist. While these innovative chairs have been around since the 1800s, it wasn’t until the late 20th century that they became a household staple. For many of us, recliners bring up images of those old chairs from the 70s and 80s that our parents used after a long day of work. Today, modern recliners for sleeping are capable of serving many of the same purposes. However, innovations in technology and design have made recliners more functional than ever before.
Sleeping in a recliner is so comfortable nowadays that many people are using them to get a good night’s sleep. We’re not talking about quick naps in the middle of the afternoon. The best recliner for sleeping can put your body in a comfortable position, allowing you to get to a point of deep sleep. Horizontal sleeping is not for everyone. Injuries and chronic pain can make it downright unbearable. With the right sleeping recliner, you can finally kiss those sleepless nights goodbye.
Despite the nostalgia that recliners bring, these furniture pieces have not fallen by the wayside. In fact, it’s estimated that the sofa recliner market, which includes single recliners, is expected to hit 33 billion dollars by the end of 2024! So, you won’t have any issues finding a high-quality recliner to sleep in. Whether you’re looking for a top recliner to help you combat occasional sleep issues or you want to replace your bed entirely, we’re here to help you find a product that meets your needs.
We’ve done all the hard work for you and collected top 10 best recliners for sleeping that the market currently has to offer. To help you make a purchasing decision that you can be confident with, we’ll also go over some crucial information that you need to know before you pull the trigger.
Comparing the Best Recliners for Sleeping
With the thousands of recliner options out there, it’s not easy separating the good from the bad. To save you time, we’ve created this simple comparison chart. It includes all of our top picks and some basic information about what they have to offer. You can use this chart to make quick product comparisons. Head on down to the review section below to get some more detailed information.
Things to Keep in Mind When Buying Sleeping Recliners?
The best recliners for sleeping in come in many shapes, sizes, and designs. Choosing the one that’s right for you involves a bit more work than looking at a brand name or price tag. This is an investment that’s going to affect your mood, lifestyle, and overall well-being. Needless to say, you need to take every aspect into account. Here are some of the most important things to consider during your search for a good recliner for sleeping in.
1. Style and Type of Recliner
There are several kinds of recliners available to you. For the purpose of sleeping, you should stick to one of the following three.
Rocker Recliners: As the name would imply, these types of recliners can rock back and forth as you lay back. They offer a few different purposes. First, they’re great for new mothers that want a safe and comfortable place to nurse. Rocking helps to soothe babies because it reminds them of being in the womb.
A rocking recliner can also benefit mothers and anyone who suffers from insomnia. Studies performed by the University of Geneva found that rocking helps to improve the sleep cycle. Most of the participants in the study were able to move to the deep sleep cycle quicker. You can use the rocking motion to combat sleep problems and feel refreshed in the morning.
Wall Hugger Recliners: If you don’t have a ton of space for a traditional recliner, a wall-hugging model is great for you. Typically, recliners need a significant amount of space if you want to get comfortable. This is because standard recliners have a back leans to the rear. The amount of space you’ll need will depend entirely on the recline angle of the furniture.
With a wall hugger recliner chair, you may only need a few inches of rear clearance. Some models don’t require any extra space at all. A wall hugger recliner uses a series of tracks to move into the reclined position. When you recline, the entire seat moves forward to make room for the back’s angle change.
Lift Chairs: Finally, there are lift chairs. These are great for those who suffer from mobility issues or joint issues. A lift chair looks like a standard recliner. You can sit upright and put the chair into a reclined position to get some sleep. However, the big difference is that all of these functions are operated by a series of motors. The primary feature of a lift chair is its ability to tilt forward, helping you stand up and get out of the chair without exerting much physical energy.
Lift chairs are very easy to use. Instead of a standard lever to initiate the reclining function, all you have to do is press a button. Plus, the added tilting feature lets you get out of the chair without having to worry about pain or injuries.
2. Materials
Beyond the design of the recliner, it’s important to consider how comfortable the materials are. If you’re looking for a recliner to sleep in, you’re going to be spending a lot of time on this furniture.
The quality of the upholstery and the amount of padding it has will make all difference.
When it comes to upholstery, you have several options. They can be split up into two categories: natural and synthetic. Natural fabrics include materials like leather, cotton, and linens. Leather is a very popular option for furniture.
It’s durable, very easy to clean, and is capable of lasting for several years. Cotton and linen, while not as tough as leather, tend to be a bit more comfortable on the skin.
Synthetic upholstery options include nylon, polyester, microfiber, and more. Synthetic fabrics tend to be much more affordable. Plus, they have the added benefit of being highly resistant to damage. However, synthetic materials might not be as soft and have unique damage risks based on the manufacturing process.
Ultimately, this all comes down to personal preference. If you want the highest quality possible, natural materials are the way to go. But, if you care more about price and durability, you might do better with a synthetic option.
If there’s one thing you shouldn’t skimp on, it’s padding. Ample padding will support your body and help to prevent any uncomfortable pressure points that will keep you up at night. The finest recliners for sleeping will have cushions with a couple of different layers. A core of rigid foam wrapped in softer plush is ideal. Make sure that there’s foam everywhere you turn. This includes the armrests, bottom, back, and footrest.
Some resting recliners use simple zig-zag springs. Unfortunately, they can pose a lot of problems over time. They can become loose, which results in sagging and poor support. In the worst-case scenario, they can become dislodged and start to poke you through the upholstery! Obviously, this is all stuff that can affect your rest. Instead of going with high-quality suspension springs, thick padding, and memory foam.
3. Durability of Frame
You wouldn’t sleep on a bed frame made of thin materials with a high chance of breaking, so the same way of thinking should be applied to your new recliner. Tough materials like steel and hardwood are best. They can support a lot of weight and can hold up well to years to use. Also, keep an eye out for plenty of tough extras, such as solid metal bolts, nails, and staples.
One material that you should avoid is particle board. It’s an engineered material that’s made out of compressing wood shavings with a binder. Usually, a veneer is applied for looks. While the material performs just fine for bookshelves, it’s not great for recliners that you will be putting your weight on. Particle boards are susceptible to falling apart in the presence of moisture and humidity.
4. Size
The next thing to consider is the overall size of the recliner. As we mentioned earlier, recliners can be made to many different specifications. You can easily find models that are for tall people, short people, and everyone in between.
It’s a good idea to take your height into account when shopping for a recliner. Make sure that you can fit comfortably in the chair. Also, pay attention to where the headrest and footrest are. There’s nothing worse than having to adjust your head position while you’re trying to get some sleep.
5. Reclining Options
When it comes to finding a sleep recliner chair, the available positions you have can mean the difference between sleepless nights and pure bliss. Basic recliners only have two positions. They can be put you in an upright position move the backrest to an angle of about 45 degrees or so. These can do fine for some people, especially when short naps are the goal. However, for deep sleep at night, you may want a few more options.
If you are looking for something that can put you in the supine position, you won’t have any problem finding it. These chairs can recline a lot more than standard options, putting your body in a near-flat position. Zero-gravity recliners take things a step further. They are designed to take the stress off of every part of your body. Your legs are put at the same level as your heart, which can also improve circulation as you sleep.
6. Suspension Springs
The suspension springs are an important component in recliners. They help to move the footrest up and are directly connected to the motions of the backrest. Faulty springs will make the reclining function virtually useful. Plus, they can pose a bit of a safety risk.
Thick high-gauge springs are crucial to the longevity of your purchase. Look out for solid springs that are protected and smooth. More springs are also preferred. Having a few springs throughout the chair will make the reclining function operate much smoother than if only a couple of springs were doing all the heavy lifting.
Reviews of Most Comfortable Recliners for Sleeping
In this section, we’re going to go over our recommended recliners for sleeping in detail. Our goal is to provide you with the freshest product selection, so we update our picks regularly. We’ve done the research to provide you with unbiased reviews that you can trust.
Each one of our top-rated picks includes some key features as well as advantages and disadvantages you should be wary of. We’ve chosen some of the most comfortable recliners for sleeping, so every product on our list is capable of helping you sleep comfortably throughout the night.
Add an element of style and comfort to your space with this rocker recliner featuring soft and durable LeatherSoft upholstery; This product cannot ship to Canada
Quick Features:
Rocking recliner
Reclining lever
Synthetic leather upholstery
Measures 40 inches wide
2-year warranty
From Flash Furniture is this simple, no-frills recliner. It’s our top pick because it checks off all the boxes and is capable of service most people very well. The recliner has a tough metal frame, allowing it to support the weight of most people without any issues. Covering the frame is plenty of padding.
The thing we like most about this recliner is that it has more than enough cushioning to hug your body as you rest. It’s not just on the seat. You can find it on the armrests, back, headrest, and footrest as well. It’s covered in a smooth synthetic leather material that’s soft on the skin and easy to clean.
Operating the recliner is pretty simple. There’s a lever on the right side of the unit. Just reach over, give it a pull, and the suspension springs will do the rest. Overall, this recliner is one of our favorites because it’s well-built, comfortable, and affordable.
Traditional zone massage chair with high and low settings.
Quick Features:
Built-in massage function
Microfiber upholstery
Simple lever
42 inches wide
1-year warranty
This Dorel recliner looks great and performs well across the board. However, it narrowly missed our number one spot because it doesn’t rock. While that may not be a huge issue for some, rocking is a pretty big feature when it comes to finding a recliner to sleep in. Instead of rocking, it has a dual-zone vibration feature. This can be beneficial during the day, but it won’t help you out at night.
Other than that issue, the recliner is still a great option. We particularly like the quality of the foam on the seats. It’s dense, offering ample support whether you’re laying back or sitting upright. There’s also some cushioning sewn into the back. While it’s not enough to provide true lumbar support, it will prevent you from sinking into the seat as you recline.
Remember the cozy feeling of sitting in your dad's recliner when you were young? Relive those memories with this rocker recliner with lever recline. Clean up spills...
Quick Features:
Rocking recliner
Microfiber upholstery
Rolled arms
Plush padding on back
Plastic pull lever
35 inches wide
1-year warranty
If you’re looking for a good sleeping recliner that doesn’t break the bank, consider this model from Flash Furniture. For this price point, the recliner has a lot of great features. It has a microfiber upholstery, which feels wonderful on the skin. The piles are a bit higher, which results in a cool woven texture that will put anyone to sleep.
The thing we like most about this model is the cushions. Flash Furniture has gone above and beyond to make sure that your body is touching plush-filled pockets at every turn. The back is quite large. You can tell that the manufacturers filled it to the brim with plush material. While there isn’t any lumbar support, the backrest is thick enough to prevent any extreme sinking.
The frame is made out of thick metal. This contributes to the overall weight. In total, it weighs over 100 pounds. This can be a problem when you bring it into your home. However, that added toughness can prove to be useful in the long run when it comes to support.
Coaster Home Furnishings is one of the most prestigious brands in the mobility market. They specialize in creating products that are designed with seniors and disabled users in mind. This recliner features a lifting function. With a press of a button on the remote, the entire chair lifts up and tilts forward to make getting out of the chair a breeze.
It’s one of the most popular lift chair recliner options on the market. When you factor in the solid construction and affordable price tag, it’s not hard to see why. One flaw of this model that’s worth mentioning is the upholstery. It’s a synthetic fabric that’s made to prevent slipping. While we appreciate brand’s dedication to safety, the unique material does come with some tradeoffs. It can be difficult to clean and may not be the most comfortable for some people. If that’s not a deal breaker, we highly recommend this chair if you’re looking for a solid lift recliner to sleep in.
If comfort and convenience are your top priorities when looking for a sleep recliner chair, check out this option from Suncoo. It has all the bells and whistles you need to sleep comfortably. Not only does it rock, but it swivels. You can easily change positions to view the television or get some privacy. Plus, there’s an adjustable headrest. With this headrest, anyone can enjoy the benefits this recliner has to offer.
The coolest thing about this model is that it does double-duty as a top notch massage chair. There are massagers throughout. With the included wired remote, you can customize your massage and localize the sensation on areas that need the most attention. There’s also a heating function built in, which can help to improve your comfort levels as you relax.
GREENGUARD Gold Certified: We've tested this product for over 10,000 chemicals. It helps improve indoor air quality, creating a healthier environment for your baby to...
Quick Features:
Gliding rocker recliner
Plastic recline lever
Polyester upholstery
Included lumbar pillow
360-degree swivel
Tall backrest
1-year warranty mechanism
This recliner from DaVinci was designed with new mothers in mind. It has a simple, streamlined design that works with any nursing room. Plus, the polyester upholstery is smooth to the touch and very easy to clean.
This isn’t your traditional recliner. It’s a glider that rocks gently back and forth, making it perfect recliner for nursing. Mothers can get some comfort and relief as well with the pop-up footrest. The back doesn’t move as much as we would like. But if that’s not an issue for you, you’ll appreciate the included lumbar pillow and high backrest.
The reclining lever for this chair is hidden on the inside of the armrest. This is a nice touch because it keeps it out of curious children’s hands when you’re not around.
CONTEMPORARY POWER LIFT RECLINER: Style and functionality merge together in this dual motor lift chair recliner, With just the touch of a button, the power lift eases you...
Quick Features:
Power lift recliner
Synthetic leather upholstery
35 inches wide in total
20-inch seat height
Easy-to-use remote
1-year limited warranty mechanism
From Ashley Furniture is this powered lift recliner for sleeping. At first glance, you wouldn’t be able to tell that this is designed for those with mobility issues. It’s covered in a beautiful faux leather that looks aged and refined. Reinforced stitching and thick bolsters of fabric provide an elegant touch.
Hidden inside one of the side pockets is the remote. It comes with a long cord for easy access. On the remote, you’ll find simple controls to put the chair in recline mode. The recline goes back pretty far, which is a nice touch that can help you sleep better. The lifting feature is also quite efficient. Thanks to the metal frame, the chair will stay put as it helps you stand.
Covered in dark brown premium textured plush (champion) microfiber
Quick Features:
Gliding rocker recliner
43 inches wide
Plastic recline switch
Microfiber upholstery
Easy-to-use remote
90-day limited warranty mechanism
From one of the most popular furniture brands in the country is this over-sized recliner. It measures 43 inches wide in total, so it’ll have no problem supporting most people. The extra room lets you stretch out and get comfortable as you sleep. To provide even more comfort, the recliner is covered in a textured microfiber fabric.
If you are looking for a chair that moves smoothly regardless of who is on it, this model may be for you. It uses a modern glide track rather than a simple pivot mechanism. The gliding helps to create smooth and serene rocking.
When it comes to padding, this chair has plenty of it. The armrests are quite thick and filled with soft plush. The same goes for the backrest and footrest.
CONTEMPORARY: Our recliner incorporates clean lines and piped edges that emphasize the look, feel, and design of a truly contemporary piece. Featuring plush cushions and...
Quick Features:
Stationary recliner
Covered in leather upholstery
No lever
Wooden feet
Accent piping
For those who are interested in getting a smaller recliner, this model from Christopher Knight Home has a lot to offer. From a pure aesthetic standpoint, this chair is quite beautiful. It has a modern design complete with wooden legs, accent piping, and sleek lines. The entire thing is covered in smooth leather, which makes maintenance much easier for you.
Where this recliner falls short is comfort. It doesn’t have a dedicated lever, so you have to use your body to push the backrest back and pop out the footrest, which is quite small. The chair is designed to be as compact as possible, so you might have a hard time getting into a comfortable seating position. Though, if you can overlook those flaws, this chair will fit right in with any office setting or posh home decor.
Want to take a nap in your office or home? This simple recliner may do the trick. It lacks a lot of padding that some of the other options on this list have. As a result, you may have a harder time getting a full night of rest. However, if space is limited and you want a piece of furniture that looks sophisticated, this chair is a great option.
It’s covered in a neutral fabric. The upholstery is smooth the touch and features a tight weave for added durability. Light padding is used on the backrest, around the arms, and on the footrest. To deploy the footrest, you must push the back of the chair to the rear.
When reclined, this model doesn’t require as much space as some of the other products we went over. It has a subtle recline of about 35 degrees, allowing you to save space.
Pros
Sleek and neutral design
Doesn’t take up a ton of room
Looks like a normal chair when not reclined
Mechanical components properly hidden
Cons
Does not rock or swivel
Light padding and no lumbar support
No dedicated lever
A Comprehensive Buying Guide for Sleeping Recliners
It should go without saying: sleeping in a recliner all night is not going to be for everyone. If you have slept in a recliner for anything longer than a nap, you need to think about whether or not it’s something that will benefit you. Here are some advantages and disadvantages that you should know about before you jump the gun and buy a sleeping recliner.
The Advantages:
Stress Relief
It doesn’t matter what your job is how you spend your day, stress affects everyone. While there are several different ways that you can go about addressing your stress and anxiety levels, recliners are a good place to start. Studies have shown that sitting in a reclined position can promote relaxation in the vast majority of people. Using a recliner to relax for just one hour a day can make a noticeable difference in your mood.
Back Pain Relief
Sciatica is a condition that affects millions of people around the country. It can be caused by many different things. However, all of them revolve around the sciatica nerve, which is pinched or compressed in the spine. A good recliner can help to alleviate pain by taking all of the pressure off of your spine. While you might think that laying on a bed can do the trick, this is often not true. You see, beds still cause painful pressure points due to a lack of proper support. Recliners can take care of those issues by taking you off your feet and supporting all of the weight comfortably.
Improving Blood Circulation
Earlier, we mentioned that recliners can help improve blood circulation throughout the body. This is because they position your legs higher up. Some models even lift them high enough to be level with your heart, which can have some impressive benefits. As blood flows throughout your body, it has to eventually make its way back to the heart for recirculation.
Unfortunately, the lower extremities tend to make that difficult. Over time, poor circulation can lead to a host of health issues, such as muscle cramps, blood clots, varicose veins, and much more. By kicking your feet up and relaxing, gravity does a lot of the work for you. As a result, your blood and lymphatic system can work properly. Your muscles and organs will have an easier time receiving enriched blood, which can lead to better overall health.
Easier Breathing
Do you have issues sleeping at night because of heavy snoring or persistent coughing? If so, a recliner may be the solution you’re after. Sleep Apnea is a condition that affects many people. Unfortunately, not too many people know that it has the potential to be fatal. There are a couple of forms of Sleep Apnea. The most common is when the throat muscles or tongue blocks your airways as you’re sleeping. This can result in sudden jolts of awareness, pain in your throat when you wake up, and severe headaches in the morning. Recliners elevate your head a bit to reduce the chances of these problems from occurring.
Another condition that recliners can help with is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, or COPD. Essentially, it’s a respiratory condition that causes excess mucus production, shortness of breath, and regular coughing. Trying to get a regular night of rest in a bed with COPD can be difficult due to mucus blocking the airways. Again, recliners can elevate your head so that gravity keeps mucous out of the way.
Aching Joints
Whether you suffer from arthritis or are recovering from a recent injury, recliners can help to soothe those aching joints once and for all. Sufferers of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis can benefit greatly from a lift chair recliner. These units can help to improve your posture while spreading pressure across the entire chair. This can help to prevent unwanted pressure points that will irritate your joints. Plus, the lift function can help you get up without having to use your knees or hips in the process.
Improved Digestion
This may come at a surprise to a lot of people, but recliners can actually help your body digest the food you ate earlier in the day. It all comes down to how you breathe. You see, slow and steady breathing kickstarts the digestive process. Essentially, your body is telling itself that you’re relaxed, allowing the digestive system to do its thing. The problem with people who have sleeping problems is that this slow and steady breathing never really happens. Whether it’s caused by constant tossing and turning or issues like sleep apnea, not being able to breathe easy can put your entire system out of wack.
That’s where a recliner comes to the rescue. The comfortable position it puts your body in promotes steady breathing. You’ll be able to relax fully, letting your body do what it should. Plus, it can help to keep things down. If you suffer from acid reflux disease, you may experience issues at night from the acid moving towards your throat. On a recline, there’s a lower chance of this happening.
Comfort for Pregnant Women
Women who are pregnant have a lot to gain by getting a recliner to sleep in. Any woman who has been pregnant can tell you that it’s a painful process. Not only does it put stress on the back and joints, but it’s very difficult to get a good night’s rest due to all the changes that the body goes through. Back pain is very common. The best recliner for sleeping can provide relief that women need. It removes pressure from the feet, puts the body in a position that’s safe for the womb, and is very relaxing. What’s not to love? Recliners are a must-have for any pregnancy. Women can even use it after the baby is born for nursing and coddling.
The Disadvantages:
Lacking Positions
The most obvious disadvantage of getting a recliner for sleeping is that you will be pretty limited in terms of positions. Some people move around a lot while they’re sleeping. Most of the time, this is subconscious. Chances are, you don’t even remember tossing and turning. Sleeping in a recliner can prove to be problematic if you do this. Recliners are meant for sitting. They can’t be used stomach-first. Side-sleeping is possible, but it tends to be uncomfortable. You might want to consider your sleeping habits before you start sleeping in a recliner.
Neck and Back Issues
Despite all of the positive things that a recliner can do for your back, it may also pose some issues. There are conditions where the reclined position may be more detrimental than beneficial. Oftentimes, this is due to a lack of proper lumbar support. Not every recliner has padding on the lower back. This can cause you to “sink” into the chair as you sleep. It’ll feel comfortable when you’re falling asleep, but that sinking puts your back and neck in a precarious position. When you get up in the morning, you’ll definitely feel it.
Safety Concerns for Children
If you have babies or young children in the home, exercise extreme caution around the recliner. These furniture pieces are not like your average armchair or sofa. There’s a lot of moving parts and dangerous components hidden below the upholstery. There have been several injuries and deaths contributed to recliners. Some of them have been caused by the reclining mechanisms while others were a result of falling into the gaps between the upholstery. Parents should never let infants and small kids sleep in the recliner, especially if it’s being used by an adult at the same time.
Other Factors to Consider When Owning the Perfect Sleep Chair
Budget
As you probably saw in our review section, the price of good sleep recliner chairs varies quite a bit. It’s recommended that you figure out what features are most important to you, develop a suitable budget, and stick to it. Oftentimes, more features equate to a higher price tag. That’s not always the case, but most popular brands will charge a pretty penny for in-demand features. The key to finding the best recliner for sleeping is to use your budget strategically and pay for the features you need most.
Build Quality
The build quality refers to how the unit was put together. Some unscrupulous manufacturers will disguise shoddy work to save a few bucks. Unfortunately, this leads to issues for you later on down the line. Pay attention to the materials that are used. Solid hardwoods and tough steel are often good indicators that the recliner will last.
Comfort
Recliners are all about comfort, so consider a product’s comfort features before you buy it. What materials are used for the upholstery? Is there padding underneath? What about support springs? All of these features will affect how the recliner feels. High-end models go above and beyond when it comes to comfort. However, you might encounter issues if you try to save a few bucks by going with a lesser-known brand.
Seat Height
Recliners have an average seat height of 18 to 22 inches. Though, you might come across some exceptions during your search. The seat height can affect your comfort levels. Not only that, but it can determine how easy it is to get up after reclining for a while. If you’re taller, you might want to stick to the higher end of the height spectrum. If you’re shorter, make sure that you can comfortably get in the sleep chair without any issues.
Weight Limit
Like seat height, you need to consider your weight and choose a chair that can accommodate you without any problems. Most recliners can support a few hundred pounds. Some manufacturers also make recliners that can support higher than that. For these models, the frame is built with some extra reinforcement and is usually made out of metal for added strength.
Chair Locking Mechanism
A locking mechanism is designed to prevent any accidental reclining when you’re trying to get out of the sleep chair. There are good reasons for this feature. For one, some recliners will automatically move into the reclined position whenever the backrest is pushed back. This can prove to be a problem when you’re having difficulties getting up. Secondly, they can be used to prevent young kids from messing with the chair, which could help you avoid accidents and injuries.
Lever Recliner
Even to this day, levers are often the system of choice when it comes to reclining mechanisms. The lever is connected to the springs. When pulled, it activates the footrest and pushes the back of the chair to the appropriate angle. There are some alternatives, such as electronically-controlled systems. Levers can be tough if you have mobility issues, so electronic remotes are a great option for many people.
Levers tend to be the easiest and most affordable. You should avoid any “automatic” recliners that rely solely on your body force to recline. They can be cumbersome to deal with and are notorious for reclining in the most inopportune moments.
Ease of Assembly
Once you finally get your new recliner home, you may have to do some assembly. The good news is that manufacturers take care of most of the work for you. Typically, the most you’ll have to do is attach the back, which can be done in a few simple steps. This can be done with the help of another person. Once that’s finished, you won’t have to deal with it again.
If you don’t want to deal with any assembly at all, some brands do ship fully-built sleep chairs. Shipping often costs more, but you can sit back and relax without having to deal with any assembly.
Portability and Mobility
Recliners aren’t known for being the most portable pieces of furniture out there. They tend to weigh more than your average armchair. Thus, it’s a good idea to think about the spot where you want to put it. Make sure you put it in a quiet area that’s comfortable and easy to access.
If you need mobility features, you can find models with wheels. It’s rare, but they do exist. Most brands will steer clear of wheels, as there’s a risk of movement as you operate the reclining feature. To make up for this lack of mobility, swivel functions are pretty common. They let you turn the recliner chair in any direction for convenience.
Cleaning and Maintenance
As with any piece of furniture, proper care is crucial if you want your investment to last. Recliners are not cheap, so you’ll need to stay on top of maintenance tasks to keep things running smoothly. How you clean your recliner will depend entirely on the material. For leather, the main thing you’ll be doing is dusting. You can also invest in a specialized leather cleaner and conditioner to keep the material supple.
For soft fabrics, whether it’s natural or synthetic, you can use your vacuum cleaner to get rid of dust. Many people also like to use deodorizing sprays and sweat protectors to keep the odors at bay. Some manufacturers also sell specially-made covers that you can pop into the washing machine whenever you want to freshen things up.
If your sleeping chair starts to squeak, you might want to consider lubricating the moving parts. Check with your owner’s manual to see what the manufacturers recommend. Depending on the brand, the manual may tell you where you need to apply the lubricant and what kind of product is best. If not, you can apply standard penetrating oil to parts that rub up against each other. Just make sure that the upholstery and floors are protected.
While you have the back removed, consider checking on the nuts and bolts. They can loosen up over time with constant use. Also, vacuum up any dirt and debris that might be hiding out on the floor beneath the recliner to keep things in good shape.
Warranty and Customer Support
Last, but definitely not least, you need to consider warranty and support. Big-name brands usually offer a generous warranty policy that covers replacement parts and service. These policies may cover anywhere between 1 to 5 years. Make sure to read the details of your policy so that you know what’s being covered. Even if the sleeping chair only comes with a limited policy, it beats paying for repairs out of pocket.
If you have any issues with your chair, the company’s support team should be able to help you out. They can answer warranty questions, help you order replacement parts, and more. Unfortunately, not every company puts money into having a solid support team. Before you purchase a recliner to sleep in, do some research. See how you can get in touch with the support team and what their hours are.
Safety Tips to Follow When Sleeping on a Recliner
Recliners might look innocent enough, but they’re fully capable of causing bodily harm if they’re not used correctly. Injuries are rare, but they do happen. Between the years of 1997 and 2010, approximately 116,000 accidents were reported. Most of those accidents were experienced by people over the age of 50.
To avoid these injuries, you need to be careful. Here are some tips to stay safe.
Never Put Your Fingers Under the Seat
When used properly, all of the mechanisms are safely hidden below the cushions and upholstery. However, sometimes you can stick your fingers between the cushion and the armrests. Don’t do this! You may accidentally touch the metal underneath and cut your fingers.
Sit Down Slowly and Carefully
You should never just plop down into the seat. Even the strongest frame will be at risk for buckling. Sit down slowly to avoid injury and keep the sleep chair in good condition.
Never Sleep in the Recliner with a Child
As we stated early, never sleep with a small child in the recliner. They could easily slip between the empty spaces of the chair and get crushed by the mechanics. There have been a few lawsuits due to crushing injuries in children.
Stick to Weight Limits
Never push the recliner’s weight limits. Before you purchase the sleeping chair, make sure that it can hold your weight. The weight limit should be much higher than your actual weight to ensure that you have some wiggle room.
Make Sure the Bottom is Covered
The space behind the footrest is often exposed when you’re in the reclined position. Some manufacturers utilize a cover there to prevent kids from sneaking underneath the chair when you’re not paying attention. It’s best to avoid chairs that don’t have this cover, as that small gap can pose a serious safety hazard. There should be no exposed gaps bigger than 5 inches.
Keep an Eye Out for Pets and Kids
When you deploy the footrests and recline the chair, keep an eye out for small kids and pets in the immediate vicinity. The force of the footrest could harm them. The same goes for sitting back up.
Don’t Sit on Armrest
Recliners are not made to support any lateral weight. Sitting on the armchair could result in the entire recliner toppling over. If you have kids in the home, make sure that they know not to sit on the recliner’s armrests, even if you’re in the chair.
Don’t Attempt to Get Up When Reclined
Before you get up from the reclined position, you need to put the footrest down and pull the backrest up. Attempting to get out of the chair in the reclined position can lead to balance issues.
Use the Opening Mechanism Only
Whether the recliner has a lever or an electronic remote, this should be the only method you use to recline the chair. Don’t pull on the footrest to deploy it. You can cut your hands or tip the chair over.
Keep Any Cords Out of the Way
If you get a chair lift recliner, it’s going to have to be plugged into a nearby wall outlet. To avoid tripping hazards, keep it out of high-traffic areas. Use an extension cord if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is recliner good for sleeping?
For some people, sleeping in a recliner is much better than lying flat on a bed. It’s particularly beneficial for pregnant women and those with back pain. Of course, it’s not going to benefit everyone. It’s all about finding what works for you. Consult with your doctor to see if it’s a good idea.
Why do I sleep better in my recliner?
There are several reasons why this might be happening. Chances are, it’s because you are breathing better and aren’t experiencing pain like you normally would. Laying back in a recliner takes all of the stress off of your joints. Depending on how the recliner works, it may also take the pressure off your spine.
When it comes to breathing, the elevated position of your head helps to prevent mucus buildup in your sinuses. It can also keep your tongue and throat muscles from blocking your airways, which results in less snoring and more relaxed breathing.
What brand recliner is the best?
One of the biggest names that come to mind when people think of recliners is La-Z-Boy. They were the first to come up with the design that we use today. However, that doesn’t mean that they’re the only company you should go with. Some other great brands include Ashley Furniture, Flash Furniture, Coaster, and Homelegance. Before you decide on a brand, check to see how long they’ve been in business. You can also take a look at customer reviews to see how well the company performs when it comes to customer service.
What is the most comfortable recliner?
The answer to this question will depend on your needs. Comfort is completely subjective, but there are some features that are known to benefit everyone. Zero-gravity recliners are considered to be some of the most comfortable around because they support your body everywhere and eliminate pressure from your knees up to your neck.
Is sitting in a recliner bad for you?
Generally, sitting in a recliner is much better for your body than sitting upright. However, some issues are worth noting. When it comes to back pain and sciatica, recliners are great for getting relief. Though, this is only true if the chair has adequate lumbar support and you use the recline function. If you put your legs up but keep the back in an upright position, you’re only pinching the nerve more. The same goes for a lack of lumbar support. Without support on your lower back, you’ll only sink further into the chair and strain the muscles in your back.
After hip surgery, recliners can help you out during the recovery process. Total hip replacements require you to keep your legs elevated for several weeks as you recover. Recliners are the best way to do this. The only caveat that you need to worry about is the seat height. It’s crucial to keep your knees below your hips as you recover. If the recliner is too low, you might be doing more harm than good. So, be wary before you decide to use a sleep recliner during recovery.
Finally, let’s talk about your legs. Recliners may help to improve circulation and reduce swelling if the footrest is high enough. However, prolonged use on a recliner that’s too low can also cause thrombotic clotting. This can be very dangerous, so make sure that you consult with your doctor first.
Should feet hang over recliner?
Your feet can hang over the footrest a tiny bit. However, they should not be able to hang off by much or get close to the ground. On a perfectly-sized recliner, your heels will touch the footrest. If they don’t consider going with a larger size.
Is reclining better than sitting?
In most cases, reclining is better for you. You’re putting less stress on your muscles and joints. Even when you’re working, sitting on a slight recline is considered to be much better on your back than sitting upright all the time. It’s a more anatomical position, so you can relax more, breath better, and reduce stress all over your body.
Wrap Up
You don’t have to rely on your bed to get a full night of rest. There are plenty of great alternatives that can help you out if you’re used to dealing with restlessness all night. The best recliner for sleeping can provide you with the relief you’re after. Any of the options covered in this guide will do you well. They’re all well-designed and have the features that you need. Whether you’re suffering from joint pain, backaches, or breathing difficulties, a high-quality sleep chair has you covered.
Paul is a compulsive tinkerer and inventor who loves writing about latest machines technology. He is especially inclined towards home improvement, exercise and outdoor equipment that every sports enthusiast and house dweller would love to get their hands on.
You wouldn’t sleep on a bed frame made of thin materials with a high chance of breaking, so the same way of thinking should be applied to your new recliner. Tough materials like steel and hardwood are best. They can support a lot of weight and can hold up well to years to use. Also, keep an eye out for plenty of tough extras, such as solid metal bolts, nails, and staples.
