Introduction to Recliners
The best recliners have a laid-back history — pun totally intended — which is why they’re such a furniture staple. Allowing you to sit back and relax while watching your favorite show off your smart TV, the popular built-in footrest was born around 1850, when the French military introduced the modern-day recliner that had 3-in-1 benefits: serving as a chair, a chaise lounge, and a bed.
While accent chairs are all the rage (and we love them too), there’s just something about a recliner that’s second to none. For a night of relaxation — perhaps with one of the best blankets we reviewed and a cup of tea — you’ll adore kicking your feet up and simply relaxing. Additionally, recliners are great options for those with limited mobility. Offering comfort and a place to elevate your legs and feet, it’s the ultimate seating option for those with joint pain issues.
Top Recliner Options
Ahead, find the best recliners that we want to cuddle up in. Whether you’re preparing for your latest home reno or simply need another furniture piece, we’re inclined to say these recliners are the real deal.
McClelland Oversize Manual Recliner
Ashley Furniture
Pros:
- By far, the most plush couch we’ve experienced
- Fair price point, especially considering the quality
- Extra-wide seats, which are perfect for cuddling with your S.O.
Cons:
- Some may find the material too fuzzy, which may not fare well in hotter climates
- Doesn’t automatically recline
The McClelland Reclining Sofa stood out from the other couches with a soft-to-the-touch feel, extra-wide seats, and a fair price tag. Spending less than $1,000 for this type of recliner is incredible. Its gray color matches with a variety of home aesthetics and pairs exceptionally well with the Benjamin Moore “Balboa Mist” paint color.
Canora Grey Sandee Push-Back Recliner
Wayfair
Pros:
- Luxurious, tufted cushions
- Affordable, appealing to a wide variety of shoppers
- High-back design
Cons:
- May be too formal for certain design styles
The Canora Grey Sandee Push-Back Recliner features a timeless pattern and a neutral color palette, making it a versatile addition to any living room, study, or home office. The chair’s sleek, high-back design and subtly tapered legs give it a refined, sophisticated look, while its plush cushioning provides superior comfort for long hours of relaxation.
Wade Logan Upholstered Reclining Loveseat
Wayfair
Pros:
- Seats two instead of one!
- Comes in a variety of shades to choose from
- Customers dub it the “perfect size”
Cons:
- May be too wide for some rooms
The Wade Logan Upholstered Reclining Loveseat is the perfect solution for those who love the minimalist aesthetic but also want something practical. Two seats offer a better entertaining experience than your run-of-the-mill accent chair.
Joss & Main Santo Top Grain Genuine Leather Swivel Power Recliner
Joss & Main
Pros:
- Hails from one of our favorite brands
- Looks chic in any room
- Smoothly reclines, thanks to its power reclining mechanism
The Joss & Main Santo Top Grain Genuine Leather Swivel Power Recliner is extremely luxurious yet sophisticated. Upholstered in rich, top-grain leather, this recline experience features a leg rest that lifts, while the heavy-duty base has an anti-tip function for extra durability.
Bellanest Novah Zero Gravity Power Recliner
Raymour & Flanigan
Pros:
- Adjustable headrest
- Plush seat and back cushions
- Power reclines, so the user can avoid straining
- USB port
- Removable back
Cons:
- May be too large for smaller spaces
The Bellanest Novah Zero Gravity Power Recliner is our pick for those with neck and joint pain, mainly for its adjustable headrest. It’s cushy and supportive, offering comfort after a long day of staring at your computer screen.
Zeke Chenille Wallaway Power Recliner
Raymour & Flanigan
Pros:
- Extra-wide seat
- Automatically reclines for convenience
- Durable frame and fabric, allowing it to last for years
The Zeke Chenille Wallaway Power Recliner combines comfort, durability, and modern functionality to offer the ultimate lounging experience. Upholstered in soft yet sturdy chenille fabric, this recliner chair has a plush feel that invites you to sink in and relax.
Your Shopping Guide to Recliners
Ahead, the Post Wanted team laid out the 411 on what to look for in your next recliner purchase.
- Cushioning and upholstery: Sit in the recliner to test the comfort level. The cushions should provide adequate support without being too hard or too soft. Consider the fabric as well; leather, microfiber, and fabric each have different feels and durability.
- Padding and support: Look for a recliner with good lumbar and neck support, especially if you plan to use it for long periods. Adjustable headrests and footrests are ideal for customized comfort, though may be more expensive.
- Manual versus power-reclining options: Manual recliners are often less expensive and more traditional, requiring you to pull a lever or push back with your body weight. Power recliners, while pricier, allow you to adjust the position with a button or remote control, providing smoother and more customizable positioning.
- Design and color: Recliners come in a wide variety of styles, from traditional to contemporary. Choose one that matches your existing furniture and decor. Upholstery choices like leather, faux leather, and fabric come in various colors and textures, so consider the aesthetics of your home before ordering.
How We Tested
While the Post Wanted team hasn’t tested dozens of recliners, here’s what we kept in mind when putting some models to the test at local furniture stores:
- Comfort: What’s the most comfortable recliner to us may look different to you, so it’s essential to understand the materials and what you prefer.
- Reclining options: Recliners are clad with differing mechanisms to elevate the footbed. Whether the recliner is automatic, power-reclining, or manual can impact usability and price.
- Value and price: Of course, budgets look different for everyone, though some furniture pieces are really worth the cost.
Conclusion
For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America’s go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We’re not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren’t already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis.
FAQs
- Q: What is the best type of recliner for someone with back pain?
A: Look for a recliner with good lumbar and neck support, and consider a power-reclining option to avoid straining. - Q: Can I find a recliner that fits my small space?
A: Yes, consider a wallaway recliner or a smaller-scale recliner to fit your space. - Q: What is the difference between a manual and power-reclining recliner?
A: Manual recliners require you to pull a lever or push back with your body weight, while power recliners allow you to adjust the position with a button or remote control.
