A recliner is more than just a piece of furniture it’s an investment in comfort and relaxation. Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or setting up a cozy spot for movie nights, choosing the right recliner is crucial. However, many buyers fall into common traps that lead to discomfort, wasted money, or a chair that doesn’t fit their space. To help you make a smart purchase, here are seven mistakes to avoid when buying a recliner, ensuring you get a chair that delivers lasting comfort and value.
1. Prioritizing Style Over Comfort
It’s easy to fall in love with a recliner’s sleek design or trendy color, but looks should never trump comfort. A stylish recliner that doesn’t support your body properly will leave you sore instead of relaxed. When shopping, focus on how the chair feels when you sit and recline. Test the cushioning, lumbar support, and headrest to ensure they align with your body’s needs. For example, if you plan to nap or spend hours in the chair, check if the reclining positions feel natural and supportive. Comfort is personal, so take your time to find a recliner that feels like it was made for you.
2. Ignoring the Mechanism Quality
The reclining mechanism is the heart of any recliner, determining how smoothly and reliably it functions. Low-quality mechanisms can wear out quickly, leading to jerky movements, annoying squeaks, or a footrest that won’t stay up. To avoid this, choose recliners from trusted brands that test their mechanisms for durability look for models rated for at least 25,000 recline cycles. This ensures smooth, silent operation even after years of use. Whether you opt for a manual or motorized recliner, a high-quality mechanism is non-negotiable for long-term satisfaction.
3. Not Checking After-Sales Service
A recliner is a long-term investment, often used daily for years. Without proper after-sales support, you could be stuck with a broken chair and no way to fix it. Before buying, research the brand’s warranty and service options. Reputable brands offer at least a one-year warranty on parts and mechanisms, with some providing extended coverage for frames or motors. Check if they have a dedicated technician team for repairs, even years after purchase. Avoid lesser-known brands with no clear after-sales policy, as they may leave you stranded if something goes wrong.
4. Buying Without Measuring Your Space
A recliner that looks perfect in a spacious showroom can feel overwhelming in your living room. Failing to measure your space is a common mistake that leads to cramped rooms or blocked walkways. Before shopping, measure the area where the recliner will go, accounting for its full dimensions when upright and reclined. Consider the space needed for the footrest to extend and ensure there’s enough room to walk around comfortably. For smaller spaces, look for wall-hugger recliners that don’t need much clearance behind them. Getting the size right ensures your recliner enhances your room without dominating it.
5. Overlooking Fabric and Material Quality
The upholstery of your recliner affects both its durability and appearance. Cheap fabrics or low-quality leather can fade, tear, or stain easily, especially in homes with kids or pets. If you want a recliner that lasts, opt for high-quality, stain-resistant materials like microfiber or top-grain leather. Many brands offer over 50 upholstery options, so you can balance style and practicality. For example, stain-resistant fabrics are ideal for busy households, while breathable materials keep you comfortable during long sits. Investing in durable upholstery ensures your recliner stays looking and feeling great for 8–10 years.
6. Buying Without Testing
Comfort is subjective, and what feels cozy to one person might be unbearable for another. Buying a recliner without testing it is a recipe for regret. Always sit in the chair and try all its features recline fully, adjust the footrest, and test any additional functions like massage or lumbar support. Pay attention to how it supports your back, neck, and legs. If you’re buying online, check return policies or visit a showroom to try similar models. A recliner should feel tailored to your body, so never skip the test drive.
7. Neglecting Foam and Overall Durability
A recliner’s longevity depends on its foam quality and overall construction. Low-density foam can sag within a year, leaving you with an uncomfortable seat. Similarly, a weak frame or mechanism can fail under regular use. Look for recliners with high-density foam (at least 1.8 pounds per cubic foot) and sturdy frames made of hardwood or steel. Check reviews or ask about the recliner’s expected lifespan quality models should last 8–10 years with proper care. Investing in durability saves you from replacing your recliner sooner than expected.
Final Thoughts
Buying a recliner is a decision that impacts your daily comfort and home’s functionality. By avoiding these seven mistakes prioritizing style over comfort, ignoring mechanism quality, skipping after-sales research, neglecting space measurements, overlooking upholstery, buying untested, or skimping on durability you can find a recliner that’s perfect for you.
