To recline, to rock, or to chaise lounge? What kind of recliners are there? Choices, choices, choices. You see one and forget the other.
You've come across a hundred models, and they'd all look fabulous and funky, or sleek and stylish, and you can lie down on all of them.
But, sadly, we're going to have to burst your bubble.
They're different, and we're not just talking about the name.
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What kind of recliners are there? Introduction
With so many choices on the market, we understand that you may feel somewhat overwhelmed.
So how can you make the best choice?
Before whipping out your credit card, you need to distinguish between the different types.
But fret not, and erase the worry lines from your forehead. We've got you.
Sit down, make yourself comfortable and allow us to introduce you to the ravishing, redolent world of recliners.
Tip: Check the top recliners for large/big men if you want to invest in a sturdy, heavy-duty model with high weight capacity.
What is a recliner?
A reclining chair is just that: It is an armchair that reclines.
Designers continue to make strides in this direction, and you can choose from a beautiful yet sensible array of materials.
Recliners include manual options and electrical options that, in turn, come with a variety of other functions (think inbuilt massages and generated heat for example).
You'll also come across models offering excellent lumbar support that allows you to rest in a position that is practically as comfortable as lying down.
Are you confused about the difference between sofas and recliners? Then read What is the difference between a sofa and a recliner?
Various types of recliner chairs
You can find a multitude of different recliners available, and here is a list of them with a brief description to get you up to speed:
Rocker reclining chair
Given that they are the best reclining chairs for sleeping, rocker recliner chairs are a firm favorite with nursing mothers and anyone with sleep disorders.
Their actual name is Rocker Recliner, and their arched tracks are what allows them to rock back and forth.
This soothing, rocking movement is particularly comforting for those who can't drop off at night.
No gravity recliner
No-gravity recliners, aka zero-gravity recliners, redefine reclining furnishings as you know it.
They allow for ideal weight distribution, enhancing blood circulation and reducing pressure on the neck, back, and legs.
So not only do they provide just the correct tilt for relaxation, but they:
- Ease neck pain, ease back pain and reduce back compression
- Ease the heart's capability to send blood and oxygen through the body
- Reduce swelling in joints
- Improve lung capability and function
Lift recliner
If you're struggling to get in and out of a chair, then this is for you.
Power lift recliners give more independence to people with specific needs in the comfort of their own home.
The lift mechanism presses the chair from a flat-seated position to upright, guiding the occupant to a standing position, particularly recommended by physicians in the case of people with weak knees, legs, or hips.
Glider recliner chair
Glider reclining chairs are similar to rockers, but instead of moving along an arched course, they move back and forth in a smooth horizontal movement.
If you're looking for a gentler action than a rocker, then a glider might be the ideal option.
Power reclining chair
Power recliners are similar to standard recliner chairs. They differ because there's a power button instead of a manual lever or button.
They usually allow for more seating positions than their manually-operated counterparts.
Many boast of other power-operated add-ons such as headrests.
Push-back recliner chair
Push-back recliners operate without a lever or a button, so to recline, you need to put pressure on the back of the chair.
For this, it would be wise to consider your physical capabilities and comfort choices.
However, you should contemplate this manual recliner option only if you don't mind the extra effort needed.
Chaise lounge
A chaise lounge is a couch in the shape of a chair, but that is long enough to support the legs.
The term can refer to any long reclining chair (yes, even deckchairs!).
Lay-flat reclining chair
When thinking of reclining chairs, many people think of lay-flat recliners.
They are the ultimate word in convenience for reclining and sleeping.
Their comfort is undisputed, but a word of warning: You'll need a space of at least 15 inches from the wall to lie down.
Swivel recliner: What kind of recliners are there?
Swivel recliners have a circular base to rotate left and right.
They provide a full range of motion, and for this reason, they are often a preferred choice over their more limited brethren.
Wall-hugger reclining chair
Wall-hugger recliners are recommended for limited space.
They only need about 4 to 6 inches of wall clearance.
They sit up straighter than other recliner chairs and frequently have a minimal range of motion.
Their resting position makes them easier to get in and out of.
This is perfect for older people (Read What should an elderly recliner look like? for more info!).
What kind of recliners are there? Conclusion
Now that we've shed some light on the matter, you should be able to discern which are your optimal choices according to your needs and available space.
Take all the above into consideration, and we're sure that your shopping will turn into a pleasurable experience, with a fantastic purchase at the end of it.
Happy shopping!