Going to buy a new recliner can make you feel like Goldilocks. You have to sit in every chair to try it out and see how it feels. Some chairs will be too big, some will be too small, while some will have too much stuffing, and others won’t have enough. There are a variety of styles of recliners to choose from as well. To purchase the right one for you, there are several decisions to make. Read this informative article and learn how to shop for the best recliner.
1. See and Feel the Real Thing
Avoid ordering a recliner from looking at a catalog or brochure. What you see is not always what you get. Besides that, just like with an automobile, you need to “test drive” before you buy.
2. Determine the Type
Recliners come in styles such as wall huggers, wall savers, lever-to-recline, lean-back-to-recline, rockers, and more. To shop for the best recliner, look at the spot where you’ll put it to determine how much room is available. A wall hugger fits against the wall, while a wall saver, for example, needs to set several inches out away from it.
3. Choose the Right Size
Recliners come in different sizes. You can find one to fit your body type whether you’re a sprite of a person or built like Paul Bunyon. Sit in each recliner you’re considering purchasing for at least 5 minutes.
To find the right chair to suit your height, when you sit in it, your feet easily should reach the floor. The seat shouldn’t be tight against your hips. It should be wide enough to accommodate your seat with some room to spare. The headrest should support your head and neck comfortably.
4. Feel the Comfort
While you’re sitting in each recliner, give it a second comfort test. Does it have enough cushioning? Do you feel hard spots in the seat or back? You shouldn’t. Or does it have too much cushioning? Do you sink deep into the recliner, and feel like it’s going to swallow you up? If it feels good while you’re sitting, recline the chair and test the comfort level in that position. Finally, ask what the foam density rating of each chair is. A rating of 1.9 or higher is preferred because it holds its shape better and longer.
5. Check for Quality and Durability
Recliners that are upholstered in fine leather have the highest price tags, but they are built to last. But your new chair doesn’t have to be leather to be durable. (Caveat- avoid vinyl coverings. They often crack easily.) Recline it several times- is it difficult to do? Is the reclining action smooth? Look underneath the recliner you’re interested in. Inspect the frame- is the hardware heavy-duty metal? Is the frame made of hard wood? Do you see plastic or another material that’s not going to last? Ask the sales associate about the materials the recliner is made of. Also, inquire about the manufacturer’s warranty.
Resources
http://www.puday.com/lazyboy-recliner.php
http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/decorating-ideas/buy-smart-recliners-1007
http://www.lanefurniture.com/furniture/recliners.aspx
