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What is a Recliner?

Sherry Holetzky
Sherry Holetzky

A recliner is a piece of living room furniture, such as a large armchair or sofa that can be adjusted into a reclining position by lowering the back of the piece and raising the footrest. A reclining chair may adjust to different levels from a slight incline, to lying almost flat. Commonly the favorite seat in the home because of the ability to adjust to anyone's comfort, the recliner is now also used in family rooms as well as seating areas in other spaces such as the master bedroom. Once thought of as not very attractive, the recliner has become a far more stylish piece of furniture and it is now included in many design plans.

Once upon a time, the recliner was referred to as "the man's chair," yet it has evolved. Many homes now feature pairs of matching recliners, one for the man and another for the woman of the house. There are also double recliners that are styled somewhat similar to a love seat, yet there are two individually reclining sections attached to each other. Both sides can be adjusted to different reclining positions at the same time.

Woman wearing a tank top shirt
Woman wearing a tank top shirt

You may have even seen a miniature recliner as well. These tiny models are designed especially for children. They are very comfortable and they come in assorted styles and colors, which can be incorporated into living areas, a child's bedroom, or a playroom. Children love these chairs because they are just like Mom and Dad's recliners.

While there are many available styles, textures, colors, and price ranges from which to choose, a recliner can also be custom-made. This is an especially good idea if the person purchasing the recliner is taller or heavier than average, or if the buyer wants the recliner to coordinate with other furniture styles or fabric treatments in the space. A recliner may also come with added features such as vibration, heat, or a lift to help the seated person rise from the chair. Some even come with built in cup holders, a space to store the television remote, or pockets on the sides for magazines and the TV listings. There is something for everyone.

Discussion Comments

anon3421

any drawings out there re: recliner mechanisms?

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