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4 questions to ask when buying a recliner

Because not all chairs are created equal.
Image: La-Z-Boy.

There’s nothing worse than suffering a sore back at the hands of an uncomfortable recliner. Or sinking so far into one that you struggle to get back out of it! There are multiple factors that go into finding your perfect recliner beyond the basics of style and colour. It also has to suit your needs and lifestyle.

Recliners are like shoes – looks are important, but comfort is key. Your height, frame or health concerns can make a big difference to your requirements. For example, tall people can find some chairs too low, while shorter people might find some recliners too high.

During your search, it’s important to go into the store and spend time sitting on different chairs to find what feels best for you. Here are four key questions to ask yourself when shopping for a recliner.

The Eden rocker recliner - La-Z-Boy's most popular range.
The Eden rocker recline. The Eden is La-Z-Boy’s most popular range.. (Image: La-Z-Boy.) (Credit: Image: La-Z-Boy.)

1. Do my feet touch the floor when the back is upright?

The optimal height of a recliner or armchair allows you to place your feet flat on the floor when your back is upright. This seat height is essential to protecting your back and giving you the best mobility in and out of your seat.

Getting the right sized chair is especially important if you’re not as sprightly as you used to be, but you can go one step better with a recliner lift chair. The La-Z-Boy Platinum Lift Chair will ease you out of the chair at the touch of a button.

Lazyboy recliner
The Eden range is also available as a Bronze Lift Chair from La-Z-Boy. (Image: La-Z-Boy.) (Credit: Image: La-Z-Boy.)

2. Does the headrest support my head and neck?

Recliners are known for providing support for the back, legs, arms and feet. However, they should also deliver the same benefits for your head and neck. Unlike an office chair, your recliner should provide ergonomic support from top to bottom.

When choosing a recliner, make sure to explore options with an adjustable locking headrest. The ability to adjust your headrest will ensure you have the proper head and back support, whether you’re reading a book or watching TV.

3. Is the footrest easy to manoeuvre?

In addition to an easily adjustable headrest, make sure that the footrest can also move to suit your needs. This feature will make it easy to recline and get in and out of the chair. Plus, the footrest should offer varying heights and lock in for optimal safety and support.

It’s also worth remembering that furniture can feel different for everyone, so be sure to choose a recliner that suits even the tallest family members, like the La-Z-Boy Eden Rocker Recliner, which is available in standard, large and extra-large sizes.

4. Hows the cushioning?

Finally, consider the overall cushioning when you’re choosing the perfect recliner. You might think this should be number one on the list, but without good back, neck, leg and head support, your recliner won’t be the pleasurable experience it’s meant to be.

Things that might impact the comfort of the cushioning include the fabric, size and style of the recliner. You should also consider the purpose of the recliner to help you choose the right amount of cushioning.

Brought to you by La-Z-Boy. Now you know what features to look for, it’s time to test out a few recliner options. Contact your closest La-Z-Boy store and let them help you live life comfortably.

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