At a Glance:
How to Choose the Best Reclining Sofa
If you want to create a living room that’s all about relaxation, then you need a reclining sofa. These three-seater couches typically feature two reclining seats, so that more people can lounge than with a traditional recliner chair. They help promote a calming atmosphere and are perfect when you want to destress from the day, watch movies as a family, or enjoy a seat that soothes chronic back pain.
Here, we’ll discuss the different types of reclining sofas and how to choose the best one, breaking down key factors like materials, price, recliner brand, and added features. Then, we’ll highlight our 6 best-rated reclining sofa picks from Idler’s, zeroing in on finding a recliner that fits your lifestyle whether you’re an active family or have a pet-friendly home.
Explore Reclining Sofas at Idler's Home
Searching for the best reclining sofa? Discover options from leading brands like Palliser, La-Z-Boy, Flexsteel, and more at Idler's Home, today!
Shop Reclining SofasTypes of Reclining Sofas
Any reclining sofa will allow you to lounge in comfort, but understanding the different types of reclining sofas can help you narrow your search.
Manual vs Power Reclining
Manual reclining sofas use a lever or handle to recline the seat. They are typically more affordable and don’t require a power source, making them ideal for areas without easy access to electrical outlets. Manual recliners are simple to operate and maintain, but they may require more physical effort to adjust.
On the other hand, power reclining sofas use electric motors to recline the seat at the touch of a button, offering greater convenience and precision in finding the perfect position. They often come with additional features like USB ports, heat, and massage options. Of course, power recliners are generally more expensive and require a nearby power outlet.
Wall Huggers
Also known as wall-saver recliners, these sofas are designed to recline with minimal clearance from the wall, typically requiring only a few inches of space. This makes them ideal for smaller rooms or apartments where space is at a premium. Wall huggers often have a forward-sliding mechanism, allowing the sofa to recline without moving the entire unit backward.
Sectional Reclining Sofas
Reclining sectional sofas are sofas that are configured in various shapes, such as L-shaped or U-shaped, to fit different spaces and seating needs. They often feature multiple reclining seats, allowing several people to recline simultaneously. Sectional reclining sofas are perfect for larger living rooms and provide ample seating and comfort for families or entertaining guests.
→ Learn more: 7 Favorite Rocker Recliners for Cali Chic Homes
Explore Featured Reclining Sofas
How to Choose the Best Reclining Sofa
To choose the best recliner sofa for your lifestyle, you have to think about what daily life looks like for you and how you want your space to function. Is your reclining sofa going to be in an office space that’s mostly used by adults, or is it the centerpiece of a living room frequented by guests, kids, and pets? These are important factors to consider when comparing reclining sofas.
Materials
The best reclining sofa for a family may differ from the best reclining sofa for a formal living room. In a high-traffic, family-friendly area, you need to choose durable fabric. You need to consider what is kid-friendly, pet-friendly, and easy to maintain. Here are 3 durable materials to choose from:
➥ Leather: Leather is a durable fabric known for its strength and longevity. It is resistant to tears and punctures, and it develops a patina over time, which adds to its aesthetic appeal. Leather is also relatively easy to clean and maintain, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas.
➥ Microfiber: Microfiber is made from tightly woven synthetic fibers, making it highly durable and resistant to stains and spills. It’s also very soft and comfortable, with a suede-like texture, and its dense weave makes it less prone to wear and tear.
➥ Polyester: Polyester is a synthetic fabric that is resistant to stretching, shrinking, and wrinkling. It is also colorfast, meaning it retains its color well even with frequent use and exposure to sunlight. Polyester's durability and low maintenance requirements make it a popular choice for reclining sofas.
Additionally, consider the materials inside your reclining sofa. Look for sofas with a sturdy hardwood frame, such as oak or maple, and high-density foam cushions for lasting support and comfort. Check for durable reclining mechanisms made from robust metals like steel, and verify the sofa's construction through customer reviews and reputable manufacturers' warranties.
Price
It’s important to set a budget and consider not just the upfront cost but also the long-term value. You might want to choose a reclining sofa with a generous warranty period. It’s essential to choose materials that work with your family’s lifestyle and will hold up to daily use. In terms of finding a reclining sofa that you’ll love for years to come, it’s wise to opt for a neutral color rather than a bright color or busy pattern. That way, you won’t get tired of it, and if you end up replacing other living room furniture in the future, your reclining sofa will still match.
Brand
Another way to narrow your search is to compare brands. Here are a few of the best reclining sofa brands and who they’re best for.
- Signature Design by Ashley: This brand is known for its wide range of stylish and affordable reclining sofas. It’s hard to find a brand that matches the number of options and design styles available at a low price point.
- Benchcraft: Benchcraft, a subsidiary of Ashley Furniture, is known for its reliable and comfortable reclining sofas. The brand stands out for its meticulous attention to detail, use of high-quality materials, and stylish designs, making it a top choice for those seeking both durability and affordability.
- Flexsteel: Although a bit more expensive, Flexsteel raises the game. This brand is celebrated for its durable construction and innovative Blue Steel Spring support system, which ensures long-lasting comfort and support. This brand is a leading contender for best reclining sofas due to its commitment to high-quality craftsmanship, superior materials, and customizable options that cater to various styles and preferences.
- La-Z-Boy: In a similar class as Flexsteel, La-Z-Boy is synonymous with comfort and innovation in the reclining furniture industry. Known for its iconic recliners, the brand excels in offering a wide range of customizable reclining sofas with advanced features and superior comfort, making it a top choice for those prioritizing relaxation and quality.
- Palliser Furniture: If you’re looking for a brand you can customize, Palliser Furniture is a great option. The brand is known for luxurious, high-quality sofas that come in a wide variety of styles and configurations so you can create a piece that perfectly suits your living room.
Added Features
Just like you can opt for power reclining or a wall hugger sofa, there are other added features to choose from. This includes reclining sofas with cup holders, USB ports for charging devices, storage compartments, drop-down seats that convert into tabletops, and more. You can also find reclining sofas that are specifically designed with extra lumbar support for those with back pain.
→ Learn more: Best LaZboy Sofa Styles
6 Best Reclining Sofas
Keep reading for the 6 best sofa recliners from Idler’s. We’ll break down what lifestyle each reclining sofa is best for, whether you have a family member with back pain or you love to host movie nights.
Signature Design by Ashley Barnsana Gravel Power Reclining Sofa
Shop this Signature Design by Ashley Reclining Sofa
This soft and comfy sofa is made of polyester, which is the perfect material for families who love to host movie nights. Polyester is easy to clean, so you can eat snacks without fear, and it’s soft to the touch, perfect for curling up to watch a new flick or an old favorite. The dark gray color fits with a wide variety of design styles, and the power reclining allows you to easily adjust your seat to your desired position.
✅Best Reclining Sofa for Cozy Movie Nights
Signature Design by Ashley Stoneland Chocolate Reclining Sofa
Shop this Signature Design by Ashley Reclining Sofa
This faux leather reclining sofa is easy to maintain—perfect for a busy family or a home with lots of kids. Unlike genuine leather, faux leather does not absorb moisture, making it resistant to stains and spills. You can clean faux leather with mild soap and water, so it’s a practical choice for those seeking low-maintenance upholstery or that still offer a luxurious, leather-like appearance.
✅Best Reclining Sofa for Low Maintenance
Benchcraft Cavalcade Slate Power
Shop this Benchcraft Reclining Sofa
If you’re looking for the best power reclining sofa that’s also pet-friendly, this Benchcraft couch is a great option. The polyester upholstery is soft yet smooth, not prone to scratches, and free from texture your animal can snag its claws on. We love how easy and family-friendly this sofa is. From the fabric to the power reclining and USB plug-in, there’s nothing hindering your ability to relax.
✅Best Reclining Sofa for a Pet-Friendly Home
Flexsteel Cade Power Reclining Sofa with Power Headrests
Shop this Flexsteel Reclining Sofa
If you’ve been searching for the best reclining sofa with lumbar support, look no further. Lucky for you, this couch is also made of premium leather, it’s a power recliner, and it features heavy-thread stitching that is durable and aesthetically pleasing. It also features Flexsteel’s signature Blue Steel Spring unit, which creates the perfect balance of softness and support, further guaranteeing that this is the best reclining sofa for back pain.
✅Best Reclining Sofa for a Family Member with Back Pain
Learn more: 6 Best Chaise Sofa Styles
La-Z-Boy Finley Parchment Power Wall Reclining Loveseat
Shop this La-Z-Boy Reclining Sofa
This sleek and contemporary reclining sofa is ideal for tall individuals (5’10” to 6’2”). Not only that, but it’s ultra-plush and comes with added features like a storage compartment, two cup holders, and built-in USB ports for charging your devices. Sometimes, reclining sofas are synonymous with bulky or overstuffed couches, but this tailored sofa is the exact opposite, allowing you to relax in style.
✅Best Reclining Sofa for a Tall Family
Palliser Furniture Customizable Keiran Power Reclining Sofa with Power Headrest
Shop this Palliser Furniture Reclining Sofa
With Palliser Furniture, you can choose from a wide variety of finishes, so whether you’re looking for the best leather reclining sofa or a couch with pet-friendly fabric, you can customize this sofa to suit your needs. This is the best wall hugger reclining sofa, and the only one on our list. This makes it ideal for small spaces, allowing you to work a reclining sofa into a tight layout.
✅Best Reclining Sofa for Small Spaces
→ Learn more: Which Big Comfy Couch Style Is For You?
You can recline in style and find peace at the end of the day with a reclining sofa. Looking for a way to take family movie nights to the next level or to help a family member find relief from back pain? Whatever your goal is for the function and design of your living room, you can find a reclining sofa that fits your lifestyle. Stop by one of Idler’s Central Coast locations to test out comfortable reclining sofas in person today!
FAQ
What is the best reclining sofa to buy?
If you’re looking for an affordable yet stylish reclining sofa, Signature Design by Ashley and Benchcraft offer plenty of options to choose from. If you’re looking to invest in a high-quality and long-lasting reclining sofa, Flexsteel and La-Z-boy are excellent brands. And if custom furniture is a must for you, Palliser Furniture might be the best brand for you.
What are the disadvantages of a recliner sofa?
Recliner sofas can be more expensive and heavier than traditional sofas, making them harder to move and requiring a larger budget. They also require more space to fully recline, which can be a limitation in smaller rooms. Additionally, power recliners need access to an electrical outlet, which may restrict placement options.
Is a recliner sofa worth it?
A recliner sofa is worth it for those who prioritize comfort and relaxation, as it offers superior support and adjustable seating positions. It can enhance the overall comfort of your living space, making it a valuable investment for long-term use. You can even find recliner sofas perfect for small spaces and pet-friendly homes.
Where to buy the best recliner sofa near me?
California shoppers can find the best recliner sofas for every budget and lifestyle at Idler’s from a variety of top brands like Flexsteel, La-Z-Boy, and Signature Design by Ashley.
Why Trust Idler’s Home?
At Idler’s Home, we believe in providing the highest quality products and service to our community. Over the span of 70 years (and counting), our business has seen successful growth, with over 100 employees and five locations along the central coast of California. Not only do we offer major appliances, quality furniture, and the best mattresses but we also provide hot tubs and swim spas and perform kitchen design services. In addition, our trained professional installers can set up all appliances we sell while our factory-trained technicians service and repair them if they ever break down. Suffice it to say: Idler’s is dedicated to helping you make the vision you have for your home a reality.
Shop Reclining Sofas at Idler’s
Envision the possibilities for your home and shop reclining sofas online at Idler’s. Our friendly team is always happy to help you find the best reclining sofa for your lifestyle — whether you call us, email us, or use our online chat feature. Or better yet, stop by any of our five Central Coast locations to experience the quality of our products yourself. Visit us today!
→ Learn more: 5 Best Modular Couches for Endless Possibilities