Rocker Recliner – FAQ & Buyer’s Guide!

Every home needs a cozy corner where you can always find comfort and warmth. And any good place for relaxation—and sometimes even quiet solitude—need a quality rocker recliner. Luckily, today’s market has plenty of rocker recliner models on offer, from feature-packed luxury gliders to more modest yet effective rockers with universally appealing padding options.

These abundantly plush and exceedingly diverse leisure chairs are a favorite among parents with young children and people with busy schedules or physically demanding jobs. Elderly family members also find great enjoyment in the embrace of a particularly well-crafted memory foam recliner, while people with back problems can get the much-needed muscle pain therapy with rocking massage chairs.

What Should I Look for When Buying a Rocker Recliner?

To devise what type of rocker chair will suit your room best, it’s important to consider all the factors you have at hand, including the size of your household, recliner’s intended use, and budget constraints.

Configuration

The basic forms of rocker recliners include your standard rockers, swivel rockers, glider rockers, and all three of them combined. On top of their added functionality, all these recliner options offer the classic reclining feature and a pullout footrest, so some product descriptions may omit these details.

Finish

The most common upholstery types you will see on rocker recliners in medium to upper price range are polyester, faux or bonded leather, microfiber, genuine leather, and various fabric blends. In terms of colors, brown is always a go-to classic (including lighter shades of beige or darker shades of chocolate), while more modern takes on the long-established tradition include navy, charcoal, and gray gradients.

Control

Recliners of this type are usually operated manually or with a lever. Other popular forms of position adjustment are pullback controls, buttons, and remotes. More automated controls usually add to the final price, and less nuanced levers or manual push-back mechanisms can give you more freedom of customization.

The List of Top Rocker Recliners

Photo	Product	Material	Control type	Details
	Flash Furniture MEN-DSC01078-BRN-GG	Leather	Lever	View on Amazon
	Naomi Home Odelia 20214	Microfiber	Pullback	View on Amazon
	Flash Furniture MEN-DA3439-91-BRN-GG	Leather	Lever	View on Amazon
	Signature Design by Ashley 8110425	Twill	Lever	View on Amazon
	Relaxzen 60-701004M	Microfiber	Pullback + Remote control	View on Amazon
	Lane Home Furnishings 4501-19	Chenille	Lever	View on Amazon
	Delta Children 508210-036	Microfiber	Manual	View on Amazon
	Roundhill LAF2001BB	Bonded leather	Lever	View on Amazon
	Signature Design by Ashley 3190125	Faux leather	Pullback	View on Amazon
	CANMOV Swivel Rocker Recliner Smoke Gray01	Polyester blend	Pullback	View on Amazon
	Relaxzen 60-701508	Microfiber	Pullback	View on Amazon
	ANJ HOME Rocker Recliner Chair	Polyester	Pullback	View on Amazon
	Classic Brands I01115-0011	Polyester	Manual	View on Amazon
	CATNAPPER 546892222029	Polyester	Lever	View on Amazon
	Signature Design by Ashley 9540325	Polyester	Lever	View on Amazon

Review of the Best Rocker Recliners

Flash Furniture MEN-DSC01078-BRN-GG – The Best Rocker Recliner

This classic recliner by Flash Furniture comes with a smooth rocking feature suitable for users of all ages, from working adults and parents with small children to elderly members of the family in need of a quick nap during the day.

With its tall frame and relatively light 95 pounds of total weight, this model can be installed in almost any room of the house without it imposing any major limits to your space. You can set up the chair in the corner of your living room as a relaxation spot for all family members or use it as a nursery recliner instead.

The rocking mechanism in this model is rather gentle and can soothe a young child without disturbing them. Though you can also use it as a regular chair for your leisure activities, like watching TV with friends and family or kick back to spend some time on your laptop.

In addition to its soft leather upholstery, the recliner comes with an exceptionally cushy seat, well-padded armrests, and comfortable plush backrest. And finally, all positions are easily adjusted via the black lever located under the seat in quick reach, allowing you to minutely change positions without much fuss.

Features:

• Finish: Brown
• Recline control: Lever
• Material: Leather
• Dimensions: 66” x 40” x 42”

Pros:

• Universally appealing dark brown finish
• Soft to the touch leather
• Rocking action suits all ages
• Highly compatible design

Naomi Home Odelia 20214 Rocker Recliner

This conveniently-sized Odelia rocker in soft pale cream is manufactured by Naomi Home for its classic full range swivel chair series.

Even though this recliner needs manual assembly, the process is extremely easy and can be done alone at home with the help of the manual and a few DIY tips. You will find that the frame of this model is surprisingly durable yet not heavy enough to restrict mobility in your living space. Both the footrest and the seat are padded, with the chair’s foam-filled cushions providing even more casual comfort.

As its name suggests, the Odelia swivel recliner supports a full 360-degree rotation at the base to hold whatever it is you need to keep watching within your field of view. The reclining action allows for a 135 degree backward tilt, including the soft rocking setting made possible by the smooth mechanism mounted on rolling elements.

Additionally, the footrest remains hidden for stylistic and space-saving purposes, but you are free to pull it out with a single tug on a pullback hook. The hook activates the chair’s motions, but it’s the user who can customize it during the actual recline.

The exterior of this recliner looks pristine and quite modern. Completed in cream microfiber finish, the chair adds stylish tuft design to the backrest and outlines square construction with deep-seated trimming.

Features:

• Finish: Cream
• Recline control: Pullback
• Material: Microfiber
• Dimensions: 37” x 30” x 41.80”

Pros:

• The footrest can be adjusted
• Soft armrests with extra support
• A silk-like sensation of the upholstery
• Full range movements

Flash Furniture MEN-DA3439-91-BRN-GG Rocker Recliner

Another classic yet timeless recliner design from Flash Furniture, this rocker recliner offers cleaner lines resulting in a more tidy, minimalist appearance.

This particular model slightly differs from the first one in dimensions, though not by too large a margin. The upholstery is made of quality brown leather, pleasant to the touch and even suitable for babies. Both armrests come with extra padding, while the seat uses a thick layer of fire retardant foam to increase your comfort.

Lever-operated, this chair gives you a series of recline options that you can choose for yourself without getting up from the seat. As a rocker recliner, this Flash Furniture unit also allows you to engage in a steady rocking motion, though its tension can also be adjusted in case you plan to move it from the nursery to the rec room and vice versa.

Features:

• Finish: Brown
• Recline control: Lever
• Material: Leather
• Dimensions: 66” x 43” x 39”

Pros:

• Multi-purpose use
• Color-matching lever
• Extremely soft padding

Signature Design by Ashley 8110425 Rocker Recliner

One of the classic manual recliners made by Ashley Furniture, this Signature design rocker recliner combines comfortable and affordable upholstery design with lush cushioning and strong frame.

Traditionally trimmed bustle arrangement—on both the seat and backrest—gives this oversized recliner a certain lived-in charm that can add more character to any living room. The synthetic twill upholstery is a more budget option compared to genuine leather, but the quality of the fabric doesn’t disappoint.

By combining the slightly ribbed fabric texture with a rich cocoa finish, Ashley Furniture achieves an immediately recognizable and cozy design while also reinforcing it with a sturdy metal frame, especially in the seat and footrest areas.

To elaborate further on its surface softness, the recliner incorporates foam cushions along with its seat and back, additionally padding out both armrests for more laid back everyday comfort.

This model is operated with a regular lever that you can find on the right side near the base of the chair. It should be pulled only once since all adjustments are made manually. The recliner needs to be assembled after you’ve done unpacking, though you will only need a regular screwdriver to complete it.

Features:

• Finish: Cocoa
• Recline control: Lever
• Material: Twill
• Dimensions: 43” D x 40” W x 43” H

Pros:

• Classic exterior with modern construction
• Luxurious oversized recliner design
• Easy assembly and use

Relaxzen 60-701004M Rocker Recliner

The Relaxzen 60-701004M is a rustic style rocker recliner with massage functions and reliable weight support.

Outfitted with soft microfiber in even gray hue, this rocker recliner expands upon its classic tilt features by including a highly efficient massage system, lumbar heating, and dual USB connection.

8 massage points can be divided into 4 zones designed to promote blood circulation in the areas of your back that are especially stiff, making this unit a perfect recliner for back pain. You can set up massage parameters using the recliner’s remote and select from 5 intensity levels.

Lumbar heating can also be adjusted on the remote control, this time you have the choice of 9 heat settings aimed to soothe different levels of back pain. Supporting this pain relief feature is the recliner’s foam padding found in the seating and along with the backrest. Pillow-soft cushions are then encased in pleasant to the touch microfiber that bears endearing rustic design.

Located on the right side of the chair is the neat pocket which you can use for storing your remote control (for the recliner or TV), your phone, or some light reading. If you prefer to recline with a phone or tablet in hand, the chair supplies a dual USB port in case you need to charge your device at your convenience.

Features:

• Finish: Gray
• Recline control: Pullback + remote
• Material: Microfiber
• Dimensions: 36” D x 38.5” W x 39.5” H

Pros:

• Supports up to 300 pounds in weight
• Can fit slightly smaller rooms and spaces
• Great fit for bachelor pads
• Extensive massage features and pain relief

Lane Home Furnishings 4501-19 Rocker Recliner

This medium-sized recliner by Lane Home Furnishings is designed for daily relaxation for all family members but especially those who like to spend their after-work time with a live sports broadcast in peace and comfort.

The main upside of this sizeable yet space-savvy recliner is its reliable frame. At its core, the steel rocker recliner mechanism supports the sturdy hardwood frame with mortise elements that form the accommodating shape of the entire chair.

Furthermore, the chair’s armrests are reinforced at their frame to support long-term usage, while their rounded padding provides a plush surface for resting your weary limbs. The recliner is upholstered with textured chenille in tasteful gladiator charcoal finish, forming classic tuft design on the backrest and armrests.

Able to support up to 500 pounds of weight, the enduring construction of this chair is also made to fit those with above-average height. On top of it all, when reaching the full recline position, the newly formed surface that consists of the backrest and the seat reaches 79 inches in length which is the near equivalent of a king-size mattress.

Features:

• Finish: Gladiator charcoal
• Recline control: Lever
• Material: Chenille
• Dimensions: 40” x 44” x 48”

Pros:

• Precise lever control
• Weight capacity of 500 pounds
• Fits tall people
• Produces in the USA

Delta Children 508210-036 Rocker Recliner

The Emerson nursery glider from Delta Children is made specifically to fit children’s rooms and carry out multiple support purposes, from swiveling and reclining to gentle rocking.

Providing a wide range of swivel and glider action, the actual mechanism behind these functions is made to produce minimum noise as to not disturb your baby’s sleep. So if you find yourself in need to rock your child to sleep in your arms when sitting in this glider, don’t worry about any loud sounds or clangs as the chair operates as quietly as possible.

The upholstery also proves to be delicate, offering a smooth and tender microfiber surface that won’t irritate the skin of your child. To top it off, the glider’s backrest incorporates wingback design with classy diamond tufting to offset the even dove gray finish and side trimming of a lighter shade. The frame supporting the chair is stable and sturdy yet completely safe for children due to thick cushioning.

Features:

• Finish: Dove gray
• Recline Control: Manual
• Material: Microfiber
• Dimensions: 34.75 W x 35.75 D x 39.5 H

Pros:

• Plush armrest area
• Removable seat pillow
• Easy maintenance
• Safe for nurseries

Roundhill LAF2001BB Rocker Recliner

Crafted by Roundhill Furniture, this Brandan LAF2001BB recliner offers a winning combination of reasonable pricing and long-lasting design.

Tasteful and subdued in appearance, this oversized recliner makes for an elegant addition to any contemporary home and fits the interior styling of many classic living rooms.

This model requires minimal assembly, but the guide manual includes a step by step guide which is easy to follow. The rocker’s supple brown leather upholstery is decorated with contrasting white stitching, creating a stylish vertical pattern across the backrest and the seat.

As for the seating itself, it’s padded with thick foam placed on flexible springs for gentle support of your weight. This chair’s frame is engineered from strong hardwood materials reinforced by reliable steel rocket mechanism providing comfortable reclining and rocking action.

Features:

• Finish: Brown
• Recline control: Lever
• Material: Bonded leather
• Dimensions: 39” x 39” x 41”

Pros:

• High quality bonded leather finish
• Natural-appearing brown pattern
• Lever-based adjustment
• Extra plush armrests

Signature Design by Ashley 3190125 Rocker Recliner

One of the top classic series from Signature Design by Ashley, this Larkinhurst 3190125 rocker recliner showcases the well-crafted country-style design of traditional decoration, washed-out leather, and abundant plushness.

Supported by a solid frame with steel elements, this recliner provides steady rocking motion on top of the classic backward lean motion, both of which can be tightly controlled to fit your particular needs. The pullback controller is easy to reach and use, so you won’t have to drastically change your position as you relax.

As a part of the traditional series, this Larkinhurst rocker will complete your naturally styled living room or guest room by bringing its balanced Southwestern hues and earthy, refined faux leather patterns. The chair’s exceptionally lavish back cushion can support your neck and upper back with comfort, while also adding to the overall rustic appearance with its decorative stitching.

Both armrests are slimmed down to a more retro-appearing rolled design and adorned with old-fashioned nail trimming to match the blended upholstery. This recliner fits through 32-inch doorways and needs to be assembled.

Features:

• Finish: Earth brown
• Recline control: Pullback
• Material: Faux leather
• Dimensions: 40” x 43” x 40”

Pros:

• Pleasing rusting design
• Deep-seated cushions
• Oversized back padding
• Combines automated reclining and rocking

CANMOV Swivel Rocker Recliner Chair Smoke Gray01

One of CANMOV’s top budget models, this rocker recliner merges quality materials, space-saving construction, and enduring core design to serve as a sweet relaxation spot in your living room or nursery.

This is a manual control model that offers a full collection of mobility features accessible through pullback control and precise push-back adjustment. You can engage the gliding mechanism for a linear action but also ease the chair into a rocking motion for a quick read or nap during the day.

The backrest can lean rather far back, allowing you to rest your back at various angles ranging from 90 to 150 degrees. When fully pushed back, the glider reaches almost 64 inches in length so plan where you plan to position it.

Additionally, the concealed footrest can be lifted from underneath the structure with the help of a lever located on the chair’s arm and then easily tucked back with a simple push of your feet.

The exterior of this glider boasts double seat cushions filled with foam, narrow armrests, and soft smoke gray upholstery decorated with four white buttons and light accent trimming.

Features:

• Finish: Smoke gray
• Recline control: Pullback
• Material: Polyester blend
• Dimensions: 30” W x 37” D x 40” H

Pros:

• Can take weights up to 300 pounds
• Versatile manually adjustable motions
• Neat contemporary appearance
• Elevated seat padding

Relaxzen 60-701508 Rocker Recliner

Another cost-effective model from Relaxzen, this prudent yet profoundly comfortable rocker recliner offers a sustainable and cozy design supported by a reliable rocking mechanism.

Supplied with a quick pullback control, this chair lets you adjust each flexible element of the construction into the desired position. The latch is located right below the armrest, so you can do all necessary rocking and tilting without even moving your arm.

To improve on the recliner’s classic form, Relaxzen fills the backrest area with comfortable thick foam that reaches just the right amount of structural density. Framed by soft oversized armrests on either side, the seat cushion supports your body weight evenly, especially when your legs are elevated on the footrest.

Complete with microfiber upholstery in creamy beige hues, the rocker chair is soothing to the touch—even for the skin of your face. Overall, this recliner is a good and sturdy budget option for dens, common rooms, and even bedrooms.

Features:

• Finish: Beige
• Recline control: Pullback
• Material: Microfiber
• Dimensions: 37.8” W x 39.4” D x 40.1” H

Pros:

• Handles weights up to 300 pounds at a time
• Balanced density and recline tension control
• Easy maintenance upholstery
• Reliable core structure

ANJ HOME Rocker Recliner Chair

Designed and produced by the environmentally-friendly ANJ HOME, this rocker recliner incorporates eco-materials into its frame while also boosting the comfort elements to higher standards.

Constructed from laminated veneer lumber, the main structure of this chair’s frame is strong, durable, and more environmentally-conscious compared to wooden models. The actual steel-made rocking mechanism supports manual adjustment which you can do with the help of the pullback latch and pushing motion at the backrest.

This oversized recliner features a supremely wide and thick back cushion with a deeply wedged design for an additional stylistic twist. In combination with the matching plush armrests and supportive seat, this amply padded and lush model makes for a great cuddler recliner for your living room.

Moreover, the navy polyester upholstery creates a balanced sensation of visual style and tactile softness which could be a good addition to any rec or media room, and even a home theatre.

Features:

• Finish: Navy
• Recline control: Pullback
• Material: Polyester
• Dimensions: 34.6” W x 28.7” D x 41.7” H

Pros:

• Holds up to 300 pounds
• Provides enough space for sleeping
• Soft to the touch
• Eco-friendly and affordable

Classic Brands I01115-0011 Rocker Recliner

This decidedly stylish Cynthia Popstitch glider chair by Classic Brands comes with a whole range of movement, including basic reclining, full swivel action, and gentle back-and-forth rocking.

With such a flexible steel mechanism capable of 360-degree swivel and deep recline, this model is surprisingly quiet and unobtrusive. Any desired motion can be engaged manually by moving your body with the chair’s momentum, making this a perfect recliner for rocking your child to sleep.

The wingback design is modernized to fit contemporary homes, so you can be sure this piece will be compatible with other furniture and decor in your living room or nursery. Though to add even more warmth to the main appearance, Classic Brands chose to brighten the even charcoal upholstery with deep button tufting and color-coordinated stitch trims for volume.

For all its style, the finish is also easy to maintain thanks to its composition that includes smart performance fabric composition. The result is incredibly soft upholstery as well as water-repellent.

Features:

• Finish: Charcoal
• Recline Control: Manual
• Material: Polyester
• Dimensions: 40” W x 31” D x 40” H

Pros:

• Resists stains and moisture
• Suits nurseries and common rooms
• Thick cushioning and easily cleaned surface
• Manual full swivel

CATNAPPER 546892222029 Rocker Recliner

This satisfyingly massive Catnapper recliner manufactured by Jackson Furniture is a classic case of indulgence fusing with quality topped with unique saddle chaise design.

Supported by a strong and solid hardwood-made framework, this amply-sized rocker recliner establishes a stable base for its opulently stuffed cushioning and footrest. Since the backrest, seat, and footrest are more of a uniform piece, the chair resembles a rather luxury bed when in fully unfolded.

The model’s fine creamy upholstery, traditionally decorated button stitch surface, and rich padding make it for a perfect recliner for napping, sleeping, or simply lazing about. Even though this is a rather hefty and uniquely outlined assembly, weighing around 130 pounds in total, the recliner itself is easy to move around and position wherever you may need it.

Features:

• Finish: Saddle
• Recline control: Lever
• Material: Polyester
• Dimensions: 44” x 46” x 48”

Pros:

• Large area for relaxation
• An ideal choice for living room leisure and afternoon naps
• Trusted domestic brand
• Blends traditional and modern
• Manufactured in the USA

Signature Design by Ashley 9540325 Rocker Recliner

Showcasing its sustainable quality in the face of product diversity, Ashley’s Signature Design puts another outstanding budget model on offer with this contemporary-styled Dailey Living Room rocker recliner of generous proportions and luscious sewn-in pillows.

Made from high-quality polyester, the upholstery of this model offers a homey chocolate shine to its textured finish with the added depth of its mild herringbone detail.

This combination speaks of slightly revamped tradition, and with the support of especially plush seat and backrest cushions, the model works perfectly as a recliner for the elderly.

On the operational level, the chair’s rocking and reclining action are activated by the right-sided lever that can be engaged at all times for more flexibility of motion.

Reaching approximately 69 inches in length at full recline, the chair is still compact enough to be moved from room to room since it can pass through 34-inch doors. Unlike many oversized models, this one comes fully assembled, so you won’t need to worry yourself with the installation.

Features:

• Finish: Chocolate
• Recline control: Lever
• Material: Polyester
• Dimensions: 41” x 41” x 39”

Pros:

• Classic backrest decoration
• Rounded contemporary corners
• Soft arm padding
• Pullout footrest

In Conclusion

What is a rocker recliner?

A rocker recliner is essentially a functional expansion of a basic two-position recliner. Its upgraded reclining mechanism includes a special mechanical addition that allows the chair to rock back and forth without your direct involvement. In other words, rocker recliners move back and forth by themselves, so you can sleep in your armchair to your heart’s content and stop worrying that the motion will stop without you helping it along.

Who makes the best rocking recliner?

Apart from the industry leader La-Z-Boy, the best mid-tier rocking recliners are made by such manufacturers as Ashley Furniture and Relaxzen, including their partner brands and specialized product series.

How much does a good recliner cost?

Depending on their brand, make, and offered features, good recliners can range from $280 to $5,000 without delivery and installation, though most of them can be installed without assistance. Mid-tier models can go for $400 – $2,000 and generally combine accessibility with quality.

Can you stop a rocker recliner from rocking?

Although some models may come with a so-called “factory stop” pre-installed in their frame, most rocker recliners don’t offer a stopping mechanism—such as an on/off button or a level found on a glider and power chairs—it is possible to stop them from rocking with the help of wedges.

The rocking of your recliner is activated by a hinge mechanism that interacts with the chair’s frame to move it back and forth, so by creating wedges between the chair frame and the folding hinges, you could prevent the rocking on a mechanical level. The process itself is fairly simple:

• First, you will need to take measurements to calculate the dimensions of your future wedge. Apply a standard measuring tape to find the distance between the lowest point of the rocker frame and the top of the hinge mechanism—this will be your height. Find the length by measuring the rocker frame sideways, usually left to right.
• If you only want to apply a single wedge, use hardwood materials. Transfer your measurements to a block of hardwood, preferably with ample thickness (it should exceed the 1” depth at the very least).
• Cut out the outlined piece using an appropriate woodworking tool you might have in your household, such as a scroll saw or table saw. Temporary rocking stops can also be created with rubber wedges secured by bungee cords.
• Now make a pilot hole in the resulting hardwood wedge. Before drilling in the screws into the resulting hardwood wedge, make a pilot hole for guidance. It also prevents the wood from possible damage caused by direct drilling of screws. Use a ⅛-inch bit for your drill to create the hole. Take great care to place the hole about half an inch from both ends—this way any exerted pressure will be distributed evenly throughout the block.
• Place the wedge between the rocker frame and the hinge mechanism, firmly securing it. Always check the effectiveness of your wedge position. If the chair can still generate backward rocking motion, adjust the wedge until the rocker remains still.
• Once the wedge is positioned, use wood screws (at least 2-inch in diameter) to secure the new contraption. Use a screwdriver to ease the screws inside.

How much does a Lazy Boy recliner cost?

The price of a La-Z-Boy recliner may vary greatly, going from affordable $300 and up to $4,000 or higher. Upholstery, functional features, frame reinforcement—all of these features can affect the final pricing which creates a wide range of options to accommodate various customer needs.

Can recliners go against the wall?

Most standard recliners require space, whether it’s to enable their reclining, gliding, or rocking action, or to prevent the hampering contact with other furniture. That being said, different types of recliners may demand varying amounts of space between their main structure and the wall.

Standard lever recliners or basic power recliners will usually need to be positioned at least one foot from the wall so that nothing restricts their movement. It should be noted that one foot is merely a minimum of required moving space, and it’s best to give your recliner more room to avoid any unfortunate consequences like your head bumping into the wall.

If you need a recliner for a smaller living space or recreation room, there is currently a wide range of space-saving models designed specifically for such purposes. They are often called wall-saver, wall-away, or wall-hugger recliners since they quite literally almost touch the wall.

The construction of space-saving recliners includes a glider track that pushes the seat forward whenever you need to activate the reclining mode. When the seat glides forward, it frees enough space behind the backrest for a full recline position, so there is no need to move the chair every time you need to lie down for a nap. This allows you to place the recliner only 5-8 inches from the wall when the chair is in an upright position, though some more expensive models need even less room to work with.

How far back do recliners go?

Depending on the configuration, recliners can perform reclining and tilting action in varying degrees, from semi-reclined and full recline to automatic rocking and horizontal swivel. As mentioned before, most basic recliners need a minimum of one foot of space left behind the backrest, though several wall-huggers can be placed only 4 inches away from the wall.

Space-savers aside, recliners can be categorized into traditional recliners, glider recliners, swivel recliners, rocker recliners, push back recliners, and lift recliners. Some of these types include more stylistic sub-categories that may include mission style recliners, magnum-sized recliners, and more non-standard options.

Traditional recliners are classic two-position models activated by a lever or a button. They can be adjusted manually with a said lever or automatically with a touch of a single push button. The activation mechanism lowers the backrest while pushing up the foot set simultaneously. Traditional models normally require quite a lot of space—at least 3 feet saved behind the backrest—since they support full sleep-mode recline.

Glider recliners are mounted on a rail mechanism that generates linear movement, so the chair moves forward and backward. Such design generally requires less space to work at its full capabilities but it can also depend on a model.

Swivel recliners are constructed over a special base with a circular design that uses rails and hinges to create extensive swivel movement as well as recline the backrest. Most swivel chairs can move left, right, and tilt backward, greatly expanding your relaxation positions but also demanding more workspace.

As evident from this overview, rocker recliners create rocking motion more efficiently. Because a rocking recliner tilts back and forth automatically using an arched hinge mechanism, it doesn’t need any manual effort on the user’s part which is essential for the elderly and parents with newborns or toddlers. This type of recliner takes less space than fully reclining chairs but still implies a functional work area behind the backrest for extra safety.

Push-back recliners are similar to their basic recliner counterparts except for their reclining mechanism. As the name suggests, push-back recliners aren’t automated so their angle of inclination depends on manual action. Instead of using a lever or a button, the backrest on these models has to be pushed against by the user whilst sitting. As you lean back with an appropriate amount of pressure, the chair will recline accordingly. Mechanics aside, push-back chairs are similar to basic recliners in terms of space requirements. Leaving between 2 and 3 feet should be the most optimal positioning for this type of recliner.

Lift recliners feature a special mechanism designed for tilting forwards and lifting the user out of the chair. These recliners are especially beneficial for people with limited physical abilities, or temporary injuries, the elderly, and those with chronic problems relating to back, hips, legs, and joints in general. The lifting system in these recliners guides the entire unit from a horizontal position into an upright angle which helps the user get up from the chair effortlessly and without any injury. Lift recliners take less space than full reclining models, but you should still leave enough wall space since the bottom part of the chair is tilted backward when the lift function is activated.

How do you fix a rocker recliner mechanism?

If you have confirmed that the reason behind your broken recliner is the faulty rocker mechanism, you will need to gather some tools and replacement parts before making any attempts at fixing the chair.

In cases when one of the hand sides in the rocker mechanism is faulty, a matching replacement part has to be purchased ahead of any maintenance process. Once it’s done, you will need only a few tools: a driver-drill with a 7/16 inch (or 11 mm) socket and an additional 5/16 inch socket.

• Turn the recliner onto its front to access the lower half of the chair’s back.
• Peel away the upholstery from the bottom half of the back—it should be easy to do since this section of the cover is usually outlined with hook-and-loop fasteners.
• Most rock recliners have lock release latches that keep the back section and the base together. Unlock both latches on either side of the back (it should be located close to the base) and lift this section until you hear a click. Put the back away.
• Turn over the remaining section of the recliner to expose the mechanism.
• First, you will need to remove the footrest. Use the drill (with the 7/16 inch socket) to undo each screw that attaches the footrest to the mechanism. The inner support platform should also be removed.
• Then use the same drill configuration to detach the drive rod assembly that supports the entire structure. Find a screw located between the folding hinges and the two auxiliary screws closest to the upholstery. Unscrew it and do the same with the one on the other side of the chair.
• Gently lower the folding hinges from the driver rod, then pull out the drive rod through the hole in the upholstery.
• Remove the screws that secure the rocking mechanism to the recliner base. Some screws can only be undone with a 5/16 inch socket, so make sure your drill is ready for this.
• Lift the now loose mechanism and place it on a work surface for further adjustments.
• Now that you are ready to replace the rocking hinges, make sure you have your new part ready and check if your driver drill has the right socket.
• Locate two main screws that hold the old part of the mechanism to the base and unscrew them with the drill. Always take note of which holes the screws come out from since it can be easy to get confused about the reinstallation.
• Put the replacement mechanism onto the structure and secure it with the screws you have taken off the old mechanism.
• Take the old spring from the old part and put it on the new mechanism. Repeat the steps with the other side.

If you think your recliner’s malfunction is caused by the release trigger, you may have to replace the old nut that holds the said trigger in place. For this, you will need a Phillips screwdriver, a replacement nut, a ratchet, and a 7/16 inch socket.

• First, find the trigger assembly which is secured with a Phillips bolt to the side of the mechanism. It usually comes with a coiled tension spring wrapped around the screw point as well as several adjustment holes on the side, one of which shows a cable threading through it.
• Remove the cable from the adjustment hole, but remember which one it came from since you will need on the reassembly.
• Unscrew the trigger and replace the faulty nut on the inner side with a new nylon lock nut.
• Screw the trigger back on and tighten the new nut. You can access it from the inside of the rocking mechanism, though it requires some narrow space maneuvering. Use the ratchet with the corresponding socket to secure the nut.

How do you adjust a rocker recliner?

Sometimes pre-set tension settings on rocker recliners may feel uncomfortable since everyone’s body requires different types of motion, in particular, the intensity of the rocking and the strength of the recline.

To customize the tilt settings for your comfort, the tension in the frame of your recliner has to be adjusted manually. For this, you will only need multi-tool pliers and a flashlight to guide your process.

• Turn the recliner on its backrest so you have the underside on full display.
• Find tension springs on either side of the rocker mechanism box.
• Use your tool to either loosen or tighten each spring by manipulating the screw that secures it to the mechanism. Turn the screw counterclockwise to loosen the tension, and clockwise to tighten it.
• Adjust only in half turns and check the recliner after each adjustment. This way you can monitor the new tension setting more accurately and change it up without a problem.

How do you lock a Lazyboy recliner?

What “locking a recliner” essentially means is fixing it in any given position to prevent the chair from moving when you use it for sleep or other relaxing activities. Most commonly, unlocked recliners can suddenly return into their vertical position which can be rather disruptive and even cause minor injury. Fortunately, Lay-Z Boy recliners are equipped with special levers designed to lock the swivel and recline positions at any given time.

To engage the recline lock, you should already be sitting in your Lay-Z Boy chair with the lock lever in your reach. The lever is located on the right armrest but on the inner side of the chair. Establish what position is most comfortable for you at the moment and pull on the lock lever to fix your position. To reverse the action, simply push the lever back down and feel the backrest become upright.

For locking your swivel position, locate the required lever beneath the left armrest and find the knob that controls the lock. When you turn this knob in a backward direction, the swivel base will be locked in place.

Are recliners bad for you?

When you’re dealing with something as complex as a human body and the effects any outside influence might have on it, there is never a neat uniform answer for a seemingly straightforward yes or no question.

It’s widely known that sedentary activities, including both sedentary work and repose, are not particularly healthy when in abundance. Spending too much time sitting may lead to early onset of heart-related diseases and even cause forms of diabetes.

Many recliner chairs are designed specifically for alleviating health problems caused by unhealthy work conditions, while others work as ideal post-surgery recovery tools for discharged patients. When used in moderation and for the right purposes, recliners can help you sustain a healthier lifestyle.

However, those recovering from surgery are not the only ones who might find necessary support and elevation with the right type of recliners. Workers who are forced to spend hours on their feet, whether it’s standing or walking, face several vascular, back, and joint-related health problems, so elevating the stress from those areas is vital for preventing more serious conditions. If you suffer from pain in your back and legs as a result of working on your feet, lying back with your feet slightly propped up can relieve a great deal of muscle stress.

This should be done in a recliner that fits you perfectly, otherwise, you might exacerbate the pain. The backrest must fully support your lower back, so if the chair itself isn’t quite cutting it, you could close the gap between the backrest and your lower back with the help of a small cushion or a towel roll. Even if you don’t suffer from back pain but end up using your recliner incorrectly, the entire process may cause you back pain, so pay attention to the position of your body at all times.

Another point of relief that recliners provide is for your legs and feet. Again, people who spend days working on their feet experience strain from hips to knees and the soles of your feet, while sedentary activities result in blood rushing to your legs which leads to spasms and swollen ankles. Recliners with footrests can help you reduce the swelling and restore the circulation in your body. By elevating your legs until they’re level with your heart, the recliner promotes balanced work of your cardiovascular system and allows gravity to take care of the accumulated fluids in your swollen legs and ankles.

There are certain occasions when recliners can be bad for you, but most of them are the direct result of simply spending too much time sitting. It’s important to limit the use of these chairs for muscle relaxation and other aforementioned physical therapy functions. When you indulge in sedentary activities, even the best recliner won’t prevent the development of back or joint problems.

References

• https://healthbeat.spectrumhealth.org/is-your-recliner-hurting-you/
• https://www.webmd.com/back-pain/news/20061129/back-pain-eased-by-sitting-back
• https://www.hunker.com/13412307/how-far-does-a-recliner-chair-need-to-be-from-the-wall
• https://www.livingspaces.com/inspiration/ideas-advice/shopping-basics/what-is-a-rocker-recliner