How To Assemble A Recliner Sofa? Comprehensive Guide

Helen Skeates
Helen Skeates
26 min read

In this piece, I’ll explain the steps necessary to set up a reclining couch. Although the procedure is straightforward, it does necessitate some time and energy on your part. The total number of steps required to assemble the reclining sofa is 9.

What is Sofa Recliner?

One piece of furniture that successfully marries form and function is the recliner sofa. For your comfort, the chair’s back can be adjusted to one of three different positions (upright, semi-reclined, or fully reclined). Seat cushions are filled with foam to fit to your body, and the backrest may be adjusted to accommodate a variety of sitting positions.

What Does a Sofa Recliner do?

The term “reclining sofa” refers to a certain style of couch that can be reclined to various positions, usually with the help of an electric motor. It could also provide different seating and lounging options. The better ones have springs and plush cushioning in the back rests for maximum comfort and aesthetics.

A reclining sofa can serve as a bed or extra seats for a backyard barbecue. Your new piece of furniture can be used however you choose!

How To Install and Remove The Recliner Back - YouTube

Benefits Of Recliner Chairs And Sofas

Stress Relievers:

Today, stress is widely acknowledged as a natural and inevitable component of existence. When people experience back discomfort, worry is usually to blame. Migraines, tension headaches, memory problems, and weariness are all caused by mental stress. Back and neck pain can be the result of sitting upright for too long, thus it’s not advisable to do so for more than an hour at a time. Recliners are the most convenient and comfortable seating option for this purpose. Relaxation is the principal function of a recliner. The recliner allows you to lean back whenever you like while still providing the necessary support. There’s also a massage chair and heated pad included. If you answered yes, I’m sorry to hear that your back hurts. We have produced a list of the top 8 reclining chairs for back pain in the year 2020.

Pain Relievers:

Recliners can also help alleviate back pain. Constant muscle strain is frequently the cause of injuries and pain in the neck, back, and shoulders. Constantly lifting heavy objects, being pregnant, or spending extended periods of time in front of a computer are all potential causes. If you’re experiencing pain in various parts of your body, a recliner may be able to help. There is a vast range of recliners on the market, each with its own unique features and comfort levels. If you suffer from back pain, look no further than this thoroughly updated compilation of the most comfortable recliners currently available.

Improves Blood Circulation:

A one-stop solution is required if aching muscles and joints are a regular complaint after a long day at the office. The aid provided by Bradington Young recliners is particularly useful in this regard. Prolonged sitting or standing is the primary cause of this problem. Because of this, blood flow is negatively impacted by gravity, and this impact intensifies over time. A good way to avoid these problems is to use a recliner.

Help In Aching Joints:

Arthritis sufferers frequently experience joint stiffness and swelling. Arthritis is a painful condition, thus it causes them anguish. As a result, no one knows better than those experiencing the effects of these difficulties how they can alter a person’s quality of life. The reclined position helps realign the bones and muscles around the joints so that they’re working properly. Recliners have been reclassified as a type of medical equipment due to the relief they provide for a variety of aches and ailments. You can also choose from a wide variety of chairs that make it easy to stand up and sit down.

Building A Comfort Zone Around You:

Safe and relieving, recliners offer the best of both worlds. They are flexible, so you can find a comfortable posture to sit in for any length of time. Whether you need to rise, sit, put your feet up, or fully recline, a recliner can accommodate you. If you change the settings, it will change as you like.

Recliners With Accessories:

A wide variety of recliners are available, some of which even include storage space within the chair itself. Magazines, novels, and even snacks can all find a comfortable home here.

While it’s true that the vast majority of recliners provide the aforementioned perks, the most cutting-edge recliners also provide a host of additional advantages. Your individualized chair will provide more comfort and more substantial benefits than standard reclining chairs as a result of the addition of supplementary features.

Finally, for persons who deal with stress on a daily basis, a reclining chair is a solid and dependable option. A recliner chair is a great choice for bettering your physical and emotional health, no matter where your extra pounds are coming from. In addition, lounging in a recliner is a stress-relieving activity that the whole family may enjoy. Everyone in the family, from the oldest to the youngest and naughtiest, may unwind in a comfortable reclining position.

A recliner can be a lifesaver for stressed-out new moms when it comes to soothing fussy kids. The elderly can relieve their aches and pains, while the injured can begin to heal. To add to this, a recliner can be incorporated into your lesson plan. The ability to mentally and physically unwind is something that may be taught to young children. It’s a lesson in life preparation that you can provide them. Those who have trouble sitting in or rising from a chair regularly will find the recliner to be an ideal seating option.

Steps on Assembling a Recliner Sofa

First, on a level surface, invert the sofa’s structure so that the back is facing up. You should be looking at the back of the frame, and the two side frames should be folded in toward each other.

The second step is to open up one of the sides halfway till it rests against the other. Because of this, a “L” shape will be created.

Phase 3: Do the same with the opposing side frame, just like in Phase 2. It will take the shape of a “T” when completed. Tighten all four bolts with a Phillips head screwdriver, making sure one hand is on the top corner of each side to make sure they are both flat and level. Carefully tighten the bolts, bit by bit, ensuring proper alignment as you go, until you have a sturdy “L” form.

Step 4: Place the frame upside down, with the upright legs resting on your work area in front of you, and push down to make sure everything is flat. Tighten all four screws using a Phillips head screwdriver. The two remaining sides will be resting upside down on the tabletop.

Step Five: Make sure the frame is level by repeating Step Four with the other two sides, and then use a Phillips head screwdriver to secure all eight screws.

To complete the process, proceed to Step 6 and fasten the back panels to the frame. First, you’ll need to line up a panel with two of the side pieces, mark their placement, and drill pilot holes all the way through both assemblies. Tighten the six bolts evenly on each of the three sides, then use four screws to secure the second back panel in place.

In the seventh step, the seat panel is fastened to the frame. Mark and drill your pilot holes through both assemblies with a power drill after aligning one side of the seat with two sides of the frame. First, screw the three parts together using four bolts on each side, and then screw the second rear panel into place using eight screws.

Step 8: Join the arm sections to the framework. First, you’ll need to line up one end of an arm with two ends of a frame, make your marks, and then drill pilot holes all the way through both assemblies. First, screw the three parts together using four bolts on each side, and then screw the second rear panel into place using eight screws.

Types of Reclining Sofas

Many varieties of reclining sofas exist, however they can be categorized into three broad categories: manual, power, and adjustable.

Manual

The conventional form of sofa is the manually reclining type. They have a catch or lever on each end that, when pulled, allows a spring to be released, allowing the user to raise a footrest and recline the seat back. Because there are fewer moving parts, sofas that recline manually tend to be more sturdy, long-lasting, and trustworthy.

Typically, the only part that needs to be changed when one of them breaks is a worn-out spring, making them cheaper and simpler to repair. Compared to power recliners, manual recliners offer fewer customization options.

Powered

Modern recliner sofas can be powered by electricity rather than a spring. Pushing a button on the sofa or on a remote control will raise the footrest and recline the back. Some types of motorized reclining sofas allow for multiple reclining positions.

People who have trouble squeezing a latch or pushing down a footrest may find it simpler to utilize a reclining sofa with a motorized mechanism. However, the purchase price and repair fees for a motorized reclining sofa are both higher. To power the mechanism, a cord is built within the sofa and must be hooked into an electrical socket.

Adjustable

Just like futons and sleeper couches, sofas with movable reclining mechanisms are constructed. A hinge between the seat and the backrest allows the user to recline the chair simply by leaning back. This eliminates the need for a motor or springs. A comfortable reclining sofa position can be found by adjusting the recline angle.

This style of reclining couch isn’t as comfortable as others because it doesn’t offer as much space for your feet and legs. But the price is usually lower for them.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Reclining Sofa

Size, upholstery type and materials, style, positioning, and other amenities are all important considerations when shopping for a reclining sofa.

Size

Your options for the greatest reclining sofa are limited by the size of your living room and the amount of people you regularly host. Reclining sofas can be found on the market with seating for two to six people. Think about how much room you need for the sofa to recline completely so you don’t end up with a bulky item. Sofas sold online typically come in several pieces that must be put together. See to it that the pieces can be maneuvered through your home’s entrances and hallways.

Frame Material

The durability and capacity of a recliner sofa are directly related to the quality of its frame material. The best and longest lasting material for a frame is metal. However, a metal frame might cause uncomfortable pressure points if the cushions aren’t restuffed on a regular basis. Hardwood is a wonderful option since it is long lasting and has some give to it, which helps to eliminate pressure points. The other popular choice for couch frames is manufactured wood, which is fragile and typically has the lowest weight capacity.

Upholstery Material/Fabric

Upholstery can be either leather or fabric, with the latter category including a number of subcategories. A reclining sofa’s longevity and comfort are both affected by the fabric material you choose.

  • Polyester, which is both stain- and spill-resistant, is a popular choice for sofas.
  • Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) can be made to look like leather while maintaining greater water resistance.
  • Fabrics made of polyurethane are also widely used. It can endure cuts and punctures thanks to its imperviousness to water, resistance to stains, and high torsion strength.
  • Leather is very long lasting and can withstand years of use. You may expect to pay a hefty price for this luxurious upholstery.

Comfort and Ergonomics

The ergonomics of a reclining sofa are crucial because most people want one for lounging. Most people find that the most comfortable type of sofa is one with a high back that provides full spinal support.

Make sure the sofa’s seats are deep enough for the user to sit comfortably with their feet on the floor if they are particularly tall. Wide, cushioned armrests not only provide additional comfort by supporting the arms, but they also relieve strain on the lower back.

Adjustability

Variations in reclining sofa adjustability exist. In addition to reclining, certain versions may rock or glide. There are a variety of massage and heating options available on some power recliner sofas, as well as many recline levels. It’s important to have a reclining sofa with an extended footrest for taller persons. An adjustable reclining sofa will cost more than one that doesn’t.

Placement

When you sit back on a couch, your spine stretches, taking up extra space. Reclining sofas require extra room in the living room or office so that the back and front can fully recline. You should leave at least five inches to one foot of space between the back of your sofa and the wall for it to recline correctly and to prevent any wall scuffing from occurring.

Some sofa recliners feature a footrest that slides forward while the seat reclines. If your reclining sofa includes a footrest that extends outward, you may want to give yourself at least a foot of space in front of it. Reclining with the back of the sofa toward a wall in a room’s corner is a simple method to make the most of limited space.

Features

Cup holders, foldable consoles, adjustable headrests, and hidden storage space in the sofa’s arms are all features available on some reclining models. Inexpensive couches may not have any outlets, but more expensive ones may contain USB charging ports, adjustable headrests, more cushions, and even LED lights. Keep in mind that reclining sofas with additional functions will cost more.

Style

There is a wide selection of reclining sofas available to suit a variety of tastes and design schemes. The most widely seen design nowadays is a traditional one, with a high, waterfall back, thick cushions, and a rounded silhouette. Modern furniture tends to be roomier all around, with sharper edges and slimmer cushions. They can also be found in a wide range of hues and materials.

How to Assemble a Recliner Sofa - Krostrade

Maintenance and Cleaning

Easy maintenance and cleaning of a reclining sofa is mostly dependent on its upholstery. Because of their resistance to moisture and stains, polyurethane and polyester are great options for homes with kids and animals.

You may simply wipe them down with little soap and water. Because of its natural oils, leather resists stains and wears exceedingly well. To extend the life of your sofa, invest in a cover. Sofas, regardless of fabric, require regular maintenance with dusting and vacuuming.

The Best Reclining Sofas of 2022

It’s time to go shopping for a reclining sofa once you’ve decided on the style you like best and have a solid idea of the materials and functionality aspects that would be most useful to you. If you’re in the market for a new reclining sofa and want to know where to start, read on for a curated list of some of the greatest options you can find online right now.

West Elm Enzo Leather Reclining Sofa

With its concealed area, this sofa table is a great option for compact apartments. The sofa’s frame is made of pine and engineered wood with reinforced joinery, and it comes with two motorized recliners, an elevated footrest, and pop-up headrests that adjust to different positions. It has a leather interior and is offered in two different hues.

Data Sheets

  • Type: Powered
  • Leather, real leather, used for the upholstery.
  • With measurements of 30 by 41.5 by 31 inches,
  • There’s room for two.

Pros

  • Strong frame made of pine and MDF
  • Adjustable headrests that pop up
  • Footrests that are somewhat higher than the floor
  • Covert Cupholders

Cons

  • Fewer color options

Pottery Barn Ultra Lounge Upholstered Reclining Sofa

Pine, birch, and plywood are used in the construction of the frame and wedge, and the plywood is padded with foam for maximum comfort. Each cushion is encased in polyester before being upholstered for a luxurious touch.

Data Sheets

  • Type: Powered
  • You Can Choose From a Wide Variety of Fabrics for the Upholstery
  • Size is 109.5 x 43.5 x 31.5 inches.
  • Seating capacity is 3.

Pros

  • Choices in fabric are plentiful.
  • Mechanically assisted
  • Durable wooden framework
  • Effortless minimization of empty volume

Cons

  • Soaring cost

GDFStudio Hana Plush Cushion Loveseat Recliner

This manual reclining sofa, upholstered in microfiber fabric, is a possible choice for tight quarters and limited funds. To recline and extend the footrest, simply pull a lever. This grey sofa is available for far less than comparable reclining sofas.

Data Sheets

  • Type: Manual
  • Upholstery: Microfiber
  • The item has dimensions of 37.01 by 46.46 by 39.96 inches.
  • There’s room for two.

Pros

  • Inexpensive sofa for two
  • Perfect for tight quarters
  • Integrated footrest
  • Three different color options available.

Cons

  • There will be some assembling involved.

La-Z-Boy Brooks Power Reclining Sofa

Almost all of the fabrics and colors sold in stores are available in sample sizes so that customers can try them out before making a final purchase decision. Sofas with built-in USB connections make it possible to charge electronic gadgets without getting up from the couch. This model’s compact build makes it ideal for tight quarters, but it may be too short for anyone over 5 feet, 9 inches.

Data Sheets

  • Type: Powered
  • You Can Choose From a Wide Variety of Fabrics for the Upholstery
  • The item’s dimensions are 84 by 40 by 41 inches.
  • Seating capacity is 3.

Pros

  • Two separate control panels on the sides
  • Multiple variations for both fabric and color.
  • Integrated USB charging ports

Cons

  • This compact layout might not be ideal for everyone.
  • There is no reclining mechanism on the middle seat.

West Elm Enzo Reclining Chaise Sectional

Additionally, the sofa has secret storage areas. Foam cushions, blankets, and other items can be stored out of sight under the chaise seat cushion or in the armrests. The sofa’s movable arms have additional storage space and USB charging connections. A kiln-dried pine frame supports the medium-firm cushions, and both solid and patterned fabrics are available.

Data Sheets

  • Type: Powered
  • Upholstery: Polyester
  • With measurements of 108 by 68 by 31 inches,
  • Seating capacity is 3.

Pros

  • Modular construction
  • Armrests and chaise storage
  • Integrated USB charging ports
  • Various upholstery and paint schemes are available.

Cons

  • Overexposure to ultraviolet light can cause fabric fading.

RecPro Charles Collection 67” Double Recliner

The length of this two-seater sofa is 67 inches, and it is operated manually. The faux-leather seating comes in four different tones and is simple to maintain. It has several pleasant additions, such as a central console with hidden storage and a pair of cupholders.

Data Sheets

  • Type: Manual
  • To cover the seats, we used faux leather.
  • 37 x 67 x 39 inch dimensions
  • There’s room for two.

Pros

  • Affordable love seat
  • Takes up only 3 inches of floor space when folded out
  • The design incorporates a storage space and two cup holders.
  • In four distinct hues

Cons

  • It’s going to take some work to put together that.

Signature Design by Ashley Power Reclining Sofa

Separating the two seats is a lift-top console with hidden storage for your remotes and other small items. Users can charge their devices without interrupting the film thanks to the USB connections. The four stainless steel cup holders are the finishing touch to the perfect home entertainment setup. The three available hues for the faux leather upholstery are black, gray, and chocolate brown. This particular model is a 2-seater loveseat, however a 3-seater version of the same design is already on the market.

Data Sheets

  • Type: Powered
  • To cover the seats, we used faux leather.
  • The item’s measurements are as follows: (39.25 inches wide by (71 inches long by (44.63) inches high)
  • There’s room for two.

Pros

  • Features a built-in storage compartment
  • Equipped with a USB charging port
  • Cup holders, stainless steel, four

Cons

  • There will be a little bit of putting together to do.

Andover Mills Edgar Reclining Sofa

This loveseat is not only functional, but also beautiful, as its design works well in both contemporary and classic settings. It has plush, overstuffed padding made of vinyl that looks and feels like real leather. The sophisticated appearance is enhanced by the rich brown color.

Data Sheets

  • Type: Powered
  • To cover the seats, we used faux leather.
  • The dimensions are 38.5 by 81 by 38 inches.
  • There is room for two or three persons.

Pros

  • Cost-effective powered sofa set
  • Excessive size
  • Additional control panel in the center
  • Included cup holders are built-in conveniences.

Cons

  • It’s going to take some work to put together that.
  • There is only one shade of upholstery available.

Wade Logan Stanwood Reclining Sofa

The MDF and wood used in its construction are both high quality (MDF). It has a low front rail that hides your feet and footrest and deep chairs with removable cushions. You can charge your electronic devices in comfort thanks to the built-in USB ports. You can have it upholstered in a wide variety of materials, including as cotton, polyester, velvet, microfiber, or microsuede.

Data Sheets

  • Type: Powered
  • Fabrics and materials for upholstery may include cotton, polyester, velvet, microfiber, or microsuede.
  • Inches: 29 Length: 85 Width: 40 Height
  • Seating capacity is 3.

Pros

  • With plush cushions
  • Cushions with a reversible design
  • Integrated USB charging ports
  • About 130 distinct color and fabric combinations

Cons

  • Reports of inadequate stain resistance have been made by a few consumers.

How We Chose the Best Reclining Sofas

There are a plethora of couch manufacturers out there, making it difficult to pick the perfect reclining sofa or loveseat for a certain size, level of comfort, and individual preferences. The most comfortable reclining couches were chosen based on a variety of factors, such as type, materials/upholstery options, size, incorporated amenities, and assembly time.

DIY Home Project: How to Assemble Your Reclining Sofa - Krostrade

The aforementioned catalog places a premium on selection, since there are several powered and manual recliners available to meet the needs of a wide range of customers. Most of the aforementioned options are upholstered in stain-resistant and colorful microfiber or polyester, while others use genuine or faux leather for long-lasting comfort and durability. Sofas come in a range of sizes to easily fit into any home or office, no matter how big or tiny.

Many of the options up above also come with handy extras like USB ports, storage spaces, cup holders, footrests, headrests, and even throw pillows. Almost all of the accessible alternatives do not need any or minimal assembly. Some of these designs, however, are cumbersome to bring into a house because of their size and weight.

FAQs

We hope that after reading this, you will have a better understanding of the craftsmanship that goes into creating a quality reclining sofa and will be more equipped to make an informed purchase. More helpful details on reclining sofas and what to look for in stores are provided below.

Q: Are reclining sofas good for your spine?

Yes. People who sit for lengthy periods of time may benefit from reclining sofas since they alleviate back strain.

Q: Are reclining sofas bad for leg circulation?

Leg circulation can be improved by resting them on the footrests of a reclining sofa for longer than 15 to 20 minutes.

Q: Do reclining sofas come with charging stations?

Some models do include USB ports, though.

Q: Can reclining sofas go against the wall?

No. Allow a little space between the sofa and the wall for the chair to recline comfortably.

Q: How long should a reclining sofa last?

Recliner couches have a lifespan of 7 to 15 years.

Helen Skeates

Helen Skeates

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