How To Assemble Your Reclining Sofa? Step-by-Step Tutorial

If you want to save money and have a comfortable reclining couch, this is the project for you! It can be assembled in under an hour and for less than $200. The assembly of your reclining sofa is as simple as following these instructions.

Pros and Cons of Reclining Sofas

A reclining sofa can be a great addition to a living room, den, or even another room in the house. You have doubts about the proposal at this point.

Consider the benefits and drawbacks of reclining sofas before making a purchase. We’ve laid out the pros and cons of this sofa style so you can make an informed decision before making an investment.

Pros of Reclining Sofas

Anyone with lower back or hip pain can find relief with the additional support and comfort provided by a reclining sofa. For those with a more spacious living room, these sofa beds can be a welcome replacement for a traditional sofa.

Let’s talk about why having one of these couches in your home is a good idea.

These features are typically big draws for anyone looking to buy reclining couches. Look for models that include these extras if you want to bring the spa-like comfort of your favorite TV shows and movies right into your living room.

They Are Typically More Comfortable

Sofas that recline are designed to maximize relaxation. Oversized and typically padded more softly than standard sofas, these furniture pieces are designed to feel more like beds. After a hard day at work, a reclining sofa may be just what you need to kick up your feet and unwind. After only a few hours, you’ll feel refreshed and ready to take on the day.

They’re Great for Anyone with Back or Neck Pain

When compared to regular sofas, reclining sofas provide superior back support. Lower back and neck pain are common complaints among office workers. Reclining sofas, on the other hand, can help promote spinal health by reducing back strain. Back discomfort can be alleviated by lying back on a reclining sofa, as opposed to sitting upright where it can become worse. Additionally, if you have hip pain, you should try opening up your hips to see if it helps.

They’re a Good Alternative to Lying in Bed

Studies have shown that engaging in nonsleep activities like reading or watching television in bed might disrupt your normal sleep routine. This is because your brain may learn to associate non-sleeping activities with your bed if you use it for anything else sleeping.

The result can be poor sleep quality or chronic insomnia. A reclining sofa is an excellent alternative to lying in bed while doing activities like these because they allow you to lay back, put your feet up, and relax without affecting your sleep schedule.

They May Support a Healthy Circulatory System

Anyone who spends a lot of time on their feet might benefit from a reclining sofa, not only desk jockeys. Standing for long periods of time puts more strain on your cardiovascular system. When your legs are elevated, blood is able to flow more easily to your heart since your veins don’t have to struggle as hard against gravity.

Some people report that reclining sofas help them feel better by improving their circulation and decreasing any inflammation they may be experiencing in their legs and feet.

They Have Higher Backs Than Traditional Sofas

Recliner couches typically have taller backs than regular sofas. This is especially helpful for taller people, whose backs don’t get the support they need from standard sofas. Your back and neck will be in much more natural and relaxed positions when the backs are fully reclined.

They Give You More Space

There is always enough room on a sofa for two people to sit comfortably, but they can’t stretch out flat. It’s possible that reclining sofas are the solution to your dilemma.

Even whether you’re sharing a reclining sofa with two other people or three other people, you can all relax in comfort by reclining your own seating areas. As a result, you can stretch out in the manner in which you feel most at ease without disturbing anyone else.

They Often Offer Special Power Features

You won’t find the same level of comfort and convenience on a stationary sofa as you will with a power reclining sofa, and even some manual reclining sofas have convenient features. Examples of this category of items could be:

• Comfortable seats with built-in heaters
• To hold cups
• Capabilities for a relaxing massage
• Ports for charging devices using the USB standard
• Headrests with built-in power outlets
• Powered lumbar support

They Offer the Choice of Manual or Electric Operation

Sofas that recline can be either manually or electrically operated, as we’ve already mentioned. Sofas that recline electrically are often activated by the touch of a button, whereas those that recline manually typically involve the use of a lever.

The choice between these two operations allows you to have the best sofa for your unique needs. Some people prefer to use a manual reclining sofa because the part is less likely to break, while others like electric reclining sofas because they’re more efficient.

Cons of Reclining Sofas

If you choose carefully between these two procedures, you can get the sofa that is ideal for your specific situation. Some people prefer to use a manual reclining sofa because the part is less likely to break, while others like electric reclining sofas because they’re more efficient.

You can get the most comfortable sofa for your specific needs by selecting either of these two procedures. Though electric reclining sofas are more convenient, some individuals prefer manual reclining sofas due to their durability.

The Reclining Mechanics Can Fail

This is more of a problem with power recliners, but it can happen with manual recliners as well. Over time, the wiring in an electric chair can become frayed and difficult to replace, which can lead to a significant price hike. The lever of a manual recliner might get loose or snap off entirely.

If the mechanism that allows your sofa to recline breaks, it will be much the same as a regular couch. However, if it fails when you’re lying down, things can get sticky. There will be less room to move around in, and your sofa may seem unsightly, until you get it fixed or replaced.

Find a reclining sofa that has a solid guarantee if you want to prevent this issue. If the mechanism ever breaks, you can have it fixed or replaced at no additional cost.

They’re Not as Comfortable if You Want to Lay Across

Lounging, rather than sleeping, is the primary function of a reclining sofa. This means that their padding and frames seem different than those of standard sofas. If you wish to stretch out across the entire length of the sofa, you might be disappointed by how little support there is.

They Come in More Limited Styles

There is usually a smaller selection of recliner couch styles and materials compared to standard sofas. They often include leather construction and are designed with comfort in mind rather than flash. If you’re picky about the furnishings in your home, you can run into problems trying to find the sleek, contemporary pieces that are currently in vogue.

You can find the perfect look by exploring several options, both in-store and online. Be sure, nevertheless, that your expectations are reasonable.

They Take Up More Floor Space

Every reclining sofa you come across will need more room to accommodate its reclining mechanism than a similar non-reclining sofa would. Because of this, a room big enough to house one is probably out of the question.

A reclining sofa’s back needs at least a foot of space from a wall to fully recline. Nevertheless, the extent to which your sofa reclines will determine how much additional space you’ll need behind it. It’s not good for the sofa or the wall if the back constantly scrapes against the wall.

You’ll need space not only behind the couch, but also in front of it. A coffee table or ottoman wouldn’t work in front of it because of the open foot space. Reclining sofas require quite a bit of floor space, so if you don’t have much to spare, a regular sofa may be more comfortable.

They Require More Maintenance and Regular Cleanings

There are many moving parts in a reclining sofa, and they all require occasional lubrication and cleaning. This prevents the accumulation of grease over time and facilitates the smooth operation of the reclining mechanism. In electric recliners, where a buildup of grease might damage the electrical components, this is of utmost importance.

In addition, these sofas have more openings where dust and debris can gather. The openings will need to be vacuumed often to get rid of any build-up. If your sofa has any special features like power outlets or cup holders, these will need to be cleaned as well.

Electric Reclining Sofas Need to be Plugged in

There are also more crevices for dirt and dust to accumulate in these sofas. Vacuuming regularly will be required to remove buildup from the vents. Cleaning your sofa will also include its optional extras, such as power outlets and cup holders.

Manual Reclining Sofas are Decreasing in Popularity

These days, most manufacturers put their efforts into producing recliners with power recline functions. You may find fewer options if you’re set on the traditional manual reclining method. Additionally, it could be tough to acquire complementary pieces for your living space that are also of the vintage design. Furthermore, it may be more challenging to get a repair service for your manual reclining sofa in the event that it fails.

They Can be Expensive

Most fixed sofas are less expensive than reclining ones. More effort is required in their development, and they typically include more intricate details. Reclining sofas are a premium item, so be aware of that before you shop.

Steps on how to Assemble Recliner Sofa

First, decide how long you’d like the sofa to be, and then use a hacksaw to cut the legs to that length. Put them on top of each other and secure the joint with a screw from both ends. Screw in two more screws through the predrilled holes. Our arms will be attached here in a later step.

Step 2. After the legs are in place, you can measure and cut two more boards to the appropriate length. Connect them with dowels inserted into predrilled holes.

Step 3: Attach a front support board to the frame of your new sofa at an angle using two screws.

Cut a piece of plywood to size and secure it to the back of your frame with four more screws; this time it should be flush with the front board.

Take another board and screw it at an angle across the back of your new sofa frame. A lower size is required for this one compared to the front.

Step 6: Attach the support boards with two screws, spaced the distance in from the legs that you determined in Step 5, so that they can hold the weight of a person’s feet while they recline.

To finish, take an arm board and trim it to fit (you don’t want it too long), then attach it at an angle so that the top edge rests against one of your supports.

Step 8: Attach this arm board to the couch frame on both sides so that the arms have somewhere to rest while the couch is in the reclined position.

Step 9. Place two screws every 50 centimeters or 18 inches as you travel up the sides, depending on how far in from each leg you want them fastened.

Step When you recline on a sofa, the arm boards should be slanted slightly so that their upper edges touch with one of the frame’s supports.

How to Fix a Sofa Recliner

If your reclining sofa has sagging or the seams are coming undone, step 1. you may need to repair it. The method of repairing a recliner may vary slightly depending on the age and type of sofa you have, so try the following before calling a professional:

The second step is to double-check the chair’s back armrests for any stray screws. In the event that you do, you should use a screwdriver to tighten them.

Third, inspect the recliner’s stitching to check whether it is unraveling or has come undone. Use a needle and thread to secure any loose ends you find.

Fourth, clean the frame by vacuuming the space under the cushions and around the back legs.

If these solutions don’t work, it’s likely that the recliner needs to be reupholstered. If you have any doubts or questions concerning this procedure, you may want to seek the advice of an expert.

The first step for re-upholstery is removing the old fabric from the frame and upholstery

Step 1: Cut the upholstery into quarters and pull it off the frame. It will be easier to take apart fabric with this.

Using a sharp tool knife, carefully remove the old fabric from the frame, and then remove any staples that are keeping the fabric attached to the wood.

Step 3: Discard any leftover scraps by hand or by blowing them away with an air compressor.

Method 4: Use a crowbar or claw hammer to pry up the nails.

Step 5: Sand down any rough parts to obtain an even surface before applying new upholstery.

This is a lengthy procedure, so set aside many hours to work on it at once.

What to Have in Mind When Buying a Reclinerycled Recliner Sofa

First and foremost, when shopping for a sofa, make sure it’s one that you can relax on for hours at a time. A sofa’s construction materials should be tough and long-lasting, and it should provide adequate back and neck support.

When shopping for a reclining sofa, priority number two should be finding one that is both comfortable and simple to operate.

The third consideration is the material, and if you care about both durability and good looks, leather is a terrific choice.

Look into sofas with full recline or an electric footrest option if space is at a premium.

Sofas with chaise lounges, reclining seats, and sofa beds are all viable furniture options for fifth-placed living rooms.

Several styles of sofas have built-in tables and ergonomic features to reduce the strain on your body and mind as you work.

Types of Reclining Sofas

There are many different kinds of reclining sofas available, but they can all be broken down into three categories: manual, power, and adjustable.

Manual

Sofas that recline manually are the classic style. Reclining sofas contain a spring-loaded mechanism that may be activated by pulling a clasp or lever located at one of the couch’s end points, allowing the user to prop up their feet while leaning back in their seat. Because there are fewer moving components, couches that recline manually tend to be more sturdy, long-lasting, and trustworthy than those that don’t.

Since a broken spring is usually the only component that needs to be replaced, they are less expensive and simpler to repair. When compared to power recliners, manual recliners have fewer reclining position possibilities.

Powered

Instead of a spring, electric motors power power reclining sofas. Use the sofa’s built-in controls or the included remote to raise the footrest and recline the back. Variations in reclining depth and angle are available on some power reclining sofas.

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 initial purchase price and subsequent repair fees for a motorized reclining sofa are both higher. The sofa comes with a cord that may be used to plug the motor into an electrical socket.

Adjustable

In the same way as futons and sleeper couches are constructed, so are reclining sofas. The seat’s backrest is hinged at the point where it joins the seat, so the user may just lean back against the seat to recline it. A comfortable reclining sofa position can be found by adjusting the recline angle.

The main drawback of this sort of reclining sofa is that it typically does not provide adequate support for the user’s legs and feet. Nonetheless, you may expect them to cost less.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Reclining Sofa

Size, upholstery type and materials, style, positioning, and additional features are just few of the many considerations that go into deciding on the greatest 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 with seating for two all the way up to six people. It’s important to consider how much room a reclining sofa will need in order to avoid being trapped with a piece that’s too big for the room. When purchasing a couch from an internet store, you can expect to get it in several pre-put-together pieces. Ensure that the parts can be maneuvered through your home’s entrances and hallways.

Frame Material

The durability and capacity for weight of a recliner sofa are directly related to the frame material used in its construction. Frames made of metal are the strongest and endure the longest. However, a metal frame can eventually cause uncomfortable pressure points if the cushions aren’t restuffed on a regular basis. It’s a good idea to go for hardwood because it’s long-lasting and has some give to it, which helps avoid pressure points. The other frequent material for reclining couch frames is manufactured wood, which is fragile and typically has the lowest weight capacity.

Upholstery Material/Fabric

As for upholstery, there are two major categories: leather and fabric, with multiple variations on the latter. It is important to consider the upholstery material while purchasing a reclining sofa.

• Sofas upholstered with polyester are a popular choice because of the material’s resilience and water-resistance.
• PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, mimics the look of leather but is more water-resistant.
• A second well-liked fabric choice is polyurethane. It can survive cuts and punctures because of its higher torsion strength and the fact that it is waterproof and stain-resistant as well.
• Leather can withstand years of use without showing any signs of wear and tear. It’s the most luxurious and expensive type of upholstery available.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Most people are looking for a recliner that provides a high level of comfort. For optimal comfort, choose a sofa with high seat-back cushions that run the length of the spine.

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

Adjustability

There is a wide range of customization available for reclining sofas. In addition to reclining, some models also rock or glide. Some power recliner couches also include massage functions, temperature control, and additional recline positions, making them even more versatile than their manual counterparts. An extended footrest is a desirable feature in a reclining sofa for those who are six feet or taller. Reclining sofas with many recline positions and reclining angles tend to be more expensive.

Placement

When you sit back on a couch, your spine stretches, taking up extra space. For a recliner couch to function properly in a living room or workplace, there needs to be enough area for the back and front of the sofa to fully recline. If you want your sofa to recline properly without scraping the wall, leave at least 5 inches to 1 foot of space between the back of the sofa and the wall.

Some reclining sofas feature a footrest that slides forward while the back reclines. If your reclining sofa features an outward-extending footrest or footrests, you may want to give yourself at least a foot of space in front of the furniture. If you have a tiny apartment, you can make the most of your reclining area by placing the back of your couch in a room corner, away from foot traffic and other potential obstructions.

Features

Cup holders, foldable consoles, adjustable headrests, and hidden storage space in the armrests are just some of the features available on some reclining couch models. Sofas with more features and a higher price tag may include USB charging ports, electrical outlets, adjustable headrests, extra cushions, and even LED lights. It’s important to remember that a reclining sofa’s price will go up if it has any added functions.

Style

Reclining couches are available in a wide variety of styles and colors, allowing you to find one that complements your existing furnishings. Traditional versions are the most popular, and they typically have high, waterfall backs, luxurious cushions, and a rounded silhouette. Overall, contemporary models are roomier, but their clean lines and thinner cushions distinguish them from traditional ones. Both types can be found in a wide range of hues and materials.

Maintenance and Cleaning

The ease with which you may clean and care for your reclining sofa depends on the material used in its upholstery. Water and stains won’t be a problem for polyurethane and polyester, making them a great option for homes with kids and pets.

They are simple to maintain, needing only a little washing with some soap and water. Leather is resistant to stains, lasts a long time, and is easy to maintain by wiping it down with a leather cleaner. If you want your sofa to last longer, protecting it with a cover is a good idea. It’s important to frequently dust and clean a sofa, no matter what material it’s made of.

The Best Reclining Sofas of 2022

If you’ve already decided on the style of reclining sofa you want and know the materials and extras that will be most useful to you, then it’s time to go shopping. Continue reading for our handpicked collection of the finest reclining sofas now on the market online.

West Elm Enzo Leather Reclining Sofa

Data Sheets

• Type: Powered
• Genuine leather used for upholstery.
• The dimensions are 41.5 by 30 by 31 inches.
• There’s room for two.

Pros

• Durable frame made of pine and engineered wood
• Easy-to-adjust headrests that pop up
• Feet-up rests
• Covert Cupholders

Cons

• Minimal color palette

Pottery Barn Ultra Lounge Upholstered Reclining Sofa

Data Sheets

• Type: Powered
• Fabric choices for upholstery can vary.
• Measures 109.5 x 43.5 x 31.5 inches
• Seating capacity is 3.

Pros

• Choices in fabric are plentiful.
• Mechanically assisted
• Heavy-duty wooden framework
• Reduced-footprint layout

Cons

• A steep price tag

GDFStudio Hana Plush Cushion Loveseat Recliner

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

• Affordable and cute loveseat
• Very convenient for restricted quarters
• The footrest is built in.
• Available in three distinct color combinations.

Cons

• There will be some assembly necessary.

La-Z-Boy Brooks Power Reclining Sofa

Data Sheets

• Type: Powered
• Fabric choices for upholstery can vary.
• Measures 84 inches square, 40 inches long, and 41 inches high.
• Seating capacity is 3.

Pros

• Controls on both sides of the vehicle
• A plethora of materials and hues to choose from
• Integral USB ports

Cons

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

West Elm Enzo Reclining Chaise Sectional

Data Sheets

• Type: Powered
• Upholstery: Polyester
• The item’s dimensions are 108 by 68 by 31 inches.
• Seating capacity is 3.

Pros

• Modular construction
• Armrests and chaise storage
• Integral USB ports
• Alternatives in terms of color palette and upholstery materials

Cons

• Overexposure to UV light can cause fabric to deteriorate.

RecPro Charles Collection 67” Double Recliner

Data Sheets

• Type: Manual
• The furniture is upholstered in faux leather.
• Measuring at 37 by 67 by 39 inches
• There’s room for two.

Pros

• Affordable love seat
• Needs only 3 inches of reclined space
• Storage space and two cup holders are included.
• Available in a rainbow of hues

Cons

• Put together yourself

Signature Design by Ashley Power Reclining Sofa

Data Sheets

• Type: Powered
• The furniture is upholstered in faux leather.
• Measures 39.25 by 71 by 44.63 inches
• There’s room for two.

Pros

• Included storage console
• Features USB charging ports
• Equipped with USB charging ports

Cons

• A little bit of assembly required.

Andover Mills Edgar Reclining Sofa

Data Sheets

• Type: Powered
• The furniture is upholstered in faux leather.
• Size is 38.5 by 81 by 38 inches.
• Seating for up to three persons in a cozy setting.

Pros

• Cost-effective powered sofa set
• Oversized style
• Console in the middle, as an option.
• Cup holders that are already installed

Cons

• Put together yourself
• One single upholstery shade

Wade Logan Stanwood Reclining Sofa

Data Sheets

• Type: Powered
• Microsuede, cotton, polyester, velvet, microfiber, and microfiber are all appropriate fabrics for upholstery.
• Inches: 29 Length: 85 Width: 40 Height
• Seating capacity is 3.

Pros

• In-depth seating
• Cushions with two sides
• Integral USB ports
• 130 available hues and materials

Cons

• Some customers complained about the product’s lackluster stain resistance.

How We Chose the Best Reclining Sofas

There are a plethora of sofa manufacturers out there, making it difficult to find a reclining sofa or loveseat that is both aesthetically pleasing and functionally adequate. Type, materials/upholstery options, size, special features incorporated, and ease of assembly were all factors in choosing the best reclining sofas.

The preceding list places a premium on choice, as there are many different types of recliners available (both powered and manual) to accommodate various needs. Most of the aforementioned options are constructed with stain-resistant and colorful stain-resistant fabrics like polyester or microfiber, while some use genuine or faux leather for durability and comfort. There are sofas available in a wide range of sizes, so it’s possible to find one that will work in any room, no matter how big or tiny.

Many of the aforementioned recommendations also come with extras like USB ports, storage spaces, cup holders, footrests, headrests, and even throw pillows, increasing their usefulness and comfort level. When it comes to putting together difficulty, the vast majority of available choices take almost no effort on your part. However, several of these designs are cumbersome to transport due to their size and weight.

FAQs

With an understanding of the craftsmanship that goes into the greatest reclining sofas, any remaining queries you may have can be addressed here. 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. Sofas that recline can be beneficial to people who spend extended periods of time sitting since they alleviate back strain.

Q: Are reclining sofas bad for leg circulation?

Contrary to popular belief, putting your feet up on the footrests of a reclining sofa for longer than 15 to 20 minutes is really good for your circulation.

Q: Do reclining sofas come with charging stations?

Although some models include USB ports, this is not the case for all.

Q: Can reclining sofas go against the wall?

No. You need to leave a few inches between the sofa and the wall so the chair has room to recline.

Q: How long should a reclining sofa last?

No. You need to leave a few inches between the sofa and the wall so the chair has room to recline.

Final Thoughts

No. You need to allow a few inches between the sofa and the wall so the chair has room to recline.

No. If you want to recline a chair while sitting on the sofa, you’ll need a few inches of space between the furniture and the wall.