The 11 Best Recliners for Nurseries, Small Spaces, and More
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When you picture a recliner, you probably picture a gigantic chair from your grandparents’ house that’s covered in a dated fabric. Lucky for you, we’ve rounded up the best recliners to shop in 2024, and they have certainly evolved. Newer recliners have a slimmer footprint and are available in luxe materials that work with any design aesthetic. Think chic leather beauties, trendy bouclé glider chairs, and maximalist recliners that invite you to put on your hoodie and favorite sweatpants, lean back, and get comfortable.
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Recliners serve a similar purpose as a couch or daybed: They’re a place to get comfortable and perhaps even catch some zzz’s. Of course, recliners have a much smaller footprint and lower price tag than your average sofa, making them a convenient and price-conscious option. They’re also able to be placed in practically any living space. Several of the recliners we’ve highlighted here are marketed as nursery chairs, but they’re so comfortable we think you’ll find a place for them even if you don’t have a baby on the way. These best-rated recliners make the perfect piece for a reading nook, bedroom, living room, or even home office.
There are some key features to keep in mind while shopping for a recliner. You’ll want to consider things like the dimensions, how it reclines, and additional special features. Plus, you should consider the various upholstery options and design of the chair to find one that matches your home’s style. Whether you’re pulling decor inspiration from your designer coffee table books or just need something that gets the job done, there’s sure to be a recliner here that suits you.
Top Recliners of 2024
Best for the Nursery Carter’s by DaVinci Arlo Recliner and Swivel Glider
Best Leather Option: AllModern Laflamme Genuine Leather Recliner
Best for Seniors: Vayun 41” Oversized Power Lift Chair
Most Comfortable Option: Pottery Barn Kids Wingback Manual & Power Swivel Glider Recliner
Best for Sleeping: Signature Design by Ashley Yandel Faux Leather Electric Power Lift Recliner
Expert-Recommended: West Elm Harris Leather Power Recliner
Best for Back Pain: Esright Massage Recliner Chair
Best Sofa Recliner: La-Z-Boy Easton Power Reclining Sofa
Best for Small Spaces: Ikea Gistad Recliner
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BEST NURSERY RECLINER
Carter's by DaVinci Arlo Recliner and Swivel Glider
Dimensions: 38″ deep x 29″ wide x 41.5″ high
Reclining mechanism: Manual
Colors available: Ivory boucle, Charcoal, Cream, Grey, Navy
Material: Bouclé, performance linen fabrics
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Wayfair Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.4/5 stars
$599
$499
This stylish nursery glider is so comfortable, you’re sure to doze off in it easily. It comes in a trendy boucle fabric or a water-repellent linen-blend material. The bouclé fabric is soft and cozy, but there’s no denying that the water-repellent quality of the linen material will be useful if things get messy (as it often does with newborns!). It features preset reclining angles so that you can stretch out and relax. It also swivels, making it easy to keep an eye on everything. New parents will also be happy to know that this chair is Greenguard Gold-certified, meaning it’s been tested for a wide variety of chemicals and is safe to have around your new addition.
What testers say: “Second-time mom, bought this for my son’s nursery, I am obsessed! It is so comfortable I end up in it every time I get to sit down. It is firm enough it provides support for breastfeeding, rocking, all the baby things. The glide and swivel make it easy to reach around and grab whatever I need for my infant or tending to my toddler while sitting with my infant. For fellow c-section moms, it tips super far forward making it easier to get out of in the early days but it won’t tip over! 10/10 in my book.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $599
BEST LEATHER RECLINER
AllModern Laflamme Genuine Leather Recliner
Dimensions: 34” deep x 30” wide x 42.5” high
Reclining mechanism: Manual
Colors available: 100+
Material: Polyester, leather
AllModern Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
Wayfair Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.4/5 stars
$750 $1,200 38% off
$650 $1,520 57% off
This sleek leather piece will make you rethink what a recliner can be. At first glance, you might mistake it for a regular chair, but rest assured, it does have a pop-out footrest and a reclining back that make it even more comfortable. The solid construction and durable materials ensure this piece will last for years and years to come. We could easily see it in a home office or study if you’ve got some work to do but want to sit somewhere other than your desk. It would also make a great addition to a midcentury modern, traditional, or even farmhouse home. And unlike many recliners, which take several weeks to ship, this one could arrive on your doorstep within the week.
What testers say: “I love this chair! It came well packed in three days. It’s good looking (tan real leather), very comfortable, and strong enough to withstand guests of all weights. I worried that it might be difficult to manually recline but the mechanism easily tilts back. Looking forward to many years of use!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $650
BEST RECLINER FOR SENIORS
Vayun Oversized Power Lift Chair
Dimensions: 39” deep x 40.6” wide x 40.6” high
Reclining mechanism: Electric
Colors available: Gray
Material: Polyester
Wayfair Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.4/5 stars
$410
This recliner has several features that make it particularly useful for seniors or anyone else with mobility limitations. It has lift assist technology that makes it easier to get in and out of, plus a massage mode that targets key pressure points as well as a heating function. All of these are a godsend for people with arthritis or other joint conditions.
Beyond the accessibility features, this cozy, plush recliner also has an integrated USB port and a side pocket to keep books, remotes, and other essentials close at hand. The gray fabric blends seamlessly with design aesthetics of all kinds, particularly modern ones. It doesn’t rock or glide, but that’s about the only thing it doesn’t do.
What testers say: “Love, love, love this. I suffer from chronic pain and this chair is so comfortable. The first time I sat in it and used the heat and massage I cried. I haven’t had so much relief from pain in so long.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $410
La-Z-Boy Pinnacle Platinum Power Lift Recliner
Dimensions: 39″ deep x 33.5″ wide x 45″ tall
Reclining mechanism: Power recliner
Colors available: Choose from 395 fabric options
Material: Varies
$1,699 $2,649 36% off
Obviously, no roundup of recliners is complete without at least one La-Z-Boy recliner. These classic chairs are what you think of when you picture a recliner, but rest assured, these don’t feel dated thanks to the practically endless fabric options and updated designs. This one happens to be one of the most popular options from the brand. It features a deep bucket seat with plenty of foam for support and cushioning. It also includes a limited lifetime warranty. While it’s not the cheapest option on the list, it’s well worth the investment.
Price upon publish date of this article: $1,699
MOST COMFORTABLE RECLINER
Pottery Barn Kids Wingback Manual & Power Swivel Glider Recliner
Dimensions: 39” deep x 34” wide x 40.5” high
Reclining mechanism: Manual or electric
Colors available: 52
Material: Leather, velvet, chenille, linen, boucle, polyester
$1,299
This easy glider chair is particularly well-suited for nurseries, but there’s no reason you can’t add it to your living room, bedroom, or home office. The timeless design features rolled armrests and a high wingback that invites you to settle in and get comfortable. It also includes a USB port to keep your phone or tablet charged during those late-night feedings.
The chair comes both as a manual recliner and a power recliner and is designed to be easy to use while holding a baby. This chair also swivels when it is upright, but won’t swivel once you’re reclined. It also comes in a wide array of colors and patterns, so you can pick the one that matches your room best.
What testers say: “My Pottery Barn swivel glider was by far my most expensive purchase, and I don’t regret it at all. I’ll have used it everyday/night for the last seven years next month with all three of my kids so far. From middle of the night feedings to cuddles and reading a book before bed.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $1,299
BEST RECLINER FOR SLEEPING
Signature Design by Ashley Yandel Faux Leather Electric Power Lift Recliner
Dimensions: 40″ deep x 35″ wide x 44″ high
Reclining mechanism: Electric
Colors available: Brown, Black
Material: Faux leather
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
$709.99 $1,022.56 31% off
This overstuffed chair made with faux leather feels luxurious as soon as you sit down. It’s about as high-tech as a recliner can get, with dual motor capability to move both the reclining back and footrest independently to find the most comfortable position. It also has a power-lift feature that can be helpful for people with limited mobility. If you plan to sleep in your recliner, this one gets great reviews from testers who say the adjustability and oversized design makes it easy to snooze in. For those reasons, it’s also one of the best recliners for tall people.
What testers say: “I bought this lift chair for my husband after bilateral knee replacement to assist him in getting out of the chair. He also used it in the fully reclined position to help him sleep. This chair was excellent in all ways as he was able to comfortably achieve both things. It is beautifully made, sturdy, and works as promised. He especially likes the dual control that allows him to raise the foot while in the upright position.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $709.99
Christopher Knight Home Wescott Traditional Recliner
Dimensions: 40″ tall x 26.6″ wide x 33″ deep
Reclining mechanism: Manual
Colors available: Wheat, Charcoal, Navy Blue, Light Gray, and Taupe
Material: Hardwood frame and polyester fabric
$221.89 $316.99 30% off
The Christopher Knight Home recliner is an ultra-affordable choice that also comes highly rated. Its hardwood frame and wingback silhouette give it the look of a traditional chair for those who don’t love the look of an oversized recliner. A mix of neutral colorways allow it to jibe with a variety of interior design aesthetics, whether you like a moody blue or a classic wheat tone. Testers note that it’s easy to assemble and hold up well to daily use.
Price upon publish date of this article: $221.89
EXPERT-RECOMMENDED RECLINER
West Elm Harris Leather Power Recliner Chair
Dimensions: 37.5″ deep x 31.5″ wide x 39″ high
Reclining mechanism: Electric
Colors available: Nut, Gray Smoke, Black, Navy
Material: Leather
$1,899
The sleek hand-finished leather recliner boasts a streamlined design that accommodates modern, contemporary, or traditional design styles. “This is my top recommendation for several reasons,” says Mariya Snisar, the head of interior design at Renowell. “For starters, it features a built-in USB port to charge your devices and boasts contract grade for unrivaled durability.”
The adjustable nature of the seat makes it easy to find the most comfortable angles for lounging or working. This sturdy recliner is built with a kiln-dried pine and hardwood frame that will last for years to come. The seat is described as medium firm, perfect for keeping you supported and comfortable while you’re seated. (It should be noted that some variations of the chair are made to order, so you should expect to wait several weeks for this product to arrive.)
Price upon publish date of this article: $1,899
BEST RECLINER FOR BACK PAIN
Esright Massage Recliner Chair
Dimensions: 35.8″ deep x 33.5″ wide x 43.2″ high
Reclining mechanism: Manual
Colors available: Blue, Grey, Black Leather, Espresso
Material: Faux leather, composite material
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
$249.99
A comfy recliner that’s also a heated massage chair? We’re listening. This plush option from Amazon comes in a variety of understated colors that make it easy to find one that matches the rest of the living room, den, or nursery. This swiveling chair rocks back and forth easily and offers several preset reclining angles. Of course, the special feature is the eight vibrating massage settings to relax your back and hips after a long day.
The heat setting doesn’t offer adjustable settings beyond on and off, but many testers say it maintains a comfortable temperature. Several Amazon reviewers also mention that this recliner is incredibly easy to set up, so you can start relaxing ASAP. This chair appears to be particularly loved by new parents and by people who experience back pain, so if either of those descriptors apply, you’ll definitely want to give this best recliner chair a look.
What testers say: “Easy to assemble, easy to retract footrest. Really good support for my bad back and neck. Fits in a small space. Warmth and massage better than I expected! The only chair I can nap in. Everything is so convenient and I can rock when I want!! This has been a great buy and didn’t disappoint at all. I’d buy another if I had the room for it.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $199.99
BEST SOFA RECLINER
La-Z-Boy Easton Power Reclining Sofa
Dimensions: 40” deep x 84.5” wide x 41” high
Reclining mechanism: Electric
Colors available: 100+
Material: Varies
$2,169.99 $2,449,99 99% off
If you’re looking to sprawl out and get comfortable, consider a plush sofa recliner that can seat you and the rest of your crew. This La-Z-Boy option lets users adjust head, back, and leg rest sections of the couch, all controlled with dual side-mounted buttons. Plus, this sofa recliner features built-in USB ports and high-grade foam cushions — in other words, you can stay here all afternoon if you want to. It’s designed for people between 5-foot-4 and 5-foot-9, so you may want to consider a different option if you’re a tall household. Plus, it has a limited lifetime warranty.
What testers say: “I finally have a sofa that fits me. My feet are flat on the floor when sitting, I can recline the seat and the headrest to fit my needs, and I can use the USB port for charging my phone. The Easton is a firm, well constructed sofa that you sit on, not sink into. Best sofa I have ever had.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $2,169.99
BEST RECLINER FOR SMALL SPACES
Ikea Gistad Recliner
Dimensions: 33⅛” deep x 26″ wide x 37 ¾” high
Reclining mechanism: Manual
Colors available: Idekulla dark red, Bomstad black
Material: Polyester
$369
The moody dark red color isn’t the only thing to love about this Ikea recliner. The clean lines are particularly well-suited to a midcentury modern living room or bedroom, but the recliner can also be styled to match a wide variety of design aesthetics. Several reviewers note that this chair doesn’t take up too much space, making it our pick for the best small recliner. It’s ideal for minimalist apartments or rooms where you need to be intentional about your furniture. It can be adjusted to three different positions: upright, lean back, and full recline.
And while you may groan internally at the idea of building another piece of Ikea furniture, testers say this one actually comes together easily. If you want to put it in your home office, beware: You might find yourself tempted to take a midday nap. It’s that comfortable.
What testers say: “I am really enjoying this chair (and have actually purchased a second one) as it has comfortable back support (perfect for my height at 5′ 6″) in all three positions – as a static armchair, lean back with feet up position and in full recline (great for quick naps). The chair doesn’t take up too much space, looks wonderful, was very easy to install (only required the legs and backrest to be added) and works as expected — great at the end of a workday or for binge-watching TV.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $369
What to Consider When Shopping for the Best Recliners
Size: “Measure the space where you plan to place the recliner to ensure it fits comfortably without overwhelming the room,” advises Snisar. “Check the recliner’s dimensions, especially in terms of width and height, to make sure it accommodates your body size and the available space.” Several retailers, including La-Z-Boy, have information on their product pages to advise whether a product is appropriate for people of varying heights.
Materials: As you’re shopping for a recliner, consider what the upholstery options are. Common ones include leather, faux leather, bouclé, and polyester. You’ll want something that complements your decor and is easy to clean, according to Snisar. You’ll also want to consider what materials the frame of the chair is made of, such as wood, metal, or particleboard.
Adjustability: “Different recliners come with various reclining mechanisms, such as push-back, lever, power, or swivel recliners,” explains Snisar. “I’d go for the one that is most convenient and easy to use.” Some recliners only allow you to recline to preset points, while others are fully adjustable.
Comfort and support: You’ll also want to consider how soft or firm the recliner is. Additionally, consider what you’d like the material to feel like. Sleek and smooth? Cozy? Lightweight? “Pay attention to the padding, lumbar support, and the feel of the upholstery. Everyone has different preferences for softness or firmness, so find what suits you best,” Snisar suggests.
Household needs: Think about function in addition to personal style. If you’re looking for a recliner to rock your kids to sleep in, you’ll want one that glides or rocks (and note that not all recliners do this). If you’re living with someone who has limited mobility or chronic health conditions, you may want to consider a recliner that has heating or massage functions. If you have pets, you might look for a recliner made with easily washed or stain-resistant upholstery.
How We Chose the Best Recliners
Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.
We reached out to several interior design experts for their advice on choosing a recliner as well as specific product recommendations. Additionally, we researched the market to see which recliners were especially popular among testers. Much of our research involves poring over dozens of tester reviews to read their firsthand impressions of the pieces. We evaluated shipping times, ease of use, materials, and durability. Product testing is also an important part of WWD’s research process. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Expert
Mariya Snisar is the Head of Interior Design at Renowell. She is passionate about beautiful spaces and strives to give every project a personal touch. Mariya’s family has been in construction for generations, so she has been around it her entire life. She has participated in tens of interior design projects in Canada and has many success stories to tell. She breathes and feeds from construction – it is in her blood. Her motto is simple but elegant, always. She currently lives in Toronto in a house, in which the interior was designed by herself.
Meet the Author
Jamie Ballard is a freelance writer and editor who covers news, lifestyle, and entertainment topics, including home products, sex and relationships, TV, movies, books, health, pets, food and drinks, pop culture and personal finance. She regularly contributes to Cosmopolitan, Allure, Woman’s Day, Good Housekeeping, The Hollywood Reporter and YouGov, among other publications. She regularly writes about home furnishings, apartment organization tips, plants, and other home topics, including recliner chairs.
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