While you can try to take a nap in almost any recliner, the best recliners for sleeping are often designed for catching some Z’s. These recliners usually have a few similar key features that make for more comfortable sleep, so you can wake up feeling well rested instead of stiff or sore.
A good recliner for napping has ample cushioning, a spacious seat, and a decent recline range. Read on to learn more about the features to look for in some of the best recliners for sleeping and explore our top picks for a more restful slumber.
- BEST OVERALL: Latitude Run Power Reclining Heated Massage Chair
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Ebern Designs Sanie Manual Recliner
- UPGRADE PICK: Signature Design by Ashley Boerna Power Recliner
- BEST POWER-LIFT RECLINER: Signature Design by Ashley Yandel Power Lift Recliner
- BEST ROCKING RECLINER: GDF Studio Hayvenhurst Merit Recliner/Glider Chair
- BEST RECLINING LOVESEAT: Signature Design by Ashley Game Zone Loveseat
- BEST WALL-HUGGER: Andover Mills Rabon Upholstered Recliner
- BEST SMALL: DaVinci Piper Upholstered Recliner and Swivel Glider
- BEST OVERSIZE: Red Barrel Studio Oversize Lift Assist Power Recliner
- BEST COMPACT: La-Z-Boy Collage Rocking Recliner
How We Chose the Best Recliners for Sleeping
When it comes to choosing a recliner chair for sleeping, comfort is key. While individual comfort preferences can vary, a good recliner for sleeping is typically both supportive and soft so you can sink into plush comfort without waking up sore or stiff. To make our top picks as comfortable as possible to a wide audience, we prioritized recliners with high-quality cushioning, a spacious design, and good adjustability features or reclining range.
It’s hard to not notice a large recliner in a living room or bedroom, so style is an important factor that we considered. We chose comfortable and cozy chairs that look as nice as they feel. To suit different homes, we selected recliners with a variety of fabrics and finishes, and several choices on our list also offer a range of color options. For even better relaxation and convenience, we also prioritized chairs with additional features like built-in storage, heating, massage, and power-lift mechanisms.
Our Top Picks
Whether for a daily catnap or a full night’s sleep (or even as an emergency guest bed), one of the following recliners for sleeping detailed below can help lull most everyone into dreamland.
Photo: wayfair.com
Cozy cushioning with heating and massage functions make this recliner from Latitude Run one of the most comfortable spots to take a nap. This power-lift recliner and massage chair is an excellent upgrade from a regular-old recliner. It features a power recline with three positions, a massage function with four zones and five massage rhythms, and a heating function. Since it has a lift function, it’s also a safe choice for older adults and those with mobility issues.
A wide headrest, built-in cupholders, thick padded armrests, and a storage pouch make this recliner a convenient spot to spend days relaxing. When it’s time to nap, this chair reclines to a near-flat 160 degrees.
Product Specs
- Material: Faux leather
- Product dimensions: 42 inches tall by 32 inches wide by 28 inches deep
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
Pros
- Power-recline and lift functions are great for those with limited mobility
- Heated seat and massage feature adds extra levels of comfort
- Solid wood and metal frame is sturdy and built for long-lasting performance
Cons
- Includes only 3 reclining positions
- Faux leather has limited durability
Get the Latitude Run recliner for sleeping at Wayfair.
Photo: wayfair.com
A comfortable lounging recliner does not need to break the bank. The Ebern Designs Sanie recliner is an excellent choice for those looking for an affordable sleep chair. This manual chair is simple but doesn’t lack in comfort features. It has ample cushioning, including a lumbar support cushion, all wrapped in soft microfiber upholstery.
This recliner strikes a good balance between comfort and support, which makes it ideal for snoozing. It offers only two reclining positions, but it lays nearly flat to make it ideal for an afternoon nap. With an ample seat size and high weight capacity of 400 pounds, it’s a great pick for many homes and comes at an economical price.
Product Specs
- Material: Microfiber
- Product dimensions: 39.37 inches tall by 36 inches wide by 38.19 inches deep
- Weight capacity: 400 pounds
Pros
- Affordable when compared to similar options
- Soft microfiber upholstery feels comfortable and cozy
- Relatively high weight capacity of 400 pounds
Cons
- Assembly required; can be quite time-consuming
Get the Ebern Designs recliner at Wayfair.
Photo: amazon.com
Expensive furniture can be worth the cost, especially when it means getting better sleep. An upgrade in comfort and style, the Boerna power recliner from Ashley Furniture is a good pick if you’re looking for a napping seat that’s more of an investment instead of just a simple place to rest. This power recliner is sleek—it’s inspired by the inside of a sports car, and the seat is crafted from real leather. Faux-leather elements decorate the rest of the chair.
The recliner features one-touch power controls to adjust the seating angle and adjustable headrest. To keep devices juiced up, this leather recliner has both a USB charger and wireless phone charger. Store devices in either armrest, each of which has a storage compartment. When you feel like turning on music and shutting out the world, built-in wireless speakers offer surround sound.
Product Specs
- Material: Leather and faux leather
- Product dimensions: 44.5 inches tall by 37.25 inches wide by 40 inches deep
- Weight capacity: Unknown
Pros
- Features a sleek design with a real leather seat
- One-touch power controls to adjust the backrest and headrest
- Built-in wireless speakers provide a surround-sound listening experience
- Includes a USB charger and wireless phone charger
Cons
- Leather can make noises while adjusting the chair recline
- Weight capacity is not provided; brand says that it undergoes rigorous durability testing and weighted stress tests
Get the Signature Design by Ashley Boerna recliner for sleeping at Amazon, Target, or Ashley Furniture.
Photo: ashleyfurniture.com
Lift recliners look and feel like regular recliners but have a lifting mechanism to raise or lower the entire chair. This design makes it easier for users to sit down and stand up from the seat. This recliner from Signature Design by Ashley merges style and functionality to create the perfect sleep chair.
The chair comes in a saddle brown polyester faux leather with a distressed look for a cozy, lived-in appearance. A high back and ample cushioning make this recliner pleasant to sink into. It also has excellent adjustability features with an electric dual-motor design to adjust the recline angle and footrest separately (along with the option to recline nearly flat). After waking up from a nap, take advantage of the power lift feature, which gently lifts and tilts you to a standing position.
Product Specs
- Material: Faux leather
- Product dimensions: 44 inches tall by 35 inches wide by 40 inches deep
- Weight capacity: Unknown
Pros
- Power lift feature is comfortable to use: slow-moving and smooth
- Attractive, distressed faux-leather look
- Infinite positions with separate controls for backrest and footrest; great for finding the perfect spot
Cons
- Pricey considering the lack of massage or heating functions
Get the Signature Design by Ashley Yandel recliner for sleeping at Amazon, Walmart, Target, or Ashley Furniture.
Photo: amazon.com
A rocking recliner has all the enjoyable features of a regular recliner, plus a gentle rocking motion for ultimate relaxation. This glider recliner from GDF Studio is a stellar choice for soothing a loved one to sleep. The gentle glider base creates a smooth rocking motion, making this chair a great pick for using in nurseries, napping with young children, or lulling adults into a peaceful slumber.
Besides the glider feature, this recliner has a well-cushioned back and arms along with a smooth faux-leather finish. This gives it an elegant but relaxed look, so this recliner can be a lovely pick to keep in living rooms and media rooms.
Product Specs
- Material: Faux leather
- Product dimensions: 40 inches tall by 40.25 inches wide by 39.25 inches deep
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
Pros
- Smooth rocking motion; ideal for everyday use
- Realistic faux-leather finish feels soft and smooth
- Supportive seat; great for relieving backaches
Cons
- Plastic leg material is less elegant than the rest of the materials used in the chair
- Requires 65.5 inches of space when fully reclined
Get the GDF Studio recliner for sleeping at Amazon or Sears.
Photo: amazon.com
Looking for a catnap spot for two? Look no further than this reclining loveseat from Signature Design by Ashley. A reclining loveseat offers seating for two and the comfort of a recliner in a more compact size than a sectional or couch.
This reclining loveseat features a center console (with built-in cupholders and a storage compartment) so you can relax next to a loved one while still having space to doze. The center console can fold up and out of the way if you prefer to cuddle up.
The faux-leather finish and nailhead trim make this loveseat an excellent choice for contemporary rooms. This attractive loveseat has several premium features on top of its luxurious design. It features one-touch power controls to adjust the motorized recliner and adjustable headrests, and it has a built-in USB charging port.
Product Specs
- Material: Faux leather
- Product dimensions: 44 inches tall by 85 inches wide by 40 inches deep
- Weight capacity: Unknown
Pros
- Motorized reclining with one-touch control is easy to use
- Adjustable headrests for extra-personalized comfort
- Includes USB ports; perfect for charging devices
Cons
- Faux leather can deteriorate over time from heavy use
Get the Signature Design by Ashley Game Zone recliner for sleeping at Amazon, Walmart, or Ashley Furniture.
Photo: Wayfair.com
Wall-hugger recliners require less back clearance space, making them a space-saving choice for apartments and smaller rooms. This wall-hugger recliner from Andover Mills needs only 3.5 inches of back clearance to recline, so you can take full advantage of empty wall space. Despite its low clearance requirements, this three-position recliner can still recline back to 135 degrees, which is a good angle for napping and sleeping.
This manual recliner is cushy but supportive, with a cushion and pillow-top arms made of pocket coil springs with a foam layer. It’s upholstered with breathable polyester (which comes in several colors), so you can doze in comfort.
Product Specs
- Material: Microfiber
- Product dimensions: 39.5 inches tall by 34.75 inches wide by 37.75 inches deep
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
Pros
- Only requires 3.5 inches of back clearance due to wall-hugger design
- Polyester microfiber fabric is cozy, durable, and stain-resistant
- Easy to assemble with clear instructions and included tools
Cons
- Simple design lacks extra features like cupholders and storage
Get the Andover Mills recliner for sleeping at Wayfair.
Photo: amazon.com
A compact recliner is often a good choice for small living rooms, bedrooms, or nurseries. This compact recliner from DaVinci is a small recliner chair, but it comes jam-packed with features. Designed with new parents in mind, it is mounted on a metal glider and swivel base. This design means you can gently rock while seated or swivel 360 degrees around to reach items or get out of the chair.
This recliner has a contemporary and sleek style as well as a hidden reclining mechanism. It’s not as plush as most recliners, so it has an unassuming appearance and takes up less space. But when it’s time to relax, open up the leg rest and lean back on the cozy headrest and high back for much-needed relaxation.
Product Specs
- Material: Polyester
- Product dimensions: 39.25 inches tall by 30.5 inches wide by 34 inches deep
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
Pros
- Compact size that is great for smaller rooms
- Contemporary design is an update from the typical recliner look
- Hidden recline mechanism maintains a sleek appearance
Cons
- Backrest does not recline very far; may not be enough for some users
- Can be tough to manually push the footrest down from the extended position
Get the DaVinci recliner for sleeping at Amazon, Wayfair, Target, or DaVinci.
Photo: wayfair.com
Oversize recliners are comfortable for everyone, but especially for those who find regular recliners a little tight. The Red Barrel Studio oversize recliner is almost 41 inches wide—the widest on our list—and 37.4 inches deep by 40.9 inches tall. For comfort, it has an ultrapadded design, all wrapped up in a soft microfiber finish.
An electric recline and lift-assist feature (controlled with a remote) helps you find the perfect position, whether it’s for taking a nap or getting out of the chair. It only reclines to 145 degrees—not as flat as some picks on our list—but this seat does make up for it with its comfort. A heated massage system makes this chair extra cozy, with several modes and intensity levels to soothe sore muscles.
Product Specs
- Material: Microfiber
- Product dimensions: 40.9 inches tall by 40.9 inches wide by 37.4 inches deep
- Weight capacity: 330 pounds
Pros
- Wide seat and an overstuffed design makes this chair extra comfortable
- Power-lift feature helps you to get out of the chair; ideal for those with mobility concerns
- Adjustable heated massage system aids in relaxation
Cons
- Only reclines to 145 degrees, which some users may not find flat enough for long periods of comfortable sleeping
Get the Red Barrel Studio recliner for sleeping at Wayfair.
Photo: wayfair.com
A compact chair that’s big on comfort, the La-Z-Boy Collage rocking recliner is a stellar choice for those who are tight on space. It has a small footprint of 39.5 inches tall by 29.5 inches wide by 36 inches deep, but it comes full of features like an adjustable locking leg rest and moveable cushions. It’s plush with a supportive back and padded armrests. The back can recline independently from the footrest. For those looking to get extra cozy, this recliner also rocks.
La-Z-Boy recommends this chair for those short in stature. As is the case with most small recliners, it also doesn’t recline to a fully flat position. However, if there simply isn’t space for a larger chair, this recliner is still a cozy pick.
Product Specs
- Material: Polyester
- Product dimensions: 29.5 inches wide by 36 inches deep by 39.5 inches tall
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
Pros
- Compact footprint won’t take up too much space in a living room or bedroom
- Fully padded design (including armrests) adds comfort without too much bulk
- Soothing and smooth rocking motion will appeal to some users
Cons
Get the La-Z-Boy recliner for sleeping at Wayfair or La-Z-Boy.
What to Consider When Choosing a Recliner for Sleeping
A good recliner for sleeping can perform just as well as any other recliner, but it has some key features that are designed for a better napping experience. When shopping for a good sleep chair, consider the recliner type, reclining mechanism, size, weight capacity, material, and safety.
Recliner Type
Recliners come in a few different styles, each with its own benefits. Regular recliners are the most popular. They are classic recliners with a cushioned, upholstered design and a reclining backrest and footrest. Reclining sofas seat more than one person who wants to recline.
Rocker recliners work the same as a regular recliner but are mounted on a rocker or glider to provide the motion of a rocking chair. Wall-hugger recliners also look like regular recliners but operate a little bit differently. Wall-hugger or zero-clearance recliners recline more forward than back, so they need less clearance space behind the chair.
Electric or Manual
Recliners can use manual or electric mechanisms to recline their backrest and footrest. Both types can adjust the recliner into one, several, or infinite positions, ranging from around 120 degrees to almost 180 degrees.
Manual recliners are controlled by a lever or a pull on the side of the seat, which will set the backrest or footrest in one or several different positions. Manual recliners have a simpler reclining mechanism that doesn’t require a power source and is easier to fix if something goes wrong. Manual recliners tend to be more affordable overall.
Electric recliners (or power recliners) need to be plugged into an outlet or attached to a power pack to recline the seat. They have a motorized reclining system that moves the backrest and footrest. These recliners are usually controlled by a button on the chair or an attached remote control and can have one, multiple, or infinite positions.
Dimensions
Recliners can take up a fair amount of space, especially considering many only seat one person at a time. Since a good recliner for sleeping will recline fairly flat, it can have an even larger footprint. To make sure there is space for a new comfy chair, take both its upright and fully reclined dimensions into account.
Larger and taller users may also benefit from considering the seat and backrest dimensions. Look for a wide and tall enough seat to fit you comfortably, keeping in mind that a roomier recliner can be more comfortable for sleeping since it will allow you to twist and turn. Oversize recliners are a good choice for large and tall users.
Weight Capacity
Every recliner has a weight limit that it can safely and comfortably hold. The weight capacity of a recliner can range from 200 to 500 pounds and should not be exceeded. Heavier users and those who plan to share the recliner with others (like children or a large pet) will want to consider the weight capacity before buying a chair.
At best, going over the weight limit can cause unnecessary extra wear and tear. At worst, it can cause a recliner to break. Since recliners have several moving parts, it’s safest to stick to the advertised weight capacity.
Material
Most recliners have a metal or wooden frame (or a mix of both materials), which creates a sturdy skeleton that can withstand daily movement and use. While the frame material is important, the weight capacity provides an idea of what the recliner’s frame can actually handle in real-life applications.
Recliner cushions can also come in various materials, all chosen for comfort. The most common options are medium- or high-density foam, memory foam, and pocket coil spring cushions (which also often feature a layer of foam). Recliner cushions can be overstuffed, which gives an extra-cozy look and enveloping feel. A recliner with less stuffed cushions offers a firmer seating surface and a sleeker look.
Upholstery
When it comes to a recliner’s upholstery, there’s more room for choice and style expression. Recliners can come in a variety of colors and patterns, ranging from neutral to bright. Common upholstery materials include natural and synthetic fabrics, leather, and faux leathers.
Natural upholstery materials include cotton and linen, while common synthetic materials are microfiber, microsuede, and polyester. Fabric upholstery is soft and breathable but can be absorptive, which means it can soak in spills or stains.
Natural leather is a popular choice that is considered beautiful to many and easy to maintain, but it tends to be a more expensive option. Faux leathers can be made of vinyl, polyurethane, or other synthetic materials. They offer the classy look of leather but at a lower price tag. Both natural and faux leathers have a smooth finish that is easy to wipe clean.
Safety
Sleeping in a well-made recliner needs to be safe and comfortable. A good sleep chair has high enough armrests so you can’t roll off while dozing. Of course, also pay mind to the weight limit to be extra safe.
Older adults or those with mobility concerns might want to consider investing in a lift recliner. These recliners have a built-in motorized lifting mechanism that moves the entire chair up or down to make it easier to sit or stand. This design also makes these chairs safer and more comfortable to get in and out of, especially in the pleasant haze after a great nap.
FAQs
If you’ve ever accidentally (or purposefully) fallen asleep on the couch, you’ll know that some seats are more comfortable than others for napping. The best recliners for sleeping make it easy to settle in for some shut-eye. Read on for some frequently asked questions about using your new recliner for relaxing and napping.
Q. Is it OK to sleep in a recliner every night?
Yes, sleeping in a recliner is safe for most people. While recliners won’t provide the same amount of support as a bed, you can sleep in a recliner safely as long as you wake up feeling rested and comfortable.
Q. Is it OK to sleep in a recliner when pregnant?
It can be safe for those who are pregnant to sleep in a recliner, provided the user stays somewhat upright and does not sleep flat on their back. A more upright position can also help with acid reflux.
Q. What is a lay-flat recliner?
Lay-flat recliners can recline to a nearly flat position, which is ideal for sleeping.
Q. How do I clean and maintain my recliner for sleep?
Recliners for sleeping can be cleaned and maintained the same as you would a regular recliner. It’s best to check the user manual for the best cleaning methods. Most recliners need occasional dusting, vacuuming, and spot cleaning or full professional cleanings as needed.
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