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After a long, hard day at work, most people are ready to unwind on the sofa. While a standard couch can get the relaxation portion done, comfort can be upgraded to the next level with a reclining sofa.
Reclining sofas, like reclining chairs, have pop-up footrests that let people put up their feet and binge-watch Netflix in a comfortable position. Whether looking for a reclining sofa to fit a small space, a powered one that uses a motor to recline, or a reclining sofa with features like USB ports, learn how to find the best reclining sofa for any home with this comprehensive guide.
- BEST OVERALL: Red Barrel Studio Evelina 87-Inch Upholstered Sofa
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Andover Mills Drennan 87-Inch Upholstered Sofa
- BEST LEATHER: Steelside Flagg 77.5-Inch Leather Loveseat
- BEST FABRIC: Pottery Barn Ultra Lounge Roll Arm Reclining Sofa
- BEST POWERED: Next-Gen DuraPella Dual Power Reclining Sofa
- BEST SECTIONAL: West Elm Enzo Reclining Chaise Sectional
- BEST FOR SMALL SPACES: RecPro Charles Collection 67-Inch Double Recliner
- BEST FOR HOME THEATER: Lark Manor Grigor 57.5-Inch Home Theater Loveseat
- BEST WITH CONSOLE: Red Barrel Studio Edgar 81-Inch Vegan Leather Sofa
- BEST WITH LUMBAR SUPPORT: Ashley Furniture Backtrack Reclining Loveseat
- BEST FOR LARGER BUILDS: Wade Logan Mccubbin 83-Inch Vegan Leather Sofa
How We Chose the Best Reclining Sofas
Selecting a reclining sofa or loveseat that matches a space, provides ample comfort, and includes versatile features that satisfy personal preference can be hard with so many sofa brands to choose from. Selections for the best recliner sofas depended upon type, materials/upholstery options, size, special features included, and ease of assembly.
The above list prioritizes variety with ample power recliners and manual recliners offered to suit many preferences. Most of the above picks are made with soft fabrics like polyester or microfiber for their stain resistance and numerous colorways, while some others have genuine or faux leather for durability and comfort. To accommodate small or large homes and spaces, there are also varying sizes of sofas offered to fit into a space seamlessly.
For versatility and convenience, USB ports, storage compartments, cupholders, footrests, headrests, and even throw pillows are included in many of the above picks. As for ease of assembly, most options come with little to no assembly required. But, some of these designs are large and heavy, which makes it difficult to move them into a home.
Our Top Picks
Once buyers have a preferred type of reclining sofa in mind and a good sense of what materials and functionality features would be the most beneficial to them, the next step is to start shopping. Keep reading for a curated selection of some of the best reclining sofas currently available online that will make a great addition to a living room.
Best Overall
Red Barrel Studio Evelina 87-Inch Upholstered Sofa
Red Barrel Studio has a reputation as one of the leading manufacturers of quality furniture, and its 87-inch Evelina reclining sofa showcases many of the brand’s high standards. The deeply padded cushions provide great comfort and are covered in plush yet hard-wearing polyester fabric.
Each end has a well-balanced manual mechanism that reclines with minimal effort at the pull of a handle. The seat back in the center tips forward, quickly becoming a useful table space with a pair of cupholders. It also reveals a useful elasticated storage area for magazines or tablets. The neutral gray upholstery is an easy match for many decors and can easily be accessorized with throws or cushions.
Product Specs
- Type: Manual
- Upholstery: Polyester
- Dimensions: 42 inches high by 87 inches wide by 40 inches deep
- Seating: 2 or 3 people
Pros
- Renowned build quality with a sturdy frame made of metal and manufactured wood
- Foam seat pads and sinuous springs provide proven long-term comfort
- Includes useful fold-down tray, cupholders, and magazine/tablet storage
Cons
- Only available in neutral gray, although patterned throws or pillows could be added.
Get the Red Barrel Studio Evelina reclining sofa at Wayfair.
Best Bang for the Buck
Andover Mills Drennan 87-Inch Upholstered Sofa
It can be challenging to find reclining couches that offer comfort and durability at a budget-friendly price. Most within this bracket are two-seater models. The Andover Mills Drennan manual recliner is a full three-seater sofa, so it should be no surprise that it’s extremely popular.
The frame on this recliner couch is steel throughout, giving it strength without excess weight. Comfortable foam cushions are upholstered in polyester chenille that feels luxurious but tough enough for day-to-day use. The Andover Mills Drennan comes in three soft shades, making it easy to match most decorative styles. Minor assembly is required, but it is very straightforward.
Product Specs
- Type: Manual
- Upholstery: Polyester
- Dimensions: 40 inches high by 87 inches wide by 40 inches deep
- Seating: 3 people
Pros
- A full-size 3-seater reclining sofa for less than many 2-seater options
- Soft polyester chenille upholstery feels sumptuous and yet is very durable
- Comparatively lightweight making it relatively easy to move around if necessary
Cons
- Some assembly is required, and having someone to help is strongly recommended
Get the Andover Mills reclining sofa at Wayfair.
Best Leather
Steelside Flagg 77.5-Inch Leather Loveseat
For many, there’s nothing quite like the appeal of real leather upholstery. Every piece is unique, and with age, it takes on its patina and character. Its natural strength and toughness ensure unrivaled durability.
The Steelside Flagg power recliner sofa combines modern style, comfort, and practicality. The contrasting stitching of the high-quality top-grain leather highlights the attention to detail. Push-button controls are paired with a USB port in each armrest. The center console has useful hidden storage and a pair of cupholders. Cushions have high-density foam for lasting comfort and are supported by sinuous springs and a solid-wood frame. A minor amount of assembly is required on arrival.
Product Specs
- Type: Power
- Upholstery: Real leather
- Dimensions: 41.5 inches high by 77.5 inches wide by 39.5 inches deep
- Seating: 2 people
Pros
- Upholstered in high-quality abrasion-resistant top-grain leather with attractive detail stitching
- Push-button power reclining with USB ports in each armrest
- High-density foam, sinuous springs, and reinforced hardwood frame provide comfort and support
Cons
- Leather upholstery comes at a premium price, and this sofa is only available in gray
Get the Steelside reclining sofa at Wayfair.
Best Fabric
Pottery Barn Ultra Lounge Upholstered Reclining Sofa
Those looking for a fabric upholstered recliner sofa may want to consider the three-seater Ultra Lounge from Pottery Barn. Shoppers can choose from a variety of colors in different upholstery styles, from brushed crossweaves to performance velvets to heathered tweeds. The powered motion control allows users to position the headrest, footrest, and armrests separately to customize the most comfortable configurations.
The frame and wedge are made from a combination of pine, birch, and plywood, and foam frame padding ensures a comfortable experience. For an ultraplush feel, each cushion is wrapped in polyester before being upholstered.
Product Specs
- Type: Powered
- Upholstery: Various fabric options
- Dimensions:31 inches high by 109.5 inches wide by 43 inches deep
- Seating: 3 people
Pros
- Headrest, footrest, and armrest have independent control for maximum individual comfort
- An exceptional range of fabrics allows for integration with any home decor
- A combination of solid wood and plywood provides long-term structural integrity
Cons
- While there’s much to like about this sofa, it is a considerable investment
Get the Pottery Barn reclining sofa at Pottery Barn.
Best Powered
Next-Gen DuraPella Dual Power Reclining Sofa
Those looking for a combination of technology, comfort, and style in their reclining sofa should check out this Next-Gen DuraPella with a power reclining mechanism, wireless and USB charging ports, plus reading lights.
Owners can prop their feet up, lean back, and plug in their phone or tablet, allowing them to chill and charge in one place. The Next-Gen DuraPella sofa has luxurious high-resiliency cushioning that combines with an independent headrest and ‘zero-gravity’ ottoman for maximum comfort. The central seat flips down to reveal a useful table with a pair of cupholders, while the headrest lifts to reveal the reading lights. Armrests also offer useful concealed storage. There is some minor assembly required, though Next-Gen estimates it should only take 15 minutes.
Product Specs
- Type: Powered
- Upholstery: Faux leather
- Dimensions:43 inches high by 86 inches wide by 39.5 inches deep
- Seating: 2 or 3 people
Pros
- Has powered reclining, wireless or USB device charging, and useful reading lights
- Zero-gravity mechanism allows infinitely adjustable reclining for individually customized comfort
- The center table has 2-stage cupholders that convert to a flat surface for coffee mugs
Cons
- Power should be simple “plug-and-play,” though there are rare reports of faults
Get the Next-Gen DuraPella reclining sofa at Wayfair.
Best Sectional
West Elm Enzo Reclining Chaise Sectional
This versatile Enzo sectional provides lounging in style with the push of a button. Its modular design, including one power recliner, one storage chaise, and a single seat, allows for customizing the sofa’s layout. Arrange it with the chaise on either the left or right.
Plus, there are hidden compartments inside the sofa. There’s storage under the chaise seat cushion and in the armrests, so foam cushions, blankets, and other items can be close by but not in sight. The sofa arms, which can be positioned on either side, come with USB ports along with additional storage compartments. It has a kiln-dried pine frame, medium-firm cushions, and comes in multiple color options and fabric styles.
Product Specs
- Type: Powered
- Upholstery: Polyester
- Dimensions:31 inches high by 108 inches wide by 68 inches deep
- Seating: 3 people
Pros
- Spacious and versatile seating with a chaise position on either the right or left
- An extensive selection of flatweave, textured, or velvet upholstery options to suit all tastes
- Useful hidden chaise storage, and optional arm storage with USB ports
Cons
- Despite the premium price, a modest amount of assembly is required
Get the West Elm reclining sofa at West Elm.
Best for Small Spaces
RecPro Charles Collection 67-Inch Double Recliner
Recliners tend to be bulky and can take up a lot of room. If short on space, the RecPro Charles Collection double recliner might be the answer, as it only needs 3 inches of space for the reclining mechanism to fully expand into one of the two reclined seating positions.
This 67-inch-long manual sofa seats two people. Its faux-leather upholstery comes in four colors and is easy to clean. There’s a center console with hidden storage and a pair of cupholders, so it boasts some nice extras.
Product Specs
- Type: Manual
- Upholstery: Faux leather
- Dimensions:38 inches high by 67 inches wide by 37.5 inches deep
- Seating: 2 people
Pros
- Budget-friendly “wall hugger” loveseat requires only 3 inches of reclining space
- The central console includes 2 cupholders and a useful storage compartment
- The easy-clean faux-leather upholstery is available in 5 colors
Cons
- Some people have experienced faults with the wire-pull reclining mechanism
Get the RecPro reclining sofa at Amazon.
Best for Home Theater
Lark Manor Grigor 57.5-Inch Home Theater Loveseat
This theater-style loveseat from Lark Manor features an upright design with comfortable cushioning covered with durable microfiber upholstery that’s easy to clean. For an even cozier movie-watching experience, use the manual lever to recline the seat.
This reclining loveseat comes at a relatively affordable price, and it includes a range of attractive features that provide comfort for the price. It has a wall-hugger design, making it suitable for small rooms. Each plush side of the couch has a built-in cupholder and storage compartment. Putting together the seat is relatively easy and requires no tools.
Product Specs
- Type: Manual
- Upholstery: Polyester
- Dimensions: 38.5 inches high by 57.7 inches wide by 38 inches deep
- Seating: 2 people
Pros
- A clever wall-hugger design provides comfort while minimizing space requirements
- Handy built-in cupholders plus concealed storage compartments in the armrests
- Laminated hardwood frame for strength with noise-reducing sprung mechanism
Cons
- Requires some simple assembly, although the required tools are included
Get the Lark Manor reclining sofa at Wayfair.
Best with Console
Red Barrel Studio Edgar 81-Inch Vegan Leather Sofa
Featuring a fold-down center console to create a multiuse couch, this large reclining loveseat-sofa from Red Barrel Studio can seat two or three people. When folded down, the sofa transforms into a separated loveseat with a flat-top center console and built-in cupholders for drinks and snacks. To create another sitting spot, place the console upright to turn the loveseat into a larger sofa.
Besides its practicality, this loveseat has an attractive design to suit both modern and traditional spaces. It features vinyl faux-leather upholstery with ample cushioning that’s cozy but not overstuffed. A dark brown finish makes it an elegant choice for many homes.
Product Specs
- Type: Manual
- Upholstery:Faux leather
- Dimensions: 38.5 inches high by 81 inches wide by 38 inches deep
- Seating: 2 or 3 people
Pros
- The sturdy frame of real and engineered wood provides excellent durability
- The center seat back flips forward to provide a useful console table with cupholders
- The use of pocket springs offers a weight capacity of up to 750 pounds
Cons
- Some assembly is required, and the necessary tools are not included
Get the Red Barrel Studio Edgar reclining sofa at Wayfair.
Best with Lumbar Support
Ashley Furniture Backtrack Reclining Loveseat
Reclining seats are now widely recognized as beneficial in providing relief to the lumbar region. While power reclining seats like the Backtrack loveseat from Ashley Furniture are often seen as a luxury option, this model offers practical help, too. It provides both gentle heat and a massage function to relieve tired muscles and soothe a sore back. The “zero-gravity” mechanism also helps improve circulation.
Upholstery is a combination of real leather and resilient polyester. There are storage compartments in both the center console and armrests, and each offers cupholders. The addition of USB connectors means phones and tablets can also be charged. Some assembly is required, though Ashley Furniture estimates it should only take 15 minutes.
Product Specs
- Type: Powered
- Upholstery: Leather and polyester
- Dimensions: 43 inches high by 74.5 inches wide by 40 inches deep
- Seating: 2 people
Pros
- Support for the lumbar region is enhanced by both heat and massage functions
- Powered activation of seat, footrest, and headrest provide optimal personal comfort
- There are multiple storage compartments, cupholders, and 2 USB ports
Cons
- Some assembly is needed
Get the Ashley Furniture reclining sofa at Ashley Furniture, Wayfair, or American Furniture Warehouse.
Best for Larger Builds
Wade Logan Mccubbin 83-Inch Vegan Leather Sofa
When it comes to providing support and comfort for larger people, few reclining sofas can compete with the Wade Logan Mccubbin. The frame is made from real and manufactured wood and combines with metal legs for a weight capacity of up to 900 pounds.
That impressive strength comes with style and practicality. Upholstery is attractive, easy-to-clean faux leather. Cushions and armrests are filled with cotton and foam for increased resilience. The reliable manual mechanism allows almost full horizontal reclining for ultimate relaxation. Given the heavy-duty construction, the Wade Logan Mccubbin reclining sofa is also very affordable. Minor assembly is required, and a screwdriver and Allen wrench will be needed.
Product Specs
- Type: Manual
- Upholstery: Faux leather
- Dimensions: 38 inches high by 83 inches wide by 39 inches deep
- Seating: 3 people
Pros
- A weight capacity of 900 pounds makes this one of the most supportive models available
- Metal legs and wood frame combine to offer excellent strength and durability
- Foam and cotton-padded cushions plus pocket springs provide lasting comfort
Cons
- Only 2 color choices; requires some minor assembly on arrival
Get the Wade Logan reclining sofa at Wayfair.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Reclining Sofa
When choosing the best reclining sofa, there are several factors to consider, including size, upholstery type and materials, design, placement, and added features.
Types of Reclining Sofas
While there are many reclining sofas on the market, there are three general types: manual, power, and adjustable.
Manual
Manual reclining sofas are the traditional type. They have a latch or lever on the ends of the couch that, when pulled, releases a spring that elevates a footrest and reclines the back cushion of the seat. Manual reclining sofas tend to be more durable, long lasting, and reliable than other types because they have fewer moving parts.
They are usually lower priced and easier to fix since the only thing that typically needs to be replaced when they break is a worn-out spring. Manual recliners are less adjustable than other types of reclining sofas.
Powered
Power reclining sofas operate with an electric motor instead of a spring. Elevate the footrest and recline the back by pushing a button on the sofa or a remote control. Some power recliner sofas have a range of reclining angles and settings.
Reclining sofas with motorized capability can be easier to use for people who struggle to grasp a latch or push a footrest down. However, a power reclining sofa can also be more expensive and cost more to repair if the motor wears out. The motor will need to be plugged into a wall outlet via a cord attached to the sofa.
Adjustable
Adjustable reclining sofas are built like futons and sleeper sofas. Instead of being motorized or spring operated, there’s a hinge where the seat meets the backrest that lets the user’s weight lean it back and recline the seat. With an adjustable reclining sofa, the angle of recline can be adjusted to an ideal position.
The downside to this type of reclining sofa is they usually don’t have as much foot and leg support as other models. However, they tend to be more affordable.
Size
The best reclining sofa depends on the space available for it and the number of people that need to sit. There are reclining sofas on the market that seat two to six people. Remember to factor in the space the sofa will take up when fully reclined to avoid ending up with a piece that’s too large.
If buying a sofa online, it will usually come in multiple preassembled sections. Make sure the sections will fit through the doorways and halls.
Frame Material
The material from which a reclining sofa’s frame is made will determine how much weight it can bear and how sturdy it is. Metal is the sturdiest and longest-lasting frame material. However, if a sofa’s cushions aren’t restuffed periodically, a metal frame can create uncomfortable pressure points over time.
Hardwood is a good option due to its durability and level of give, which can prevent any pressure points from forming. Manufactured wood is the other most common frame material used in reclining sofas, but it’s the weakest and generally has the lowest weight capacity.
Upholstery Material/Fabric
There are two general types of upholstery: leather and fabric, with the fabric having several subtypes. The upholstery material chosen will impact a reclining sofa’s durability and comfort.
- Polyester is a durable, water-resistant fabric that’s popular for sofas because it resists stains and spills.
- Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) looks like leather but is more water-resistant than genuine leather.
- Polyurethane is another popular fabric option. It’s waterproof, stain-resistant, and has enhanced torsion strength, meaning it can withstand cuts and punctures.
- Leather is extremely durable and can stand up to years of wear and tear. It’s the highest-quality upholstery and the most expensive.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Most shoppers want a comfortable reclining sofa, so ergonomics are an important consideration. A sofa with high seat-back cushions to support the entire length of the spine will usually be the most comfortable.
If the user is tall, make sure the sofa’s seats are deep enough for them to sit comfortably with their feet on the floor. Because they support arms, which take pressure off the lower back, wide armrests with cushioning add a level of comfort, too.
Adjustability
Reclining sofas have varying degrees of adjustability. Some models can rock or glide as well as recline. Power recliner sofas tend to be more adjustable than manual ones, and some have massage features, heating options, and several recline positions. Tall people may want a reclining sofa with an extended footrest. However, adjustable reclining sofas with extra functions are usually more expensive.
Placement
When reclining on a sofa, the back extends and takes up room. Placing a recliner sofa in a living room or office means having enough space to allow the back and front of the sofa to extend correctly. For most models, it is recommended that 5 inches to 1 foot of space are between the wall and the back of the couch for it to recline properly and to avoid scuffing walls.
As for the front of the couch, some recliners have a footrest that extends forward as the back reclines. If a reclining sofa has one or more footrests that extend outwards, consider leaving 1 foot or more of clearance in front of the couch as well. For small units, an easy way to maximize reclining space is to face the back of the sofa in the corner of a room where there is less traffic and potential obstacles.
Features
Some reclining sofas come with cupholders, foldable consoles, adjustable headrests, and arms that offer concealed storage. More expensive sofas have USB charging stations, AC outlets, modifiable headrests, additional cushions, and even LED lighting. Extra features will increase the price, of course, so keep that in mind when choosing a reclining sofa.
Style
Reclining sofas come in many shapes and styles that can coordinate with almost any kind of room decor. Classic styles, which feature high waterfall backs, plush cushions, and a rounded look are the most common. Contemporary styles are slightly bigger overall and have clean lines and smaller cushions. Both styles come in a variety of colors and materials.
Maintenance and Cleaning
The upholstery on a reclining sofa will determine how easy it is to care for and clean. Polyurethane and polyester are water-resistant and stain-resistant, so they’re a good choice for households with children or pets.
They can be cleaned with mild soap and water. Leather is stain-resistant and extremely durable and can be cleaned with a leather cleaner. Add a sofa cover to help increase the longevity of the upholstery. Regardless of the material it is made from, dust and vacuum the sofa regularly.
FAQs
Now that you’ve seen what it takes to make some of the best reclining sofas, it’s time to answer any remaining questions you might have about how to choose the right one for your home. Below is more valuable information about reclining sofas and what to expect when you’re shopping.
Q. Are reclining sofas good for your spine?
Yes. Although historically it was thought that straight-backed sofas were better for the spine, this is no longer the case. Hunched seating positions cause problems, but reclining sofas reduce pressure on your spine. As a result, they can be good for those who experience discomfort on standard sofas or sit for long periods.
Q. Are reclining sofas bad for leg circulation?
No. Poor circulation, and the swelling that is often associated with it, are typically caused by standing for long periods. It can also happen when sitting in an upright position on a hard chair because there is still pressure on the legs and feet that can inhibit blood flow. Elevating your legs on a reclining sofa’s footrests for 15 minutes or more relieves the pressure built up in the legs, and rather than reducing circulation, will often improve it.
Q. Do reclining sofas come with charging stations?
Yes. During our research, we found that the ability to charge portable devices like phones and tablets while sitting comfortably on a reclining sofa is increasingly popular. This is invariably done via built-in USB ports. However, given that there are currently several different types of USB in use, it’s a good idea to check compatibility with your devices before purchasing. That said, conversion cables are readily available and are not expensive. Though not common, some models also have AC sockets.
Q. Can reclining sofas go against the wall?
No. So-called “wall-hugger” models get the closest, but you need to leave a few inches between the sofa and the wall so the chair has room to recline properly. The exact amount varies depending on how the reclining mechanism works. Manufacturers usually provide this information. Failure to follow instructions can mean marks on the wall where the sofa rubs and excess wear on the fabric itself.
Q. How long should a reclining sofa last?
It’s difficult to give an expectation of how long a reclining sofa will last because there are so many elements to consider. Materials and construction quality have a major impact, as does the type of fabric. Then, of course, there’s how much the reclining sofa is used and whether it has to put up with energetic kids or boisterous pets, for example. Leading manufacturers suggest that a reclining sofa will last anywhere from 7 to 15 years.
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