THE DEFINITIVE RECLINER BUYING GUIDE: Everything You Need to Know - La-Z-Boy
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THE DEFINITIVE RECLINER BUYING GUIDE:
Everything You Need to Know
Recliners – The Definitive Buyer’s Guide
Are you looking to buy a recliner but not sure where to start? This Recliners guide
will outline everything you need to know before you purchase your new recliner.
Each year, we at La-Z-Boy consult with thousands of clients in the Ottawa and
Kingston area concerning home furnishings. As a manufacturer and retailer of
recliners for over 90 years, we often get asked: “what do I need to know when
buying a recliner?”
There are many recliner options available, but which one is right for you? While
La-Z-Boy has a wide selection of recliners to choose from, we understand that we
may not be for everyone. To that end, our hope is that much of the information in
this recliner guide is helpful regardless of what brand you end up choosing.
As you evaluate the various recliner brands, please remember that buying high-
quality, comfortable home furnishings is only half the equation. The furniture
company you will do business with is responsible for the successful delivery
and installation of your new furniture. Furthermore, they provide supplementary
services such as design and post-purchase support that will impact your overall
experience.
The Definitive Recliner Buying Guide | 2
Table of Contents
1 Consider your space 2 Who should buy a recliner?
3 How much does a recliner cost? 4 Manual or power recliner
5 What fabric should you choose? 6 Problems with recliners
7 8
Should I pick it up or have it
Secret recliners
delivered?
The Definitive Recliner Buying Guide | 3
Why buy a recliner?
There are many reasons to buy a recliner, whether it be for customized comfort in your leisure
time, extra neck, back and leg support, or if you’re experiencing pain.
Are you moving into a new home? Will your furniture fit in your new condo, or will you
require something new?
Are you renovating? Will the old stuff fit? Older furniture can cause back pain to get worse.
The chair may look ok, but over the years, it can lose some of the support it provides.
Are you experiencing back or neck pain? A new recliner may be just what the doctor
ordered. Sitting in the reclined position and having support under the knees will
help reduce discomfort and pain in the lower back associated with degenerative
spondylolisthesis.
Going in for hip surgery? “You will need to keep both legs elevated for the first 4 to 6
weeks following surgery. This is best accomplished in a recliner chair, or a chair with
armrests and an ottoman for appropriate leg support.”
OTHER REASONS INCLUDE:
You or your spouse is expecting a new baby and you need a comfortable chair for the
nursery?
Maybe you’re saving up to buy your father a recliner for Father’s Day, something he’s
always wanted. What a pleasant surprise that would be!
For some people, a recliner is a much more comfortable position to be in than lying flat.
Sleeping in a recliner can also help with blood circulation, digestion and other ailments.
Some doctors recommend sleeping in a recliner.
Are you tired of laying sideways on your couch? You may not think there’s a difference, but
once you sit with your feet up in a recliner, there’s no comparison.
The Definitive Recliner Buying Guide | 4
EIGHT TIPS FOR CHOOSING
YOUR PERFECT RECLINER
The Definitive Recliner Buying Guide | 5
01 Consider your space
Before you head down to your local furniture retailer, take the time to consider the dimensions
and the features of the room, where your new recliner is to be placed.
CONSIDER WHAT ROOM THE RECLINER WILL BE PLACED IN.
Will it be a family room where everyone gathers to watch tv, or will it be an adult-only room
used for reading and hosting guests? Will it be for a Den or an office or are you considering it
for a nursery?
FURNITURE PLACEMENT
Once you’ve answered these questions you then need to decide where in the room you’d like
to place your recliner. For more information on arranging your furniture, you can read our blog
article on furniture placement.
OTHER IMPORTANT THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN LOOKING AT PURCHASING A
RECLINER:
• What colour are the walls in the room? Are you planning to paint? Bringing a sample of the
paint colour into the store will help match the chair fabrics.
• Are there windows and doors in the room? You can place a chair in front of the window as
long as it doesn’t block the view.
• What furniture is staying in the room, and what will you replace? Will the old stuff go with
your new chair?
• What types of flooring does the room have? Tile or scratch-resistant? Make sure you protect
your hardwood floors with felt pads.
• What colours of furniture and accessories do you like? Do you prefer solids or patterns or
both? To learn more about colour, read our article on Colour trends 2020.
• What’s your preferred style? (Contemporary, traditional, transitional etc.) Knowing this will
help you narrow down your choices.
If your project becomes a large one and you’re considering redesigning the entire room, you
may wish to hire an interior designer.
The Definitive Recliner Buying Guide | 6
To learn more, check out our article on how Bringing the measurements with you to the
much an interior designer costs. store will enable the salesperson to help you
find a good fit. If you can make a sketch of
Some furniture retailers offer free or your room and or take some photos, this will
paid interior design services. For design be even more helpful.
assistance, La-Z-Boy offers a complementary
interior design service. Our designers will To learn more, check out how to accurately
come to your home, assess, measure and measure your room in order to buy the right
find out your needs. This way, you can rest furniture.
assured that the measurements are taken
accurately, and the furniture won’t be too big/ TAKE PICTURES
small for the room when it arrives.
There is a saying ‘A picture is worth a
MEASURE YOUR ROOM thousand words’. This can be true in
furniture shopping as well. In today’s world,
You will need to measure your room. Make many people have a smartphone. Taking
sure to account for windows, doorways and a few quick snaps of your space before
fireplace. Measuring is the only way to be you go shopping can help immensely with
sure your recliner will fit. understanding the layout or your space.
It can be deceiving when shopping in a There are also a ton of 3rd party space
furniture store. Showrooms are generally planning tools.
much larger spaces than your living and
family rooms. The pieces that look great in Download our augmented reality app on
the store may be too large for your space at your mobile phone and see what your new
home. Dimensions alone may not be enough furniture will look like in your own space.
if you haven’t taken into account the flow of
the room and any other space requirements
you may have.
The Definitive Recliner Buying Guide | 7
02 Who should buy a recliner?
Is this chair for you, or is it for someone else in the household? Will you be sharing the recliner
with another person? You may have to compromise if your heights differ. (Sometimes people
will buy two recliners; each one sized for the person using it.)
Do you have children who may be using the chair, do you have pets? Then spills and stains are
a part of your vocabulary. Leather can be easier to clean than fabric, or you may be interested in
iClean furniture protection fabric for kids, pets and everyday life.
Check out our article on pet friendly furniture for tips on how to create pet friendly environment
and more.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT RECLINER THAT FITS YOUR BODY TYPE (CUSTOMIZE YOUR
COMFORT)
Finding the right chair means taking into account your personal dimensions.
From petite to extra tall, your goal should be to find personalized comfort and support.
• Choose a size based on the height of the person who will be using the recliner most often.
• Swivel and glide or Rocker recliner?
• Wall away chairs let you place the recliner inches from the wall and still recline.
• Select a style that appeals to you the most, from casual to contemporary.
• Customize: with your choice of upholstery, fabric or leather.
• Cushion upgrades such as Airform™ responsive cushioning.
• Handle type: Left or right, wooden or silver ergonomic handle.
• Headrest & Lumbar
• Heat and Massage recliner: The wand controller operates the adjustable heat and massage
functions and 2-motor, 3-speed vibration massage.
• Any special needs required? What about a power recliner or lift chair? (Did you know that
you can save the tax on a recliner lift chair when you provide a note from a doctor?)
The Definitive Recliner Buying Guide | 8
ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL WHEN IT COMES TO RECLINERS:
1. Size: Choose a size based on the height of the person who will be using the recliner most
often.
2. Style: Select a style that appeals to you the most, from casual to contemporary.
3. Customize: Enhance your recliner with your choice of fabrics, leathers, handle options and
cushion upgrades.
The Harbor Town recliner is a good fit for a petite body type because it has a smaller scale. It
will also work well in a smaller sized room. To learn more, check out our detailed review of the
Harbor Town recliner.
The Pinnacle recliner is an excellent fit for a medium-sized body type and is our best selling
recliner. To learn more, check out our detailed review of the Pinnacle recliner.
The Astor recliner is one of our largest reclining chairs available and perfect for the extra tall
individual. To learn more, check out our detailed review of the Astor recliner.
Just like Goldilocks, there’s a chair that’s ‘just right’ for you!
Read more on finding the perfect size and style for you.
The Definitive Recliner Buying Guide | 9
03 How Much Does a Recliner Cost?
Many factors influence the cost of a recliner.
Quality, customization and upgrades, to name
a few. It’s essential to keep in mind how often
your recliner will be used and what purpose it
will serve.
Quality furniture is essential If you require
it for daily use, as it will be a staple in your
home. You will want to find out details like
what materials the manufacturer uses in
construction and what features the recliner
has, including options and fabrics available.
Warranty and protection plan information
will also give you an idea of what your post-
purchase protection will look like and is a
great place to ask more questions about how
your prospective furniture company will be
able to deliver on those services.
COST OF A LA-Z-BOY RECLINER
If you are looking for recliners in the
introductory price range around $299-$399 La-Z-Boy recliners typically start at $699
La-Z-Boy may not be for you. You may be and go up from there. Our specialty focuses
more likely to find what you’re looking for at on a broad selection of recliners in the mid
Costco or Ikea. to higher end price ranges. To find out more
information on the factors that influence the
Got more questions about the cost of cost of a La-Z-Boy recliner check out how
recliners? Read our article, “how much does a much does a La-Z-Boy recliner chair costs.
recliner cost?”
How does a La-Z-Boy chair compare to other
well-known chair brands on the market? For
more information on this topic read Palliser
vs. La-Z-Boy.
The Definitive Recliner Buying Guide | 1004 Do you need a regular or a power
recliner chair?
MANUAL LIFT RECLINER
From introductory to premium mechanics, If you require help moving from a sitting to a
the manual recliner offers a chair that can standing position, then a power lift chair is
maneuver into a reclining position. While the best option. Press a button to get in or
most recliner handles are on the right side, out, or to recline back fully to a zero-gravity
Some retailers provide a shorter lever or left- position. The one-piece seat and back move
sided handle for the lefty in the family. For together, eliminating gaps and providing full-
those with shorter arms, some manufactures body support in all reclined positions.
will also offer elongated handles to ensure
you are able to reach the mechanism. And UPGRADES
of course, you could also choose the manual
push back model, which has no handle at all. The power rocking recliner with headrest and
With tension adjusters on many models, the lumbar support is perfect for those looking
manual recliner can be adjusted to almost to rock and recline and has an adjustable
any size and fit of any person. That said, it is body and lumbar support at all times. The
important to ensure you have the strength to independent support for your head, neck and
easily put the chair into the reclining position lower back provides you with an unlimited
and the only way to confirm this, is to do the number of relaxing positions. It lets you
‘sit and recline’ test! maintain perfect viewing angles for activities
such as reading, conversation, or enjoying TV.
POWER
For a more detailed comparison between
If you have mobility issues or strength manual and power recliners check out power
limitations, then you’ll need a power recliner. vs. manual recliners: the differences you
The motorized chair is more expensive but should know.
provides smooth movement at the touch of a
button. The power recliner offers an unlimited Top 7 La-Z-Boy power recliner questions
number of leg and back movement options. answered.
When you take your finger off the button, the
chair will lock into position.
The Definitive Recliner Buying Guide | 1105 What kind of fabric/cover should you
choose for your recliner?
Your choice of fabric Or, you could
or leather upholstery choose a
is a pivotal decision performance fabric
when selecting a such as IClean or a
recliner for your sustainable fabric
home. There are so such as Conserve.
many choices, where
do you start? First, iClean™ fabric
you’ll want to decide offers a vast
whether you want selection of durable
leather or upholstery. stain-resistant
fabrics that provide peace of mind.
Important factors to consider when choosing
your chair cover: Conserve fabrics are sustainable soft and
durable fabric made from recycled water
• Comfort bottles.
• Appearance
• Durability Then it’s time to make sure your colour or
• maintenance pattern choices coordinate with the rest of the
• Cost furniture and accessories in the room. If you
are purchasing more than just one recliner,
If you decide to go with leather, the top grain you may want to enlist the help of an interior
is the best choice in terms of quality, but it designer.
will cost you more. Top grain is the layer of
the cowhide on the surface of the animal and To learn more about fabric and colour
considered the most valuable. If you decide choices: Colour Trends for 2020
on fabric upholstery, there are many options
available. 6 of the most common colour choices when
it comes to home decor.
Natural or human-made fibres and the type
of weave are among the upholstery options Cool vs. warm colours used in home decor.
from which to choose.
The Definitive Recliner Buying Guide | 1206 Problems with Recliners
Fundamentally, recliners have a number of moving parts. Whether it is through heavy usage,
misuse, or simply age, some of these parts can and do occasionally break down.
Understanding the quality aspects and features of the recliner you are looking at will help you
to better understand the likelihood of this occurring. Regardless of which manufacturer you end
up selecting, it’s worthwhile spending a few moments asking about what services are available
when problems arise.
Some less expensive models with little to no back support can cause back pain. If you have
a recliner that has space between the curve of the seat and your lower back, it will cause
discomfort. Placing a small cushion in that space to support your lower back can help.
There may be a problem with the frame or the mechanism of the chair. If you’ve chosen a power
recliner, the motor may break down, or the remote could fail. You may also be concerned if your
fabric gets stained.
It’s essential to contact the store where you purchased the recliner as soon as the issue arises.
Stay off of the chair to avoid any further damage. Most retailers will offer a warranty and
protection plan with purchase. They should be able to service your chair and confirm what types
of coverage you’re entitled to.
The Definitive Recliner Buying Guide | 13PROBLEMS WITH LA-Z-BOY RECLINERS
La-Z-Boy has many clients who have had their recliners 10, 15 and 20 years. However, after
decades of selling and servicing La-Z-Boy furniture, we are aware that from time to time
problems arise. We pride ourselves on being able to service these clients by providing parts for
some of these older chairs with our limited lifetime warranty.
Find out more about the coverage offered by La-Z-Boy Ottawa/Kingston in our article Is La-Z-
Boy’s comprehensive protection plan worth it?
Some areas of concern with La-Z-Boy Recliners:
• Size of recliner (will it be too big and bulky?)
• Why is my recliner making noise?
• Why is my fabric pilling?
• Are recliners ugly?
• Are recliners bad for your back?
• Are La-Z-Boy Recliner Chairs Guaranteed for Life?
Read about these issues and more in our article Top 7 Problems with La-Z-Boy Furniture.
The Definitive Recliner Buying Guide | 1407 Secret Recliner: Recliners that don’t
look like recliners
Urban Attitudes Collection: A fresh new collection of furniture with a contemporary twist on
classic styles. With clean lines and designer details, the recliners are designed to fit any room,
style and budget. All Urban Attitudes furniture is easy to mix, match and is fully customizable.
Duo Collection: Revolutionary sofas, loveseats, and chairs in traditional to contemporary styles
with the power to recline. Space-saving designer recliners that are both comfortable and stylish.
You can place the recliner right up against the wall while still having the luxury of putting your
feet up. There’s nothing else like it on the market today. It looks just like a regular chair but
performs like a recliner. Enjoy comfort without compromise.
La-Z-Boy’s European Collection is manufactured overseas and has a sleek and contemporary
style. European inspired furniture created for the European market who prefer small-scale
furniture for their homes. These styles are gaining popularity in North America and particularly
in Canada.
Available in several different colours of leather, the furniture is manufactured with the same
quality materials as our North American models.
For more on recliners that don’t look like recliners, check out these secret recliners.
The Definitive Recliner Buying Guide | 1508 Recliner Delivery or Pick-up
“When can I take possession of my new furniture?”
Save on delivery costs: If purchasing just one recliner, it’s possible to pick it up from the store
as soon as the day of purchase. Some recliners come apart for easier transport. For custom
furniture, you will have to wait a few weeks before you can pick up your recliner.
Most furniture stores will provide a delivery service if you live in the vicinity of their retail stores.
Recliners take a week or two for delivery if the chair you’re looking for is in stock. Custom
recliners typically take up to eight weeks for delivery*. These are being custom-built for the
client in their specific configuration and requirements.
There is usually a fee, anywhere from $50-$125. Sometimes the cost is included in the price of
the furniture, or you can get a discount with the more pieces you buy.
At La-Z-Boy, the flat fee for delivery is $99.95 within the Kingston or Ottawa markets.
Learn more about our delivery and pick-up services
*Due to COVID-19, furniture delivery times are taking longer than usual. Take a look at the article
How is COVID-19 Affecting Furniture Delays to learn more about current delivery lead times at La-Z-Boy.
The Definitive Recliner Buying Guide | 16Next Steps
La-Z-Boy has over 90 years of experience in furniture. The original recliner was
designed back in 1927. Two young cousins joined together to develop a chair that
would add both comfort and enjoyment to the lives of millions of families—and the
world’s first recliner was born!
There’s a reason La-Z-Boy has the number one selling recliner in North America.
Our highly trained sales consultants are recliner experts; they will guide you through
the purchasing process to help you find a recliner. The quality and variety of La-Z-
Boy recliners will ensure you find the perfect match for your needs.
Now that you have a better idea of what to look for in a recliner, you’re probably
ready to find the one that’s best for you.
Below, we link to some of our top selling La-Z-Boy recliners and reviews.
1. The Pinnacle Recliner (medium fit)
2. The Rowan Recliner (medium fit)
3. The Harbor Town Recliner (petite fit)
4. The Aster Recliner (tall fit)
5. The Trouper Recliner (medium fit)
We’re happy to answer any of your La-Z-Boy recliner pricing questions at any one
of our locations in the Ottawa and Kingston area or schedule a virtual or in-person
consultation today.
Shop our on-line specials in-stock and ready for delivery!
The Definitive Recliner Buying Guide | 17You can also read
