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The 12 Most Comfortable Recliners of 2023 (That Still Look Chic)

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Shopping for a recliner online is kind of like playing interior detective: You’re not sure what you’re going to get (or which chairs are too good to be true). What’s more, when it comes to comfort, you have no idea how it’ll feel—which is a major bummer if you splurge on a piece that’s non-refundable. So, thanks to copious amounts of research, plus advice on how to choose a recliner from a chiropractor, we’ve broken down the 12 most comfortable recliners (that look just as good as they feel).

The Most Comfortable Recliners at a Glance 

arhaus editors pick
Arhaus

How To Choose a Recliner, According to a Chiropractor

According to Dr. Christopher Notley, chiropractor and athletic therapist, “When it comes to purchasing a chair, comfort and adjustability is most important.” As a result, he’s fleshed out four important questions to ask—especially if you have a bad back—before choosing a recliner:

  1. Does the seat pan fit you comfortably? According to Dr. Notley, the seat pan (aka the flat surface area of the chair), “should not press up against the back of your knee (the popliteal fossa), because it will lead to too rigid of a sitting posture.” Instead, it should be contoured “to allow for even distribution of pressure…too deep of a contour will lead to restriction of leg movements.”
  2. Can the angle of the backrest be adjusted? “To reduce the amount of muscle activity of the erector spinae muscles (the muscles of the spine that travel all the way up the spine to the neck and head) and pressure on the intervertebral discs, [you want] a chair that can be angled backward slightly,” he says. To that end, the doc recommends you look for a recliner that can reach the ideal angle of 95 to 105 degrees from horizontal.
  3. Is there any lumbar support? Per the pro: “When a person slumps forward or backward into their seat, this results in more strain/pressure on the intervertebral discs. Having a chair that provides lumbar support, even when the backrest is angled, will further help reduce strain on the spine and limit forward and backward slumping.”
  4. Are there armrests and can they be adjusted? Ideally, the armrests should be able to move “up and down and in and out,” he says. “The armrests should be adjusted to support the arms so the muscles of the shoulder (trapezius, levator scapulae and rhomboids) can be relaxed.”

The 30 Most Comfortable Reading Chairs of 2023


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2modern

Top-Rated Recliner Overall

1. Monte Como Glider

  • Reclining Motion: Manual lever
  • Why We Love It: Doubles as a recliner and swivel chair, flexible polyurethane cushions, included lumbar pillow, customizable recline, spill-and stain-resistant performance fabric, removable/machine-washable covers, 11 color and finish options

Sophisticated, soft and ultra-customizable—this recliner is the crème de la crème of comfort meets style. First and foremost: You can tailor the chair to match your existing decor with multiple performance fabric options, including velvet, linen and wool, with six colorways (which span from elegant neutrals to statement jewel tones). You can also choose between three styles for the included lumbar pillow and two finishes for the metal base (brass or stainless steel). To that end, what makes this guy totally unique is that it’s a recliner and a swivel chair. The seat rests upon a smooth, 360-degree swivel base and features a hidden handle that activates the pop-up footrest (which you can simply kick down with your feet to return the chair to an upright position). And then, to top it all off, it has flexible, polyurethane cushions—which also happen to be eco-friendly—an ergonomic arm height and an ultra-high back for a supportive yet cushy feel.

Take it from new mother Linsy, who’s using the chair in her nursery: “This recliner is hands down my most cherished piece of furniture and most used. Not only does it look gorgeous in our space (unlike typical recliners), but it's designed in a supportive manner for breastfeeding. I love that I can easily recline without waking my daughter post-feed and relax comfortably for hours on end. It should also be noted how durable the fabric is—we've already had a few spills that wiped off SO easily, I couldn't believe it!” On that note, did we mention the covers are removable and machine-washable?

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Target

Best Recliner Under $200

2. Yaheetech Recliner Chair

  • Reclining Motion: Manual push-back (as in, you push your back into it to adjust it)
  • Why We Love It: 3 adjustable positions, pop-up foot rest, bouclé fabric is soft to the touch, multiple padding materials in the cushions, affordability

Aside from this chair’s $176 dollar price tag, we’re most blown away by the ultra-soft finish of its poly bouclé fabric (which almost skews toward a sherpa feel). It was designed with comfort and mobility in mind, where you simply lean back to activate the footrest and its three adjustable reclining positions. Plus, the cushions are constructed with multiple padding materials, including thick foam, fiberfill, sinuous springs and pocket springs—and its sturdy wood and metal frame can support up to 265 pounds at a time.

That said, the recliner is also a fan-favorite for its compact design: “It’s lightweight, so it’s easy to move around. If you’re looking for [something that can fit] a small space, or if you have short legs like me, then this chair is for you,” one reviewer writes. They also note: “I love the soft warm material (it’s like sitting in a blanket) and there’s plenty of cushioning and support so you can sit in it for a long period of time and remain comfortable.”

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Horchow

Most Splurge-Worthy Recliner

3. Bernhardt Milo Recliner

  • Reclining Motion: Electric push button
  • Why We Love It: Smooth leather upholstery, brushed tubular stainless steel frame, 4-level power recline on the headrest and footrest, bustle back cushion provides a moldable feel, built-in USB port

Alright, design lovers—this one goes out to you. Bernhardt is one of the most luxurious furniture vendors on the market and this motion-powered recliner lives up to all of its interior expectations. First, you have the smooth, high-grade leather finish that totally nails this year’s vintage rustic look. Then, there are the overstuffed cushions, which come with an attached bustle back cushion to provide a moldable ‘sink-in’ feel. But the cherry on top? Its features are super high-tech, from the four-level power recline on the headrest and footrest to a built-in USB port that can charge your devices as you lounge.

“Very sharp and modern looking. Not your grandfather’s recliner,” one reviewer writes. It’s also worth mentioning that the brushed tubular stainless steel frame can hold up to 135 pounds at a time and it comes fully assembled with white glove delivery for an extra $250 fee.

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Oilo Studio

Most Customizable Recliner

4. Oilo Studio Flynn Recliner

  • Reclining Motion: Electric and manual options available
  • Why We Love It: Ultra plush cushions, doubles as a glider and recliner, motorized/non-motorized customization, 15 fabrics (including performance options), ergonomic arm height and high back

With countless rave reviews on social media, it makes sense why influencers are obsessing over this recliner. Mainly, because it’s fit with supremely plush cushions, a high back and ergonomic arm height and a round base that doubles as a glider and 360-degree swivel chair. Aside from its comfort factor, however, the recliner is also ultra-customizable. We’re talking everything from choice of a non-motorized/electric recline or a metal/wooden base to 15 high-end fabric selections (which include bouclé, linen, velvet, chenille and so much more). Not to mention that it’s also available in performance fabric options that are stain- and spill-resistant: “The liquid will pool on the top, giving you time to hurry and soak up the spill before it soaks into the fibers,” the brand writes.

Take it from influencer Kate Watters, who loves the chair so much, she DM’d the brand gushing: “I didn’t think I wanted a glider and took a poll on my [Instagram] story…never [have I] had so much engagement on a post, [everyone] was telling me they lived in this recliner. I didn’t think I would find something aesthetically pleasing and was so pleasantly surprised to find [this recliner was just as beautiful as it is comfortable]. I love your styles and fabric offerings. I could choose a fabric for every room if I needed more gliders.”

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Arhaus

Most Durable Recliner

5. Arhaus Rowland Recliner

  • Reclining Motion: Electric push button
  • Why We Love It: Seat and back cushions are filled with down, foam and fiber, Crypton performance fabric is ultra-durable, two-motion recline button, oversized fit, sturdy frame that’s built to last

TBH, this recliner is *so beyond,* we don’t even know where to begin. The design is jam-packed with comfort—from extra-padded, down-feather-filled seat cushions to a supportive backrest made from foam and poly-fibers—and its oversized, 43-inch width is constructed from solid, reinforced hardwood for lasting strength and stability. To that end, the recliner takes “durable” to an entirely new level with a sumptuous Crypton performance fabric upholstery (aka the best of the best) and is engineered with stain-, odor- and moisture-resistant technology. And the real kicker is its two-button motion control, which offers up to 12 inches of adjustable recline.

“[My husband] spotted the Rowland Recliner and jokingly sat down on it, then remarked how comfortable it was. I wasn’t convinced but sat on it myself anyway. Wow. As someone with a broken tailbone, I couldn’t believe it didn’t give me any extra pain. In fact, it was more like a warm hug! I was sold and we added it to our living room design immediately. Stylish recliners can be difficult to come by, even more so ones that are this enjoyable,” writes Hoàng-Kim, blogger behind ColorAndChic.com, who tested this armless version of the Rowland (which is filled with all of the same materials).

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Raymour and Flanigan

Most Supportive Recliner

6. Raymour and Flanigan Enbright Recliner

  • Reclining Motion: Electric push button
  • Why We Love It: Motion recline is completely customizable, adjustable headrest, foam padded cushions and spring system, removable back cushions, easy-to-clean microfiber fabric

With thick, Dracon foam cushions and a 10-gauge sinuous coil spring system, this is the most supportive recliner on this list. Beyond its pillowy design—which features detachable back cushions for easy cleaning—the chair features a power-motion recline which is activated by the press of a button and a ratchet headrest that can be adjusted to your comfort level. Plus, it comes in two colorways (grey and denim blue), and the poly-microfiber fabric is soft-to-the-touch, stain-resistant and easy to spot clean with water- or solvent-based solutions.

Many reviewers say it’s the perfect level of firm yet supportive: “I can’t stand a mushy couch! I sat on just about every style in the showroom and this one is the firmest, most supportive and comfortable. Love the blue [denim colorway], too.” Another person also mentions: “If firm isn’t what you’re looking for keep moving. I love the support it gives and the ease of getting [up from the chair].”

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Wayfair
  • Reclining Motion: Manual knob
  • Why We Love It: Memory foam padding, swivel base, stain-repellant genuine leather, included ottoman, 40 inches of recline

Speaking of supportive recliners, this number from Corrigan Studio features an ergonomic design that’ll keep your back, neck and tailbone in the ideal lounge position. It features 40 inches of adjustable recline set atop a swivel base, while the memory foam cushions are extra padded with fiber-wrapped foam for a firm yet flexible feel. The genuine leather upholstery is also unique in its design, where it’s water- and stain-repellent (which is hard to come by for real leather upholstery). Plus, it includes an ottoman made from the same material, which meets the seat pan at the perfect height to prop up your feet (no matter what position you’re in).

One reviewer writes: “My husband loves his new chair. His back no longer hurts and he gets out of it much easier than his old armchair. It also fits right into a corner of the room and looks very sleek.” Plus, another person adds: “I’ve had this chair in a vacation rental for many years and the comfort is a [9 out of 10]…the leather is water-repellant—a bit unusual—but the feel is soft and appealing. The leather is very thin, maybe 0.4-mm thick, and backed by a gauze-like cloth that is tightly bonded to the leather to add strength while limiting stretch.”

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Crate and Barrel

Best Oversized Recliner

8. Crate & Barrel Russo Reclining Sofa

  • Reclining Motion: Electric push button
  • Why We Love It: Two-in-one seat design, separate reclining controls on each armrest, extra padded cushions, top-grain leather is soft to the touch

Part loveseat, part recliner, this is the absolute best oversized option on the market. The design features two seats in one, where the 79.5-inch width includes two separate footrests and headrests that are activated by buttons on each armrest (which also have USB ports). The back unfolds to support the head, while the rail elevates to raise the feet—and you can customize the angle according to your preferences. The cushions are also constructed with comfort in mind where the high-resilience is foam wrapped in fiber-encased ticking for extra protection.

The top-grain, semi-aniline leather upholstery is a huge plus with reviewers, where one person writes: “The leather is wonderfully soft and comfortable. The power adjustment makes it customizable and comfortable for people of any height. My adult children and their families recently visited, and everyone raved it is the most comfortable sofa they have ever sat on.” Plus, another person says, “This couch looks much more modern than most of the reclining couches on the market. The leather is soft and supple…it comfortably fits three people across [when it’s upright] and normally, when reclining, we fit a 35-pound dog, a 10-pound dog and two people very comfortably. I also like that when this couch reclines, the back ’oesn't inch further back so you can put a console table behind it.”

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Wayfair
  • Reclining Motion: Manual push-back
  • Why We Love It: Elegant and compact design, simple and easy to recline, foam-filled cushions with sinuous springs, velvet fabric

With a 26.5-width, it’s hard to find a more compact recliner that won’t sacrifice style for comfort. It has an elegant silhouette that’s built with a mix of solid engineered wood and metal while the wingback and rounded track arms offer a sleek, French country vibe. The polyester fiber, foam filling and sinuous springs also provide ample seat and back support—and it’s hard to ignore its dreamy velvet upholstery (which is available in four dramatic hues). The recline is also simple and straightforward, where you simply push back to the ideal position while activating the hidden footrest.

“This chair is actually quite comfortable—perfect for my reading nook,” one reviewer says. “Not too stiff and not too fluffy, it’s just right…The chair is very narrow and does not take up too much space. It’s very elegant and sophisticated looking.” That said, one person warns: “It’s pretty compact and not ideal for anyone 6-foot or more.”

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Pottery Barn

Best Nursery Recliner

10. Pottery Barn Kids Serene Recliner

  • Reclining Motion: Manual or electric
  • Why We Love It: Designed with high back and sloped arms for nursing mothers, down-filled cushions are extra padded, 360-degree swivel base, available in 38 performance fabric options

Yes, we’ve included (more than a few) recliners that would be great in a nursery. BUT, if you’re looking for something that’s made for kids/nursing, this guy is the ticket. It was intentionally crafted with a simplified profile, where the high back and arms slope slightly outward to offer plenty of elbow room for feedings. It’s also thickly filled with down-padded cushions and the chair is virtually silent as it swivels, so you won’t have to worry about squeaks waking the sleeping baby. Plus, the reclining mechanisms are within easy reach (even for mothers with shorter arms) and were designed to be easily accessible while holding a baby. Oh, and did we mention that it’s also available in 38 (!!) different performance fabrics, including linen, tweed, leather, bouclé and distressed velvet?

“I’ve used [this recliner] every day/night for the last seven years with all three of my kids,” writes one reviewer. “[Keeps you comfortable for hours], from middle of the night feedings to cuddles and reading a book before bed.” Another new mother writes, “[What sold me on this chair] was the variety of fabrics to choose from—and most importantly, the size. I’m tall and plus size and my husband is over six feet. I didn’t want a chair that felt as if it was going to break as I rocked my (probably huge) baby. Nor did it want one that pinched my butt.”

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Soho Home

Best Bouclé Recliner

11. Soho Home Miles Recliner

  • Reclining Motion: Manual push-back
  • Why We Love It: Stunning design inspired by Soho Farmhouse, bouclé fabric is cozy and soft, cushions are filled with foam, feather down and fiber, push-back recline doesn’t detract from the design

Yet another luxurious recliner you should definitely think about adding to your design repertoire? This stunning bouclé option from Soho Home. Its design was inspired by one of Soho House CEO Nick Jones's favorite chairs, and pulls from the natural, cushy seating seen throughout the Soho Farmhouse. The generous, deep-sit shape is complimented by stained, solid wooden feet while the wingback seat is wrapped in a tactile Italian boucle (cozy nirvana). It’s then filled with a blend of foam, feather down and fiber in the cushions, giving it a springy feel that still allows you to sink in. The push-back reclining mechanism is also a plus, where it doesn’t distract from the beautiful pleated details on the sides of each arm.

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Wayfair

Best Leather Recliner

12. Westmere Leather Recliner

  • Reclining Motion: Manual push-back
  • Why We Love It: reclines to 140-degress without buttons or levers, hidden footrest, includes foam cushions with springs, upholstered in 13 different finishes of genuine leather

Finally, another Wayfair staple people are loving. This guy pushes back to 140 degrees—without levers or buttons required—and features a super soft, genuine leather upholstery (available in 13 colors). The thick, foam-filled cushions also make it one of the most comfortable—and ergonomic—options on this list. Plus, it includes a hidden footrest that pops out when you lean back into the seat.

One reviewer writes, “Perfect! Not too bulky and doesn’t take up the whole room (like other recliners). [The] high back is [extremely] comfortable for lounging and extends all the way out to a lying down position. Leather [quality] is beautiful and so is the color.” Our two cents? You might want to hurry before the 60 percent discount on this beauty expires.

The 18 Most Comfortable Sofas of 2023


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