Sofas
Recliner sofa buying guide
If you’re looking to combine comfort with style, a recliner sofa could be just what your living space needs. Whether you're upgrading your lounge or furnishing a new home, this guide will help you choose the perfect recliner to suit your lifestyle, space, and style preferences.
8th May 2025
Why choose a recliner sofa?
- Offers superior comfort with adjustable seating positions
- Can be a space-saving alternative to multiple pieces of furniture
- Available in a variety of styles and materials
- Perfect for creating a cosy, laid-back living area
- Often include features such as cup holders, storage or USB ports
- Ideal for relaxation
Types of recliner sofas
There are two main types of recliners to choose from:
Maer 3 Seater Manual Recliner Sofa
Manual recliner sofas
Manual recliner sofas use a simple push-back mechanism, making it easy to adjust your seat without needing a nearby power source.
They require little maintenance though are extremely reliable, making them a practical and space-efficient choice for traditional and casual living spaces.
Fulwood 1 Corner 2 Power Recliner Sofa
Power recliner sofas
Power recliners use an electric motor to smoothly adjust the position of the seat, backrest, and sometimes the headrest and footrest.
They offer precision comfort at the push of a button, and many models come with convenient features such as cup holders and USB ports for tech-friendly living.
How to choose between a manual and a power recliner
When choosing between manual and power recliners, it often comes down to budget, convenience, and lifestyle needs. Manual recliners are ideal for traditional or casual spaces where ease and affordability are key.
Power recliners, on the other hand, offer enhanced convenience and tech-friendly features — perfect for home cinemas, modern living rooms, or anyone seeking a luxurious, customisable seating experience.
Things to consider when buying a recliner sofa
Space and placement
Measure your space to ensure the recliner fits comfortably. Traditional recliners typically need at least 2 inches of clearance from the wall, so be sure to account for surrounding furniture, doorways, and walkways. If space behind the sofa is limited, consider our alternative options with sliding backs or elevating footrests—designed to offer the comfort of a recliner without compromising on space.
Fabric and upholstery options
Choose a material that fits your lifestyle. Leather is durable and easy to clean, while fabric offers a softer feel and a wider variety of textures and styles. If you have children or pets, consider microfibre options as these are snag-resistant for added peace of mind.
We offer over 190 upholstery and colour combinations on the majority of our sofa ranges, so you can find the perfect match for your home, blending comfort, practicality, and personal style.
Foxley 3 Seater Power Recliner
Popular features to look for in recliner sofas
When shopping for a recliner sofa, it’s worth considering the extra features that can elevate your comfort and convenience. Adjustable headrests and lumbar support offer tailored positioning to provide support, especially during long periods of sitting. Many recliners also offer customisable reclining positions, so you can find the perfect angle whether you’re reading, watching TV, or taking an afternoon nap.
Built-in storage and cup holders are perfect for keeping essentials like remote controls, snacks, or drinks close at hand, making your lounging experience even more enjoyable.
For enhanced functionality, consider extras like head tilt adjustment, media units with charging ports, or additional lumbar support to enhance both comfort and convenience.
How do recliner sofas enhance comfort and relaxation?
Recliner sofas enhance comfort and relaxation by offering adjustable positions that let you find the perfect angle for rest. Features like headrests, lumbar support, and head tilt provide added luxury and personalised comfort.
FAQs
Choosing the right recliner sofa depends on your space, lifestyle, and how you like to relax. Start by deciding between a manual or power recliner — manual options are more flexible in placement since they don’t need to be near a power source, while power recliners offer extra features like USB ports and smooth, motorised adjustments for added comfort.
Next, think about your space: a recliner armchair might be perfect for a cosy reading corner, while a 2 or 3 seater recliner sofa can transform your living room into a home cinema for the whole family.
Recliner sofas aren’t specifically designed for sleeping, so we don’t recommend using them as a regular alternative to a bed. That said, with their generous cushioning and adjustable positions, it’s easy to drift off during a movie or afternoon nap — they’re just that comfy.
If you’re looking for something better suited to overnight guests or occasional sleeping, a sofa bed is a more practical and supportive option, combining everyday seating with a fold-out mattress for added functionality.
The majority of our recliner sofas are designed to come apart — this may be just the backs, or the entire sofa splitting into two sections. Handy tip: to check if your dream sofa arrives in two pieces, look for "split base" on the product description page under the Delivery & Installation section.
Recliner sofa care and maintenance
To prevent wear and tear and maintain the comfort of your recliner sofa, follow these handy tips:
Recliner sofa maintenance
- Operate with care – always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using the recliner to ensure smooth and safe operation
- Never leave a recliner in the reclined position when not in use
- Avoid sitting on or leaning over the arms
- Keep the reclining sofa or chair well clear of obstructions before use
Recliner sofa cleaning
- Vacuum regularly - clean crevices and the underside of the recliner to prevent dust and debris build-up
- Spot clean spills immediately using appropriate cleaners for your upholstery type
- Be sure to use synthetic fibres or microfibre cloths on your fabric recliner sofa and avoid using harsh household cleaners, such as bleach, as they may damage the fabric on your recliner
- Consider professional cleaning annually to deep clean the upholstery
For more information on the best way to clean your recliner, read our reclining sofa care guide.
Why shop recliner sofas at ScS?
Delebio 3 Corner 2 with Left Hand Facing Power and Right Hand Facing Chaise
Wide range of styles and features
Choose from an extensive collection of recliner sofas available in a variety of styles, sizes, and materials. Whether you prefer luxurious leather or soft fabric, there’s a finish to match your taste. You can also choose between manual recliners, offering simple push-back comfort, or modern power recliners with built-in USB ports for added convenience. There’s something to suit every home and lifestyle.
Unmatched comfort and relaxation
Recliner sofas are designed with comfort in mind, offering adjustable seating positions. Perfect for unwinding after a long day or enjoying movie nights in ultimate comfort.
Great value with flexible payment options
You’ll find high-quality recliner sofas at affordable prices, along with a range of flexible finance options to help spread the cost.
Find your perfect sofa
We believe your sofa should be as unique as your home. That’s why our quality-crafted collection is fully customisable — with over 190 beautiful fabrics and colours to choose from, you can create the perfect configuration to suit your space. Each sofa is expertly handcrafted by us and ready to take pride of place in your living room.
For added confidence, every sofa comes with a 10-year frame guarantee as standard. Want even more peace of mind? Our selection of warranty care packages cover accidental damage, plus our Ultimate package covers structural defects, including upholstery and fillings, mechanical parts and electrical components — so you can sit back and relax.
Recliner sofa top picks
Bormida 3 Seater Power Recliner Sofa
Paroletta Power Recliner Swivel Chair
Cleveley 3 Seater Power Recliner Sofa
Castagnolo 3 Seater Power Recliner
Anzola 3 Seater Power Recliner Sofa
Maer 3 Seater Manual Recliner Sofa
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