A recliner chair ;reclines when the occupant lowers the chair's back and raises its front. It has a backrest that can be tilted back, and often a footrest that may be extended by means of a lever on the side of the chair, or may extend automatically when the back is reclined. A recliner is also known as a reclining chair, lounger, and armchair. Modern recliners often feature an adjustable headrest, lumbar support, and an independent footstool that adjusts with the weight and angle of the user's legs to maximize comfort. Additional features include heat, massage, and vibration. Some models are wheelchair accessible. Recliners can also accommodate a near supine position for sleeping (making them multifunctional furniture) and are common in airplanes and trains, as well as in homes.

Recliners with casters

Traditional home recliners are generally intended to be large immobile objects that never move and must be dragged or carried to be moved. Now home furniture manufacturers produce a thick padded leather or overstuffed fabric recliner with casters. Recliners with casters are also designed for a medical setting such as for use in a nursing home or hospital. Medical recliners often have accessory hooks and an optional removable arm and tray table.

Wall hugger recliners

Used for apartments, the wall hugger recliner is used to save space. A wall hugger recliner is positioned with inches between itself and the wall and only reclines forward. This is achieved by utilizing a gliding mechanism underneath the seat that pushes the bottom half of the chair forward so the back of the recliner never gets any closer to the wall thus ensuring efficient usage of space.

Riser armchairs

A riser armchair or lift chair includes a standing-up system, for the elderly and people with limited mobility.

Power vs. Manual Recliner: Pros, Cons, and More

When it comes to recliners, finding the perfect one for your home can be a challenge. Do you opt for something with power so you can recline with the push of a button? Or do you prefer a manual recliner chair ;that requires a little effort, but offers more of an aesthetic appeal?

Whether power or manual, you want a recliner that's comfortable and on par with your style preferences. There are pros and cons to each, and we're here to break them down so you can make the best decision for your home!

Pros

Manual recliner chairs are a bit more carefree than power recliners. They have the flexibility to go anywhere in your house, they tend to be less bulky, and many styles don’t look like a “typical recliner.”

The Viceroy Recliner and Burke Re-Invented Recliner are two stylish and sneaky options - you wouldn’t know they recline until you push them back!

Some manual recliners, like the Quinton Re-Invented Recliner, can be equipped with power as long as the manufacturer has the ability to do so. If there’s a manual recliner you like that has this option, be sure to let your designer know when you go to purchase it so the manufacturer can build in space for the motor.

Cons

One significant con of a manual recliner is that it requires more effort to push it back. If you find that you struggle with this, it may not be the best option for you.

It's important to note, however, that not all manual recliners are the same. As far as ease of use goes, Stephanie said, “Stressless recliners are probably the easiest to push back because of their continuous mechanism.”