A Buyer’s Guide, Product Recommendation, and FAQs
Reclining sofas are the ideal piece for almost any kind of sitting or living room, whether you’re going for a contemporary look or a more traditional setting. They not only light up the room, but they might also be that missing piece to complete the puzzle that is setting up a living room or remodeling a previously-existing one.
Now you’ve decided you need one, you go online and get easily overwhelmed with the large number of options that exist turning what was supposed to be a fun activity into a chore.
With months of well-targeted research, we were able to take away most of the work and leave you with just the job of going through the article and making a well-informed decision at the end.
What to Look out for when selecting a reclining sofa in 2022
While surfing through professional articles, consumer reviews, and the likes, we noticed a trend of subjectivity when it came to deciding what the best reclining sofa was especially in 2022 where the online and physical markets are filled to the brim with various designs, colors, sizes and shapes of couches.
However, to reduce the variability and up the objectivity, we were able to find criteria that a lot of these reviews and personal experience stories had in common. This goes to show that before selecting a couch, there should be minimum criteria that it should meet for it to be worth your money and enthusiasm.
Frame material
The frame of the couch is the foundation upon which all other components of the couch are built. Hence, a sturdy, firm, and durable frame would translate to a long-lasting solid couch. Even the adjustable components of the couch are attached to the frame.
The most common frame materials on the market currently are metal, hardwood, and manufactured wood; each with its inherent flaws and strengths.
Metal frames are the firmest and most durable materials in the group, however, they tend to get squeaky over time. They may also create uncomfortable pressure points if the cushions are not changed periodically. Hardwood offers a comparable amount of giving and durability with little of the problems of the metals frame.
Manufactured wood is a pretty common frame material, particularly amongst the low-end sofas. It’s the lightest and weakest material of the three but because of the acceptable functionality, durability, and affordability, these flaws can be easily overlooked.
Upholstery material
The two main types of upholstery material on the market are leather and fabric.
● Leather
Leather is, well leather. It is the most durable and exquisitely esthetic. It may be on the pricey side and is found more in the higher-end couches. Some also consider it gets uncomfortable if you’re on it for a long time particularly in warm weather, plus it’s pretty hydrophobic (it hates water)
● Fabric
This is kind of an umbrella term for any synthetic material that is used as upholstery material. They include; Polyester, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Polyurethane, amongst others.
They are generally easier to clean, more water- and stain-resistant than their leather counterpart. Also, they are much more affordable and far less durable.
Comfort
This is determined to a large extent but not entirely by the previously discussed upholstery/finish material. Other factors that can affect the comfort of your reclining sofa are; the amount and type of stuffing in the cushions; the adjustability and settings and the general design of the sofa.
You would want to go for a budget-smart sofa that suites your preferred comfort specifications but generally you should go for soft, high seat-back cushions that would provide enough lower back support especially if you plan to be sitting for hours on end (this is not recommended medically!)
Adjustability and controls
Your couch can be controlled manually or electrically.
Manually controlled couches come with the traditional reclining lever which some might find difficult to operate. However, bear in mind that even though the electrically-controlled reclining sofas are easier to operate and give you greater control over your angulations, they have to be plugged into an outlet that limits where they can be placed in the house.
Additional features
These are more common with the electrical reclining sofas. They include a bunch of functions that either increase the functionality of the couch or give a whole new function.
They include:
- USB-charging slots
- Adjustable headrests
- AC outlets
- LED lighting
- Cup holders
Bear in mind that the more additional features a couch has, the more likely it is to be expensive.
7 Best Reclining Sofas in 2022
1. Caldwell Contemporary Faux Leather Reclining Sofa
Sturdy, comfy, affordable, and esthetically pleasing, this reclining sofa from Ashley ticks most/all of the checkboxes in the buyer’s guide and “sits” comfortably atop my list. This wouldn’t be the last couch designed by Ashley, a highly reputable brand in the sofa market.
Features
- Reclining Loveseat/sofa design
- Polyurethane/polyester/PVC fabric upholstery
- Metal frame
- Manual/Powered options
- 40″D x 88″W x 40″H
Pros
- Comfortable even for long periods
- Sturdy
- Easy to assemble
- Durable synthetic faux leather upholstery
- Manual and powered options are available
Cons
- A reduced lower back support
2. Austere Contemporary Faux Leather Reclining Sofa
A very close second on my list is another item designed by Ashley, with a tough faux leather exterior and wooden interior, it is built to last and for maximum comfort and adjustability.
Features
- Reclining loveseat design
- Faux leather upholstery
- Wooden/metal frame
- Manual and powered options are available
- 40″D x 91″W x 42″H
Pros
- Sturdy and long-lasting
- Easy to clean and stain-resistant
- Easy assembly
- Great for family spaces
- Esthetically pleasing
Cons
- May get uncomfortable after prolonged use
3. Rivet Revolve Modern Reversible Sectional Sofa
I know this isn’t a recliner, but it was one of the best and most authentic sofas and can sit pretty in whatever setting of living room you’re going for. The fact that it was manufactured by Rivet, a highly reputable sofa manufacturer is a huge plus.
Features
- L-shaped sectional design
- Polyester upholstery material
- Wooden frame
- Included chaise to complete L shape
- 34.6″D x 79.9″W x 35.4″H
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Suitable for smaller spaces
- Sturdy
- High value for money
- Easy to clean and stain resistant
Cons
- Durability may be questionable on heavy usage
4. Earhart Faux Leather Manual Double Recliner
If you don’t mind the limited space (further reduced by the mid armrest) or iif a smaller size is what you’re going for, this loveseat is ideal for you as it seamlessly blends comfort, easy of adjustability, functionality and durability.
Features
- Loveseat with mid armrest design
- Faux leather (polyurethane) upholstery
- Metal/wooden frame
- Manual recliner with dual cup holders
- 41″D x 82″W x 42″H
Pros
- Esthetically pleasing
- Comfortable with ample back support
- Easy adjustability
- Can be cleaned easily with a moist cotton rag
- High value for money
Cons
- People may find it bulky for the limited space it offers
5. Beverly Fine Furniture Sectional Sofa
Another sectional is making its appearance and as a spoiler, it wouldn’t be the last. This made a special feature simply because of massive space and how ideal it would be if you’re looking for a more spacious couch for a family remodel, or setting up a living room from scratch.
Features
- L-shaped sectional design
- 4-5 seat capcity
- Faux leather upholstery
- Wooden frame
- 103.5″D x 74.5″W x 35″H
Pros
- Spacious enough for small to medium sized families
- Little to no assembly required
- Long lasting upholstery and frame
- Easy to clean
- Sturdy
Cons
- Comfort may be limited particularly after prolonged use.
6. Game Zone Contemporary Faux Leather Reclining Sofa
This 3-seater faux leather recliner from Ashley is the most spacious recliner on this list. However, what may be considered space by some may be considered bulk by others. So, depending on your space requirement and availability this may be absolutely right or disastrously wrong for you.
Features
- Up to 3-seat loveseat option
- Polyurethane (faux leather) upholstery
- Wooden/metal frame
- Manual adjust mechanism
- 39.5″D x 84.5″W x 45″H
Pros
- Adequate space for folks with high space requirement
- Easy to assemble
- High value for money
- High comfort
- Easy to clean with a moist cotton rag
Cons
- May be bulky for smaller apartment spaces
7. Pawnova Convertible Sectional Sofa
Last, but not least, this L-shaped sectional sofa from Pawnova may not be the most flashy but it’s simple and gets the job done. It’s a more budget-friendly option for those on a tight budget that still want sufficient functionality.
Features
- L-shaped loveseat design
- 4-seat capacity
- Wooden frame
- Suede fabric
- 47.5″D x 71.75″W x 28.75″H
Pros
- Suitable for small spaces
- Easy to assemble
- Affordable price
- High storage capacity
Cons
- Low comfort
- Could be more durable
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most comfortable recliner couch?
Based on the criteria discussed in the buyer’s guide section, i’d have to go with the top of my list i.e the Calderwell Contemporary Faux Leather Reclining Sofa. It perfectly balances out comfort, durability and price. In addition, it gives you the choice of manual vs powered adjustibilty panels.
Are reclining sofas tacky?
Well, that depends on what your threshold and definition of tacky is. However, universally sofas tend to look tacky if they’re old and not well taken care of.
How long should a reclining sofa last?
On average (taking price, frame and upholstery materials, usage and maintenance into consideration), a reclining couch should last for six to sixteen years. It would be on the lower end of the spectrum if subjected to more heavy, day and night use.
Do Smith brothers make reclining sofas?
Short answer, Yes. Long answer, for years, Smith Brothers have made both manual and motorised recliners and a wide range of sectionals that can help complete the theme of your choice.
Summary
Getting a comfortable and durable couch shouldn’t be that difficult as long as you understand the basis for those features. If you do, selecting the best reclining sofa even in 2022 should be a breeze.
