Choosing a Recliner: 6 Questions to Ask Yourself So you’ve decided to invest in something that’s good for your comfort, health, and decor: a reclining lounge chair! All the options out there can be overwhelming, and it’s tempting to choose the first one you see that looks spiffy. Trust us, it’s worth putting a little research into this purchase because it’s something you’ll use on a regular basis and hopefully will last you for years. You’ll thank yourself in the short term and the long term. Ask yourself the following questions to narrow down the options and get you a little closer to finding your perfect match.

1. What’s Your Favorite Color?

This might sound an icebreaker for a kindergarten class, but choosing a color is one of the first aesthetic decisions to make regarding a new lounge chair. It’s important to note that you might have multiple favorite colors, for different purposes. Maybe you love red cars but hate red dishware; or maybe you would never wear a pair of white pants but enjoy the clean simplicity of white furniture. The color you choose for a large piece of furniture can dictate the decor for the rest of the room. Because you’re not likely to change out your recliner every year, it’s wise to choose a versatile color that allows you to update your decor as often as you like without clashing with the main furniture. On the other hand, if the rest of your furniture already embodies neutral tones, you may opt for a pop of color in your recliner to draw attention in the room. Whether you want a statement piece in blue or something more neutral, determine the colors you like best and find suitable for long-term placement in your home.

2. What’s Your Preferred Texture?

Along with color, texture is an important aesthetic factor with any piece of furniture, but it can also apply to some functional features of a lounge chair. From leather to tweed to velvet, there are more fabrics than ever on the market; while finishes can range from metal to wood. Some recliners have a cushy and welcoming appearance, while others are so streamlined they barely look like recliners at all. It’s not just what’s on the outside that counts. The interior texture of your chair can make a big impact on its functionality. Think about whether you’d like something soft to fall into after a long day, or something more sturdy that will keep you sitting up straight and alert. Softer, cushiony chairs can feel more luxurious to sink into. More rigid chairs can help support your posture, and are often easier to get in and out of.

3. Where Will the Chair Be?

The recliner you choose will also be based on where you plan on keeping it: a bedroom chair is very different from a living room chair, which is in turn very different from a chair you’d have in a private den or office. Before shopping for your perfect chair, assess the room you plan to place it in. Take into account other decor and furniture in the room, and how much space you have for the new chair. Where it will fit into the overall scheme of things? Will you rearrange some of the existing furniture to give it a place? Will it have room to swivel, or to recline fully flat? The amount of space you have available may impact the size of chair you select, and your decision to get extra features like massage capabilities.

4. Do You Need Back Support?

Many people need chairs with proper back support to encourage good posture, relieve muscle aches, and prevent back pain. If you’re one of those people, try out a few chairs with different levels of back support before making your choice. A zero gravity chair may be the perfect fit for you; by elevating your legs above your heart, these chairs promote a healthy way of sitting and gently cradle your back in a comfortable position. With the right chair, you’ll be able to sink into relaxation without adding strain or stress on your muscles and joints. The goal is to ensure your health and comfort are optimized by whatever lounge chair you choose.

5. Do You Want Massage Functions?

Reclining chairs have one thing in common: they’re all for lounging. Some major differences appear when you start to consider just how luxurious you want that lounging to be. From straight-forward loungers to fully-equipped massage chairs, there’s something to meet your wants and needs. The best part about massage chairs is that many of them do double duty: they boost your space aesthetically and contribute to your wellness at the same time.

6. What’s Your Budget?

It’s always important to consider what you’re willing to spend. Fortunately, The Back Store offers a range of reclining chairs at different price points. The more luxurious chairs have more to offer in terms of design and technology, but even the more wallet-friendly options on the market are striking and reliable choices. You might break in the chair after a while ― creating that perfect groove ― but it doesn’t have to break the bank. At the end of the day, no matter the added features, size, or fabrics, the most important factor is that you choose a chair you relish sinking into. The appearance, texture, and functionality of your chair should make you feel calm, relaxed, and comfortable above all. That’s what reclining is all about. You’re the one who will enjoy this chair in the years to come, so choose the one that speaks to you and serves your needs best. If you’re ready to recline, reach out to the experts at The Back Store — we specialize in luxuriously comfortable furniture and we’re here to help you find your perfect chair.