A GUIDE TO ALL THE RECLINER PARTS YOU NEED

Wondering what parts are essential for your recliner? This article explains all the parts you need in detail. Read on to learn more.

Throughout my sales career, I’ve had many potential customers come to buy their recliners without knowing what to look out for. I would say that the ‘ideal recliner’ is one that properly functions and helps you relax after a long day.

Some recliners you pick out may frustrate you because they don’t have all the essential parts or the available ones don’t work.

If you don’t want to waste your money during purchase, keep reading because this article will teach you about a recliner’s essential parts (based on research).

Recliner Parts: The Basics

Some parts make up the basic structure of a recliner. Generally, a recliner is made up of the following components:

  1. Frame

 The frame is the foundation of a recliner chair, providing support and stability. It’s typically made of wood, metal, or both.

It’s what keeps everything in place.

2. Mechanism

The mechanism is responsible for the movement of the recliner chair, allowing it to recline and return to an upright position. It typically comprises several parts, including a lever or handle, a footrest, and a locking mechanism.

3. Upholstery

The upholstery is the outer layer of the recliner chair, covering the frame and providing a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing surface. It’s usually made of fabric, leather, or both.

4. Cushion

The cushion provides comfort and support for the body. It’s typically made of foam, and its firmness and density can vary depending on the desired comfort level.

Pro Tip: Choose a recliner with a cushion density of 1.8 and above.

5. Lever or Handle

The lever or handle controls the chair’s reclining mechanism, allowing the user to adjust the position of the backrest and footrest.

6. Footrest

The footrest is a crucial part of the recliner chair, supporting the feet and legs comfortably.

7. Electrical parts

Some modern recliners come with electrical parts such as a motor, wiring, and a control panel that allow for easy adjustment of the reclining position.

Understanding these basic parts of a recliner chair is essential for maintaining your recliner.

Recliner Frame Parts: The Foundation of Your Recliner

The frame of a recliner chair is the foundation on which all other components are attached, providing the necessary support and stability.

Here are some of the key parts of a recliner frame:

1. Arms

 The arms of a recliner chair are the parts that support the weight of the user’s arms and hands. They can be upholstered or left exposed and vary in shape and size depending on the chair’s design.

2. Seat Frame

The seat frame is part of the recliner that supports the user’s weight when sitting. It’s typically made of a sturdy material such as hardwood or metal and is designed to withstand the pressure and weight of the user.

3. Backrest

The backrest of a recliner chair is the part that provides support for the user’s back. It’s attached to the seat frame and can be adjusted using the reclining mechanism to achieve the desired comfort level.

4. Base

The base of a recliner chair is the part that supports the weight of the entire chair. It’s typically made of metal and is designed to stabilize the chair.

5. Springs

The springs are a crucial part of the recliner chair frame. They provide support and are typically made of metal. They are designed to absorb the weight and pressure of the user.

Over time, the frame may become damaged or worn out, decreasing the chair’s comfort. Repair your frame if this happens, and restore your recliner to its glory days!

Recliner Mechanism Parts: The Mechanics

The mechanism of a recliner chair is responsible for the movement and adjustment of the chair’s position, allowing you to recline and return to an upright position. 

Here are some of the key parts of a recliner mechanism:

  1. Lever or Handle

The lever or handle controls the reclining mechanism. It’s typically located on the side of the chair and is used to adjust the position of the backrest and footrest.

 Proper use of the lever or handle is important to avoid any damage to the mechanism.

2. Footrest

The footrest supports the user’s feet and legs. It’s attached to the reclining mechanism and can be adjusted using the lever or handle.

3. Locking Mechanism

The locking mechanism is responsible for holding the chair in place when it’s in a reclined position. It’s typically located on the side of the chair and can be released by pulling the lever or handle.

4. Springs

The springs are a crucial part of the recliner mechanism, providing the necessary tension for the chair to move smoothly. They are typically made of metal and are designed to absorb the weight and pressure of the user.

5. Cables

The cables connect the lever or handle to the footrest and backrest. They allow for the smooth and easy adjustment of the chair’s position.

Upholstery Parts: Hitting Your Comfort Notes

The upholstery of a recliner chair is responsible for the chair’s overall comfort and appearance. 

It’s part of the chair that comes directly with your body and is typically made of soft and durable materials such as fabric, leather, or vinyl.

list recliner parts

Here are some of the key parts of recliner upholstery:

  1. Seat Cushion

The seat cushion provides cushioning and support for your body. It’s typically made of foam or a combination of foam and springs and is covered with fabric or leather.

2. Backrest Cushion

The backrest cushion provides support and comfort for the user’s back. It’s typically covered with fabric or leather.

3. Armrest Cushion

The armrest cushion provides support and comfort for the user’s arms. It’s typically made of foam and is covered with fabric.

4. Upholstery Cover

The upholstery cover covers the seat, backrest, and armrest cushions. It’s typically made of fabric or leather and is available in various colors and styles to match the user’s preference.

5. Padding

The padding provides additional cushioning and support for the user’s body. It’s typically located between the upholstery cover and the cushions and is made of foam or other soft materials.

Choosing the right upholstery cover and padding can help you be more comfortable. It also creates a stylish look for your recliner, which is a plus.

Electrical Parts: The Power

Some modern recliners have electrical parts that enhance the user’s experience. They offer additional features such as massage, heat and lift assistance. 

These electrical components are typically located in the chair’s base and connected to a power source using a cord.

Here are some of the key electrical components of a recliner:

  1. Control Panel

The control panel allows the user to control the electronic features of the chair. It’s typically located on the side of the chair and can be operated using buttons or a remote control.

2. Massage Mechanism

The massage mechanism is an electrical component that provides a vibrating or pulsating massage to the user’s body. It’s typically located in the backrest or seat cushion of the chair. 

3. Heating Element

The heating element is an electrical component that provides warmth and relaxation to the user’s body. It’s typically located in the backrest or seat cushion of the chair and can be adjusted using the control panel.

4. Lift Mechanism

The lift mechanism is an electrical component that lifts the user out of the chair and helps them stand up. It comes in handy, especially for seniors and people with back problems.

It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for properly using the electrical components to ensure your safety.

Other Parts and Accessories: The Extras

Some other parts and accessories can enhance the comfort and functionality of your recliner. Here are some examples:

  1. Lumbar Support

Lumbar support is a cushion or pillow that provides extra support to the lower back. It helps alleviate back pain and improve posture, especially during long periods of sitting.

2. Headrest

 A headrest is a cushion or pillow that supports the head and neck. A headrest can help reduce neck and shoulder pain, especially during long periods of sitting.

3. Armrests

Armrests are cushions that provide comfort to the arms and shoulders. Armrests can help alleviate shoulder pain and provide a more comfortable sitting position.

4. Cup Holders

Cup holders are small compartments or slots designed to hold drinks or snacks. Cup holders can enhance the convenience of the recliner, especially during movie or game nights.

While watching a Lakers game, you don’t have to worry about where to place your beer.

5. USB Ports

 Some modern recliners come equipped with USB ports that allow users to charge their mobile devices while sitting. USB ports can enhance the convenience of the recliner, especially for people who spend a lot of time sitting.

6. Wireless Speakers

Some modern recliners come equipped with wireless speakers that allow users to listen to music or watch movies with enhanced sound quality. 

Wireless speakers can enhance the entertainment value of the recliner, especially for people who enjoy watching movies or listening to music. Check out this post where we highlight the best recliner in terms of speaker options.

Whether you’re looking for extra comfort, convenience, or entertainment, these parts and accessories enhance the usability of a recliner.

With this table, you can easily learn about purposes of each component of a recliner.

Part
Description
Function
Frame
The skeleton of the recliner
Provides structure and support
Upholstery
The fabric or leather covering of the recliner
Provides comfort and aesthetics
Reclining mechanism
The mechanism that allows the recliner to lean back
Allows the user to adjust the angle of the backrest and footrest
Footrest
The part of the recliner that supports the feet
Supports the user's feet and legs
Armrest
The part of the recliner that supports the arms
Provides a comfortable place for the user to rest their arms
Headrest
The part of the recliner that supports the head
Provides support for the user's head and neck
Springs
The part of the recliner that provides cushioning
Provides a comfortable, springy seat and backrest
Cushions
The part of the recliner that provides padding
Provides comfort and support
Bolts and screws
The hardware that holds the recliner together
Secures the different parts of the recliner to the frame

Final Thoughts

Understanding the various parts of a recliner is essential for choosing the right chair that meets your needs and preferences. 

Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot to watch a movie, read a book or relax, a well-designed recliner with the right parts can provide the perfect balance of comfort and functionality.

Regular maintenance of the parts is important for ensuring the durability and safety of the chair. Read our helpful guide on how to clean a recliner to learn how to keep yours sparkling clean.

Other Helpful Articles For You:

Scroll to Top