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How to Choose the Right La-Z-Boy Recliner for You: A Step-by-Step Guide

August 12, 2024

How to Choose the Right Recliner for You

Est. Reading Time: 12 Mins

 

Are you in the market for a new recliner but unsure where to begin? This comprehensive guide to La-Z-Boy recliners will walk you through everything you need to know before purchasing. With over 90 years of experience in manufacturing and retailing recliners, La-Z-Boy has a wide array of options to suit any need. Whether you’re looking for manual recliners, power recliners, leather recliners, or specialized models like rocking, wall, or lift recliners, we've got you covered. 

 

Key Takeaways:


  • La-Z-Boy offers exclusive features to their recliners like zero gravity positions and a ratchet system for recliner safety.
  • La-Z-Boy has over 50 different style recliners to choose from, each ranging from small, medium, large and extra large.
  • There are many types of recliners to choose from, including rockers, wall huggers, swivels and even secret recliners. It is important to know which function you want in order to figure out if the piece can fit in your room.
  • If you’re looking to customize, La-Z-Boy has an adjustable headrest and lumbar support when you upgrade to power.
  • Starting price for a recliner is about $900. This may not include sales prices which may be lower.
  • Be sure to measure your space when adding any new furniture to your home!

In This Article…

 

  1. Consider Your Space
  2. How to Choose the Right Recliner
  3. How to Customize Your Recliner
  4. How Much Does a Recliner Cost?
  5. Delivery or Pick-up?
  6. Recliner Buying Checklist
  7. What to Expect Shopping at La-Z-Boy

 

 


Consider Your Space

 

Before you purchase any recliner, it is important to measure your space so that you can ensure your new furniture item will fit in your room. Here are some things to consider.

 

Assess Your Room

 

Before you head to your local furniture retailer, consider the dimensions and features of the room where your new recliner will be placed. Will it be in a family room where everyone gathers to watch TV, or in an adult-only room used for reading and hosting guests? Maybe it's intended for a den, an office, or even a nursery. Deciding on the exact spot where the recliner will go is crucial, ensuring you account for windows, doorways, and fireplaces to avoid any layout issues.

 

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Measure Your Room

 

To avoid any surprises, measure your room accurately. Remember that showrooms are generally much larger than your living space, so furniture can look smaller in the store. Bring your measurements, a sketch, or photos of your room to the store to help the salesperson find the perfect fit. It’s also important to measure the route your furniture needs to take to get to your room upon delivery, ensuring it can pass through hallways and doorways without issue.

To learn more about How to Measure Your Space, read this article.

 

Additional Considerations:

 

  • Wall Colours: What colour are your walls? Keeping this in mind will help with colour coordination.
  • Windows and Doors: Ensure your recliner doesn’t block any views or pathways.
  • Existing Furniture: Consider how the new recliner will fit with your current pieces.
  • Flooring: Protect hardwood floors with felt pads if necessary.

 

If you’re considering a larger redesign, hiring an interior designer might be beneficial. La-Z-Boy offers complimentary interior design services to help you visualize and plan your space effectively. To learn more about our services, take a look at this step-by-step guide.

 

 

 

How to Choose the Right Recliner

 

Personal and Household Needs

 

Are you buying the recliner for yourself or someone else? Will multiple people use it? Consider the heights and body types of all potential users. If heights differ significantly, you might need to compromise or even consider buying two recliners sized for each user. Also, factor in whether children or pets will use the chair, as this might influence your fabric choice and the type of recliner you choose.

 

Size and Style

 

Finding the right chair means taking into account your dimensions and style preferences. Sitting in a recliner should feel comfortable which means taking into account certain aspects. 

 

For example, your head should rest at the same level as the head cushion, and your legs should be about 90 degrees when you touch the floor, with your feet planted on the ground. If this doesn’t match up, the recliner you’re sitting in may not be right for you. Our sales consultants are trained and knowledgeable in helping you find the appropriate fit for your body type so don’t be afraid to ask for help in stores. 

 

To help better visualize, La-Z-Boy offers recliners in various sizes to fit different body types:

    • Petite: Users that are 5’4” and under
    • Medium: Users that are 5’4” to 5’9”
    • Large: Users that are 5’10” to 6’2”
  • Extra Tall: Users that are 6’2” and over

 

Each model is designed to provide optimal comfort for specific body sizes, ensuring that the recliner fits you just right. To get a better idea, take a look at this article about How to Find the Right Fit for Your Recliner.

 

How to Customize Your Recliner


Customization is everything. After all, how can a furniture frame be truly personalized without some unique touches? Before we see what kind of customizable options there are for La-Z-Boy, there are many types of recliners to choose from. 

 

Types of Recliners

 

Manual Recliners


La-Z-Boy Manual ReclinerManual recliners are available with a traditional lever or as a push-back model. These recliners offer straightforward comfort and reliability, making them a popular choice for many. They are typically more affordable and require no electrical power, which makes them versatile and easy to place in any room.

 

To learn more about the comparison between a Manual vs. a Power Recliner, take a look at this article.

 

Power Recliners

 

La-Z-Boy Power ReclinerIdeal for those with mobility issues or seeking easy reclining, power recliners provide smooth movement at the touch of a button. These recliners provide an unlimited number of leg and back movement options, allowing you to find the perfect position for relaxation. The motorized mechanism is more expensive but offers unparalleled convenience and ease of use.

 

To see some Best-Selling Power Recliners at La-Z-Boy, take a look at this article.

 

Lift Recliners

 

La-Z-Boy Lift ChairsLift recliners assist users in moving from sitting to standing with ease, making them perfect for individuals with limited mobility. These recliners have a powerful lifting mechanism that tilts the base and back of the chair forward, helping the user stand up safely.

 

To learn more about our Best-Selling Lift Chairs at La-Z-Boy, take a look at this article.

 

 

 

Swivel, Glider, and Rocker Recliners

 

Swivel ReclinerThese types of recliners provide additional movement options for those who enjoy a bit of motion while relaxing. Swivel recliners allow for a full 360-degree rotation, glider recliners offer a smooth back-and-forth motion, and rocker recliners provide a soothing rocking movement, ideal for nurseries or for those who find rocking motions relaxing.

 

Some people may get gliding and rocker recliners confused since they almost do the same thing. If you want to learn more about the difference between these recliners, take a look at this comparison article.

 

Browse our top-selling gliding recliners, and rocker recliners to learn more.

 

Wall Recliners


Wall ReclinerDesigned to fit in smaller spaces by reclining away from the wall, wall recliners allow you to maximize your room's layout without sacrificing the ability to fully recline. These recliners are perfect for compact living areas where space is at a premium. Wall recliners also don't have wooden feet, whereas rocker and swivel recliner have them or a wooden base.

 

To see some Best-Selling Wall Recliners at La-Z-Boy, take a look at this article.

 

Leather Recliners

 

Leather ReclinersLeather recliners offer a luxurious and durable seating option, perfect for those seeking a sophisticated look. La-Z-Boy's leather recliners come in various styles and colours, combining elegance with easy maintenance. With options ranging from manual to power and lift recliners, La-Z-Boy ensures you can find a leather recliner that fits your needs and aesthetic preferences.

 

To learn more about our Top-Selling Leather Recliners at La-Z-Boy, take a look at this article.

 

Secret Recliners


These recliners look like traditional seating but come with the hidden benefit of full recline functionality


Some popular chairs that appear stationary are High-Leg Recliners, which are stylish accent chairs that offer a sleek approach to the traditional recliner. Simply push back or use the side-mounted panel on a power version and let the magic happen! 


To see some Best-Selling High-Leg Recliners at La-Z-Boy take a look at this article.

 

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There’s also the Duo Collection, which combines the appearance of a standard sofa or chair with the ability to recline, saving space and maintaining style. These products are different from high-leg recliners because they look like regular chairs, and they are exclusively made with power. 


To learn more about the Duo Collection, read this article.

 

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7 Recliner Features Exclusive to La-Z-Boy

 

La-Z-Boy has many exclusive features that are not shown anywhere else…

 

  • Independent Reclining Back: Allows the user to recline with the back of the chair and rock while in a seated position.
  • Three-Position Locking Footrest: Locks into three unique positions, allowing the user to customize their comfort level.
  • Double-Locking Footrest: Used as a safety feature so that the footrest does not drop abruptly.
  • Adjustable Height Legrest: Allows the user to recline back into 16 different positions. Hearing each click of the chair tells the user they’re in a different position, and it can reach the point where your head and feet are at the same height.
  • Hinged Seat & Back: The seat and back cushions are hinged together, meaning no gaps are in the furniture frame when you recline.
  • Four-Sided Unibody Frame: All four sides of the chair frame are connected so that stress and pressure placed on the recliner are evenly distributed. 
  • Adjustable Reclining Tension: Based on your weight and strength, users can adjust the reclining tension by loosening or tightening the wingnuts underneath the frame.

To learn more about the 7 Exclusive Reclining Features at La-Z-Boy, take a look at this article.

 

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What Upholstery is Right for Me?

 

Now that we know what types of recliners there are, let’s see what custom options you can make for a La-Z-Boy recliner.

 

Fabric vs Leather


Your choice between fabric and leather depends on factors like comfort, appearance, durability, maintenance, and cost. Leather offers a distinctive look and is easier to clean, but it is more expensive, especially top-grain leather, which is known for its durability and luxurious feel. Fabric provides a broader range of colours and patterns and is usually more affordable, though it requires more maintenance to keep clean.

 

At La-Z-Boy, we offer over 800 different kinds of upholstery options, with a fabric and leather grading system that affects pricing depending on which cover grade you choose. To learn more about our Fabric Upholstery or our Leather Selections, take a look at these articles.

 

If you’re still unsure about whether to choose fabric vs leather, learn more with this comparison article.

 

Specialized Covers (Available both in Fabric and Leather)

 

  • Performance Fabrics: Durable and easy to clean, perfect for high-traffic areas.
  • Stain-Resistant Fabrics: Like La-Z-Boy’s iClean, designed to repel spills and stains, providing peace of mind in busy households.
  • Eco-Friendly Fabrics: Made from recycled materials, such as La-Z-Boy’s conserve™ Sustainable Fabrics, offering an environmentally friendly option.
  • Antimicrobial Covers: Protect against mould, mildew, and bacteria, ensuring a healthier living environment.
  • Pet-Friendly Fabrics: Designed to withstand scratches and wear from pets, making them durable and easy to clean.
  • Energy Restoration: Restore by Nanobionic® features a mineral-based fabric coating that transforms natural body heat into energy using infrared technology.

 

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Cushion Upgrade

 

For an additional cost, upgrade to firmer cushions that conform to your unique shape, enhancing comfort and ease of use, especially for those with mobility issues.

 

Handle Options


Customize your La-Z-Boy manual recliner by adjusting the length and material of the handle, with options like wooden, brushed nickel, or matte black. Handles can be elongated, and left-handed users can switch the handle to the left side, all for an additional cost.

 

Power Upgrade with Adjustable Headrest & Lumbar Support

 

Upgrade your La-Z-Boy recliner to power for easy reclining with a control panel or wireless remote. Adjust the headrest from 0-55 degrees and control the lower lumbar support to match your spine's curvature. Enjoy added convenience with built-in USB ports and memory settings for your favourite positions. All power upgrades can be cordless, thanks to our rechargeable battery pack

 

If you need help with learning about the controls, check out La-Z-Boy Power Furniture: How to Use the Control Panel & Remote

 

To learn more about the headrest & lumbar upgrade, check out the Review of La-Z-Boy Power Recliners with the Headrest & Lumbar Feature.

 

 

How Much Does a Recliner Cost?

 

Factors Influencing Cost

 

Recliner prices vary based on quality, customization, and additional features. The materials used in construction, the complexity of the reclining mechanism, and the type of upholstery all play a role in determining the cost. Higher-end recliners often come with more advanced features and better-quality materials, which justify their higher price tags.

 

Comparison with Other Brands

 

La-Z-Boy recliners typically start at $900 and go up from there, catering to the mid to higher-end market. For those on a tighter budget, big box stores like Costco or The Brick offer more affordable options, although they may not match the quality and customization options available with La-Z-Boy.

 

Furniture Financing at La-Z-Boy

 

Furniture financing offers a solution, allowing customers to pay off their purchases over time instead of upfront. La-Z-Boy partners with Flexiti Financing, providing instant approval and easy monthly payments. Once approved, customers can shop and finance with Flexiti anytime. 

 

For more information, check out this article on Furniture Financing.

 

La-Z-Boy Recliner Delivery or Pick-Up?


La-Z-Boy offers both pick and delivery options. Here is how they work.

 

Delivery Options

 

When purchasing a recliner, you’ll need to consider the delivery options available.

 

La-Z-Boy offers white glove delivery for $129.99 within Ottawa & Kingston, and out-of-town delivery costs $169.99. 

 For an additional fee of $25 per furniture piece, we can assist with either moving out old furniture from different rooms or bringing it to the curb. Additionally, we offer the option to dispose of any old furniture in a local landfill at an extra charge of $50 / per furniture seat. This service ensures that your new loveseat is delivered and set up with care, allowing you to enjoy it immediately without any hassle.

 

If you prefer to save on delivery costs, you can pick up your new recliner from the store. Some recliners come apart for easier transport, making it convenient to bring your purchase home yourself.

 

To learn more about our delivery services, read this article.

 

Recliner Buying Checklist


Now that you know everything you need in order to purchase a La-Z-Boy recliner, here are some additional things you’ll want to consider beforehand.

 

Must-Haves

 

When shopping for a quality recliner, it’s essential to consider several key factors:

 

La-Z-Boy Recliner in Ottawa Checklist


 

 

What to Expect When Shopping at La-Z-Boy Ottawa & Kingston

 

La-Z-Boy's experienced sales consultants are ready to guide you through the purchasing process, ensuring you find a recliner that meets all your needs.

 

Upon entering the showroom, you will be greeted by one of our sales consultants. One of the main questions they’ll ask you will be either “Are you looking for fabric or leather?” or “What style of furniture are you looking for?”

 

If you don’t know, that’s okay! They will be able to ask you questions that will help narrow down your search. Since height is a defining factor when looking for a furniture frame like a recliner, they might sit you down in a recliner that suits your specific height. 

 

After sitting down in a few chairs, hopefully, you’ll have a better sense of what it is you're looking for. Perhaps you enjoyed the firmness in one of the recliner’s cushions, or you liked the topstitching on another. Whatever the case may be, your sales consultant will pick up on those small details and choose a recliner that’s best suited for you.

 

If you end up liking more than one frame or any of our accessories to complete your room, our sales consultants can collaborate with our interior designers to bring your vision to life with our complimentary design services. If you're interested in re-designing your space with the help of our team, you can learn more about it with this article. 

 

La-Z-Boy Recliner Chair

 

What's Next?

 

You now have all the knowledge necessary to make a more informed decision when shopping for a La-Z-Boy recliner. Now, it is up to you to decide whether La-Z-Boy is right for you.

 

Connect with Us

 

If you’d like to browse our furniture selection in person visit one of our La-Z Boy Ottawa and Kingston stores today or schedule a visit online before coming in. 

 

Our sales consultants are always eager to lend a helping hand. Not only are they trained in knowing the large variety of furniture offered at La-Z-Boy, but they are also experts in furniture fitting and design.

 

You can also take advantage of our complimentary interior design services to see how our living room furniture could fit in your home. To see some of our Best-Selling Recliners, take a look at this article.

 

Related Articles:

 

Top Modern Recliners at La-Z-Boy

 

Problems with Power Furniture at La-Z-Boy

 

Review of the Swivel Power Recliners at La-Z-Boy

 

 

 

 

Photo of Nicholas Carchidi

Nicholas Carchidi

Content Writer at StyleMeetsComfort.ca

Nick has been the lead content writer for La-Z-Boy Ottawa and Kingston since 2022, specializing in the furniture industry. He collaborates with experts in his field, ensuring that each piece on the La-Z-Boy Learning Centre is accurate and valuable. He provides readers with expert knowledge on all things furniture. If you'd like to learn more about Nick, you can check out his LinkedIn page here.

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