Buzz
Image Credit: Mytour / Alli WaatajaWhether you're diving into a good book or binge-watching your favorite series, a reclining sofa offers the ideal spot to relax and recharge. If you're concerned about traditional recliners appearing too bulky or out of sync with your decor, modern reclining sofas seamlessly blend functionality with style.
"Choose a reclining sofa with a sleek, low-profile design—it will still provide exceptional comfort when reclined," advises Isabel Ladd of Isabel Ladd Interiors. "Additionally, luxurious fabrics like velvet or custom detailing at the base can elevate its aesthetic appeal."
To identify the top reclining sofas, we evaluated highly-rated models, taking into account factors such as design, dimensions, materials, features, and cost. We also sought insights from interior designer Jerad Gardemal and nurse practitioner Nancy Mitchell to help you select the perfect reclining sofa for both your space and posture.
Top Pick for Reclining Sofas
Pottery Barn Ultra Lounge Roll Arm Upholstered Reclining Sofa
IMAGE: Pottery BarnIts design allows it to sit close to the wall, even when fully reclined.
The control panel detracts from the overall aesthetic.
Pottery Barn deserves praise for this ingeniously crafted reclining sofa, which blends seamlessly into any decor. Unlike conventional recliners, it mimics the appearance of a timeless three-seater roll-arm sofa. A standout feature is its forward-sliding seats, which eliminate the need for excessive space behind the sofa, maximizing your room's layout. Additionally, the adjustable headrests and footrests offer personalized comfort, making it a versatile choice for relaxation.
This option offers a selection of 30 fabrics, varying in texture and hue. Most fabrics are performance-grade, ensuring enhanced durability, stain resistance, and suitability for homes with children and pets. The color palette focuses on neutral beige tones, complemented by a few earthy shades.
Type: Power | Dimensions: 43 x 109.5 x 31 inches | Material: Pine, plywood, assorted fabrics
Top Affordable Reclining Sofa
Lark Manor Aneeta Lay Flat Reclining Sofa
IMAGE: WayfairThe seats can recline to an almost flat position.
The color choices are limited, and only the outer seats recline.
For those seeking the comfort of a reclining sofa without breaking the bank, the Red Barrel Studio Westport Reclining Upholstered Sofa is an excellent choice. This three-seater features a classic recliner design, including a tall backrest and plush cushions, enhanced with cool gel-infused memory foam for added support. What sets it apart is its near-flat recline capability, perfect for deep relaxation or even a quick nap.
There are a few key points to consider with this sofa. Only two of the three seats recline, leaving the center seat fixed. Additionally, you’ll need 10 inches of space behind it to fully extend. You can opt for either manual or power reclining mechanisms, with the latter increasing the price. While not the most budget-friendly option on our list (our small-space pick is slightly cheaper), it remains significantly more affordable than most power reclining sofas, without sacrificing size or quality.
Type: Manual or power | Dimensions: 34 x 85 x 42 inches | Material: Steel, polyester
Top Power Reclining Sofa
Ashley Furniture Hartsdale 3-Piece Power Reclining Modular Sofa
IMAGE: Ashley FurnitureThis sofa features a modular design, allowing you to customize and rearrange its components.
Only two out of the three seats are equipped with reclining functionality.
Featuring a clean, boxy design, this power recliner offers effortless comfort at the touch of a button. Its modular construction allows you to combine different pieces, creating configurations ranging from a cozy loveseat to a spacious sectional with a chaise.
It’s worth noting that the center armless seat does not recline—only the left-arm and right-arm sections provide the reclining feature. However, this sofa is competitively priced within its category. Additionally, each control panel includes a handy USB port for charging your devices.
Type: Power | Dimensions: 111 x 38.5 x 40.25 inches | Material: Chenille microfiber
Top Manual Reclining Sofa
Lark Manor Anirduh Upholstered Reclining Sofa
IMAGE: WayfairThe middle seat transforms into a functional console.
Only one color option is available.
For those who appreciate a classic recliner design, the Anirduh Upholstered Reclining Sofa is an ideal choice. Its robust build and plush cushioning, combined with manually operated reclining levers on the end seats, offer customizable comfort. A standout feature is the center seat, which folds down to reveal a console equipped with cup holders, a flat surface for remotes, and a magazine pocket. However, this sofa is limited to a single color option, and its delivery requires a doorway width of at least 34 inches.
Type: Manual | Dimensions: 87 x 42 x 40 inches | Material: Polyester
Top Stylish Reclining Sofa
Crate & Barrel Leisure Power Recliner Sofa
IMAGE: Crate & BarrelIts design avoids the typical recliner look, making it versatile for various decor styles.
The bouclé fabric may lose its shape and develop wrinkles with prolonged use.
For those seeking a contemporary sofa that breaks away from the traditional recliner aesthetic, this stylish option could be a perfect fit. Its sleek frame features firm cushioning for a polished appearance, paired with trendy bouclé fabric that adds a distinctive, textured touch. Keep in mind that bouclé may stretch over time and requires careful maintenance; the brand suggests using water-free cleaning solutions. The power recline mechanism shifts the seat forward, eliminating the need for significant clearance behind the sofa.
Type: Power | Dimensions: 46 x 84 x 28.5 inches | Material: Polyfoam
Top Sectional Reclining Sofa
Living Spaces Reclining Modular Sectional
IMAGE: Living SpacesThe modular design allows for easy customization.
Only two color options are available.
This sectional sofa boasts plush pillow-top cushions, offering a look similar to Restoration Hardware's famous Cloud couch but with the added benefit of power recliners. The six-piece modular design allows you to arrange the sofa to fit your space and preferences perfectly.
This setup includes five seats and a corner piece, with three seats featuring power recline functionality and built-in USB ports for charging. The sofa is available in just two chenille fabric options—light gray and dark gray. While the color selection is limited, the chenille is exceptionally soft, and the cushions, filled with Dacron and foam, provide exceptional comfort.
Type: Power | Dimensions: 158 x 120 x 40 inches | Material: Fabric
Top Loveseat
Orren Ellis Philippa Leather Power Reclining Loveseat
IMAGE: WayfairThis loveseat features a sleek, contemporary design and is crafted with genuine leather upholstery.
The headrests are manually adjustable, unlike the powered recline mechanism.
For a two-person reclining option, the Orren Ellis Philippa reclining loveseat offers dual power reclining seats, perfect for relaxing with a partner. Its sleek, modern design cleverly hides its reclining features—the headrest flips up manually for neck support, while the back and leg rest operate on a powered mechanism.
We’re also impressed by the genuine leather upholstery, though we wish it came in more color options beyond light and dark gray. Keep in mind that real leather requires care: avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading, and clean spills immediately to avoid stains.
Type: Power | Dimensions: 39 x 67 x 40 inches | Material: Leather
Top Leather Reclining Sofa
West Elm Axel Motion Reclining Chaise Sectional
IMAGE: West ElmThis reclining sofa is available in a wide variety of colors, including both genuine and vegan leather options.
Only one seat on this sofa has reclining functionality.
This stunning leather sofa features a powerful reclining seat and adjustable headrests for ultimate comfort. It’s crafted with durable, contract-grade materials, making it suitable for both home and commercial use. With 17 color options, including navy, off-white, and deep green, you can choose between genuine top-grain leather or vegan leather.
Type: Manual | Dimensions: 69.5 x 108 x 33 inches | Material: Leather
Top Velvet Reclining Sofa
Pottery Barn Tucker Upholstered Power Reclining Sofa
IMAGE: Pottery BarnIt offers 10 color choices, and the middle seat is reclining.
The weight limit is capped at 300 pounds.
This reclining sofa boasts a streamlined design that cleverly conceals its reclining capabilities. Surprisingly, all three seats, including the center one, are power recliners. The innovative reclining system tilts into the frame, enabling the sofa to sit flush against the wall without compromising functionality. With a simple button press, the footrest rises to align perfectly with the seat, and a headrest extends from the back. Available in 10 velvet shades, ranging from timeless neutrals to earthy tones, this sofa combines style and practicality.
Type: Power | Dimensions: 74 x 38 x 28.5 inches | Material: Polyester
Top Reclining Sofa for Small Spaces
Crate & Barrel Tillery 2-Piece Antigo Natural Fabric Power Recliner Sofa
IMAGE: Crate & BarrelThis zero-clearance recliner can be placed directly against a wall.
Only one color option is available.
Measuring 78 inches wide, Crate and Barrel's Tillery two-seater sofa is ideal for compact spaces like apartments or home offices, while still offering ample seating comfort. Its zero-clearance design allows it to be positioned against a wall without compromising its full recline functionality, making it a space-saving solution.
The sofa’s design cleverly conceals its reclining mechanism, resembling a traditional rectangular sofa with a timeless look—even the power recline button is discreetly hidden. It strikes a balance between plush comfort and firm support, avoiding the overstuffed appearance typical of recliners. However, it’s only available in off-white, though the performance fabric upholstery is spill-resistant and durable.
Type: Power | Dimensions: 78 x 40 x 37 inches | Material: Polyester, acrylic, and linen fabric
Top Kid- & Pet-Friendly Reclining Sofa
Arhaus Coburn Two Piece Motion Sofa
Its contemporary design is both stylish and robust, making it ideal for homes with kids and pets.
This is among the pricier options on our list.
For a kid- and pet-friendly sofa, durability and stain resistance are essential. The Arhaus Coburn Two Piece Motion Sofa delivers with its sturdy yet soft upholstery, designed to resist stains, odors, and moisture. Cleaning is a breeze—just use mild detergent and water, with a brush for tougher stains. Its chunky yet modern aesthetic avoids the typical recliner look, making it a stylish and practical choice for active households.
Type: Power | Dimensions: 44 x 88 x 31 inches | Material: Crypton
Top Reclining Sofa with Lumbar Support
La-Z-Boy Pinnacle Power Wall Reclining Sofa
IMAGE: La-Z-BoyHundreds of upholstery options are available.
Its compact size may not be ideal for taller individuals.
La-Z-Boy is renowned for its recliners, and this model lives up to the brand’s reputation. The power-reclining sofa features adjustable lumbar support, seat back, leg rest, and headrest, allowing you to customize your comfort. It even includes a memory function to save your preferred settings. With hundreds of upholstery choices, including leather and pet-friendly fabrics, and various cushion types, the customization options are extensive. However, its smaller scale may not accommodate individuals taller than 5’9”.
Type: Power | Dimensions: 38.5 x 78 x 42.0 inches | Material: Multiple options available
Final Verdict
Our top choice is the Pottery Barn Ultra Lounge Roll Arm Upholstered Reclining Sofa, thanks to its sleek design that sits flush against the wall and avoids the typical bulky recliner look. For a near-flat reclining experience, consider the Red Barrel Studio Westport 85" Lay Flat Reclining Upholstered Sofa, which also comes at a more affordable price.
Expert Tips for Shopping Reclining Sofas
Type
Reclining sofas come in two main types—power and manual—based on their reclining mechanisms. Power recliners use an electrical source, enabling you to recline with a button press. "For floating reclining sofas, some brands provide a rechargeable power bank that sits discreetly underneath the sofa, eliminating the need for a wall outlet," explains interior designer Ladd. Manual recliners, on the other hand, rely on a lever and body weight to recline. They are more budget-friendly but often lack adjustable recline settings.
Materials
Recliner upholstery typically includes leather, faux leather, and performance fabrics. Leather offers durability and stain resistance, though it may lack the plush feel of fabric. Faux leather mimics the look of real leather at a lower cost but may show signs of wear more quickly.
Performance fabrics are a favored choice for their softness, diverse color and texture options, and cost-effectiveness. These fabrics typically offer enhanced durability and stain resistance compared to standard materials.
When selecting upholstery, prioritize stain resistance, durability, and comfort, tailored to your preferences. For high-traffic households with children or pets, leather or performance fabrics are ideal due to their resilience.
Additionally, consider the internal construction of your reclining sofa, particularly the frame, which is usually made of metal or wood. Opt for solid wood over MDF (medium-density fiberboard) for greater strength and longevity. "We recommend solid wood frames and a variety of upholstery and cushion choices," advises Gardemal.
Size
Dimensions are a crucial factor when purchasing furniture, including reclining sofas. Measure your space carefully to ensure a proper fit. "Account for the extra space needed behind the sofa for reclining," suggests Ladd.
Some reclining sofas eliminate the need for extra space by shifting the seats forward as they recline, making them perfect for compact rooms or apartments. Additionally, consider your doorway width. While many sofas are delivered in sections, ensure these pieces can pass through your door without issue.
When shopping, think about the number of seats required—no one enjoys sitting on a cushion seam. Sofas with a single cushion spanning multiple seats are available but often come at a higher cost. Standard couches typically have three seats, but two-seaters and sectional sofas with four or more seats are also options.
Seat depth is another important factor. Standard cushions range from 21 to 24 inches, but deeper cushions are available for enhanced lounging comfort. Consider your usage—standard depth is better for upright sitting, while extra-deep cushions are ideal for reclining or napping.
Features
Beyond reclining, many sofas offer extra features like cup holders, storage compartments, USB ports, and even back massagers with heating elements. Choose features that align with your budget and lifestyle to enhance your comfort and convenience.
Common Questions
What Are the Advantages of a Reclining Sofa?
The main advantage of a reclining sofa is comfort. Reclining offers better support than sitting upright or lying flat, making it ideal for activities like reading or watching movies. Many people use reclining sofas as reading chairs or as cozy seating for home theaters.
Beyond comfort, reclining sofas offer health benefits. "Recliners enhance circulation by elevating the legs above heart level, reducing strain on the circulatory system," explains Mitchell. "This improved blood flow can alleviate discomfort caused by conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and varicose veins."
What Is the Average Cost of a Reclining Sofa?
A reclining sofa is a long-term investment. Prices vary based on type, materials, and features, but durable, high-quality options typically start around $900 and can reach several thousand dollars.
How Long Do Reclining Sofas Typically Last?
The durability of a reclining sofa depends on the model, usage frequency, and maintenance. Budget-friendly options may not last as long, and factors like heavy use or pets can also reduce its lifespan. On average, reclining sofas can last anywhere from a few years to 20 years.
Trust Our Expertise
This article was authored by Stefanie Waldek, a seasoned writer with nearly a decade of experience in home, travel, and lifestyle content. Waldek conducted extensive research on numerous reclining sofas, evaluating type, size, materials, features, and price. She also consulted interior designers Isabel Ladd and Jerad Gardemal, as well as nurse practitioner Nancy Mitchell, for expert insights.
