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How to Measure a Recliner Chair? Room Measurement Tips [Included]

Writer's picture: sunandkrissunandkris
how to measure a recliner chair

With the right recliner chair, your home can be an oasis of comfort, style, and beauty. Whether you’re refinishing existing furniture or designing a new home, knowing the proper measurements can help make the right purchase decision.


The perfect recliner chair also needs to be chosen based on size and dimensions to make sure it is a comfortable fit for your space as well as your body.


Placing the recliner chair correctly is, in fact, one of the simplest ways to give your house the feel of extravagance, but before heading to the best furniture stores in Kirti Nagar or your nearby showroom for a luxury piece, know how to measure a recliner chair correctly.


This comprehensive guide walks you through the steps to measure a recliner chair properly and select the correct size for your home.


How to Measure a Recliner Chair?


Having a recliner chair measured can seem straightforward, but it takes careful measurement and the right approach to get the measurements right.


The three dimensions — width, depth, and height — are important to get the most efficient use of space and ensure a comfortable fit for the users.


Many people make the mistake of measuring only the basics, with nothing critical in their checklist such as the room to stretch the back out completely or the extra space needed for mechanical accessories.


Whether you’re looking for a new recliner or wondering if you can get by with your current decor and setup to fit in a recliner, these measurement steps will help you get started.


1. Width Measurement


When you want to find the right measurement for your recliner chair, consider width first as this is probably the most important factor in selecting a recliner size.


Measure the widest part of the chair, which generally includes:


- Distance between the outer edges of the armrests

- Any extra width when the chair is in a reclined position

- Protruding features or mechanisms

- Swivel recliner base width


Taking the correct width measurements for doorways and small spaces are especially crucial. Many homeowners don’t consider the extra space required for swivels and reclining features which often causes installation problems.


2. Depth Measurement


The depth metric needs to be taken into account both in the standing position and in the reclining mode:


- In upright position: Measure from the back of the chair to the front edge of the seat.

- In reclined position: Measure from the back to the extended footrest.


Add additional room for the reclining mechanism. Keep in mind that depth needs will differ widely between different recliners. So, never be afraid to leave a few extra inches of clearance to accommodate smooth function and prevent ruining the wall.


3. Height Measurement


To get a complete picture of the accurate recliner chair measurements, measure:


- From floor to the top of backrest

- Floor to seat cushion

- Headrest height (if adjustable)

- Height when fully reclined


Be particularly careful of measuring height in rooms with low windows or wall-mounted fixtures. When the height is right, your recliner will not block architectural elements or affect the look of your room.


Tips for Accurate Measurement


To ensure precise measurements of recliner chair dimensions in cm or any other unit:


- Take a good quality metal tape measure

- Hold the tape measure straight and tight

- Allow for heavy upholstery and padding

- Check twice to confirm accuracy

- Consider using a laser measurement for inaccessible areas


Professional furniture installers will suggest taking photos of your measurements and your room space to see how the furniture fits in. This extra step helps save money and ensure your recliner is sized just right for the desired location.


Importance of Room Measurements to Fit a Recliner Chair


Placing a recliner chair is among the few ways to make a home feel luxurious, provided the room and recliner dimensions are compatible. If you need to calculate recliner dimensions in feet or any other unit, remember:


- Door widths for delivery

- Hallway clearance

- Room corner placement

- Extra room for full recline

- Distance from walls and other furnishings


It’s important to know how your room is laid out and how it is being used to estimate a comfortable walkaround space and furniture placement. Ideally, a recliner should make the room functional and should also look good while still providing enough walking space.


Comfort Considerations


Comfort plays a key role once you have the furniture placed in the home. Keeping the aesthetics apart, first measure your chosen recliner for the following estimates. This ensures proper seating and adequate support, whether the chair is placed upright or reclined.


1. Seat Height


If you are going to size a reclining chair for a person, height is key:


- Find the distance from the ground to the top of seat pillow.

- Make sure the feet stays flat on the floor.

- Consider user height and mobility needs of the user.

- Facilitate both easy sitting and standing.


The right seat height depends on the user’s body type and mobility issues. Try the various heights until you’ve got the right balance.


2. Seat Depth


Proper seat depth is an essential parameter to ensure all-day comfort:


- Measure between seat to backrest, from front to back

- Measure 2-3 inches from knee bend to seat edge

- Keep in mind various body types and leg lengths

- Ensure adequate thigh support


Seat depth is important to avoid straining your lower back and also for circulation of blood to the legs.


There might be a different depth needed for different body types, so check for adjustable depth options if there are multiple members of the family that will use the recliner.


3. Backrest Height


Measure the backrest height for head and neck support:


- Find the measurement from the seat to the top of backrest.

- Keep in mind the user height to get it aligned properly.

- Account for height adjustable headrests.

- Ensure the chair provides enough neck support, whether upright or reclined.


The right-sized backrest can also make a huge difference to how comfortable you are and how comfortable your neck feels when sitting for long stretches of time.


For those users who intend to read for long periods or watch television, consider the upper back and head support features.


4. Armrest Width and Height


Armrest comfort affects overall usability. Consider the following steps to get accurate measurements:


- Find width and height from the seat

- Consider padding thickness

- Test arm positioning comfort in all recline positions

- Ensure proper elbow support


Correctly positioned armrests help reduce tension on the shoulders and upper back when sitting for extended periods.


The ideal armrest design should allow for natural arm positions, as well as other activities such as reading, mobile phone usage, or simply relaxing.


Additional Tips:


Before making a final decision, consider assessing the recliner based on different parameters:


- Test the recliner physically if you can

- Sit in multiple positions

- Try all mechanical features

- Understand the needs of different users

- Read return policies and warranty terms and conditions


Taking the time to review a recliner in person before making any final decisions will prevent any regrets and expensive exchanges later.


Remember that while measurements are important, the only true way to find out if the recliner is the right fit is using it for functionality and comfort.


Recline in Comfort!


It’s essential to know how to measure a recliner chair for comfort and fit in the desired space. Follow these step-by-step instructions and pay attention to all the measurements, and it gets easier to find a recliner that will not only fit into your room but will also provide comfort and support.


Taking the time to measure the recliner from all angles actually saves time down the road while also preventing any further issues.


Assess the recliner for depth, height, and width along with sufficient backrest and armrest support, and you’ll have a piece that will become a cherished companion for years on end.

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