How to Choose Your Recliner Chair in 7 Steps

Discover the 7-step method to select the recliner chair suited to your needs: space evaluation, mobility, motorization and budget. Checklist included.

# How to Choose Your Recliner Chair in 7 Steps

Acquiring a recliner chair is a major investment in your comfort and independence. According to [the National Housing Agency (ANAH)](https://www.anah.fr), more than 2.6 million people in France live with mobility difficulties. Yet few seniors have a genuine method to select the model that truly suits them. This article proposes a structured and pragmatic approach, validated by occupational therapists and industry professionals.

Step 1: Measure Your Available Space

First and foremost, your room's dimensions determine the type of recliner chair that's feasible. A standard recliner chair occupies between 80 and 100 cm of depth when deployed, and 70 to 90 cm in width. Precisely measure the space in front of your chair (at least 1.20 m for optimal comfort), the distance to side walls, and ceiling height if you're considering a model with a motorized footrest.

Space Checklist

• Available depth (from backrest to seat edge when deployed)
• Usable width (door passages, stairs)
• Distance to radiators, windows, heat sources
• Electrical access nearby (power cable)
• Living room layout (sofa, coffee table, circulation)

Step 2: Assess Your Mobility and Medical Conditions

What type of mobility challenges do you face daily? The answer to this question directly guides your motorization choice. A person with cervical arthritis won't have the same needs as someone in a wheelchair or a senior suffering from circulatory problems.

Reduced Mobility and Adapted Motorization

• Difficulty standing up: prioritize a 2-motor recliner (seat + backrest) or 3-motor (seat + backrest + footrest)
• Circulatory problems: motorized elevated footrest to promote venous return
• Lower back pain: adjustable backrest and reinforced dorsal support
• Preserved mobility: 1-motor model sufficient (seat lift only)

Consult your doctor or an occupational therapist to validate your specific needs. [Health Insurance offers advice sheets](https://www.ameli.fr) on adapting your home to disabilities.

Step 3: Test the Seat in-Store

Never buy a recliner chair without physically testing it. Sit for at least 10-15 minutes, stand up, test the backrest inclination, seat height (ideally 45-50 cm from the ground), and cushioning firmness.

Points to Test Absolutely

• Comfortable seat height (feet flat on the ground)
• Seat depth (15-20 cm before the knee)
• Lumbar and cervical support
• Armrests (height, removability)
• Motor noise (during lift and lowering)
• Lifting speed (6-10 seconds optimal)
• Fabric comfort (breathability, cleanability)

Step 4: Compare Motorization and Features

Which motorization should you choose to maximize your comfort and safety? Models vary considerably in the number of motors and features.

Main Motorization Types

• 1 motor: seat lift only (entry-level, ~€1,200-1,800)
• 2 motors: independent seat + backrest (mid-range, ~€1,800-2,800)
• 3 motors: seat + backrest + footrest (premium, ~€2,800-4,500)
• Integrated heating function: relieves muscle pain (+€300-600)
• Vibrating massager: improves circulation (+€200-400)

Verify the presence of a backup battery (allows 1-2 lifts in case of power outage) and an ergonomic remote control with large buttons.

Step 5: Verify After-Sales Service and Warranty

A quality recliner chair must benefit from a minimum 5-year warranty on structure and motors. According to [UFC-Que Choisir](https://www.quechoisir.org), the most frequent breakdowns occur after 4-6 years of intensive use.

Warranty and After-Sales Service to Require

• Manufacturer warranty: 5-10 years minimum (motors, electronics)
• Local troubleshooting service (response time < 48 hours)
• Spare parts available (5-10 years post-purchase)
• Customer training for setup
• Free telephone hotline
• Optional maintenance contract (recommended)

Step 6: Calculate Your Total Budget

The purchase price is only part of the real cost. Include delivery, installation, and possibly mobility assistance.

Budget to Plan For

• Recliner chair (€1,200-5,000 depending on motorization)
• Delivery and unpacking (+€150-300)
• Installation and setup (+€100-200)
• Fabric protections/cover (+€50-150)
• Annual maintenance (+€0-150 if contract)
• Estimated total budget: €1,600-5,800

Check your eligibility for assistance: MaPrimeAdapt', PCH (Disability Compensation Benefit), APA (Personalized Autonomy Allowance), or tax credits for accessibility.

Step 7: Consult Reviews and Choose Your Model

Before finalizing your purchase, check customer feedback on independent websites and request references from the retailer. Prioritize brands certified ISO 13732 (thermal comfort) and EN 16139 (recliner chair safety).

Final Selection Criteria

• Brand recognized for 10+ years
• Customer reviews > 4/5 (minimum 50 reviews)
• Compliance with European standards
• Authorized retailer with local service
• Possibility of home trial (30 days)

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Download Your Personalized Checklist

A PDF summary document with the 7 steps, measurements to take, and questions to ask the seller is available to optimize your purchasing process.

Key Points to Remember:

1. Measure your space precisely

2. Identify your mobility needs with a professional

3. Mandatory in-store testing

4. Compare motorizations and features

5. Require 5-10 years warranty and local after-sales service

6. Budget for delivery + installation

7. Check assistance and certifications before purchase

A well-chosen recliner chair offers you 10-15 years of comfort and independence. Take the time for this selection: it's an investment in your quality of life.

Mots-clés : fauteuil releveur, maintien à domicile, confort senior, bien-être, accessibilité