Updated at: 22-07-2022 - By: Sienna Lewis

You’ve finally made up your mind to get a reclining chair, right? You are prepared to unwind in the utmost reclining comfort.

You would think that purchasing a reclining chair would be easy, but after doing some research and looking around, you might change your mind. There is a large variety of recliner chairs available, each with its own set of features. So, it turns out it’s more difficult than you thought to zero down on a recliner that’s just right for you.

Your choice may ultimately come down to whether you want a recliner that rocks back and forth or one that is fixed to the wall.

At La-Z-Boy, we’ve encountered this problem before. We have stayed loyal to our reputation as the creators of the first reclining chair by providing a wide variety of recliners. We get asked all the time what sets a rocker recliner apart from a wall recliner, and it’s a good question. When customers have a firm grasp of the distinctions between the various options, they often seek further guidance on which model would best suit their needs.

3 Steps on How to Make a Rocker Recliner Stationary - Krostrade

Find out what sets a rocker recliner apart from a wall recliner and how they compare in this detailed article. As an added bonus, this article will help you select a recliner that is tailor-made to your specific requirements and tastes.

What is a Rocker Recliner?

An essential feature of a rocker recliner is its ability to rock and recline. When not in its reclining position, the chair can be used as a rocker with a gentle and soothing rhythm. The chair is designed to support the user’s entire back and body.

It is crucial to point out that the rocker recliner cannot rock in the reclined position. The rocking motion can be used separately from the reclining one.

What is a Wall Recliner?

Recliner chairs that require only a little distance from the wall in order to fully recline are known as wall recliners. In particular, a zero-gravity position is possible with a wall recliner, which only needs four or five inches of clearance from the wall.

To recline without bumping into the wall behind it, wall recliners have a mechanism that allows the chair to slide forward on a track.

Key Differences Between a Rocker Recliner & a Wall Recliner

Both rocker recliners and wall recliners have the capacity to recline, but there are some significant variations between the two.

Functionality

First and foremost, the functions of a rocker recliner and a wall recliner are distinct.

A wall recliner may be pushed back only a few inches from the wall, while a rocker recliner can rock back and forth. When not reclined against a wall, a chair cannot move or rock at all in its upright posture.

Consequently, there is a wide variety of recliners available, each with its own function and potential clientele.

Amount of Space Required

Furthermore, a rocker recliner will take up more floor space than a wall recliner.

Although the footprint of each chair varies, rocker recliners typically demand more floor space than their wall-mounted counterparts.

When fully reclined, rocker recliners need around 8 inches of space, while wall recliners need just about 4 or 5 inches.

The Base of the Chairs

Moreover, the reclining chairs’ bases vary in terms of their functionality and, by extension, their aesthetic appeal.

Two wooden legs protrude from under the majority of rocker recliner types.

A wall-away recliner, on the other hand, gives the impression that it is legless. The metal support structure of the chair pops out from behind the chair when the recliner is slid to the front of the frame, creating a reclining position.

Both rocker recliners and wall swivel recliners appear to have a base that is the same height.

Types of Frames Available: Chair, Loveseat, Sofa

Frame options can also affect how rocker recliners and wall recliners compare to one another.

Although rocking and wall reclining features are typically found in chair frames, a loveseat or sofa can also provide these options.

The onus for determining this rests with the seller or producer.

Rocking functionality is often only seen in La-Z-reclining Boy’s chairs. The Rowan and Finley loveseat is the only known exception to this rule; it consists of two separate rocker recliners joined by a center console.

La-Z-Boy, on the other hand, offers wall reclining capabilities on a variety of loveseat and sofa frames.

Which Recliner is Right for You?

The choice between a rocker chair and a wall recliner is ultimately a matter of taste.

Consider the following as you weigh the features of various recliners:

  • What exactly are you planning to do with the reclining chair?
  • What are your plans with this chair?
  • Which one of you is sitting in that chair?
  • When will the chair be put in its designated spot?
  • When it comes to square footage, how much do you have?

Racha, a consultant at La-Z-Boy Hunt Club, takes these factors into account when making recommendations as to which customers might benefit most from each individual chair.

Racha suggests a rocker recliner for sleepless people, parents of young children, and nursing mothers. Insomniacs may benefit from the rocking action while they attempt to drift off to sleep. Similar to how fathers might kick back and relax in a recliner while their new baby nurses, mothers can do the same while cuddling their small child.

Therefore, a den, bedroom, nursery, or children’s room are all great spots for a rocking chair. Furthermore, at least 8 inches of clearance is required so that the rocking chair can be reclined with ease.

When it comes to older customers, rocker recliners are not a good choice, according to Racha. However, the rocking action of the chair can make it unsafe for the elderly to get in and out of it.

Rocking chairs can also make people who are prone to motion sickness dizzy, as Racha points out.

Racha, on the other hand, recommends a wall recliner for those who must work with limited space. The fact that a wall recliner just needs about five inches of clearance makes it an excellent choice for quarters with limited floor space. When designing for a small space, such as a studio or condo, wall recliners are a great solution.

Racha chimes in by saying that rocker recliners aren’t the best choice for the elderly, but wall recliners are. The inertia of the wall recliner in the upright position facilitates getting in and out of the chair.

A person who has trouble getting around may choose not to use a chair at all, let alone a rocker recliner or a wall recliner. A power lift recliner could be more useful, though. Lift recliners are chairs that, with the push of a button, raise and lower you safely between the standing and seated positions.

Check out the article “Aging in Place” for additional information on how to age in place with relative ease and comfort.

5 Easy and Simple Steps on How to Lock a Rocking Recliner - Krostrade

Rocker Recliners vs. Wall Recliners at La-Z-Boy

It has already been established that La-Z-Boy offers a wide choice of high-quality recliners, including both rocker recliners and wall recliners.

When making a La-Z-Boy chair, only high-quality materials and craftsmanship will do. As a matter of fact, La-Z-Boy recliners are built with seven unique qualities in mind…

  1. Separately Lying Backrest
  2. Three-Stage Locking Footrest
  3. Recliner with Locking Footplates
  4. Adjustable Leg Support Elevation
  5. Folding Seat and Back
  6. Frame Uniform on All Four Sides
  7. Stress Adjustable Reclining

Both the rocker recliner and the wall recliner offer a true zero-gravity position when fully reclined. Among the many health benefits of this pose is full muscle relaxation.

Fabric and leather options and upgrades are available for all rocker recliners and wall recliners.

Both types of recliners can be operated manually or automatically. Upgrades such as heat and massage or a movable headrest and lumbar support are available on some models.

The total price of a rocker or wall recliner depends on the type of frame you select and any changes or improvements you may want.

However, it’s worth noting that a wall recliner will set you back an extra $70 compared to a rocker of the same design. There is more metal involved in making the frame of a wall recliner, which drives up the price.

When purchasing a La-Z-Boy recliner, you can rest assured knowing that the investment is covered by a generous warranty policy.

Rocker Recliners at La-Z-Boy

La-Z-Boy rocker recliners have a total of 16 reclining angles, including a zero-gravity position. A bit noisier than a wall recliner due to the chair’s position changes.

La-Z-Boy also offers a tall base option and a swivel base upgrade for several of their Rocker recliners. The rocker recliner may be swiveled in both its upright and reclined positions thanks to its swivel mechanism. The La-Z-Boy wall recliners, on the other hand, do not have the option of a swivel base.

Best Selling Rocker Recliners at La-Z-Boy

There is a large variety of rocker recliners available from La-Z-Boy to meet a variety of needs and interests.

The three most popular rocker recliners at La-Z-Ottawa Boy’s and Kingston locations are listed below.

1. The Pinnacle Rocking Recliner

The relaxed design of the Pinnacle Rocker Recliner makes it ideal for winding down. Indulge in the soft padding of the rolled arms and high back. The chaise’s curved back and leg rest create a cocoon of support around your entire body.

Check out our Comprehensive Review of the Pinnacle Recliner for all the details!

2. The Morrison Rocking Recliner

The Morrison Rocking Recliner is a classic model that has stood the test of time because to its comfort and durability. There’s a padded chaise lounge with a tufted back and thick, cushioned arms.

3. The Vail Rocking Recliner

Vail Rocking Recliner exudes opulence and style. Despite its small size, this chair packs a huge punch when it comes to comfort thanks to its padded curled arms and fluffy, biscuit-style back.

Wall Recliners at La-Z-Boy

The Wall Recliner was first produced by La-Z-Boy in 1975.

The wall recliner may be adjusted to numerous reclining angles, the farthest of which simulates a weightless floating sensation. In contrast to rocker and glider recliners, a wall recliner does not allow for any active motion when sitting. You have a comfortable “stationary” chair for when you don’t want to recline.

The wall recliner may be adjusted to numerous reclining angles without making any noise or clicking like a rocker chair does.

The wall recliner, like the Rocker recliner, can be upgraded to a height base for added comfort.

When it comes to wall recliners, La-Z-Boy has several options. La-Z-Boy has a wide variety of wall reclining sofas, loveseats, and chairs to choose from.

Best Selling Wall Recliners at La-Z-Boy

Here are the three most popular wall recliners at La-Z-Boy Ottawa and Kingston, where there are more to select from.

1. The Astor Wall Recliner

The Astor Wall Recliner is the ultimate in comfort for even the heaviest of users. Astor is our highest recliner to date and has a deep, wide seat in addition to our tall base. The chaise seat and padded flared arms add to the overall coziness, and the tall pillow back is cushioned with three individual cushions that conform to the shape of the user’s body.

Check out the Astor Reclining Chair Review for more details.

2. The Trouper Wall Recliner

The Trouper Wall Recliner has an air of modern sophistication because to its redesigned silhouette, which features slightly flared arms and a sleek tall back. Furthermore, it is a really relaxing recliner. The split back of this chair is padded for comfort and provides excellent support for your head and lower back.

Check out the Comprehensive Review of the Trouper Recliner for additional details.

3. The Pinnacle Wall Recliner

The Pinnacle Wall Recliner has quickly become a customer favorite. The laid-back atmosphere is ideal for unwinding and taking it easy. Get comfortable with the lofty, pillowed back and padded, wrapped arms. The chaise’s curved back and leg rest create a cocoon of support around your entire body.

You may learn more about the Pinnacle Recliner by reading our comprehensive review.

Steps on Making a Rocker Recliner Stationary

The first thing you need to do is take the chair’s seat off. Gently pry free clips with a butter knife and lift the seat up and out of its slot after unscrewing and unclipping any screws keeping it in place.

Second, on the frame of the chair, near where the back meets the bottom front legs, drill two holes large enough for screws, one on either side of the other.

To make this work, step three entails making holes large enough to accommodate eye hooks or picture hanging wire hangers, and then drilling and putting them into position.

Why Should I Make my Rocker Recliner Stationary?

If you need extra floor space where your rocker recliner is, or if you have guests who might have difficulties getting out of it, you might want to consider making it stationary.

If you don’t plan on using this piece of furniture regularly, you might find that converting it into a standard chair relieves strain on your lower back and improves blood flow.

What is Rocker Recliner?

An example of this is the rocker recliner, a piece of furniture that can be used in two different positions. It’s common to see it in the family room or living room after a long day of reading the paper or watching television, when folks are ready to unwind and take it easy.

A typical Rocker Recliner has a seat and backrest covered in padding, without arms, and maybe equipped with built-in footrests.

Since chairs are large and heavy, they typically have wheels installed on the bottom halves to facilitate mobility.

In order to recline the seat for a more relaxed sitting position, simply press down on the lever located at the bottom of its side.

The biggest issue with rockers is that they cater to people who prefer to be active while relaxing, making it difficult to sit completely motionless for long. Most modern chairs have footrests so you can rest your feet in comfort without having to recline or rock.

This manner, you can keep going without always stopping to put one foot on a hard surface, such a coffee table or ottoman. Sofa beds are an excellent option for those who require such pieces of furniture but don’t have the area for two pieces next to one other (such as in a slim living room).

Can I Use Slipcover on my Rocking Recliner?

Slipcovers can be used on rocking chairs as well. Fabric slipcovers cover the entire chair, protecting it from wear and tear as well as spills.

You won’t have to constantly replace the covers on your furniture just to keep up with the latest design trends, which will help preserve your initial investment.

A slipcover should be placed on the chair’s removable parts rather than the entire chair itself if possible (as is the case with some types of rockers).

However, even if nothing comes off, some manufacturers create two-tone pieces for specific textiles, guaranteeing the availability of at least one item in the desired color scheme.

Amazon.com: IPKIG Manual Recliner Chair - Swivel Rocker Recliner Chair, Faux Leather Recliner Sofa Chairs with 2 Cup Holders, Lumbar Pillow and Side Pockets for Nursery Living Room (Black- Swivel Recliner) :

How to Prevent Stains on Rocking Recliner?

You should take precautions to protect your rocking recliner from liquid spillage. Slipcovers are one solution, as they can serve both practical and aesthetic purposes. Typically, slipcovers are constructed using materials that can be spot cleaned with soap and water.

They safeguard the chair’s base from the wear and tear that comes from regular use by adding padding there.

When should I get new covers?

The frequency of replacements is a variable to consider. If you want to avoid having to replace them too soon, too often, or for too much money, it’s a good idea to gauge how long they survive in your home before settling on an exact replacement schedule.

How do I Deep Clean Recliner Chair?

Reclining chair vacuuming is a good place to begin. When you’re finished cleaning the upholstery, use a moist towel or a gentle brush to wipe it off. Then, after you’ve vacuumed, spray it down with an all-purpose cleaner to get rid of the dust and debris that the vacuum missed.

What should I do if my slipcover gets spilled on?

If you spill something on your cover, such as coffee, attempt to remove as much of the stain as possible as soon as possible without using too much water. Simply follow the care instructions provided after use to get everything back in working order.

What are some signs of wear and tear?

New recliner chair covers are necessary if you find stains or tears in the old ones. Other signs include the degree of cover material wear, the presence of surplus filling emerging from beneath the reverse of cushioning from excessive use, and the presence of apparent tearing around seams that are beginning to split open.

What’s Next?

That settles it! Now that you know the main distinctions between rocker recliners and wall recliners, you can make an informed decision about which type of chair is ideal for you.

There is plenty more where those rocker recliners and wall recliners came from if you’re interested. We have more than a hundred different recliner frames so that you may find the perfect fit for your home, décor, and budget at La-Z-Boy.

Check out our Recliner Buying Guide as a starting point.

Maybe you need something completely different. At La-Z-Boy, we have advisors who will help you locate the precise piece of furniture you need.

Start right now by coming to one of our two convenient locations in Ottawa or Kingston. Online appointment scheduling is a convenient option for those who like to prepare ahead of time.

Greetings, and we hope to have the pleasure of your company!