Updated at: 30-07-2022 - By: Sienna Lewis

If you don’t know how to measure a recliner to fit yourself, the slipcover, or the space in your home where the chair will live, you shouldn’t waste your time or money buying either. The measurements you’ll need for a recliner and the measurements you’ll need for a slipcover are different. It’s important to be prepared for every eventuality, so that you can make the best decisions when it comes to planning and making purchases.

Body Measurements

You should take your body measurements before shopping for a recliner online because doing so will save you the trouble of trying out several models in person at different furniture stores. First, using a tape measure, determine and record the distance from your tailbone to the back of your knee. The next step is to take a measurement of your arm from your elbow to the base of your hand, where your fingers join the palm. As a last step, measure your girth by straddling your hips from right to left.

Recliner Dimensions (Sizes Guide) - Designing Idea

Finding the Right Recliner Size

The following advice will help you locate the perfect recliner after you have your measurements or go shopping and try them out in person. If you want your lower back and tailbone to be properly supported while sat in a recliner, you should be able to measure the length of the seat cushion from your tailbone to your knees. If you’re sitting up straight, not in a reclining position, your feet should be flat on the floor and not dangling or reaching the ground. As a result, your legs and feet will be able to move freely while receiving support for your knees and back. For proper wrist support, the armrest should reach from the end of your palm all the way to your elbow, and vice versa. Additionally, there should be at least an inch of space between the armrest and both hips on the chair’s breadth. Finally, when the chair is fully reclined, your heels should rest comfortably on the edge of the footrest, not dangle over or halt in the center; otherwise, the chair will not give the right support for your back and legs.

How to Measure for a Slipcover

When measuring an existing recliner for a slipcover, consider a few key measurements. Slipcover producers typically recommend measuring the circumference of the recliner’s front and back to determine if their product will fit. Use a tape measure, and be careful to record your measurements in both inches and centimeters in case your manufacturer prefers one system over the other. The recliner’s height (from the highest point on the back to the lowest point) and breadth (from the outside edge of one armrest to the outer edge of the other) should also be measured. Always consult the manufacturer’s measuring guide to decide if you need to measure the armrest width and reclining length (top edge to the bottom edge of footrest when reclined) independently.

Steps How to Measure  Recliner Important Dimensions

A few key measures are needed when preparing a slipcover for an existing reclining chair. Most slipcover producers say the most important measurement is the circumference of the recliner’s front and back, which may be easily obtained by wrapping a measuring tape around the chair. For precise outcomes, use a tape measure and record the measurements in both inches and centimeters (some manufacturers prefer one or the other). The recliner’s height (from the highest point on the back to the floor) and breadth (from the furthest point on one armrest to the farthest point on the other) must also be determined. Always check the manufacturer’s measuring guide to see whether you need to measure anything beyond the standard height and breadth of the chair. This includes the width of the armrests and the distance from the top of the chair to the bottom of the footrest when reclined.

Second, while seated and relaxed, measure your height (or as far as you might want to recline). If you want to leave a mark on the floor, plant your feet firmly. Measure from this point up to the top of your head, then subtract 12 inches for height needed at least in the back of the chair so that you can rest your neck without putting pressure on it.

How Recliner Chairs are Measured - Krostrade

The second step is to take your height while reclining (or as far as you might want to recline). Place your foot firmly on the ground and form a mark. If you want to rest your head without straining your neck, you should measure from this point to the top of your head and then deduct 12 inches for the minimum height required in the back of the chair.

Third, time yourself as you rise from a seated posture (or as far back as your feet can go without hitting the wall). Measure out a minimum of 18 inches in front of where your toes will fall when you stand to ensure adequate space for this motion.

After deciding how long you want the seat to be, step four is to determine the width. Measure out at least 18 inches from each side of the chair to the point where your arms will rest when seated in a reclining position, and make sure that your arms have enough of room to move while doing so (or as far back as possible).

If it doesn’t fit, think about cutting back on less-crucial elements.

Fifth, determine how high you want the chair to be from the floor when it is in the reclined position (or as far back as possible). To ensure adequate depth for walking and standing, measure out at least 18 inches from the floor to the tips of your toes.

One thing to keep in mind if you are above-average in height is that you may want to take measurements of how high you want your chair lifted from the ground in both positions.

This will provide you additional options when picking out the perfect recliner.

How many Storage Compartments do you Need?

Some people only have one or two, while others have as many as five or six.

How Deep is the Storage Area?

Find an armless recliner with a lot of legroom so that your belongings don’t get lost between the seats.

Is there anything (a child, a pet, or just random junk) that could fit under your feet on the chair?

A convenient feature of certain recliners is an extra storage space behind the seat.

Do you Want to use Your Chair for Reading While Sitting up From bed?

If so, you should prioritize finding one with adequate support for your head, feet, and upper body. These aid in maintaining a steady reading position.

Recliners with a storage compartment in the armrests, a place to put a computer, and perhaps even USB connections can double as a makeshift desk.

Make sure you know how many people will be using the chair frequently before you buy it. If you intend to seat more than two people in a single chair, you may wish to look at a wider model.

What do I need to Know Before Buying a Recliner?

First, determine what size of recliner will fit in the area.

Second, make sure it can be carried up and down the stairs you currently have and that there is enough space for it to be moved in and out of the house on a regular basis. If that’s the case, you might want to consider some lighter alternatives.

Third, make sure it complements the furnishings you already have.

Fourth, before making a purchase, think about how many people will be utilizing the chair on a daily basis. If you intend to seat more than two people in a single chair, you may wish to look at a wider model.

Common Recliner Features

Your body’s natural “Z” shape, which is achieved when you recline fully, is the most pleasant position for sleep because it promotes healthy circulation and ventilation.

The softness of the recliner is enhanced by the textured fabric used for the seat and back.

You can find the perfect height or position for your headrest thanks to the adjustable options available.

Memory foam cushions adjust to the shape of the body for optimal support and comfort, reducing pressure points and stress. If you have back issues, arthritis, or are pregnant, this is especially crucial.

If you want to get the most out of your recline and find the ideal viewing angle from across the room, a couch with pillowtop arms is a must.

Integrated headrests provide a soothing cradle for your head and neck, so you may lean in any direction without straining your neck.

Recliners can also be measured by the depth of their seats. When seated, the user’s legs should have plenty of room to move around on the seat.

How to Measure Your Space for a Recliner | Living Spaces

A standard recliner can be either powered by an outlet or operated manually, and there are also zero gravity models. There is nothing more convenient than a power chair, but adding the ability to recline to that list is just icing on the cake.

Because of this utmost command over the chair’s motions, manual chairs are ideal for the elderly or those with mobility issues.

It is possible to relax in any posture with complete ease on a zero gravity model because they alleviate pressure on your body.

Additionally, padded armrests, lumbar supports, and headrests are standard on many recliners.