This article was written by Ryan Podnar, furniture expert at La-Z-Boy South Texas
If you’re considering purchasing a reclining sofa, one of the first questions that may come to mind is whether or not it needs to be positioned away from the wall.
Unlike traditional sofas, reclining sofas have a mechanism that allows the backrest to tilt back, which typically requires additional space behind the sofa. However, recent innovations in reclining furniture have introduced wall-hugger recliners, which eliminate the need for large gaps behind the sofa.
In this article, we’ll explore the different types of reclining sofas, how much space they need from the wall, and whether a recliner sofa must be placed away from the wall.
Coming Up...
Traditional Reclining Sofas: How Much Space Do They Need?
Traditional reclining sofas have a reclining mechanism that causes the backrest to tilt backward, while the footrest extends outward. This movement requires a significant amount of space behind the sofa to fully recline.
The amount of space needed depends on the type of recliner and the amount of recline it offers.
- Reclining Mechanism Movement: When the backrest reclines, the sofa moves backward, which means you’ll need extra space at the rear to accommodate the reclining function. Typically, traditional recliners need at least 10-15 inches of clearance from the wall to fully recline.
- Footrest Extension: In addition to the backrest moving backward, the footrest also extends forward. This requires additional space in front of the sofa recliner for proper functionality, so you’ll need a bit of space in front of the recliner as well.
Wall-Hugger Reclining Sofas: A Game-Changer for Small Spaces
While traditional reclining sofas need to be placed a considerable distance away from the wall, wall-hugger recliners have been designed to save space and function in smaller rooms. These sofas can recline without needing much clearance from the wall.
- How Wall-Huggers Work: Wall-hugger reclining sofas are equipped with a special mechanism that allows the reclining motion to occur without moving the sofa backward. Instead, the seat and backrest move forward, so the wall sofa doesn’t need to be placed far from the wall. In fact, you can place a wall hugging recliner sofa as close as 2-4 inches from the wall.
- Ideal for Small Rooms: This makes wall hugging reclining sofas the perfect choice for apartments or rooms with limited space, where traditional reclining sofas would take up too much room. Wall-huggers are designed to maintain comfort and functionality while minimizing the space they require.
Space-Saving Features to Look For in Reclining Sofas
When shopping for a reclining sofa, it's essential to consider the space-saving features that may allow you to fit the sofa closer to the wall. Here are a few features that can help you save space:
- Wall-Hugger Technology: As mentioned earlier, wall-hugger recliners are perfect for tight spaces. These sofas are specifically designed to move forward instead of backward when reclining, making them ideal for rooms where every inch counts.
- Compact Recliners: Some recliner sofas are designed to be more compact and can fit into smaller spaces without sacrificing comfort. These recliners may not have all the bells and whistles of a full-sized model, but they still offer reclining functionality without requiring excessive space from the wall.
- Armless Recliners: For ultra-space-efficient options, consider armless reclining chairs or loveseats. These smaller versions of reclining sofas may be more suited for areas where space is limited but still provide a comfortable reclining experience.
Can Reclining Sofas Be Placed Directly Against the Wall?
So, can reclining sofas be placed directly against the wall? The answer depends on the type of recliner:
- Traditional Reclining Sofas: No, traditional reclining sofas should not be placed directly against the wall. You need at least 10-15 inches of clearance behind the sofa to allow the backrest to recline and the footrest to extend without obstruction. If placed too close to the wall, the recliner will not function properly, and it may cause damage to the mechanism over time.
- Wall-Hugger Recliner Sofas: Yes, wall-hugger recliners can be placed just a few inches away from the wall. These sofas are designed to allow the backrest to recline while keeping the seat in a fixed position, making them ideal for smaller spaces or rooms with limited clearance.
How to Maximize Space with a Reclining Sofa
If you want to incorporate a reclining sofa into a small or narrow room, here are a few tips to maximize space while maintaining comfort:
- Opt for Wall-Hugger Recliners: As mentioned, wall-hugger recliners are the best option if you have limited space behind your sofa. Choose a model that fits your room size, and place it as close to the wall as possible.
- Measure Your Space: Before purchasing a reclining sofa, carefully measure the available space, including the distance from the wall. Don’t forget to account for both the backrest and footrest movements when deciding how much room you need.
- Use Multi-Functional Furniture: If space is tight, opt for multi-functional furniture that combines seating and storage. For example, choose a reclining loveseat with built-in storage underneath, or a sectional that offers additional seating and can accommodate more people while taking up minimal space.
- Reclining Chairs Instead of Sofas: If you’re short on space, consider a single reclining chair instead of a full sofa. A chair can recline with the same comfort and functionality but takes up much less space than a full sofa.
Ready to Find the Right Sofa for You?
Reclining sofas are a fantastic option for any home, offering ultimate comfort and relaxation. However, whether or not you need to keep your recliner away from the wall depends on the type of sofa you choose.
Traditional reclining sofas require significant clearance from the wall to fully recline, while wall reclining sofas are designed to be placed just inches from the wall, making them perfect for smaller spaces.
To make the most of your space, measure your room carefully and consider space-saving features like wall-hugger technology. With the right reclining sofa and placement, you can enjoy both the comfort of a recliner and a functional living room layout without sacrificing valuable floor space.
Still, the only way you’ll know which sofa is right for you is to see how it fits you! To take this step, visit your nearest La-Z-Boy South Texas store to sit on our reclining sofas.