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What Is a Swivel Recliner?

Written by Ryan Podnar | Aug 1, 2025 2:00:00 PM

This article was written by Ryan Podnar, furniture expert at La-Z-Boy South Texas

A swivel recliner is one of the most versatile and comfortable seating options available, offering a unique blend of reclining comfort and 360-degree swivel movement.

Whether you’re lounging after a long day, watching your favorite show, or simply need to relax, a swivel recliner chair provides the ultimate seating experience. But what exactly is a swivel recliner, and why should you consider it for your home?

In this article, we’ll explore what a swivel recliner is, its key features, and the benefits of choosing a swivel recliner over a traditional recliner. Additionally, we’ll guide you through the factors you should consider when selecting the right swivel recliner for your space.

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What is a Swivel Recliner?

A swivel recliner is a type of recliner chair that combines the functionality of a reclining chair and a swivel chair.

Unlike traditional recliners, which are stationary or have limited movement, swivel recliners allow the user to rotate the chair 360 degrees while reclining back to a comfortable position.

Key features of a swivel recliner

Swivel Mechanism: A swivel base enables the chair to rotate fully in all directions.

Reclining Feature: Similar to traditional recliners, swivel recliners allow you to recline and adjust the backrest to your preferred angle.

Footrest or Chaise Extension: Many swivel recliners feature a footrest that extends to elevate your legs for added relaxation.

Swivel recliners are known for offering flexibility, comfort, and functional versatility in one stylish package. They are a great addition to any living room, family room, or home theater, where you want both comfort and freedom of movement.

Key Features of a Swivel Recliner

When considering a swivel recliner, it’s important to understand its features and how they differentiate it from other recliners.

1. 360-Degree Swivel Mechanism

The swivel mechanism allows the recliner to rotate 360 degrees, making it easier to turn and face different areas of the room without having to move the chair. This flexibility is perfect for a variety of activities, such as watching TV, having a conversation, or looking out the window.

2. Reclining Feature for Ultimate Comfort

Like other recliners, a swivel recliner offers the ability to recline, so you can lean back and relax after a long day. Reclining can be done via a manual lever or power recline mechanism, depending on the model. The ability to recline provides full-body relaxation, whether you're reading, napping, or just unwinding.

3. Footrest or Chaise Extension

Swivel recliners typically feature a footrest or chaise extension, allowing you to raise your legs for enhanced comfort. The smooth chaise seat ensures that you don’t have any gaps between the seat and footrest, offering seamless support for your entire body.

4. Compact Design for Small Spaces

Swivel recliners are often designed with a smaller footprint, making them ideal for homes with limited space. Whether you live in an apartment or a small room, a swivel recliner provides the comfort of a recliner without taking up too much room.

5. Upholstery Options

Swivel recliners come in a variety of upholstery options to match your home décor. You can choose from leather, fabric, microfiber, and other materials, each offering different levels of comfort, durability, and maintenance requirements.

Benefits of a Swivel Recliner

Why choose a swivel recliner over other seating options? There are several key benefits that make swivel recliners an excellent choice for homes of all sizes.

1. Enhanced Flexibility and Convenience

The swivel feature adds a level of flexibility that stationary recliners simply can't offer. Whether you're switching your focus from one TV to another, chatting with friends, or adjusting your view of the room, a swivel recliner allows you to easily turn to face any direction without getting out of the chair. This makes it a great choice for multi-taskers or those who enjoy entertaining.

2. Ideal for Small Spaces

Due to their compact design, swivel recliners are perfect for smaller living rooms or apartments. They offer the same reclining comfort as a traditional recliner but take up less space, which is a crucial factor for smaller rooms. Plus, their ability to rotate means you don’t need as much clearance around the chair to enjoy a full range of motion.

3. Perfect for Multi-Use Areas

Swivel recliners are a great addition to multi-use spaces like home theaters, living rooms, or even offices. They allow for easy repositioning and comfortable seating, whether you're lounging, watching TV, or working.

4. Comfortable for Long Periods of Use

The reclining function of a swivel recliner, combined with a comfortable footrest and a well-padded seat, ensures that it’s perfect for long periods of use. If you enjoy napping, reading, or watching movies for hours, a swivel recliner provides full-body support and comfort, making it easier to stay relaxed for extended periods.

5. Stylish Design Options

Swivel recliners come in a wide range of styles and designs, from modern minimalist chairs to traditional styles that fit seamlessly into any décor. Whether you prefer a bold statement piece or a more subtle, neutral chair, you’ll find options that match your style and personal taste.

How to Choose the Right Swivel Recliner for Your Space

When choosing the right swivel recliner, consider these factors to ensure you get the best chair for your home and needs:

  • Size and Scale: Make sure the recliner fits your room and doesn’t overwhelm the space. If you have a small room, a compact swivel recliner will be the best option.
  • Recline and Swivel Features: Decide whether you want a manual recliner or a power swivel recliner for smooth reclining and easy adjustments.
  • Comfort Level: Look for a chair with ample padding and a comfortable footrest. Higher-density foam and memory foam options offer long-lasting comfort.
  • Upholstery and Material: Choose the material based on your lifestyle. Leather is luxurious and easy to clean, while fabric or microfiber provides softness and warmth.
  • Style: Match the design of the swivel recliner with your existing décor. Whether you want a modern look or a more traditional style, there’s a swivel recliner for every taste.

Is a Swivel Recliner Right for You?

A swivel recliner offers the perfect combination of functionality, comfort, and style, making it an ideal choice for any home.

With its ability to recline, rock, and swivel, a swivel recliner is one of the most versatile chairs available, making it an excellent addition to any living space. The only way you’ll know if a swivel recliner is right for you is to see how one fits you.

To take this step, visit your nearest La-Z-Boy South Texas store to see the best swivel recliners.