Skip to Content

Reclining Sofas Don’t Have to Look Clunky—Here Are 14 Stylish Ones to Buy

Kick back and relax in style.

By , ,
VerifiedExpert consulted: Director of Design and Content at Havenly
Light beige sofa with decorative pillows in a cozy living room setting, accompanied by a marble coffee table and potted plant.
Povision

Every item on this page was hand-picked by a House Beautiful editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

A sofa is usually the best seat in the house, but what if you want a setup that everyone beelines to? Find one that reclines. Let’s face it: Sitting upright has nothing on a couch with a gently sloped back, elevated footrest, and an adjustable spot for your head and neck. And unlike your standard sofa, where the only real way to get comfortable is to go horizontal, a recliner makes it possible to get cozy without hogging up the entire couch.

For years, recliner sofas were usually accompanied by bulky silhouettes and, for that reason, relegated to a neglected basement or man cave. The good news? Today’s takes often boast slim silhouettes, supple fabrics, and customizable features. If you want to find a sofa that’s both stylish and snug, keep scrolling for the best lounge-worthy options to add to your living room.

Google
Add House Beautiful as a preferred source in your Google search results.
Use your Google account to add this to your settings.
Teekam Power Reclining Zero Gravity Sofa with Adjustable Headrest And Footrest

Pros

  • Available in three colorways
  • Great for small spaces
  • Comes with built-in USB port

Cons

  • Fabric is prone to pilling

Calling all small-space dwellers: This compact reclining sofa lets you stretch out without sacrificing precious square footage. At just under 74 inches wide, it’s slightly longer than your average loveseat but not so big it’ll swallow the rest of your room. The dual-motor power recliner will lean back anywhere between 115 and 150 degrees. Rounding out this couch are built-in USB and Type-C ports, so you can lounge with your phone or tablet.

Best for a Home Theater

GUEAPY Reclining Sofa

Reclining Sofa
Best for a Home Theater

GUEAPY Reclining Sofa

Pros

  • Available in five colors
  • Comes with cup holder and storage
  • Comes in multiple colors

Cons

  • Some shoppers wish the frame was sturdier

Transform your living room into the ultimate home theater in a snap with Gueapy’s reclining sofa. The magic lies in the middle seat, which folds down to reveal a flat surface with a built-in cup holder for snacks and drinks. There’s also a convenient side pocket where you can stash the remote as soon as you press play.

Once you’re settled with your popcorn, drink, and a really good movie, use the manual recline to tip up to 150 degrees back.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Niehaus Wall-Hugger Reclining Loveseat

Pros

  • Built-in USB charging port
  • Headrests also adjustable
  • Large for a loveseat

Cons

  • Assembly required

Can you believe this tufted reclining sofa is from Wayfair? Available in a hemp white upholstery, this couch is also pretty easy to operate: All you have to do is tap the button, and the legs will start to lift and the back will tilt. If you need a little extra TLC for your neck, the adjustable headrest also moves into the optimal position.

Ergopals-Power Reclining Sofa

Pros

  • Available in pet- and skin-friendly upholstery
  • Comes in several configurations
  • OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified

Cons

  • Some say the cushions flatten over time

Cuddling with Fido shouldn’t cost you a high-quality couch, which is what makes Povison’s Ergopals-Power Reclining Sofa a strong contender. The brand offers a “pet-safe” fabric, an OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified polyester that’s scratch-resistant, water-repellent, and easy to clean. Plus, according to some shoppers, the short-pile textile is less prone to being covered in pet hair.

No pets? No problem. Provison also has a breathable, water-repellent fabric they deem “skin-safe.” Bonus points: You can choose from several configurations as well as the number of recliners, so you can create your dream setup.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Bernhardt Luc Power Motion Sofa

Pros

  • Modern design
  • Plush, comfortable upholstery
  • An investment piece that'll last you for years

Cons

  • Available in limited colorways

When we set out to find the best reclining sofas, Bernhardt was the first brand editorial director Joanna Saltz thought of, and for good reason. The brand's iteration on the reclining sofa exudes luxury. Never sacrifice style for comfort, and this power sofa offers both so well.

The nubby, low-pile fabric offers maximum comfort, with two power reclining seats, and the power buttons are concealed. You can easily operate both the back and footrest settings without anyone knowing. It's a sleek and seamless design!

Jaron Leather Recliner Sofa

Pros

  • Adjustable head rest
  • Dual recliners
  • Comes in different formations

Cons

  • Leather upholstery is available in limited configurations

For years, leather recliners were associated with Joey and Chandler’s bachelor pad, but Castlery’s Jaron Leather Recliner manages to bridge the gap between form and function. Between the low-slung silhouette, supple, top-grain leather upholstery, and oversized seats, this two-seater looks like something plucked out of Mad Men, not Friends.

However, when you want to get a little cozy, you can recline both seats up to 180 degrees and adjust the headrest into one of 16 positions.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Ultra Lounge Reclining Sofa

Pros

  • Removable legs
  • Firm seat
  • Made to order

Cons

  • 17-week lead time

Prepare to lounge back into this classic rolled-arm power sofa. You can take your comfort to the next level with the powered motion control that allows you to manipulate the headrest and footrests to your liking. If a crisp white sofa isn't your thing, though, order it in any of Pottery Barn's fabrics in the expansive library. We're into the navy performance slub weave, which is not only easy to clean but hardly shows any stains or spills, courtesy of the dark hue.

Axel Motion Reclining Sofa

Pros

  • Adjustable head and neck rest
  • Available in several colors and fabrics
  • Quiet luxury appeal

Cons

  • Only available as a two-sweater

Maximize your space with a 78-inch power sofa, and with a push of a button you can sit back and kick up your feet. Then quite literally take it to the next level by popping up the headrest for extra neck and head support. We love this sofa because, at first glance, it looks like a regular couch, but it's definitely an investment piece worth every penny.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Camden Modular Reclining 2-Piece Sofa

Pros

  • Sustainable construction
  • Available in lots of colors and fabrics
  • Modular design

Cons

  • Some people had a difficult time setting up the electrical recliner

The average couch lasts between seven and 15 years, but things can change during your sofa’s lifespan. You move apartments. You have a family. You downsize. Fortunately, Joybird’s Camden Modular Sofa can roll with the punches. Tilt back this two-seater's foot and headrests with a simple click of a button for easy lounging. The sofa is equipped with interlocking mortise and tenon joints as well as sinuous wire suspension for a sturdy seat.

However, in true modular sofa fashion, you can add a few extra seats as life changes.

67-Inch Upholstered Sofa

Pros

  • Under $1,000
  • Comes with trendy cloud cushions
  • Comes with UBC and Type-C ports

Cons

  • On the smaller side
  • Available in one colorway

Reclining sofas might seem like a hi-tech purchase, but a good option doesn’t have to cost you a small fortune. Case in point: Latitude Run’s upholstered sofa, which is available for under $1,000. In the furniture world, that’s a rarity.

Affordability might be its main draw, but don’t write it off as “cheap.” Between the cloud-like cushions and chenille upholstery, this compact couch offers a cozy, trend-conscious touch. The power recliner can lean as far as 150 degrees back, while a USB port provides a convenient spot to charge your devices.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Best Hidden Storage

West Elm Enzo Reclining Sofa

Enzo Reclining Sofa

Pros

  • Includes USB port
  • Choose between regular and storage arms
  • Comes with white glove delivery

Cons

  • No returns

If there is one sofa that can save a small space, it's West Elm's Enzo, which you can order with two regular arms or two storage arms. Personally, we're going for the latter. The sofa comes with white glove delivery, which is great for those who don't want to deal with moving around heavy furniture. It also comes with USB ports for charging your devices while you lounge.

Coburn Two-Piece Motion Sofa

Pros

  • Available in four performance fabrics
  • Comes in various sizes
  • Includes motion activator to recline back

Cons

  • Only comes in neutral shades

Arhaus's entire Corburn collection comes complete with a motion activator, so whether you opt for the two-piece sofa (pictured) or the five-piece corner sectional, you're in for some serious comfort. The over-stuffed cushions are fitted with soft and durable performance fabric that can withstand pretty much any spills you have in store. It also comes in four cool-toned earthy shades.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Malena Motion Reclining 5-Piece L-Shaped Sectional

Pros

  • Great for large groups
  • Supportive cushion
  • Free white glove delivery

Cons

  • Over $13,000
  • Available in minimal colorways

If you have a large family or are always hosting, you might need a reclining couch that can hold a crowd. Enter West Elm’s Malena L-Shaped Sectional, a consistent best-seller amongst House Beautiful readers. Though this pick is large enough to accommodate up to five guests, a discreet side button will stealthily stretch out two seats. In other words, this couch lets some guests sit upright and others lounge.

Size is a major draw, but it’s also built to last. The eucalyptus wood frame is outfitted with cushions that have polyurethane foam cores and high-grade sinuous springs to keep sagging to a minimum.

Modern Sofa with Adjustable Backrest

Pros

  • Reclining ergonomic backrest
  • Solid wood frame can support up to 600 pounds
  • Easy to assemble

Cons

  • Available only in white

This is no ordinary sofa. From the funky shape to the reclining ergonomic backrest, there's a lot to love. Plus, it may look super cozy, which it is, but the plush pillows and elegant upholstery are attached to a solid wood frame that can support up to 660 pounds.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

What to Look for When Buying Reclining Sofas

best gardening gloves

Features: Comfort is the main appeal of a reclining sofa, so plush cushions are a key feature for sinking in and reclining. To take the cozy up a notch, Goerzen says to look for an adjustable back and footrest so the sofa feels as custom to you as possible. As far as style, she notes that brands have come a long way in the style evolution of these pieces. “We’d opt for a more modern, streamlined silhouette as opposed to the more traditional tufted reclining sofa look—think old school La-Z-Boy,” Goerzen says.

Reclining Mechanism: Reclining sofas come with two kinds of recliner: a manual one or a powered one. Manual recliners often require you pull a lever or push on the backrest of the sofa to engage the recline. These are often less expensive, but if the person sitting in the sofa has any mobility issues, it can be more difficult to use. Power recliners are extra convenient and will use a push button or a wireless remote to recline. However, they typically need to be plugged in, so where you place your reclining sofa is extra important because the cord has to be near an outlet.

Materials: The frame and upholstery of the sofa will be great indicators of its comfort and durability. “A kiln-dried wood frame is top-notch quality and will stand the test of time,” Goerzen says. “I’d steer towards a softer fabric than a leather for a modern appeal—consider a classic weave or chenille, probably not linen, since this material can stretch.”

Care: As reclining sofas are likely to be placed in high-traffic areas like family rooms, keeping them safe from spilled drinks and snacks is an important step. “A performance fabric will always make for an easier clean and offer peace of mind, especially if you have kids, pets, or host friends a lot,” Goerzen says. “If the fabric tends to pill overtime, invest in a fabric shaver, and as always, flip the cushions down the line if you can.”

How Should You Measure for a Reclining Sofa?

best gardening gloves

The best place to put a reclining sofa, Goerzen says, is a basement or a family room, but really any room you tend to lounge in the most is a good fit. So, primary living rooms are on the table as well. No matter where you decide to place it, giving ample space around the piece itself is crucial.

“Generally speaking, you want about 18 inches between sofa and coffee table, and should maintain about three feet of space in major walkways,” Goerzen says. “You’ll want to float the sofa off the wall a few inches to ensure room to recline back. Be mindful of the coffee table itself, and where it’s located relative to the reclining seats—you don't want to have to move the coffee table every time you want to lounge. I typically recommend a round or oval coffee table with a reclining sofa as the curved edges allow for more space to recline.”

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

How Long Should a Reclining Sofa Last?

best gardening gloves

Similar to a sofa, you should expect to have a reclining sofa for at least seven to 10 years. Now, it's important to learn how long the warranty is on the power motor of your reclining sofa because they are often only covered for the first few years. Once the warranty expires, you'll have to pay out of pocket to replace it. You should also expect a leather reclining sofa to last longer than a fabric sofa due to the extra durability of cowhide.

Why Trust House Beautiful?

best gardening gloves

House Beautiful is dedicated to finding the best pieces for your home, no matter your budget or design preference. We love to combine our own expertise with thorough research and consultation with the design experts we trust. We are experts in reviewing and buying big pieces of furniture, from mattresses to sectionals. While we haven't tested every product on this list ourselves, we've thoroughly laid out the pros and cons to each reclining sofa in order to provide you with all the necessary details before you make a purchase.

For this story on reclining sectionals, House Beautiful Associate Shopping Editor Janae McKenzie and Contributing Writer Kelsey Mulvey spent 10+ hours researching the best ones on the market, including parsing through customer reviews. For extra expertise, we consulted the Director of Design and Content at Havenly, Heather Goerzen. With a background in brand strategy alongside an insatiable passion for design and creativity, she seamlessly transitioned from advertising into the world of interior design. Combining her strategic storytelling with an impeccable eye for style, she helms Havenly’s design vision, crafts compelling narratives, and directs lifestyle photoshoots for a suite of home brands.

Lettermark
Expert consulted:Heather Goerzen
Director of Design and Content at Havenly

Heather Goerzen is the Director of Design and Content at Havenly. With a background in brand strategy alongside an insatiable passion for design and creativity, she seamlessly transitioned from advertising into the world of interior design. Combining her strategic storytelling with an impeccable eye for style, she helms Havenly’s design vision, crafts compelling narratives, and directs lifestyle photoshoots for a suite of home brands. When she's not designing, you'll catch her basking in the beauty of Colorado's great outdoors.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Stay Ahead with Expert Tips

Join 50,000+ homeowners getting weekly expert advice on interior design and lifestyle tips.

✓ No spam ✓ Unsubscribe anytime ✓ Expert content only