Published 8 October 2024 · Last updated 15 September 2026
Quick answer: Start by deciding whether the person needs help to stand up. If they do, buy a riser recliner, which tilts forward to bring them to their feet. If they only want to put their feet up, a manual push-back recliner is the cheapest option, but it takes a firm push through the back and arms, which some people find hard. A power recliner does the same job with a button. Then measure seat height and depth against the person who will use it, and check the space behind the chair, because many recliners need clearance from the wall unless they are sold as wall-hugger designs.
Recliner chairs compared
These recliners are sold through Amazon UK, and prices and stock come live from the retailer. The list includes manual and powered designs and a riser recliner, so check which type each listing is before you order.
| Photo | Title | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| MCombo 3 Motor Riser and Recliner Armchairs for Elderly, Electric Lift Recliner Chair, Adjustable Headrest, Infinite Position, Heat & Massage, Extended Footrest, Fabric 7661 (Navy Blue, Medium) |
| |
| FLEXISPOT Recliner Chair Armchair Adjustable Single Chair Sofa for Relaxing Accent Chair Pushback for Living Room Bedroom Wing Back Reclining | Grey | ยฃ158.94 |
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| HOMCOM Manual Recliner Chair with Footrest Adjustable Backrest Grey |
| |
| More4Homes EATON WING BACK FIRESIDE CHECK FABRIC RECLINER ARMCHAIR SOFA CHAIR RECLINING CINEMA (Beige) | ยฃ243.99 |
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Types of recliner chair
Manual (push-back or lever) recliners
You recline by pushing back or pulling a lever or handle. They are the cheapest type and need no power, but the effort needed to recline and to bring the footrest down can be too much for someone with weak arms or painful joints.
Power recliners
A motor reclines the chair from a handset or side buttons. They are easy to use at any angle and can stop in any position. Check the cable reaches a socket without crossing a walkway.
Riser recliners
A power recliner with a lifting mechanism that tilts the whole seat forward to help you stand. They are the right choice for someone who struggles to get out of a chair. Our riser recliner guide covers them in detail.
Swivel and rocker recliners
These turn or rock as well as recline. They suit some people well, but a chair that moves while you are getting in or out can be unsettling for anyone with balance problems.
How to choose a recliner
- Seat height: seated, your feet should be flat on the floor with knees level with or just below your hips.
- Seat depth: there should be a gap of two to three fingers between the seat edge and the back of your knees.
- Back support: the backrest should support the lower back without a gap, and reach high enough to rest your head if you nap.
- Space: measure the room with the chair fully reclined, and check the clearance needed behind it.
- Controls: large, clearly marked buttons are easier than small side switches, especially at night.
- Weight limit and fire label: check the maximum user weight, and look for the permanent fire safety label that new upholstered furniture sold in the UK should carry.
Recliners and back pain
A recliner can make sitting more comfortable by letting you change position and take pressure off the lower back, but it does not treat the cause of back pain. If pain is new, severe or getting worse, see your GP. Our guide to recliner chairs for back pain covers what to look for.
Ways to pay less
- Riser recliners designed for disabled people can be bought without VAT by someone with a disability or long-term illness. Ordinary recliners do not qualify. See our VAT relief guide.
- If standing up is the problem, ask the council for an occupational therapy assessment before buying. Chair raisers or a stand assist aid may solve it for less.
Watch: getting in and out of a chair safely
In this guide, UK specialist physiotherapist Will Harlow shows techniques for getting into and out of a chair more easily.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a recliner and a riser recliner?
A recliner only tips back and raises a footrest. A riser recliner does that and also tilts forward to help you stand. Riser recliners are designed for people who find it hard to get out of a chair.
Are manual recliners hard to use?
They can be. A push-back recliner needs a firm push through the back and arms to recline and to close. If that is difficult, a power recliner is easier.
How much space does a recliner need?
It depends on the design. Measure the chair fully reclined, including the footrest, and check how far it needs to sit from the wall. Wall-hugger designs slide forward as they recline, so they need less space behind.
Can I get VAT relief on a recliner chair?
Only on chairs designed for disabled people, such as most riser recliners, when bought for someone with a disability or long-term illness. Standard recliners are charged VAT as normal.
Is a recliner good for elderly people?
It can be, if the seat height and depth fit and the person can operate it. For anyone who struggles to stand, a riser recliner is usually the better choice.
Related guides
- Best chairs for the elderly
- Single vs dual motor riser recliners
- Best lift cushions for chairs
- Best electric adjustable beds
Published 8 October 2024 · Last updated 15 September 2026