Reclining Sofa: Everything You Need to Know Before Buying
Reclining sofas are one of the furniture categories that have evolved most in recent years. From manual mechanisms to electric systems with multiple positions, there are plenty of options, so it is worth knowing what to compare before making your choice.
Types of Reclining Mechanisms
- Backrest only. The backrest reclines while the seat remains in position.
- Full recline. The backrest reclines and the footrest rises: this is what is commonly known as a reclining or relax sofa.
- Multiple positions. Sit upright, semi-reclined or almost fully reclined, with each seat individually adjustable.
Manual or Electric?
A manual mechanism is simple, requires no electricity and needs very little maintenance. An electric reclining mechanism allows you to stop at virtually any position at the touch of a button, making it more comfortable for everyday use and a good option for people with reduced mobility.
For a home cinema or for anyone who relaxes on the sofa every day, an electric recliner is well worth considering.
Space Behind the Sofa
A reclining sofa needs enough space behind it to recline fully. The required distance depends on the mechanism, so check the model specifications and measure your room before making your choice.
Some mechanisms move the seat forwards as the backrest reclines, allowing the sofa to be positioned closer to the wall.
How to Assess the Quality of the Mechanism
Try it in store. The reclining movement should be smooth, with no resistance midway through the movement and no unusual noise.
Sit in every seat too: on a three-seater sofa, each reclining mechanism should operate in the same way.
A Reclining Sofa That Doesn’t Look Like One
The best reclining sofas look like fixed sofas when closed. Look at the arms, the alignment of the stitching and the thickness of the backrest: these details distinguish a designer reclining sofa from a purely functional solution.
Models such as the Luca, Alexandrina and Ginzo conceal their mechanisms within clean, elegant lines.
How Much Does a Quality Reclining Sofa Cost?
At Suffa, reclining sofas start from €1,040 (Porto model) and can be custom-made in fabric or leather at our factory in Paredes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does an electric reclining sofa use a lot of electricity? No. The motor only uses electricity while the sofa is moving; when stationary, consumption is practically zero.
Can I have the reclining function on just one seat?
Yes. On many models, you can choose which seats are fitted with a reclining mechanism.
Where can I try Suffa reclining sofas?
At Suffa stores in Lisbon, Aveiro and Paredes. View our Stores.
A quality reclining sofa is one of those comfort investments you will use every day. Do not compromise on the mechanism: it is one of the hardest-working components and one of the first to reveal how well a sofa has been made.
