Recliner Parts Diagram: Unveiling the Mechanics Within

Ian Mutuli
Updated on
Ian Mutuli

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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Before we dive into the intricacies of the recliner parts diagram, let’s first take a moment to appreciate the unparalleled comfort and relaxation that recliner seats offer us. Whether you’re a recliner enthusiast or simply curious about how your favorite recliner works, you’ll be glad you embarked on this journey with us.

We’ll dive into the parts that make up your recliner seat and the mechanisms that comfort you on those cozy, relaxed days. Kindly note that the parts and mechanisms may vary depending on the brand, but you can be sure you’ll get the general concept once you’re done with this article.

Let’s get started.

A Deep Dive into the Anatomy of Comfort

A Deep Dive into the Anatomy of Comfort - Recliner Parts diagram

Image Source: homenish.com

Here we break down the sections, the recliner parts, and the reclining mechanism that makes the experience as amazing as it is.

A) The Frame 

The frame of your Lazyboy recliner, or other recliner brands you’re using, is the foundation of your seat. It offers stability and support as you relax and read your book or watch your favorite show. 

Think of the frame as the skeleton of your recliner chair. And for maximum comfort, the skeleton also has other parts that make it extra effective.

Here are the essential components that make the recliner chair frame whole.

Parts of a recliner - the frame of a recliner

Image Source: la-z-boy.com

1. Base Frame 

If the frame is the skeleton of your recliner, the base frame is the skeleton of the frame. This recliner supports the other parts and ensures you’re always stable and supported.

Most base frames are made from durable metal or solid wood. You can check the manufacturer’s detail if you want a base frame of a specific material. 

2. Seat Box 

The seat box carries the recliner chair’s seat cushions and suspension system. This is the recliner part that supports your weight. Therefore, it must be constructed with durable materials to handle that pressure. The popular materials for the seat box include strong plywood or hardwood. 

3. Armrests 

The armrests are found on either side of the recliner chair and offer comfort and support to your arms. These recliner parts are often made of metal or strong wood and are created to be durable and comfortable. 

The comfort is enhanced by the padding that surrounds the armrest frame. 

B) Reclining Mechanism 

Reclining Mechanism of a recliner seat

Image Source: besthf.com

Now that we’ve touched a bit on the parts that make up the recliner chair let’s peep into the magic behind the movement of your recliner. 

Here are the components that make up the heart and functionality of your favorite seat. 

1. Handle or Lever 

The handle is often located on the side of your recliner chair, which you use to initiate the reclining action. Of all the reclining mechanism parts, this is the most visible part. This is compared to the springs and tension mechanism we’ll examine in a few. 

The lever or pull handle lets you recline the seat or return to the upright position. Your footrest will rise once you move the lever, and the backrest will tilt backward to give you that comfortable position. 

Although the lever is often found towards the bottom, this may vary from brand to brand. Therefore, read the instruction manual for details specific to your recliner chair brand

2. Locking Mechanism 

The locking mechanism is that makes the reclining stop. Once you’ve pulled the lever and reclined the seat to the position you like, the locking mechanism ensures the seat remains in place. 

This recliner part is crucial because it gives you confidence and peace of mind that the recliner chair won’t accidentally return to the upright position or recline when you don’t want it to. 

3. Springs and Tension Mechanism 

This is the entire mechanism with which the recliner chair works. Lazy boy recliners and other recliners on the market use springs and tension mechanisms to control the movement of the backrest and the footrest.

The spring mechanism allows the recliner chair to move, while the tension mechanism controls the reclining motion and resistance. Some of the most common spring types used in recliner chairs include coil springs and torsion springs. Coil springs are metallic and are often found in the backrest and seat box of the recliner seat. Torsion springs apply a twisting force to the reclining mechanism and control tension and resistance. 

A good spring and tension mechanism ensures smooth movement whenever you are reclining. 

C) Upholstery and Cushioning 

Upholstery and Cushioning of a recliner seat

Image Source: besthf.com

This element is what ensures a comfortable experience. It’s one thing for your recliner to function properly. But if it’s uncomfortable, you won’t have an enjoyable experience. The upholstery also determines the aesthetic of the recliner seat. 

Here are the key components of the upholstery and cushioning of your recliner seat. 

1. Upholstery Material 

Some of the most common upholstery materials include genuine leather, faux leather, microfiber, and various fibers. The choice of upholstery material depends on your preferences, comfort level desired, durability, and availability.

If you like leather, check out our best leather recliners for comfort to get the best options.

Let’s look at an example that covers the point of personal preference. For example, if you want a recliner chair for your business, choosing a clinical care recliner with the right upholstering material will improve your patients’ experience. 

In such a case, you’ll also want a clinical care recliner that can withstand the conditions of the space, such as spills and high traffic. If you want a recliner chair for your home office or living room, the material will depend on your desired comfort, how many people will use the chair, maintenance, and other personal factors. 

2. Cushions 

The cushions on your recliner will determine how comfortable you’ll be as you lounge. The cushions consist of the seat cushion, armrest cushion, and the backrest cushion. The cushions’ thickness, quality, and durability will determine how comfortable you are as you relax. 

D) Additional Features 

Additional Features of recliners

Image Source: coasterfurniture.com

These are the recliner parts that aren’t found in all recliner chairs but add to the experience. Depending on the level of comfort you want to experience on your recliner, you’ll either have one or two of these additional features added to your recliner. 

Let’s look at the most popular extra features when it comes to recliner chairs. 

1. Cup Holders and Storage Compartments 

Imagine yourself lounging in front of your television, enjoying your current favorite show, and suddenly getting the urge to drink water, juice, or a delicious cold milkshake. Would you rather have it with you or be forced to walk to your kitchen to get one? 

We think the answer is obvious in this one. Therefore, to make that possible, having the additional feature of a cup holder on your recliner chair seems like a logical way to go. You can also use the in-built storage compartments to store your magazines, books, snacks, and remote controls as you chill and relax. 

2. Power Reclining Feature 

The best power recliners allow you to adjust your seat without having to pull a lever. You need to push a button and effortlessly recline to your comfortable position. The electric motor that allows this to happen gives you precise control over the reclining angle and eliminates the need for manual effort. 

3. Massage and Heating Functions 

These additional features include in-built heating and massage features that increase your comfort and relaxation from your recliner. Although these features provide various benefits, including relieving muscle tension, promoting relaxation, and other additional benefits of a recliner, they also come at a price. 

Therefore, be ready to increase your budget when purchasing a recliner with these additional features.

Final Thoughts

The parts of a recliner seat

Image Source: thespruce.com

The main parts of a recliner include the frame, reclining mechanism, upholstery, and cushioning. You can also get additional features that improve the recliner chair experience.

Which of these elements of the recliner parts diagram were you most excited to learn about?

Ian Mutuli

About the author

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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