Recliner Sofa & Armchair Care Guide

Caring for Your Recliners

Recliner sofas and armchairs deliver the ultimate in home comfort and relaxation. Following simple maintenance routines and properly operating your manual or power mechanism will keep your sofa smooth-operating, supportive, and looking its best for years to come.

Note: Mechanisms, electrical components, and upholstery vary by brand. Always consult the specific manufacturer guidelines supplied with your recliner for full warranty coverage.

Boston Power Rise and Recline Armchair Waffle Slate

Understanding Recliner Furniture

Modern recliners combine upholstery, cushion fillings and mechanical
components to provide both comfort and functionality.

As your recliner settles into everyday use, you may notice subtle
changes in the cushions, upholstery and reclining action. These are normal
characteristics of quality furniture and form part of the natural settling
process.

Understanding Different Types of Recliners

  • Leather Recliners – Natural leather will feel firm initially and naturally soften with use. Use only approved leather care products and dust regularly with a soft cloth.
  • Fabric Recliners – Offer soft, breathable comfort. Benefit from regular vacuuming with a soft brush attachment and routine cushion plumping to help the upholstery retain its shape and beauty.
  • Power (Automatic) Recliners – Motorised mechanisms allow seamless adjustments at the touch of a button. Keep the path clear of obstructions and ensure power cords remain untangled and unpinched. Check connections periodically and disconnect power before carrying out cleaning around electrical components.
  • Manual Recliners – Operated via a lever or latch mechanism. The internal spring system may feel slightly stiff when brand new, but will loosen and operate more fluidly over time. Do not force the handle.
  • Riser Recliners & Dual Motor Models – Designed for maximum support and independence, allowing independent control of footrests and backrests. Ensure adequate wall clearance behind the chair before fully reclining.

What to Expect During Early Ownership

All upholstered furniture experiences a settling period.
During the first few months of use, it is normal to notice:

  • Slight softening of cushions
  • Relaxation of upholstery fabrics or leather
  • Natural creasing in seating areas
  • Improved flexibility in the reclining mechanism
  • Minor changes in appearance as fillings settle

These changes are an expected part of the furniture's comfort design and do not indicate a manufacturing fault.

Recliner Care Recommendations

  • ✓ Do

    Daily Care & Operation

    ✓ Dress and plump cushions regularly to retain shape and alignment

    ✓ Change seating positions regularly during initial use to settle cushioning evenly

    ✓ Keep the footrest and recliner path completely clear of obstacles

    ✓ Check that power cables are untangled, unpinched, and free from tension

    ✓ Allow adequate clearance behind and in front of the sofa before reclining

    ✓ Vacuum fabric recliners gently using a soft brush upholstery attachment

    ✓ Dust leather recliners with a clean, dry, soft lint-free cloth

    ✓ Operate manual levers and power controls with smooth, controlled motions

    Spillages & Maintenance

    ✓ Blot liquid spills immediately using a clean, dry absorbent cloth

    ✓ Use specialist leather conditioners or fabric cleaners recommended for your upholstery

    ✓ Unplug power recliners during extended periods away or before cleaning underneath

  • ✕ Dont

    Environment & Usage

    ✕ Don't sit on arms, footrests, or backrests when extended

    ✕ Don't force manual mechanisms or levers if you feel resistance

    ✕ Avoid placing recliners too close to walls, radiators, or direct heat sources

    ✕ Avoid direct sunlight to prevent leather drying or fabric fading

    ✕ Don't allow children or pets to play beneath extended leg rests

    ✕ Don't trap power leads beneath sofa feet, castors, or internal metal frames

    Spillages & Cleaning

    ✕ Don't rub or scrub spills into fabric or leather upholstery

    ✕ Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, bleach, solvents, or multi-surface sprays

    ✕ Avoid abrasive sponges or harsh scrubbing brushes

    ✕ Don't saturate leather or fabric with excess water during cleaning

Using Your Recliner Safely

  • To Recline

    1. Sit fully back in the seat.
    2. Keep your legs centered and clear of the footrest mechanism.
    3. Operate the handle, lever or power control.
    4. Allow the footrest to extend fully.
    5. Lean back gently to reach your preferred reclining position.

  • Returning Upright

    1. Return the backrest to the upright position where applicable.
    2. Keep legs positioned centrally.
    3. Fully close the footrest.
    4. Stand up from the front of the chair rather than exiting from the side.
Ekornes Space 2100 Recliner Chair Cinder

Troubleshooting

Recliner Feels Stiff

This is common with new recliners. Regular use will usually allow the mechanism to become smoother over time.

Power Recliner Not Operating

Check the following:

  • Power connections
  • Plug socket operation
  • Transformer connections
  • Cable positioning

If issues persist, please do not hesitate to contact your sales person directly or email us at [email protected].

A Final Word

Quality recliners are designed to provide years of comfort, relaxation
and support. Natural upholstery materials, cushion fillings and moving
mechanisms will all adapt to regular use and develop character over time.

With sensible operation, regular maintenance and appropriate upholstery
care, your recliner can continue to perform beautifully for many years.

For specific operating instructions, maintenance recommendations,
upholstery care requirements and warranty conditions, always refer to the
manufacturer's care guide and warranty documentation supplied with your chosen
piece.