Wall Hugger Recliners: Working Mechanism & Features

In a world where urban spaces are shrinking and design innovation is soaring, enter the Wall Hugger Recliner – a marvel of modern engineering that promises the luxury of relaxation without demanding room.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the mechanics of wall hugger recliners, their space-saving benefits, and the comfort features that make them a popular choice for homeowners. Let’s peel back the layers and unveil the genius behind the Wall Hugger’s space-saving magic.

Wall Hugger Recliner

Photo of a diverse group of friends including a woman of african descent and a man of hispanic descent laughing and chatting while seated on wall hu 1
Photo of a diverse group of friends including a woman of African descent and a man of Hispanic descent laughing and chatting while seated on wall hugger

A wall hugger recliner is a space-saving chair designed to recline fully while positioned close to a wall, moving slightly forward as it reclines to minimize backward space requirements. The primary purpose of designing a wall hugger recliner is to save space.

It allows users to place the recliner close to a wall without hindering its reclining function, making it ideal for rooms with limited space or tight layouts, such as small apartments, studios, or compact living areas. 

How does a Wall Hugger Recliner Work?

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Mechanism: Wall Hugger Recliner

The mechanism of wall hugger recliners is ingeniously designed to maximize space efficiency while providing the comfort of a full recline. Here’s how it works:

Forward Glide

Unlike traditional recliners that simply tilt backward, wall hugger recliners are designed to move slightly forward when the reclining action is initiated.

This is achieved through a specialized track system upon which the seat base glides.

Modified Reclining Arc

The reclining trajectory of wall hugger recliners differs from that of standard recliners.

Because of the initial forward movement, when the recliner starts its backward tilt, it’s already positioned a bit forward from its original position.

This change in the starting point reduces the backward space required during recline.

Integrated Hardware

The recliner’s mechanism consists of unique levers, tracks, and brackets that enable the dual motion of gliding forward and then reclining back.

This hardware is built to withstand the stresses of the combined actions, ensuring durability and smooth operation.

Space Efficiency

The main advantage of this mechanism is space-saving. Since the chair moves forward before reclining, it can be placed closer to a wall without the risk of it hitting the wall during the reclining action.

This is especially beneficial in rooms with limited space.

Types Of Wall Hugger Recliner

Electric (Power) Wall Hugger Recliners 

Illustration of a person of Middle Eastern descent comfortably adjusting the position of an electric power wall hugger recliner using a remote. Surrounding the recliner are charging cables and gadgets, symbolizing its modern conveniences.
Illustration of a person of Middle Eastern descent comfortably adjusting the position of an electric power wall hugger recliner using a remote. Surrounding the recliner are charging cables and gadgets, symbolizing its modern conveniences.

A power wall hugger recliner is an electrically operated recliner that uses motors to adjust its position.

These recliners are specifically designed to work in close proximity to walls, making them ideal for rooms with limited space.

Unlike manual recliners, which require physical effort to recline using a lever or push-back motion, power wall huggers come with buttons or a remote control.

At the press of a button, the built-in motor smoothly adjusts the chair to your desired position.

Manual Wall Hugger Recliner

Photo of a young woman of East Asian descent sitting on a manual wall hugger recliner, reaching for the lever to adjust her seating position.
Photo of a young woman of East Asian descent sitting on a manual wall hugger recliner, reaching for the lever to adjust her seating position.

Manual Recline wall huggers do not have to be attached to a power source. Use your bodyweight to recline the backrest and pull a level to bring out the footrest.

With fewer locking positions, manual wall huggers usually cost less than their powered counterparts and it is handy not having to think about where the plug is.

Wall Hugger Recliner – Tall and Short Height

HeightType of Wall Hugger ReclinerReason
TallExtended Back ReclinerProvides extra support for the head and neck.
Deep Seat ReclinerOffers more legroom for extended comfort.
Adjustable FootrestHelps accommodate longer legs.
ShortPetite Recliner with Shorter BackEnsures that the head and neck are adequately supported.
Shallow Seat ReclinerPrevents feet from dangling and ensures ergonomic seating.
Recliners with Adjustable Seat HeightAllows customization to ensure feet rest on the floor.

Considerations: When Buying Wall Hugger Recliner

  • Measure the area where you plan to place the recliner.
  • Ensure there’s enough clearance for the chair to fully recline without obstruction.
  • Choose a recliner that fits the user’s height and body size. Tall individuals may need recliners with extended backrests, while shorter individuals might prefer shallower seats.
  • Leather offers a luxurious look and is easy to clean, but might be warmer in hot climates.
  • Fabric recliners can provide a cozy feel and come in various patterns and colors but can be more challenging to maintain.
  • Consider features like built-in USB ports, heat and massage functions, or adjustable headrests and lumbar support.

Conclusion: Summarizing Main Points

In conclusion, wall hugger recliners, with their fusion of design elegance and technological prowess, represent the future of comfortable, space-saving seating in the urban living landscape.

Marrying sophisticated design with advanced technology, these recliners embody the essence of modern urban living.

Their space-efficient mechanics, coupled with a variety of styles and features, offer a luxurious seating solution without compromising floor space.

The evolution of wall hugger recliners, with enhancements such as power reclining, USB ports, and heating elements, further solidifies their place in contemporary homes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are wall hugger recliners as durable as regular recliners?

Yes, wall hugger recliners are constructed to be durable, but their longevity can depend on the quality of materials used and overall craftsmanship.

Can wall hugger recliners be customized with different fabrics and materials?

Customization options depend on the manufacturer and model. Some brands offer a variety of upholstery and material choices for their recliners.

How does the price of a wall hugger recliner compare to that of a regular recliner?

Wall hugger recliners may sometimes be slightly more expensive due to their specialized mechanism, but prices can vary based on brand, material, and additional features.

Arshad Afridi
Hi, I'm Arshad Afridi, a furniture enthusiast with 3 years of experience in the recliner, chair, and sofa industry. I have a passion for creating comfortable and functional furniture pieces that enhance the beauty of any space. Join me on my blog as I share my expertise and insights on the latest furniture trends and design inspirations.