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After a busy and tedious day, you deserve to come home to a hot shower and a comfortable and inviting recliner chair. However, owning a recliner has remained a dream for most people living in small spaces until recently. Thanks to the innovative yet extremely comfortable wall hugger recliners that offer the same luxuries of a classic recliner-without the bulk.
If you are not acquainted with the wall hugger recliners, you should read on to find out what they are and how they function.
Table of Contents
What Is A Wall Hugger Recliner?
A wall hugger -also known as a wall away recliner or a wall-saver- gets its name for its ability to be placed and operate near a wall, unlike the other recliners.
While the other recliner models tip beck when you stretch out, the wall hugger doesn’t, instead. When you pull the reclining lever, the chair slides forward, and the footrests stretch bur the back/lumbar support barely moves.
Wall-away recliners are ideal for small spaces such as the bedroom or a small bedroom. They are also perfect for an already busy living room. We have also thrown in a few tips that will help you choose the perfect wall hugger recliner.
Further, they mostly come with a single-seat recliner or a loveseat. Larger couches are rare and only recline on the ends.

How Does A Wall Hugger Recliner Work?
A wall hugger gas two operating mechanisms:
- Power( Electric) Wall Huggers– they come with a motor to control all the functions. A set of buttons controls both the footrest and backrest. The main advantage of the power wall hugger is that it allows you to set various positions.
- Manual wall huggers– you need to pull a lever to extend the footrest or use your body weight to recline the backrest on this one. This model is much cheaper than the power recliners. However, it has fewer rocking positions.
How far should a wall hugger be from the wall?
A wall hugger recliner should be at least 4 -6 inches away from the wall in its upright position. However, a zero wall recliner requires less.
How To Choose A Perfect Wall Hugger Recliner
1. Size and space
The size of the wall away recliner is crucial, especially if you are limited on space.
Before you make a purchase, take measurements of your room or as a professional to do it for you. Ensure there is enough front space for the chair and the footrest to extend without hitting other furniture.
You should also measure the entryway to ensure that your new recliner fits through when it’s finally delivered.
Further, it would be best to consider your weight, height, and weight when buying a wall hugger. Sit on the chair and ensure that your legs touch the ground. Also, confirm that it’s wide or narrow enough for your body size.
2. Overall Construction
Different brands use different materials to build their furniture. Go for a brand that uses nothing but quality materials on their framework, reclining mechanism, and fabric. Since you are buying a recliner for comfort, you should also consider that the padding is up to standard.
We advise that you go for a wall hugger with a hardwood frame as it is durable and sturdy enough. Alternatively, you can buy one with metal reinforcement.
3. Upholstery and Fabric
Like most models, the wall hugger recliners come in many designs and styles depending on your needs. Even better, some have a customization option that allows the customer to decide the color and type of fabric he’d like.
The fabrics come in either microfiber, leather, or polyester. The practical considerations on the fabric should be if it stain-resistant, wear and tear-proof, and comfortable.
Additionally, your choice wall hugger should fit seamlessly into your room.
4. The Price Tag
The cost of the recliner is an important consideration. So, what’s your budget?
Different wall hugger models come with different prices. Some are relatively cheap, while others will cost you an arm and a leg, especially if they come with extra features such as remote control, footrest, and other technological features.
5. Extra Features
Some wall hugger models come with additional features that you may like but at a price. Some come with a massager to help relieve body pressure. Other features include heaters, USB port, memory foam, among others.
Types of Wall Hugger Recliners
Wall hugger recliners come in a plethora of types and designs. We’ll highlight the most common ones.
1. Small Wall Hugger Recliners
As the name suggests, these recliners are smaller than regular recliners. The difference is in width. They have less width compared to the regular recliners.
Additionally, the small wall hugger’s footrests don’t rise too high. They are basically built for small spaces.
2. Wall Hugger Loveseats.
A loveseat is a sofa or chair built for two. A wall hugger loveseat has the same reclining mechanism as a single wall hugger, except it’s a little wide to accommodate two people.
3. Wall Hugger Power Recliner.
A wall hugger power recliner comes with a built-in motor or motors to control such functions as raising the footrest, reclining the backrest, and powerlifting.
4. Wall Hugger Rocker Recliner
This model comes with a rocking feature. In other words, it allows you to move back and forth. Such recliners are ideal for nursing moms. They are also great stress relievers.
5. Swivel Wall Hugger Recliner
This model has similar features with a small wall hugger recliner except for the swivel feature. The swivel is added to allow easier mobility and smooth steering of the recliner.
Parting Shot
There you have it! Space is no longer an obstacle between you and the little pieces of heaven offered by a recliner. Whether you live in a studio apartment or a small apartment, you can own a wall hugger recliner.
Our buyer’s guide will help you choose the perfect wall hugger for you. You can also read our review on the 10 best wall hugger recliners for small spaces.
Once you get a wall hugger, you’ll realize the wall isn’t the only one getting a hug; you will be too.
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