)
The Design Home is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Ahhhh, there’s nothing like plopping into a cushy recliner at the end of a hard day!
Unfortunately, opening up the recliner to kick back often means the chair stops short because it hits the wall. When this happens, you need to get up and adjust the chair’s position to make room so it can fully open.
After you finish using the recliner, it now sits in an awkward position, and you have to push it closer to the wall again.
The only way to stop this nonsense is to opt for wall hugger recliners for small spaces.
What sets these recliners apart is their compact size and a unique mechanism that allows the chair to fully recline without needing three feet of space between the wall and chair. Some wall-hugging recliners sit fewer than six inches from the wall!
How does the wall-hugging mechanism work?
The chair’s base sits in a track that moves the base forward while simultaneously reclining the back of the seat and popping open the footrest.
The design cleverly allows full motion of the recliner with little wall clearance.
Wall hugger recliners are ideal for tiny homes or apartments that don’t have space for a traditional recliner. Narrow wall hugger recliners are another option to accommodate better the restrictions of furnishing small rooms.
You’ve seen these before, but never actually knew the name: wall-hugger recliners.
We’re here to clue you in on these cool little furniture pieces that can be slightly technical, but also look good – just like Ryan from The Office.
What is a wall hugger recliner?
A wall-hugger recliner, aka wall recliner, is a reclining chair that moves the seat forward on a track, rather than the seat back leaning backwards. This is perfect when you need to save space and have the recliner against the wall.
You learn something new every day! While we’ve been in this field for awhile, we never actually knew that’s what they were called!
These pair perfectly with other furniture in a smaller room, such as folding coffee tables and some unique couches.
Next up are the best small wall hugger recliners that don’t skimp on comfort or style but improve on traditional recliner design!
1. Casa Andrea Milano Recliner
Top Features:
- Sleek design
- Soft and durable materials
- Easy to assemble
Technical Details:
- Color selection: 9 options
- Weight: 55 pounds
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
- Material: Linen fabric, alloy steel
- Warranty: 1 year
This slim profile recliner is the ideal addition for small rooms.
While the chair doesn’t fully recline, it does allow a good range of motion and thick cushioning for optimal relaxation. The side pocket is convenient to hold a magazine, book, or TV remote.
Some customers find the armrest foam forms dents over time, but they appreciate the short wall clearance it requires to operate.
The recliner’s dimensions are 35 x 26.4 x 41.7 inches. It weighs 55 pounds.
If you’re looking for a soft and comfortable recliner, then this is for you!
View Casa Andrea Milano Recliner on Amazon
2. Ravenna Home Manning Recliner
Top Features:
- Smooth fabric
- Built for comfort
- Compact design
Technical Details:
- Color selection: 3 options
- Weight: 90.4 pounds
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
- Material: Fabric, fiberboard, iron
- Warranty: 1 year
The ample width and fully-reclining feature make this wall hugger recliner an excellent value. The convenient swivel feature gets high marks from customers, along with the durable build.
On the downside, the cushions on the chair take some time to break in for maximum seating comfort.
The recliner’s dimensions are 34.6 x 38.2 x 39.8 inches. It weighs 90.4 pounds.
If you’re looking for a decently priced recliner, then this is a good option for you!
View Ravenna Home Manning Recliner on Amazon
3. Macedonia Mid Century Modern Tufted Back Recliner
Top Features:
- Button-tufted seatback
- Full reclining function
- Cool retro design
Technical Details:
- Color selection: 16 options
- Weight: 57.3 pounds
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
- Material: Textile, steel, wood
- Warranty: 1 year
This stylish recliner upgrades the look of a room with its distinctive mid-century modern design.
What sets this recliner apart is the positions that lock in place and the deep seat cushion that provides springy support.
The batting on the seat cushion tends to shift, making the seat look a bit lumpy, but other than that, this recliner is a great value!
The chair’s dimensions are 34.25 x 27.25 x 38 inches. It weighs 57.3 pounds.
If you’re looking for a relaxing recliner chair, then this is a great option for you!
View Macedonia Mid Century Modern Tufted Back Recliner on Amazon
4. ACME Arcadia Recliner
Top Features:
- Smooth reclining system
- Sturdy frame
- Stain resistant
Technical Details:
- Color selection: None
- Weight: 75 pounds
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
- Material: Microfiber, wood
- Warranty: 1 year
Comfort is calling in this deep-cushion recliner covered with a buttery-soft microfiber fabric.
The dual operational levers allow you to choose a reclining back or raised footrest separately to achieve the perfect comfort level.
Customers note this is a slimmer recliner than you may expect but offers a quality build that will provide years of long-lasting enjoyment.
The recliner’s dimensions are 38 x 35 x 40 inches.
If you’re looking for a good looking recliner, then this is a good option for you!
View ACME Arcadia Recliner on Amazon
5. JC Home Sabadell Wall-Hugger Recliner
Top Features:
- Nice leather cover
- Sturdy design
- Super durable build
Technical Details:
- Color selection: None
- Weight: 113.2 pounds
- Weight capacity: 325 pounds
- Material: Foam, leather, metal
- Warranty: 1 year
Faux leather wall hugger recliners that offer this much comfort are hard to find. The recliner is a fantastic choice for people with mobility issues.
The recliner utilizes a power-lift system that raises and tilts the chair for safe and easy seating and exit. Push the button to recline, and relax into the deep cushioning.
The recliner requires four inches of clearance from the wall, making it suitable for any small space.
Customers mention the leather is slippery and that the sizing is best for people under 6-feet tall.
The recliner’s dimensions are 34.6 x 37 x 41 inches. It weighs 113.2 pounds.
If you’re looking for a well built recliner, then this is for you!
View JC Home Sabadell Wall-Hugger Recliner on Amazon
6. Thomas Payne Recliner
Top Features:
- High density foam
- Durable frame
- Quality materials
Technical Details:
- Color selection: 4 options
- Weight: 68 pounds
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
- Material: PolyHyde upholstery, foam
- Warranty: 1 year
This recliner is pure quality. The thick faux leather brown upholstery and cream stitching add character to an otherwise ordinary recliner.
The chair requires more wall clearance than other models, but it makes up for it in comfort. Enjoy a full recline position with no gap in the footrest for full leg support.
The thick cushioning bounces right back into shape yet molds to the body for the ultimate relaxation.
The recliner’s dimensions is 40 x 30 x 40 inches. It weighs 68 pounds.
If you’re looking for a well supported recliner, then this is a good option for you!
View Thomas Payne Recliner on Amazon
7. Christopher Knight Home Ishtar Recliner
Top Features:
- Glide and swivel functions
- Versatile design
- Durable materials
Technical Details:
- Color selection: 4 options
- Weight: 69 pounds
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
- Material: Fabric, iron
- Warranty: 1 year
This wall hugger rocker recliner is excellent for a small room, with an easy push-back motion to trigger the reclining action.
The chair swivels, rocks, reclines, has a higher back, and offers ample cushioning to ease your aching muscles.
The array of reclining features and the lower armrests make this recliner a top choice for a baby nursery.
The recliner’s dimensions are 25 x 35.75 x 39 inches. It weighs 69 pounds.
If you’re looking for a versatile recliner, then this is a great option for you!
View Christopher Knight Home Ishtar Recliner on Amazon
8. ProLounger Wall Hugger Microfiber Recliner
Top Features:
- High quality materials
- Nice reclining system
- Beautiful design
Technical Details:
- Color selection: 2 options
- Weight: 66.14 pounds
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
- Material: Polyester, steel
- Warranty: 1-5 years
Envelop yourself in velvety comfort when you lean back in this ultra-plush recliner that only requires four inches of wall clearance.
The wide seat and soft armrests fit a variety of body types, and the enduring build withstands years of use.
The recliner’s dimensions are 37.75 x 34.75 x 39.5 inches. It weighs 66.1 pounds.
If you’re looking for a durable recliner, then this is for you!
View ProLounger Wall Hugger Microfiber Recliner on Amazon
9. Beaumont Warm Brown Paisley Recliner
Top Features:
- Rustic paisley pattern
- Removable cushions
- Wood frame construction
Technical Details:
- Color selection: None
- Weight: 97.7 pounds
- Weight capacity: 350 pounds
- Material: Polyester, wood
- Warranty: 1 year
This narrow wall hugger recliners choice will fool everyone into thinking it’s a traditional armchair. The tapestry fabric, visible wooden legs, nailhead trim, and rolled arms add a sophisticated touch to any room’s decor.
Once you sit down, you’ll find the cushioning of the coil seat firm yet comfortable.
The recliner’s dimensions are 70 x 35 x 43.5 inches. It weighs 97.7 pounds.
If you’re looking for a paisley recliner, then this is a great option for you!
View Beaumont Warm Brown Paisley Recliner on Amazon
10. Lucas Dark Teal Fabric Recliner
Top Features:
- Cool teal color
- Detailed accents
- Contemporary design
Technical Details:
- Color selection: None
- Weight: 62.5 pounds
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
- Material: Polyester, birch
- Warranty: 1 year
This recliner has crisp, clean lines that add a contemporary touch to home furnishings. The rich teal shade is modern, and the open base with dark legs only enhances its appearance.
The recliner has a slim, low profile, so it doesn’t overwhelm small spaces even when open.
While this model isn’t as comfy as other wall hugger recliners and is best for smaller people, it’s an excellent choice for additional seating when you want to stretch out.
The recliner’s dimensions are 34 x 26.75 x 36.25 inches. It weighs 62.5 pounds.
If you’re looking for a low-profile recliner, then this is a good option for you!
View Lucas Dark Teal Fabric Recliner on Amazon
11. Dorel Living Slim Recliner
Top Features:
- Smooth reclining system
- Tall backrest
- Wide arm pads
Technical Details:
- Color selection: None
- Weight: 47.3 pounds
- Weight capacity: 250 pounds
- Material: Microfiber, wood
- Warranty: 1 year
The Dorel is the classic recliner choice for small spaces in a home, apartment, or recreational vehicle. The short legs lift the chair off the floor to create a more airy design aesthetic.
The elongated backrest, the push-back reclining operation, and the thick cushioning on the back, seat, and armrests will keep calling you back for more.
The recliner’s dimensions are 35.75 x 31 x 38 inches. It weighs 47.3 pounds.
If you’re looking for a well reclining recliner, then this is a good option for you!
View Dorel Living Slim Recliner on Amazon
12. Christopher Knight Home Walter Fabric Recliner
Top Features:
- Fancy tufted design
- Soft fabric cover
- Sturdy wooden legs
Technical Details:
- Color selection: None
- Weight: 36.5 pounds
- Weight capacity: 275 pounds
- Material: Textile, wood
- Warranty: 1 year
From the tufted backrest to the turned wooden legs, the look of this recliner adds a luxurious touch to your home.
The slim lines keep the recliner from looking too bulky, but the materials and build are hardy. Recline and enjoy an unexpected level of comfort that will make this your go-to chair for reading or watching TV.
The recliner’s dimensions are 34.75 x 28 x 41.25 inches. It weighs 36.5 pounds.
If you’re looking for a tufted wall recliner, then this is a great option for you!
View Christopher Knight Home Walter Fabric Recliner on Amazon
Wall Hugger Recliners Comparison Table
| Product name | Color selection | Weight | Weight capacity | Material | Warranty |
| Casa Andrea Milano Recliner | 9 options | 55 pounds | 300 pounds | Linen fabric, alloy steel | 1 year |
| Ravenna Home Manning Recliner | 3 options | 90.4 pounds | 300 pounds | Fabric, fiberboard, iron | 1 year |
| Macedonia Mid Century Modern Tufted Back Recliner | 16 options | 57.3 pounds | 300 pounds | Textile, steel, wood | 1 year |
| ACME Arcadia Recliner | None | 75 pounds | 300 pounds | Microfiber, wood | 1 year |
| JC Home Sabadell Wall-Hugger Recliner | None | 113.2 pounds | 325 pounds | Foam, leather, metal | 1 year |
| Thomas Payne Recliner | 4 options | 68 pounds | 300 pounds | PolyHyde upholstery, foam | 1 year |
| Christopher Knight Home Ishtar Recliner | 4 options | 69 pounds | 300 pounds | Fabric, iron | 1 year |
| ProLounger Wall Hugger Microfiber Recliner | 2 options | 66.14 pounds | 300 pounds | Polyester, steel | 1-5 years |
| Beaumont Paisley Recliner | None | 97.7 pounds | 350 pounds | Polyester, wood | 1 year |
| Lucas Dark Teal Fabric Recliner | None | 62.5 pounds | 300 pounds | Polyester, birch | 1 year |
| Dorel Living Slim Recliner | None | 47.3 pounds | 250 pounds | Microfiber, wood | 1 year |
| Christopher Knight Home Walter Fabric Recliner | None | 36.5 pounds | 275 pounds | Textile, wood | 1 year |
Mini-buyers Guide:
Size
You’ll want a recliner to open and close without hitting other objects in your room. Some small wall hugger recliners are more narrow in the seat to gain a few extra inches of space.
Get dimensions of possible choices with the recliner both open and shut to see how well it will fit into the room.
Weight Capacity
Check out the weight capacity before purchase. Most recliners should support 250-300 pounds, but some can go up to 400 pounds or more.
Wall Depth Requirement
Wall hugger recliners don’t have a set number of inches of wall clearance. Each brand or model will function differently and need more or less space behind the chair to open without impediment.
If you’re sure you want your chair to back up against a wall, look for models that offer 4 inches of clearance to operate.
Reclining Positions
Some recliners open so that you can lay almost entirely flat. Others only open partway for a gentle recline great for reading or watching television.
If you think you want to nap in the recliner, look for a model that fully reclines.
Many models also offer a rocker and swivel movement when the recliner is upright, making it even more convenient to use.
Comfort & Fit
Seats with coils under the cushion will provide more give when seated yet support your pressure points gently, which feels nice.
Heavy padding on armrests may be great for watching television or napping but may get in the way when trying to hold a book to read.
Think about how you intend to use the seating and give recliner models a test run if possible before purchase.
These small wall hugger recliners are for compact spaces. The design means they may not be ideal for taller or larger people.
Take measurements of your current most comfortable chair to compare the size of the recliner’s seat or the height of the backrest to find a model suitable to your needs.
Material
Fabric is a popular choice for recliner upholstery. Microfibers are very soft but are hard to spot clean. Tweeds and tapestry texture hides dirt and stains well and is easier to clean with a damp rag without leaving marks.
If you want the most durability, look for leather or faux leather upholstery that can withstand wear and tear better than fabric and is simple to wipe down with a cloth.
Wall Hugger Recliners FAQs
What should I look for when choosing a wall hugger recliner?
If you’re interested in a wall hugger recliner, then you should probably check the design and the dimensions first. Wall hugger recliners are generally compact, but you should check out the sizes, because some of them are usually different.
What’s the difference between a wall hugger recliner and a normal recliner?
Wall hugger recliners are generally more compact and small compared to normal recliners. If you live in a tiny space or a compact apartment, then a wall hugger recliner would be a better option.
How can I check the quality of the recliner?
We highly suggest you check out the reviews section on Amazon. A lot of reviewers share their experience with the product and that can help you choose the right one for you.
