Question:

We are in our 60’s, my husband is 6’4” and I’m 5’11. We’d like a high back non-leather reclining sofa and loveseat. We are active and it seems there is always family and grandkids over. This sofa will be used for comfort not looks. 

Do you have any suggestions? We were very disappointed in our last Lazy Boy reclining sofa. It’s only 3 years old and we’re ready to dump it!

Sue

August 21, 2020

Answer:

Check out my article Who are the Best American Reclining Furniture Manufacturers?

The first seven companies listed in the article are rated above the remaining eight (including LaZBoy.) All of the first seven companies are leather specialists, but also offer an extensive selection of fabrics.

The biggest factor limiting the lifespan of most reclining furniture is the non-removable seat cushions that are found on most popularly priced reclining furniture.

With the standard 1.8 density foam used by LaZBoy and most of its direct competitors, non-removable seat cushions will lose their resilience (and comfort) within 3 – 5 years. Once that happens the cushions cannot be replaced and you are stuck with a worn out, uncomfortable piece of furniture.

Better quality reclining furniture will have removable seat cushions with better quality (higher density) foam or coil spring cushions. When the cushion cores do wear out, they can be replaced at a reasonable cost.

In addition there are new high leg reclining furniture styles (with removable cushions) that are becoming available at lower price levels. The Southern Motion Elevate line is an example of this, although many different companies are also introducing new high leg designs with removable seat cushions.

Once you have overcome the problem of early obsolescence you can also look into options that can improve comfort such as triple power (separate motors for head and foot rests.) The added cost of these features cannot be justified for seating that will only last 3 – 5 years.

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