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A riser recliner is a chair you will use every day, often for years. Get the size right and it is the comfiest seat in the house. Get it wrong and it is an expensive place to put the post.
Here is what we look at when we help people choose, whether it is for you or for Mum or Dad.
Start with the person, not the chair
The chair should fit the person sitting in it. Three things matter most:
- Seat height: feet flat on the floor, knees at about a right angle. Measure from the floor to the back of the knee.
- Seat depth: a small gap behind the knee when sitting right back. Too deep and you slump.
- Seat width: room to sit comfortably, but arms close enough to push up on.
A quick check when you sit in one: bottom right at the back, feet flat, and you can slide two fingers between the back of your knee and the front of the seat. Many chairs come in more than one size for exactly this reason.
Take your time. Have a proper long sit, try getting up and down with the handset, and bring the person who will use it.
How the lift and recline work
A motor tips the chair gently forward to help you stand, then lowers you back down to sit. The same handset reclines you back and lifts your feet.
Some chairs move the back and footrest together; others let you move them separately. Try both in the showroom and see which feels easier. Keep the handset simple if it is for someone who does not like gadgets.
Fabric or leather?
Fabric is warm and soft and comes in loads of colours. Easy-clean fabrics, leather and faux leather all wipe down well. Think about who uses it, pets, and whether it sits in a sunny window.
Where will it go?
Measure the space, then allow extra behind for the back to recline and in front for the footrest. Check there is a plug socket nearby. Not sure? Bring a photo of the corner when you come and see us.
VAT relief
VAT relief is available on our riser recliner models. If you have a long-term condition, you may be able to buy VAT-free if you are eligible. Ask in store and we will go through it with you.
Budget to British-made Sherborne
We have a wide choice, from budget-friendly chairs usually in stock (like the Elevate and Dover) to British-made Sherborne. Our Sherborne range is at Cleveleys, along with our main rise and recline range.
Come and talk to a specialist
Reading only gets you so far. Come into our Cleveleys or Blackpool showroom, sit on a few, and we’ll guide you with honest advice, no pressure. Free parking at both. Mon–Fri 10am–5pm, Sat 10am–4pm, Sun closed. Or have a look at Rise and recliner chairs and sherborne at bm and fireside and bespoke chairs. Visit our Cleveleys or Blackpool showroom, or contact us.
Questions people ask
Measure from the floor to the back of the knee, then sit in a few chairs. Feet should be flat with knees at about a right angle.
Yes, VAT relief is available on our riser recliner models. Eligible customers with a long-term condition may be able to buy VAT-free, so ask in store.
Yes, a powered riser recliner needs a socket within reach of its cable.
At our Cleveleys showroom. Find out more about Sherborne at BM.