How to Purchase a Child Recliner

Child recliners are becoming increasingly popular as a gift. These recliners mimic the styles and functionality on adult reclining chairs in most ways.

I'm writing this to answer some of the most common questions we get about this wonderful gift.

By far the most frequently asked question is "what is the right size recliner for my child," "will my child fit in this chair," or some other variation. The good news is that it's a pretty simple question to answer. Child recliners vary in size only slightly. Almost without exception they will work for kids between the ages of 2 and 8 years old and under 100 pounds.

It's not a good idea to purchase these recliners for children under 2. Children under 2 often want to stand on the seat of the recliners while holding onto the chair back. This can cause the recliner to tip over backwards. Children over 2 are more able to understand this tipping concept and the problem is negated.

Over 8 years old and/or 100 pounds the chairs tend to be too small for the child. You might ask why someone doesn’t make a larger or in-between size chair to bridge the 9 year old to adult range. This is most likely due to shipping costs. Child recliners for small children can be shipped via ground service. Chairs made larger would have to be shipped via freight carriers that would make the chairs expensive.

Another frequently asked question is "does this chair recline." Yes, they do. Although, they generally do not have lifting mechanisms like adult recliners have. That is why there is no lever on the right hand side of the chair. To put the chair in the reclining position the footrest has to be pulled up manually. Most children can accomplish this themselves, but very young children may need an adult’s help.

Finally, parents and grandparents often want to know "how well made is this recliner?" The answer to this is more complex. Most of the recliners you find for under $100 are made of a pine frame, inexpensive batting and thinner upholstery. You can expect these chairs to last 2 or 3 years if used by a single child, depending on the child. I'm sure you wouldn't be surprised to find that girl's chairs tend to last longer than boy's chairs. More expensive models are made with hardwood frames, springs and leather or faux leather upholstery. This upholstery may be tacked in like adult furniture instead of sewn on. Some of these chairs can be considered heirlooms and will last generations if treated well.

I hope this helps you with your search.

If you have more questions about children's furniture, please email me.