The Best Recliner Sofa For Sleeping

It’s a lazy Sunday afternoon. You’ve devoured a mountain of Yorkshire puds, the washing up is someone else’s problem (hopefully) and the only thing left on your to-do list is to claim your spot on the sofa. Somewhere between scrolling your phone and reaching for the remote, your eyes start to droop. The urge to nap is real.

But then comes the issue. Your current sofa – the one that looked so fabulous in that Instagram influencer’s reel – isn’t quite cutting it. The armrest is digging into your ribs, the back cushion has a mind of its own and you’re playing an awkward game of where do I put my legs? Suddenly, you’re wide awake again, contemplating life’s bigger questions.

Because let’s be honest. If you’re going to sleep on a sofa, it needs to do more than just look pretty. It needs to deliver comfort with a capital C.

So, if you’re on the hunt for the best recliner sofa for sleeping – whether that’s for sneaky afternoon snoozes, impromptu sleepovers or those nights when your bed just feels like it’s on another continent – here’s our stylish, savvy guide to finding the perfect one for you.

What Makes A Reclining Sofa Dreamy For Sleeping?

Not all recliner sofas are made equal. Some are all style and no substance, much like that questionable linen jumpsuit you convinced yourself was a summer essential. When it comes to choosing a reclining sofa that works for both lounging and proper sleeping, here’s what to look out for:

The Recline Factor: Full vs. Partial

A sofa that only reclines halfway is fine for TV marathons but utterly useless when you want to stretch out and actually sleep. The best reclining sofas for sleeping should offer a full recline. We’re talking near-horizontal magic, so you’re not left hovering in that weird almost flat but not quite zone. Because waking up with a neck cramp isn’t chic or fun.

Cushion Firmness: The Goldilocks Rule

Too soft and you’ll sink into the abyss like a marshmallow, too firm and you might as well be lying on the kitchen floor. The sweet spot? A medium-firm cushion that offers support without sacrificing comfort. Think cloud with a backbone. It should hug your body without swallowing you whole.

Built-in Back and Neck Support

A reclining sofa without proper lumbar and neck support is like a fancy handbag with a broken zip – useless. Look for sofas with adjustable headrests and ergonomic designs that actually consider the human body, so you wake up feeling refreshed rather than like you’ve just wrestled a bear.

Fabric Matters: More Than Just A Pretty Face

Leather looks luxe, but unless you fancy peeling yourself off it during a heatwave, it might not be the best choice for serious snoozing. However, for a slightly more breathable take on the leather look, consider leather air. Soft fabrics like velvet, chenille or breathable cotton blends offer a cosy feel that won’t have you overheating like a dodgy radiator. Bonus points if the fabric is easy to clean, because life happens (especially if you have pets, kids or a penchant for midnight snacks).

Space To Sprawl

Are you a curled-up cat napper or a full-stretch starfish sleeper? Either way, size matters. If you tend to sprawl (no judgement – we all do it), opt for a reclining sofa with wide armrests or an L-shape design. More space means less chance of waking up with one leg dangling off the side like you’ve lost a game of Twister.

Which Recliner Sofas Are Best For Sleeping?

So, what’s your style? Here’s a breakdown of the best recliner sofas for sleeping – because beauty and brains are non-negotiable.

The Classic Recliner Sofa

Effortlessly stylish and endlessly practical, the classic reclining sofa is a solid all-rounder. It’s perfect for a quick 20-minute power nap or a full-blown accidentally fell asleep halfway through The Crown situation. With built-in footrests and multiple reclining positions, it’s a reliable choice for both form and function.

The Loveseat Recliner

Compact yet chic, a reclining loveseat is ideal if you’re short on space but high on comfort requirements. It’s your personal cocoon. Perfect for solo naps, curling up with a book, or hosting an unexpected guest (who may or may not overstay their welcome after testing how comfy it is). Bonus: it fits seamlessly into smaller living rooms without looking bulky.

The Sectional Recliner

If you love a bit of drama (in furniture, not life), the reclining sectional is your scene-stealer. With multiple reclining seats and room to spare, it’s perfect for those who nap like they’re claiming land. Sprawled, expansive and entirely unbothered. It also works wonders for movie nights, with space for everyone and their snacks.

The Power Recliner Sofa

For those who like their comfort high-tech, a power reclining sofa lets you adjust your position at the touch of a button. Some even come with built-in USB ports, hidden storage and cup holders. Ideal for when you want a nap, but also need to charge your phone and sip your hot chocolate simultaneously.

The Recliner with Pull-Out Bed

If you’re the hostess with the mostest, a reclining sofa with a pull-out bed is a no-brainer. By day, it’s a sleek sofa. By night, it transforms into a bed worthy of a sleepover (or for those nights when your partner’s snoring reaches industrial levels). It’s giving transformer chic, stylish yet secretly practical.

How To Get A Better Sleep On Your Recliner Sofa

Already got a reclining sofa but feeling a bit meh about the sleep situation? Let’s fix that.

Layer with a mattress topper: If the cushions are too firm, add a memory foam topper – instant luxury. Then, over the memory foam, consider a super-soft fleece blanket or even a thin featherbed for that truly cloud-like sensation.

Invest in chic throws and pillows: Choose soft, tactile fabrics like boucle or linen – practical yet stylish. Don’t be afraid to go oversized with cushions either. Think big, squishy floor cushions piled onto the sofa for extra back support and a seriously indulgent look.

Weighted blankets: Not just for anxiety – these gems add a luxe, cocooned feel to your nap setup. Look for one in a luxe fabric like velvet or a super-soft cotton knit. Choose a stylish colour or pattern that complements your living room decor. And consider the weight. You want it to feel like a gentle, comforting hug.

Ambient lighting: Ditch the harsh overhead lights faster than you’d bin a lukewarm latte. Think mood lighting. String fairy lights delicately around the sofa or behind it for a whimsical, dreamy glow. Pop a couple of stylish lanterns (battery operated, safety first, chicness always) on the floor nearby. Use lamps with warm-toned bulbs and dimmer switches to control the light levels.

Add a side table: For your tea, book or that emergency chocolate stash – because comfort isn’t just physical, it’s emotional. A chic little lamp with a warm, dimmable bulb is crucial for setting the mood. Think soft, flattering glow, not harsh interrogation room lighting. Add a small dish for jewellery (because no one wants to sleep in their hoops) and a beautiful coaster for your glass of prosecco (or herbal tea, we’re not judging). And maybe even a small, stylish diffuser with calming essential oils like lavender or chamomile. It’s about creating a little corner of tranquillity, right there on your sofa.

Scent-sational sleep zone: Aromatherapy is powerful, use it to your advantage to create a sleep-promoting atmosphere around your recliner. Beyond diffusers, think strategically placed scented candles (again, safety first, gorgeousness always – think chic glass containers or stylish ceramic holders). Opt for calming scents like lavender, chamomile, sandalwood or bergamot. Or, for a more subtle approach, try a linen spray with sleep-promoting essential oils spritzed lightly onto your throws and cushions. It’s like giving your sofa a mini spa treatment, and who doesn’t want that?

Lastly, why not curate yourself a sleep soundtrack: Silence is golden, sometimes. But sometimes, a little ambient sound can actually enhance relaxation. Think a chic little portable Bluetooth speaker (discreet, we’re not building a rave cave). Play calming nature sounds, gentle instrumental music or even a white noise app. Or, if you’re feeling fancy, invest in a sound machine with sleep-promoting soundscapes. It’s about creating an aural oasis that lulls you into a state of blissful relaxation. Just maybe skip the heavy metal power ballads for this particular occasion, yeah?

Now go forth, get comfy, get stylish and get some seriously good sleep. Night night, recliner sofa lovers!

KEY TAKEAWAYS ABOUT THE BEST RECLINER SOFAS FOR SLEEP

Before you commit to buying a recliner sofa for sleeping, ask yourself:

• Full Recline? Does it go almost horizontal for proper sleep?

• Cushion Comfort? Medium-firm and supportive, not too soft or hard?

• Fabric Feel? Soft, breathable and inviting for sleep?

• Size Right for Sprawling? Enough space to stretch out comfortably?

• Lumbar & Neck Support? Does it consider your body’s needs for sleep comfort?

• Style Statement? Will it look gorgeous in your living room and promise sleep heaven?

• Budget Balanced? Does it offer great value without sacrificing style or comfort?

If you’re ticking mostly ‘Ticks’ to the above – congratulations! You’re on your way to recliner sofa sleep success! Happy snoozing!

What Other Interior Design Experts Say About Recliner Sofas For Sleeping…

“Whether you use them daily or occasionally, recliners should offer support that fits your body and style that fits your home. If the word recliner conjures images of overstuffed chairs demanding a big presence in living rooms and dens, you might be surprised to see the many features and looks of today’s recliners.”
Kristina McGuirk and Quincy Bulin at Better Homes & Gardens

Read More: The 11 best recliners for stylish relaxation

“Recliners make the ideal living room sofa idea largely because it’s the ultimate comfort experience to sit in one of these. But they don’t just feel good, they are also good for you.”
Sara Hesikova at Ideal Home

Read More: This is the living room trend that took me by surprise – and it’s soon to be everywhere

Best Recliner Sofa For Sleeping – FAQs

Seriously, are recliner sofas comfy enough to sleep on? Or is it just a nice idea?

Yes, they really can be comfy enough to sleep on. They’re not just for sitting. But, it depends on the sofa. If you get a good one with a full recline, comfy cushions and support, you can get a great night’s sleep. So, it’s not just a dream, it’s possible.

Why would you sleep on a reclining sofa instead of a bed? Seems a bit… unusual.

Lots of reasons actually. If you have guests staying, a reclining sofa can be a spare bed. Maybe you just want to chill out somewhere different from your bedroom. Or you might just fancy a really comfy nap in your living room. It’s handy to have options! Plus, they save space. Sofa in the day, bed at night, clever!

What types of recliner sofas are best if you want to sleep on them?

For good all-round sleep, a classic recliner sofa is a safe bet. If you like to spread out when you sleep and have a big room, go for a sectional recliner. Loveseat recliners are great if you’re just napping on your own and don’t have much space. Power recliners let you adjust everything with buttons, which is really easy. And if you have people staying over a lot, a recliner with a pull-out bed is super useful. Basically, there’s a type for everyone.

What are the most important things to look for to make sure a recliner sofa is good for sleeping?

Here’s what really matters: make sure it goes fully reclined, not just halfway back if you want to properly sleep. The cushions should be not too hard and not too soft, somewhere in the middle is best. It needs to have good support for your back and neck so you don’t wake up achy. Soft, breathable fabric is better than leather if you want to sleep well, so you don’t get too hot. And size is important, get one big enough to stretch out on. Get these right and you’re onto a winner.

I already have a reclining sofa, but it’s not that comfy for sleeping. Any tips to make it better?

Yes, loads. Add layers! Put a mattress topper on it to make it softer. Use comfy throws and cushions to get cosy. Get the lighting right, soft lamps and fairy lights are much better than bright overhead lights. Have a side table for your drink and things. Weighted blankets can make you feel really relaxed and secure. And think about calming smells and gentle sounds to help you drift off. Basically, make it super cosy and comfy and you’ll be sorted.

Are recliner sofas good if you have back pain?

Lots of people find reclining sofas helpful for back pain because they can give good support. When you recline, it can take pressure off your back. And good back support in the sofa is really important. But, everyone is different, so what’s comfy for one person might not be for another. If you can, try a sofa out in-store before you buy it, and maybe look for ones with adjustable back support. It’s always best to check with a doctor about back problems though, just to be sure.

Warning: Your New Recliner Sofa May Cause Extreme Home Envy

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