Written by: Zoona Sikander, Interior Design Writer & Social Media Content Creator
Edited by: Emma Cyrus, Senior Copy, Content & Editorial Writer
Reviewed by: Rey Amini, Senior Interior Designer & Architect
Fact-checked by: Benjamin Ibanez, Development & FF&E Manager
Welcome to our blog, where we'll be delving into the fascinating topic of "Pros and Cons of Sleeping in a Recliner: Is it Beneficial?"
Sleep is one of the most important components of living a balanced life, and how we rest can have a big impact on our overall health and well-being.
While traditional beds have been our go-to for generations, sleeping in a recliner has grown in favour in recent years for a variety of reasons. Providing unique benefits ranging from treating specific medical ailments to potentially offering a more supportive experience, they are certainly an option to consider.
However, if you’re thinking of buying one for this purpose, there are also certain drawbacks to take into account. These include factors like space restrictions, long-term physical discomfort and the danger of exacerbating certain health concerns.
So before you dash off to get your new sleeping buddy, join us as we scrutinise the pros and cons of this endeavour and help you decide if this alternative is right for you.
Sleeping with your head and torso slightly raised can help mitigate acid reflux and heartburn, which is caused by the backflow of acid into the oesophagus.
Those suffering from this condition will know that this happens when the lower esophageal sphincter fails to completely seal while you are digesting food, causing heartburn, reflux and GERD.
And, as gravity aggravates the situation when you’re lying flat, a recliner is an easy way to ease the problem.
Sleeping on a recliner can help reduce snoring and moderate forms of obstructive sleep apnea by raising the upper body. The upright position keeps the airways free, reducing the likelihood of breathing difficulties during the night.
Interestingly, nearly 60% of people who have this condition also have acid reflux and GERD, so an upright sleeping position could have a holistic effect on all three syndromes.
Also, in a 2021 study researchers analysed the effects of recliners with rocking mechanisms on sleep efficiency. It was concluded that they had a positive impact on the quality of rest, even for participants who suffered from sleep disorders, making them an optimal choice.
Some back pain sufferers discover that getting into and out of a recliner is simpler than getting into and out of bed, especially if the recliner has a lifting mechanism. However, if you do choose to sleep in a recliner, you might want to support your lower back with an extra pillow.
Similarly, sleeping in a recliner after certain abdominal or back surgeries may be recommended by healthcare specialists. The inclined position can help to speed up healing by reducing strain on incisions.
The recliner's sloped position can improve blood circulation throughout the body. Sitting or standing all day adds stress to our legs, so elevating them can help prevent swelling and the risk of developing illnesses like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) during periods of inactivity.
Better blood flow also helps you to relax, stay calm and breathe easily, giving your nervous system a much-needed break.
For individuals who live in smaller apartments or are just space-savvy in general, sleeping on a recliner instead of a bed can be a convenient space-saving option.
If you’re sold on the idea of getting one, then be sure to read our article on how to choose a good recliner.
While sleeping in a recliner is generally considered safe and even beneficial for most individuals, it can carry risks for some. These are the things to think about:
Your knees and hips remain bent the entire night while sleeping in a recliner, which may impact your posture over time causing stiff hips, calves, and hamstrings.
It is also important to note that they may not distribute your body weight as well as a traditional mattress. This could create pressure points that obstruct healthy blood circulation.
Limited sleep positions restrict your movements, inhibiting your ability to shift around. This may, in turn, cause disruptive sleep patterns.
Recliners are not built for long periods of sleep, so there is a chance that you could tumble off or slide down them during the night. This therefore raises safety concerns, particularly amongst the elderly or those with limited mobility.
While useful in managing some health conditions, they can also aggravate others. So, if you suffer from respiratory or cardiovascular diseases, consult with a healthcare specialist before committing to using one as a bed.
For space-conscious sleepers or those who are claustrophobic, lying in a recliner could make you feel uncomfortable. They are also fairly cramped, making them difficult to share with a partner.
All of the above considerations emphasise the importance of taking individual needs and health problems into account before deciding whether to sleep on one or not. While they may bring relief for some, regular beds may provide greater flexibility and support for a good night's sleep for others
If you’re sleeping in a recliner, here are some steps you can take to make it a more comfortable experience:
At FCI London we stock a wonderful range of beds, recliners and sofa beds aimed to give you an optimal night’s sleep. Here are 2 luxurious recliner options we think you’ll love:
The Moonrise XL
The Moonrise XL recliner by Fama is big enough for two, allowing you to snuggle up with a loved one in perfect comfort. With its double headrest and comfy curved arms, it forms a snug cocoon giving you all the support you need for some good rest. Set it in different positions via remote control to suit your needs.
The TW106
Masters of their craft, Sitting Benz produces a range of brilliant recliners designed to suit modern lifestyles. Their TW106 model, for example, has a feature designed to reduce stress on the heart. Ergonomic and fully customisable, it has ample lumbar support and is available in a myriad of colours, sizes and styles.
In general, sleeping in a recliner is safe, as long as you find it relaxing.
A recliner may even provide better sleep than a bed for people with sleep apnea, GERD, or back pain.
If you want to increase your comfort level, try to pack extra blankets to keep yourself warm and use extra pillows to support your back and neck to ensure that you have a decent nap or sleep in your recliner.
According to our sofa experts, there are only two scenarios in which you should completely avoid sleeping in a recliner. Firstly, if your doctor has told you not to for medical reasons and secondly, if you’re co-sleeping with an infant. Proven to be potentially life-threatening, taking a nap in a recliner while holding a baby should be prevented at all costs.
If your back feels uncomfortable after sleeping in a bed or if you are unable to get into bed with ease, then sleeping in a recliner could be a good alternative for you. This could be because it is helping to align your spine, combat acid reflux or assist circulation. So if you experience health benefits from this type of resting place, continue listening to your body and make it a permanent habit.
You sleep well when your body feels relaxed and at ease. And if you feel better after sleeping in a recliner, it means that your body prefers this sleeping arrangement. It could be because you get better blood circulation, because your spine is aligned in a neutral position or because your heart feels relaxed - no matter what the reason, it's important to listen to your body and if sleeping in a recliner is what it wants then it's best to go with it.
If you feel comfortable sleeping in a recliner, then it is safe for you to continue doing so every night. However, it should be avoided if you’re co-sleeping with an infant or have health conditions that could be negatively affected by it.
Most luxury recliners are ergonomically designed to give you optimal lumbar support and promote good circulation. For this reason, many people find that their backs feel better after sleeping in one for the night.
Sleeping in a recliner instead of a bed is not for everyone. If you feel comfortable sleeping in a bed then that is the ideal place to sleep. However, for older people, pregnant women or those with back problems, sleeping in a recliner is better and healthier than the bed.
Some medical professionals will advise their patients to sleep in a recliner to assist with certain health issues. For example, they can help you rest better if you suffer from heartburn, back pain or sleep apnea and can promote a sound night’s sleep while you are pregnant.
If you're sleeping on a recliner on a daily basis, you would want to make this experience as comfortable as possible. So start by spreading a soft bedsheet on the recliner so when you lie down, you skin touches the sheet instead of the recliner fabric or leather. Apart from improving your sleep experience, this will also increase the lift of your recliner upholstery. You can also use extra pillows to support your neck or back as needed. Adjust the recliner in a position that you feel most comfortable in.
Many older people prefer sleeping in a recliner to avoid back problems or insomnia. Individuals who have trouble getting in or out of bed or have limited mobility find recliners with lifting mechanisms incredibly useful as it helps them change positions or get from sitting to standing safely.
Poor quality recliners might cause back pain as they do not offer enough padding to properly support your body. We suggest that you invest in a good quality, ergonomically designed product to promote optimal comfort. If you have an old one and cannot afford to replace it, make sure you use plenty of pillows to help improve your posture when sitting or sleeping in it.
Many individuals choose to sleep in a recliner after their knee or hip replacement surgery. During this recovery period, it is important you get plenty of rest by positioning your legs above your heart level. If you're using a manual recliner, use your non-injured leg to control the movement of the recliner or ask someone for help. If your recliner does not raise your legs enough, place a pillow underneath your feet.
If you feel comfortable when sitting in your recliner with your back and neck getting the support that you need then you're very much likely to be able to get a good nap or even a night's sleep on your reclining sofa. There are certain steps you can take to improve the chances of sleeping well such as adding a blanket, comfy pillows or cushions and adjusting the room's lighting to your liking.
Falling asleep during pregnancy can be challenging, especially if you are experiencing back pain and general discomfort. Ergonomically designed, luxury recliners can assist in relieving pressure, relaxing your legs and feet, improving your circulation and encouraging a better night’s rest.
If getting into bed after surgery is a challenge, sleeping in a recliner could be more pleasant. Your back will feel less strain when you are sitting in a chair that is reclined as opposed to an upright position. To avoid sitting with a curved spine and adding to the strain on your back, it's a good idea to ensure that your recliner gives enough back support.
Yes, sleeping in a recliner has been shown to help individuals with sciatica but it's important to discuss this option with your medical professional first. If you get the go-ahead, find a comfortable position and place a cushion between your recliner and the arch of your back for extra support.
You should also position a pillow or rolled towel beneath your neck, making sure that it does not push your head too far forward. Sleeping in a recliner long-term should be avoided by people suffering from sciatica, so be sure to transition back to your bed as soon as you can.
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