How do I make my recliner more comfortable?

Heidi Sue
by Heidi Sue

My disabilities (both hips and knee replaced, bad back and neck and thus 295lbs) make my recliner the best bed for me. It seems like I tried everything I can think of to make it more comfortable to no avail. Any positive responses would be greatly appreciated.


  14 answers
  • Kathy Gunter Law Kathy Gunter Law on Jan 21, 2022

    Try adding one of the foam 5 point bed covers. You could probably use a twin and just trim it. Then add a protector and sheet, tailored to fit, so that when it gets dirty you can wash and put back on.

    Sorry you have issues, my SIL's dad sleeps in a recliner for similar reasons.

  • Janice Janice on Jan 21, 2022

    Hi Heidi Sue, I think lots of people have similar issues and find that sleeping in recliners provides them the best solution to getting sleep. You might try making yourself some simple pillows fillled with either flax seeds, rice, or microbeads that can be placed in certain problem areas. You can make these from pillowcases using a zipper in the open end so the "fill" can be customized to your needs. Sometimes just a slight change of position can be a welcome relief so you have more comfortable sleep.

  • Mogie Mogie on Jan 21, 2022

    Over the years of sitting in a recliner, the foam and fabric go through a lot of wear and tear, which will cause the cushion to sit lower than before. The best solution to this problem would be to purchase a new recliner, but this might be costly, especially if the cushion is the only thing that requires replacing. With this in mind, many cushion makers offer various options to make it so you can continue to use your favorite chair for a few more years. These cushions are made of high-quality materials that can help protect your back and make it easier to get out of your favorite recliner.

    There are several types of lumbar support cushions for recliners with different prices and styles. Their price is not too high, but it is very important to choose a good one for your recliner. There are two types of lumbar support cushions for the recliner. The first type is like a block of foam with a cut-out in the middle that fits around the recliner. The second type is shaped like a long pillow that fits behind you and has straps for you to hook to.

    Your recliner’s armrests are meant to be used. They are there to make it easier to get comfortable in your chair. However, if you are short or have problems with your arms, getting comfortable can be a problem. One of the first things you should do is raise the armrests. This makes it much easier to get comfortable in your chair and allows you to stretch out and relax easily.

    To make your recliner more ergonomic, you’ll need to balance your body weight. The key to doing this is to add a chair pad to the chair’s back. These pads distribute weight evenly and help prevent pressure points. You might want to add a cushion to your recliner’s armrests, too. This will make it more comfortable to hold your armrests when you’re reclining.

  • William William on Jan 21, 2022

    I agree with Kathy Gunther Law. A foam mattress topper would work. A lot of different support points, density, and contours.

  • Here's a link with different toppers you can put on your recliner. Some are foam and others are gel. I hope you find something that works.

    https://www.amazon.com/recliner-cushions-elderly/s?k=recliner+cushions+for+elderly

  • Heidi Sue Heidi Sue on Jan 21, 2022

    foam mattress topper, I have tried them, but will try another. I have a European feather blanket, that works best, but does not last more that a night and you have to readjust it every day.

  • Cheryl A Cheryl A on Jan 21, 2022

    one of the gel toppers may help you they are good for pressure points - you could get a twin size and put a twin sheet over it to help you be more comfy


  • Redcatcec Redcatcec on Jan 22, 2022

    We just bought a new mattress from Mattress Firm and while shopping there we could not help but notice all the foam mattress toppers they had, all different densities and body feel to them.

    Lately there have been lots of adds for toppers from organic to foam to fit a variety of needs. Twin would probably fit your recliner, measure your recliner to be sure and get the best fit.

    Some of them said they offer cooling, if that is a need of yours.

    I would suggest reading the reviews of them before buying into any particular product.

  • Homeroad Homeroad on Jan 23, 2022

    Maybe you can get some kind of memory foam cushion for the seat. Either just put it on top or get a cover and put it over the cushion and the chair.

  • I personally suggest to add some foam one point bed covers. Either use a twin and just trim it. After so, you can just add a protector.

  • Mogie Mogie on Nov 10, 2022

    I bought a cheap mattress pad at Walmart and then cut it up (a twin size of sale so it was cheaper then buying foam outright). Cut is to size and lined the chair with it. It doesn't stay in place well unless you are sitting on it but is works.

  • Mogie Mogie on Nov 12, 2022

    Have you considered a recliner that helps you stand up (believe they are called power lift recliners).

  • YvasKawai YvasKawai on Dec 29, 2022

    Soft foam flat pillows are suitable for any surface to become more comfortable. So sorry for your condition. When I was pregnant, I became heavier, and my sleep became more sensible. I was constantly in a mood, as I hadn't slept the whole night every time. The bed, which I liked before, occurred o be challenging and uncomfortable. I decided to buy a pregnancy pillow, but I wouldn't say I liked it too. Then I got such pillows, and they felt outstanding. However, if it doesn't help, you could also check reviews on recliners to buy a quality one. I hope it helps you. Let us know if our suggestions helped.


  • Mogie Mogie on Jan 05, 2023

    I have a rattan swival rocker and since seeing your question have been thinking about this. I found a memory foam cushion that I am using since they are seat cushions for my dining room table.

    Just took one and put it under the cushion. Wow! A huge difference and since they are made the size of a rear end you can't even see it.