Reclining furniture is one of those luxuries that quickly becomes a necessity. Recliners, gliders, and power sofas offer unbeatable comfort—but they also come with their own set of care needs. If you’ve invested in a quality piece, protecting it from wear, stains, and mechanical issues is key to making it last.
Whether you’re working with leather, fabric, or a reclining base packed with tech, here’s how to keep your furniture looking and working its best—especially in New Mexico’s unique environment.
Start With the Upholstery
Fabric Upholstery
Most fabric recliners and reclining sofas are made with durable polyester or performance blends, but that doesn’t mean they’re invincible. Dust, pet hair, and oils from skin can build up fast—especially in high-touch areas like armrests.
What to do:
- Vacuum weekly using a soft brush attachment.
- Spot-clean spills immediately with mild soap and water.
- Avoid harsh chemical cleaners—they can wear down stain-resistant coatings.
- For deeper cleans, use a fabric-safe upholstery shampoo every 3–6 months.
Leather Upholstery
Leather recliners and sofas add a touch of luxury, but they need a little more attention to prevent cracking and fading—especially in dry, high-altitude areas like ours.
What to do:
- Dust regularly with a dry microfiber cloth.
- Use a leather cleaner and conditioner every 3–6 months.
- Keep it away from direct sunlight and heating vents, which dry leather out.
- Avoid bleach-based wipes or all-purpose sprays—these break down natural oils.
Tip: Always test cleaners on a hidden spot first, no matter the material.
Maintain the Reclining Mechanism
Reclining furniture includes moving parts—and whether you’re using a manual lever or a fully powered recliner, proper upkeep prevents squeaks, stiffness, or sudden failures.
Manual Recliner Tips:
- Check and tighten any exposed bolts or fasteners every few months.
- Use a silicone-based lubricant on joints and hinges to keep them smooth.
- Avoid placing too much weight on the footrest or arms—it strains the mechanics.
Power Recliner & Sofa Tips:
- Keep cords untangled and away from walkways or pet traffic.
- If your chair runs on a battery pack, unplug it once charged to extend battery life.
- Don’t force movement—if it stops mid-position, check for obstructions or unplug and reset.
Keep It Clean Underneath
Recliners often hide plenty of forgotten corners—and things like dust, pet toys, or food crumbs can affect how the mechanisms move.
What to do:
- Tip the chair forward gently (or remove cushions if possible) to vacuum inside and underneath.
- Wipe down any exposed metal parts and rails.
- Check for debris that may be caught in tracks, springs, or near the motor housing.
Smart Habits to Extend the Life
- Rotate cushion usage if your piece sees daily use—this prevents one area from wearing out faster.
- Avoid eating on fabric recliners to reduce the risk of hard-to-clean stains.
- Place pads under chair legs to protect your floor and reduce wobble over time.
- Keep pets off when possible—claws and fur speed up wear on both upholstery and mechanics.
Know When to Use Protection Plans
Many reclining furniture pieces come with optional warranties or protection plans, and they can absolutely be worth it—especially if you have pets, kids, or you’re choosing a premium power recliner. We also offer our own updated Furniture Protection Plan because we care about helping you protect your investment. If something creaks, tears, or glitches earlier than expected, having that coverage can save you the hassle. We’ve recently added coverage for all kinds of everyday wear and unexpected mishaps—check it all out here American Home Total Care Plan or ask a sales associate next time you’re in.
At its core, reclining furniture is more than just a comfy seat—it’s a complex piece of engineering. With a little routine care, you can prevent early breakdowns, extend the look of your upholstery, and keep every movement buttery smooth.
At American Home Furniture and Mattress, we’ll not only help you choose the right reclining chair or sofa—we’ll show you how to take care of it. Whether you're buying your first recliner or upgrading to a tech-forward power loveseat, we’ve got the tools, tips, and people to support your comfort long after delivery.
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