Which chaise lounge is best?
Chaise lounges are for relaxation. A unique hybrid of a chair and a sofa, chaise lounges feature extra-long seats to support your legs and tilted backs that permanently recline. They’re great for taking naps, curling up with a book or getting work done on a laptop.
If you’re looking for a comfortable chaise lounge, there are many factors to consider. Our top pick, the Kelly Clarkson Home Upholstered Chaise Lounge, comes in 20 colors and is an attractive addition to any room. Here’s how to pick the perfect chaise lounge for you.
What to know before you buy a chaise lounge
Size
Because of their extra-long seats and tilted backs, chaise lounges can take up a lot of additional space. Measure the area where you think your chaise lounge will go, and be realistic about how much room you’ll need to get in and out. Chaise lounges are typically between 73 and 80 inches long, 35 to 40 inches tall and 25 to 30 inches wide.
Many potential buyers are conscious of length but forget about width. Chaise lounges vary by width, so if you’re planning to sit with your small child or large dog, plan accordingly.
Design
When many people think of chaise lounges, they think of old Victorian fainting couches. These are chaise lounges with tufted upholstery and an ornately carved backrest extended along one side. This style is still trendy today, especially for libraries or home offices. They have a classic look and feel.
Chaise lounges are also available in modern designs, both ornate and minimalist. Some are statement pieces that will immediately become the focus of the room. Others blend into the background until they’re needed. Think about the look you want to achieve to better narrow your search.
Outdoor vs. indoor
Outdoor chaise lounges liven up a front porch or a back deck. They encourage you to spend more time in the open air by giving you a comfy place to unwind. They’re a great alternative to hard plastic patio furniture. If you’ve got a pool in your backyard, look for chaise lounges made of water-resistant materials.
You can move an outdoor chaise lounge indoors, but it may look out of place in some decors. However, you should not move an indoor chaise lounge outdoors. The weather will damage the construction and fabric.
What to look for in a quality chaise lounge
Cushioning
There’s no substitute for going to the furniture store and sitting down on everything they’ve got in stock to get a feel for what feels comfortable and what doesn’t. If you’re shopping online, look through customer reviews to get a sense of the cushioning. Search for any reviews that mention how the padding holds up over time.
Most chaise lounges have thick cushioning. Some even have springs underneath to increase comfort and distribute weight. Tufted cushioning is also a wise choice. Those extra buttons will prevent the stuffing inside from bunching or shifting.
Frame
Outdoor chaise lounge frames typically use wicker or high-density polyethylene. Wicker frames are elegant and traditional, but they’re not the most durable and can be challenging to repair. HDPE frames are super sturdy and keep their shape, but the wrong design can look cheap or uninviting.
Indoor chaise lounge frames typically use wood or metal. Wood has a timeless look, while metal adds a modern touch. Softwood and aluminum frames will cost less but are also less durable. Hardwood and steel frames are more expensive but will last longer.
Support
Some chaise lounges are adjustable. You can raise or lower the back to achieve your perfect recline. Others feature accent pillows or internal lumbar support. Pricier models can come with all sorts of extras like massaging, vibrating, or heating.
Don’t forget about support for your arms. Some chaise lounges have no armrests, while others have two or just one. You may find it difficult to read or type without an armrest. Also, consider whether you can easily get up and down from the chair without an armrest’s support. This is especially important to consider for chaise lounges that are low to the ground.
How much you can expect to spend on a chaise lounge
You can find chaise lounges with thinner cushioning or minimal features for under $200. Chaise lounges with thicker cushioning and beautiful designs should run between $200-$400. Specialty chaise lounges with custom accents and luxury materials can reach up to and beyond $1,000.
Chaise lounge FAQ
Which chaise lounge is easiest to clean?
A. For indoor chaise lounges, look for cushioning made of microfiber. Microfiber blocks dirt and dust from getting inside your chaise lounge. It also resists spills and stains. For outdoor chaise lounges, look for water-resistant materials that would be all right just being hosed down and left in the sun to dry.
Will I have to assemble my chaise lounge?
A. Yes, unless you order assembly as a special extra service from the furniture store or online retailer. Remember that you can always hire a local handyperson as well. If you decide to do it yourself, you’ll probably need a friend. You’ll want to read through all the instructions before you start.
What’s the best chaise lounge to buy?
Top chaise lounge
Kelly Clarkson Home Upholstered Chaise Lounge
What you need to know: This is an ultra-comfy statement piece.
What you’ll love: It is heavy-duty and oversized, meant to stand up to consistent use and has 20 fabric designs available. The fabric is also stain-resistant.
What you should consider: This option is on the top end of the price range.
Top chaise lounge for the money
House of Hampton Elyzza Upholstered Chaise Lounge
What you need to know: This lounge has old school elegance without breaking the bank.
What you’ll love: The microfiber and microsuede make it easy to clean, with one-armed design and metal accents make it stand out.
What you should consider: Some users report issues with cushion comfort over time.
Worth checking out
Mercury Row Raley Upholstered Chaise Lounge
What you need to know: This gorgeous, tufted chaise lounge is both comfortable and sophisticated.
What you’ll love: Made with plush foam, this lounge is ultracomfortable. The interior springs help ensure it doesn’t sag over time. The square button tufting and the tapered feet add to its sophisticated look.
What you should consider: Some customers said that the chair wasn’t very durable.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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