There’s no denying the comfort factor that a recliner can offer, and for many of us, they’re the most luxurious seat in the house. These chairs can be so comfortable in fact, that you might nod off in one, prompting you to wonder, is it bad to sleep in a recliner?
Of course, there are plenty of factors that come into play when answering this question. Our physical makeup, health conditions, quality of the recliner, and comfort requirements will all affect our decision, but if you’ve been wondering how bad it really is to get some rest in your recliner, we’re here to give you the facts.
The short answer to this question is no, it’s not bad to sleep in a recliner. The long answer though is that ‘no’ doesn’t really cover all of the bases. There are good and bad points to consider before you take a snooze in your favorite chair, as well as considering your own health status, so give it some thought before you make it a permanent decision.
Of course, there’s no immediate danger from drifting off while reading a book or watching TV, but what about for those who prefer to get most of their sleep in their faithful recliner? By looking at the pros and cons, we'll have a clearer picture of how beneficial this choice of chair can be for the human form, and who might really benefit from it.
The Benefits Of Sleeping In A Recliner
Many people find themselves drifting off in their recliner without giving it a second thought, not realizing just how beneficial the practice can be. These are a few ways that you can benefit from sleeping in your favorite armchair.
Improved Breathing
Take notice next time you’re sitting in a recliner of how easily you can breathe and you’ll realize why this is such a benefit. Sitting upright compared to laying down can open up your chest muscles and make it easier to get deep, full breaths.
Reduced Back Pain
Compared to laying flat in bed or sitting in a standard chair, a recliner gives you the freedom to choose your position and angles so you can alleviate physical pain.
Comfort
A quality recliner is often more comfortable than a standard bed and it will add a touch of luxury to your sleep routine. You’ll also be able to relax in there to read or watch TV, so they’re multifunctional.
Alleviates Physical Symptoms
Those suffering from conditions like heartburn or reflux will especially benefit from sleeping in a recliner as it helps keep them in the optimal position as it keeps the acid down. Other symptoms might include back or leg pain, coughs and colds, and any other conditions that are made instantly better by comfort and support.
Potential Downfalls Of Sleeping In A Recliner
While a recliner can certainly be a comfortable option for sleep, there are some disadvantages that this choice in bedding can bring. Here are some of the potential downfalls of sleeping in a recliner and why it might not be for everyone.
Lack Of Positions
When you’re resting on your recliner you might feel stifled by the lack of positions as you can really only lay on your back. If you’re someone who likes to move around in the night, a recliner might not be the best option.
Safety Concerns
Parents of young babies should never sleep in their recliner while they have their child with them. If your child is small enough to potentially become lodged in the spaces between the chair and your body, they should always sleep safely in a cot.
Disruptions
Depending on where your recliner is kept, you might be woken constantly from people in a shared area making noise, watching TV, or turning lights on and off. If you do like to sleep in your recliner, you should have it somewhere that won’t be bothered so you can get a peaceful rest.
Neck/Back Issues
Those who suffer from particular neck/back/spine problems may find the angles of a recliner uncomfortable for their condition. Others may find them to be helpful, but it all depends on the location of your pain and its severity.
When Sleeping In A Recliner May Be Beneficial
For those who prefer sleeping on their sides or on their stomach, recliner snoozing definitely won’t be for you. Drifting off in your recliner when you’re relaxing and in a comfortable position is pretty easy to do, but there are some people who might actually benefit from it medically.
These are some common conditions that can actually be alleviated by sleeping in a quality recliner, and how they can help.
- Acid reflux
- Heart problems
- Post-operative patients
- Sleep apnea
- Back pain and sciatica
- Coughs, colds, and respiratory problems
- Pregnancy
If you are experiencing any of these conditions or anything else that gives you concern, you should always consult with a healthcare professional. Serious conditions like heart problems should be discussed with the experts, and this information is based only on general guidelines and research.
When Is It Bad To Sleep In A Recliner? That Depends On Your Circumstances...
Although recliners can be comfortable, they might not always be the right solution, so speak with someone medically trained before you make a decision based on medical needs.
Resources:
