Glider Chairs - The Secret to a Living Room Oasis of Comfort
After a long day, there's nothing better than coming home, putting your feet up, and sinking into a comfortable chair. But not just any chair will do when you want true, deep relaxation. What your living room needs is a glider chair - the secret to creating an oasis of comfort right in your own home.
Glider chairs gently rock and sway to cradle you in complete comfort. But they offer so much more than just a sleeping spot. With an endless variety of styles and features, gliders can become a stylish focal point that pulls your living room decor together.
What is a Glider Chair?
A glider chair, sometimes called a rocker or sway chair, is a type of upholstered chair that glides back and forth on a stable base. The gentle, swaying movement helps promote relaxation and comfort. Gliders are similar to traditional rocking chairs but move along a flat, smooth path rather than tilting up and down on curved legs.
The key components of a glider include:
- Stable base with gliding mechanism
- Padded seat, armrests and back cushioning
- Smooth fabric or leather upholstery
- Matching ottoman or footstool (on some models)
Many gliders look like recliner chairs, but without the traditional fold-out footrest. However, some do come with recline features and retractable leg rests to allow shifting between upright and laid-back positions. Others even swivel a full 360 degrees for maximum mobility and convenience.
Benefits of Using Glider Chairs in Living Rooms
There are many advantages to adding a glider chair to your living room decor:
- Promote relaxation and comfort - The gentle rocking motion is naturally soothing and therapeutic. Gliders allow comfortable seating for reading, napping, watching TV, or just unwinding after a stressful day.
- Add visual appeal - With endless styles to choose from, a glider can infuse your living room with a pop of color, unique flair, or complement your existing furniture as an accent piece.
- Provide gentle rocking motion - Unlike rocking chairs which tilt, gliders move along a flat track creating a smooth, consistent motion that many find comforting.
- Allow adjusting recline and leg rest - Available on some models, recline and extendable ottoman features let you stretch out fully or customize your positioning.
- Come in variety of styles - Gliders are made in every type of aesthetics from contemporary to traditional so you can find one to match your living room's motif.
Features to Look for When Choosing a Glider
Glider chairs come packed with features to enhance comfort. Here are some key considerations as you shop:
Type of Gliding Mechanism
The base of a glider contains the mechanism that enables the smooth, rocking motion. There are a few types:
- Ball bearing - Sturdy and provides fluid movement, ideal for frequent use
- Metal tracks - Usually the most budget-friendly option
- Wooden tracks - Made from hardwood and engineered for smoothness
Recline and Ottoman Features
Many gliders provide adjustable recline so you can create the perfect lounge position. Matching ottomans allow you to elevate your legs and feet for maximum comfort.
Swivel Ability
Some glider chairs can swivel in a full circle. This makes it easy to face any direction without having to move the chair.
Size/Dimensions
Make sure to measure your space - width, depth and ceiling height - to ensure the glider will fit properly. Leave enough room for the chair to fully recline and glide without bumping walls or furniture.
Cushion Fill Material
Cushions filled with foam, down or polyfill provide padding for comfort. High density foam offers the best support.
Upholstery Fabric
Leather, microfiber and cotton are common glider upholstery options. Leather is durable and easy to clean but less breathable. Fabrics like microfiber are soft and absorbent.
Styles
Gliders are made in traditional styles with rolled arms, transitional looks with clean lines and borders, and modern or contemporary aesthetics with angular profiles.
How to Incorporate a Glider into Your Living Room Design
When thinking about where and how to arrange your new glider chair, keep these tips in mind:
Use as Accent Seating
Most homeowners use gliders as accent chairs or secondary seating rather than the main sofa or loveseat. Place it near a window, beside a fireplace, or as part of a conversation area.
Placement Tips
Position your glider chair in a spot that makes sense for how you'll use it. Near a window to enjoy the view, a corner for privacy, or a focal point to complete the room's layout.
Mix and Match Styles
Choose a glider that complements your existing decor. A bold colored or patterned chair can liven up a neutral room or match other furniture finishes for a coordinated look.
Select Complementary Colors
If your living room uses a palette of warm earth tones, pick a glider in a shade like mustard or copper to complement the scheme. Or opt for a muted neutral like gray to blend in.
Accessorize with Pillows and Throws
Add pillows and throws that incorporate living room accent colors to help your glider chair feel like part of the coordinated design.
Arrange Area Around the Glider
Including side tables for drinks and snacks, floor lamps for light, and poufs or ottomans to prop up your feet adds to the relaxation zone.
Shopping Tips for Buying a Glider Chair
Ready to invest in a glider for your living room retreat? Use these tips for finding the perfect chair:
Shop Online or In-Store
Browse online for a wide selection andeasy delivery or visit furniture stores to test chairs firsthand. Either way, read reviews and compare brands.
Try Chairs In Person
Sit in display models at the store to assess comfort. Bring someone to try the size with you. Ask about return policies in case it doesn't work at home.
Consider Warranties
Most gliders come with at least a 1-year warranty. Look for 5-year or lifetime warranties on frames for maximum durability.
Set a Budget
Glider prices range from $200-$1000. Know your budget and look for sales, deals and financing options if needed.
Compare Brands
Shop glider chairs from trusted brands like Ashley Furniture, Wayfair, and buybuy Baby. Compare quality, styles, and prices.
Look for Sales and Promos
Timing your purchase around holidays, clearance sales or free shipping promotions can help you save big on a glider chair.
Getting the Most Out of Your Glider Chair
Once your new glider chair is assembled and placed, optimize comfort and longevity with these tips:
Break In the Chair Slowly
Use moderately at first allowing cushions and mechanics to adjust to your body shape and movements.
Add Extra Cushions or Bolsters
For added back support and coziness, incorporate lumbar pillows, neck rolls, or padded cushions.
Keep Mechanisms Properly Lubricated
Occasionally lubricate moving joints and gears per manufacturer instructions to prevent squeaking and damage.
Protect Fabric from Wear and Stains
Vacuum regularly, spot-clean spills quickly, and avoid direct sunlight which can fade colors.
Relocate Periodically
Shift the chair every few months to help evenly distribute weight and reduce indentations in flooring.
Glider chairs offer the perfect place to decompress while adding style your living room decor. With an array of options to choose from, you can find the right fit for both form and function. A glider provides soothing rocking motions paired with cushy support for the ultimate in relaxation and comfort - your own private oasis, right at home.