Buying guide for best chaise lounges
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If you are searching for a comfortable new chair, you may be ready for a chaise lounge. Although styles vary, a chaise lounge is essentially a long chair with a back meant for reclining. This stylish furniture piece can serve as a luxurious place to read a book, watch TV, or grab a nap.
Chaise lounges come in a number of types and sizes. Some are strictly for indoor use; others are designed to sit on a deck or beside a pool. Chaise lounges offer a variety of levels of support, and some are adjustable so you can relax on them in your choice of positions.
This guide will cover everything you need to know to successfully purchase a chaise lounge. In addition to discussing what you should expect at various price points, we also share a selection of our favorite chaise lounges and discuss what we like about them.
Key considerations
Design
This classic chaise is like a long chair that supports your whole body. This type of chaise lounge often has heavy cushioning. Some have arms, and some are adjustable.
Chaise lounges with Victorian styling are more ornate and elegant. If you’ve ever seen a “fainting couch” in an old black-and-white film, it was probably a Victorian chaise lounge. These lounges often feature partial backs and elaborate, decorative touches.
French chaise lounges include Recamier (a chaise lounge with two raised ends), Meridienne (similar to a daybed), and Duchesse brisee (usually broken into two pieces: a chair and footstool).
Size
A chaise lounge can take up quite a bit of space, so size is a consideration if space is limited. In addition to the actual space of the chaise lounge, you will need a pocket of space around it to get on and off. If you plan to use it for more than one person — to read to children, for example — you will also want to go with a wider chaise lounge.
The typical chaise lounge stretches between 73 and 80 inches long. They are generally 35 to 40 inches tall and 25 to 30 inches wide.
Adjustability
Some chaise lounges are adjustable, meaning you can lower or raise the back as you see fit. This increases comfort and allows you to configure the chaise for a variety of activities, such as reading and napping.
Support
If you have head, neck, or back problems, seek a chaise lounge that supports these areas. For example, some chaise lounges feature extra lumbar support.
Indoor vs. outdoor
As mentioned, some chaise lounges are designed for indoor use, and some are for outdoor use. Indoor chaise lounges tend to be more orate, and they are not usually capable of handling sun or rain exposure. Outdoor chaise lounges are built to withstand the elements, and as such, they may look a bit too rustic for indoor use.
An adjustable reclining chaise lounge can double as an overnight bed for guests.
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Features
Cushioning
Chaise lounge cushioning can be thick or thin. Thicker cushions tend to be more comfortable, although everyone has their preference. Some chaise lounges incorporate springs to increase the comfort level.
In addition to thickness, the material with which the cushioning is made can affect everything from comfort to how easy the chaise lounge is to clean. Common upholstery materials include linen, vinyl, polyester, faux leather, suede, and microfiber. In the higher price range, you will also find materials such as silk, velvet, and leather.
Frame
A variety of materials can be used to make a chaise frame. Some of the more common include wicker, HDPE, wood, and metal.
Wicker: While lightweight, wicker is not extremely durable and can be difficult to maintain. It is often used for outdoor chaise lounges.
HDPE: High-density polyethylene is a popular patio furniture material due to its high durability. This synthetic resin is noted for holding its appearance over time.
Wood: Softwood and hardwood are both popular and attractive. Softwood costs less but is also less durable. Wooden frames are common on traditional indoor chaise lounges.
Metal: Metal frames are often found in contemporary chaise lounges and consist of aluminum or stainless steel. Aluminum is lighter and less durable than steel, but it’s also less expensive. Both should hold up to weather if used in outdoor furniture.
Armrests
Some chaise lounges have no armrests. Others will have one or two armrests. These not only help you get in and out of the chair, they also contribute to your overall comfort, whether you’re resting your arms or using them to support a book or e-reader.
Accent pillows
Accent pillows can provide additional comfort and support. They are particularly helpful for people who like to read or nap in their chair. If accent pillows are not included with your purchase, you could also buy them separately.
Powered options
While far from standard, some chaise lounges go the extra mile with wiring in the form of outlets or USB ports. With a chair like this, you can easily use a laptop or power up a phone.
Other powered options include massaging, vibrating, or heating features, usually with an added remote control.
DID YOU KNOW?
When the chaise lounge originally made the leap to America, its original name — “chaise longue,” or long chair — was mistranslated, and the new name stuck.
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Chaise lounge prices
Inexpensive: Chaise lounges that cost under $200 tend to be small, simple pieces with thin cushioning. Low-frill chaise lounges designed for outdoor use are common here.
Mid-range: In the $200 to $300 range, you will find larger and more ornate chaise lounges. These come in a variety of indoor and outdoor styles and are more plush and comfortable than inexpensive options.
Expensive: To embrace the best in comfort and elegance, expect to spend more than $300 on a chaise lounge. These chairs tend to have deep cushioning, rich upholstery (including leather), or for outdoor pieces, long-lasting HDPE. You will also find some chaise lounge sets at higher price points.
If you have trouble getting in and out of chairs, select a tall chaise rather than one that sits low to the ground.
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Tips
- A chaise lounge can take up twice the floor space of a regular chair. Measure your space carefully to verify that you truly have enough room.
- Chaise lounge color choice can be a simple way to suggest a style. For example, a brown or green lounge may lend a rustic or natural air to a room, while a white or black lounge may make it feel more modern.
- Keep indoor chaise lounges out of direct sunlight. Even through a window, the sun can fade or discolor the upholstery over time.
FAQ
Q. Will I have to assemble my chaise lounge?
A. Some level of assembly is generally needed. This can range from a quick attaching of the legs to involved assembly that requires several hours to complete. Verify that the chaise lounge ships with all necessary hardware and that you have the tools that are required on hand.
Q. What is microfiber?
A. Often used to upholster furniture, microfiber is a synthetic material that is soft and comfortable yet incorporates a dense weave to block out dust, dirt, and liquid spills. This helps the furniture resist stains, making it a great choice for use in homes with children or pets.
Q. I’m taller than average. How do I select the right size for me?
A. The length of your chosen chaise, as well as its height off the ground, will be important considerations. We suggest you begin your search with products that are at least 80 inches long and 40 inches tall.
