There’s nothing quite like sinking into your favourite <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/rise-and-recline-chairs">rise and recline chair</a> after a long day. But just like anything that gets regular use, it can start to show signs of wear and tear.

If you’ve been wondering how to clean your recliner chair properly, we’ll walk you through the best ways to freshen up the fabric, what to avoid, and how to keep the mechanics and electronics in good working order.<br>

Before you clean your recliner chair&nbsp;

Before cleaning your rise and recline chair, there are a few important but necessary steps to consider.

Rise and recline chairs come with features including heat and massage functions. As a result, you’ll want to unplug yours from the wall. This will ensure you are safe to use any water or chemical solutions without interfering with the electrics of the chair, which can cause serious harm if mixed.

Our rise and recline chairs are designed with fixed upholstery for a sleeker look and a more comfortable seating experience. Some feature removable seat and back cushion covers for easy washing. If your chair does have removable covers, you can wash them separately, either by hand or as instructed on the label. Be sure to let them air dry fully before popping them back onto your chair and avoid using a tumble dryer, which can reduce fabric quality or even shrink them.

Most upholstered furniture has a care label with a single letter code. Before reaching for any cleaning product, it's worth checking yours as the code tells you exactly which type of cleaner is safe to use.

Can't find a care label? All Oak Tree Mobility chairs come with material guidance in your chair's documentation. If you're unsure, our customer care team is happy to answer any questions.

Cleaning products contain a myriad of different chemicals which could interfere with the fabric or leather on your rise and recline chair. If you’re unsure how a cleaning product might react, choose a small, hidden section of the recliner, such as the back of the skirt or under the seat cushion, and dab on a small amount of your chosen cleaner. Wait 10-15 minutes and check for any discolouration, fading or changes in fabric texture.

Read more: <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/help-and-advice/rise-and-recline-chairs/top-tips-for-rise-and-recline-chair-care">Find more tips for caring for your recliner chair.</a>

Fabric recliner chairs come in a variety of stylish colours and textures, from smooth microfibre to plush woven finishes, like in our <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/rise-and-recline-chairs/heritage-collection/signature-fabrics">Signature Fabrics</a> range.&nbsp;

All of our fabric upholstery comes Scotchgard™ protected as standard. This involves the chair being treated with a chemical barrier that helps to repel liquids, resist oil and water stains, and block dirt from sinking into fibres. However, this doesn’t mean the chair is completely resistant to stains or general wear and tear.

Routine cleaning of your fabric recliner chair is still necessary to remove the dirt, dust, and crumbs that naturally build up from everyday use - keeping your chair looking as good as it feels. 

For fabric rise and recline chairs, gentle cleaning solutions are usually the most effective. Begin with an upholstery cleaner that’s specifically designed for fabrics. If you don’t have one on hand, a simple mix of warm water and a small amount of mild household detergent can work just as well.&nbsp;

A very common thing we notice when we visit customers is chairs that haven't been vacuumed in the seams. So it’s important to hoover all of the chair crevices, as they can pick up a surprising amount of debris and dust.

Dab a small amount of the fabric-safe upholstery cleaner onto a microfibre cloth, or dip it into the warm soapy water and wring out so the cloth is damp, not soaking. For stained or dirty areas, simply blot the surface repeatedly. For trickier, older stains, lightly rub the area with the microfibre cloth before swapping out for a soft-bristled brush and cleaning in a circular motion.

Once cleaned, use a separate damp cloth to wipe away residual soap or moisture. Allow the area you have cleaned to air dry fully for at least 4-6 hours before reattaching covers or sitting back down.

Leather rise and <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/help-and-advice/rise-and-recline-chairs/how-long-does-a-recliner-last-why-our-chairs-are-built-to-endure">recline chairs can last a very long time</a> when cared for properly. Leather needs to be cleaned with specific products in order to prevent the material from drying out, cracking, bleaching or fading.

Gentle products are necessary to protect leather’s unique qualities. A leather-specific cleaner, one that is pH-balanced and non-abrasive, is best. A leather conditioner or balm is also a great option for smaller, regular maintenance.

Start by dusting down your chair. Again, pay particular attention to seams and corners. You could use a soft brush or an upholstery attachment to your vacuum cleaner.

Then apply a small amount of leather cleaner to your lint-free cloth and wipe the surface gently. Never apply cleaners directly to the surface of the leather as this might cause discolouration. Remember to work in sections, and if a leather grain is visible, always in the same direction it follows.

Once cleaned, wipe excess products with a damp cloth and let the leather air dry. This will take significantly longer than with a fabric chair, so stayremain patient and don’t attempt to speed up the drying process with portable heaters or hair dryers.

Lastly, apply a small amount of leather conditioner on a dry cloth and massage it into the leather in a circular motion. This hydrating product acts like a moisturiser and will help keep the material soft and supple, forming a protective barrier against future stains.

All-purpose cleaners and any that include bleach or ammonia should be avoided at all costs. These are not designed for soft furnishings and can cause severe damage to fabric and leather. Avoid using excessive water as this can&nbsp; lead to water stains, internal and structural damage, and can create mould. Lastly, try to avoid harsh scrubbing pads, which can fray materials and finishes.

How to care for your recliner's mechanism and electronics

If something doesn’t feel right, please refer to your chair guide manual. An electrical concern might be a simple loose cable. But remember, never attempt any repairs yourself.&nbsp;

If you’re still experiencing problems, our friendly customer service team is always on hand to help at 0800 073 0063.

Read more: <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/help-and-advice/rise-and-recline-chairs/7-signs-your-rise-and-recline-chair-needs-replacing">Does your recliner chair need replacing?</a>

FAQS - The best ways to clean recliner chairs

How to remove stains from a fabric recliner chair?

Act quickly, as the sooner you treat a stain, the easier it is to remove. For tea, coffee or food stains on fabric, blot (never rub) with a clean dry cloth to absorb the liquid, then apply a mild upholstery cleaner diluted in warm water and blot again.&nbsp;

For greasy stains, a specialist upholstery degreaser works best but, avoid rubbing, as this spreads the stain.&nbsp;

On leather or faux leather, wipe spills immediately with a dry cloth, then follow with a leather-safe cleaner.&nbsp;

For stubborn or large stains, seek professional upholstery cleaning advice rather than risk making the mark worse.

What is the best way to clean a leather recliner chair?

The best way to clean a leather recliner is to start with a dry, lint-free cloth to remove surface dust, then apply a small amount of pH-balanced leather cleaner to the cloth - never directly to the leather. Wipe gently in the direction of the grain, working in sections. Wipe off any excess with a damp cloth, allow to air dry for at least 12 hours, then finish with a leather conditioner massaged in using a circular motion. This hydrates the leather and forms a protective barrier against future marks. Avoid bleach, ammonia-based products and heat sources.

Can I clean a recliner chair with vinegar?

White vinegar diluted 1:1 with water can be used to lift mild odours and light surface stains from fabric recliners but always patch test on a hidden area first and use it sparingly. Apply with a barely damp cloth and allow to air dry fully. Do not use vinegar on leather or faux-leather as the acidity can strip the finish, dry out the material and cause cracking or discolouration over time.&nbsp;

Start by vacuuming the entire chair on a low suction setting, including seams, the gap between seat and back and underneath the footrest. Remove any cushion covers and wash separately according to the label.&nbsp;

For fabric, apply upholstery cleaner to a microfibre cloth and work in sections, using a soft-bristled brush in circular motions on heavily soiled areas - avoid saturating the fabric.&nbsp;

For leather, clean with a pH-balanced leather cleaner, allow at least twelve hours to dry, then apply conditioner.&nbsp;

Finish by wiping down the handset with a dry cloth, checking all functions work and vacuuming around the base and motor housing before plugging back in.

Invest in a recliner from Oak Tree Mobility

Whether you’re looking for a classic fabric recliner or a sleek leather design, Oak Tree Mobility’s range of British-made rise and recline chairs is crafted with both comfort and practicality in mind. From supportive cushioning to easy-to-clean materials and simple-to-use controls, our chairs are the perfect choice for you and your home.

Ready to find your perfect rise and recline chair? Book your <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/landing-pages/request-your-home-appointment">FREE home appointment</a> or request our <a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/landing-pages/request-your-brochure/chair-v2">latest brochure</a> to explore the full collection.

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How to clean your recliner chair

Have you been thinking about taking ‘natural’ supplements to help you fall asleep? The supplement market has exploded, especially with L-theanine for sleep, and I want to share what current research suggests, as it can be confusing.&nbsp;

Even if the label says ‘natural’,&nbsp;it&nbsp;doesn’t&nbsp;mean that&nbsp;it’s&nbsp;risk-free, especially if you are taking other medications. I&nbsp;haven’t&nbsp;come across a supplement that completely replaces good sleep habits and a supportive sleep environment. However, some supplements can work well alongside your existing sleep routine.&nbsp;

So,&nbsp;let’s&nbsp;have a closer look at how L-theanine (and other natural sleep aids) might be good for sleep.&nbsp;&nbsp;

What is L-theanine? And L-theanine benefits for sleep&nbsp;

L-theanine is a popular dietary supplement believed to help alleviate stress and anxiety, improve focus and sleep.&nbsp;It’s&nbsp;a non-protein amino acid found&nbsp;

naturally in green tea. It&nbsp;doesn’t&nbsp;induce sleep directly but is thought to calm the mind down, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.&nbsp;

The research suggests taking 200-450 mg per day might be a safe and effective way to support healthy&nbsp;sleep in&nbsp;adults.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/397181816_Examining_the_effect_of_L-theanine_on_sleep_a_systematic_review_of_dietary_supplementation_trials" target="_blank">One study</a>&nbsp;in middle-aged and older adults suggested that even a lower daily dose than the usual 200–400mg could still support sleep. I always recommend to my clients to start with a smaller dosage and work their way up.&nbsp;

Can I take magnesium glycinate and L-theanine together?&nbsp;

For most people, it is safe to pair magnesium glycinate with L-theanine. This combination has been shown to promote relaxation, making you fall asleep more quickly.&nbsp;

Magnesium L-threonate&nbsp;can also be paired with L-theanine. Emerging research suggests that this combination crosses the blood-brain barrier, making it highly effective for calming brain activity and easing anxiety.&nbsp;

What about other popular sleep supplements?&nbsp;

Take a look&nbsp;at the table below, which outlines some popular sleep supplements, how they work and who they might be suitable for.&nbsp;

What conditions can sleep supplements help with?&nbsp;

These supplements may help if you are suffering from insomnia and are having difficulty getting to sleep, staying asleep, or&nbsp;you’re&nbsp;waking exhausted after interrupted sleep. Unlike prescription sleeping tablets, they&nbsp;generally aren’t&nbsp;addictive and are a gentler way to encourage rest.&nbsp;

I’ve&nbsp;explained more about the benefits of holistic strategies and natural aids in&nbsp;my&nbsp;<a href="http://oaktreemobility.co.uk/help-and-advice/health-and-wellbeing/how-to-beat-insomnia-naturally" target="_blank">blog post here.</a>&nbsp;

Can sleep supplements interfere with medications?&nbsp;

In certain circumstances, natural supplements can interact with prescription medication, causing unwanted effects such as drowsiness and dizziness.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Remember to mention all the supplements you are taking during a medication review with your doctor or pharmacist.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Magnesium can interact with diuretics, certain antibiotics, gabapentin and medications for osteoporosis, all common in later life.&nbsp;

People with chronic kidney disease should avoid these supplements without medical supervision.&nbsp;

Combining melatonin and valerian root may increase side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, and confusion. Older adults may also experience impaired thinking,&nbsp;judgment&nbsp;and motor coordination, increasing the risk of falls.&nbsp;

Other ways to get a good night’s sleep&nbsp;

I hope this article has reassured you that there are many ways to improve your sleep quality and experience restorative rest. For even more sleep tips and advice,&nbsp;<a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/help-and-advice/authors/dr-nerina" target="_blank">look&nbsp;at my previous articles here.</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Our relationship with sleep is unique, and the more able we are to cater to our individual needs for comfort, the better chance we stand of being able to rest and sleep well.&nbsp;&nbsp;

That’s&nbsp;why I endorse Oak Tree&nbsp;Mobility’s&nbsp;made-to-fit&nbsp;<a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/adjustable-beds" target="_blank">adjustable beds</a>, a key factor in being able to rest and sleep well. Each bed supports the joints in the back,&nbsp;hips&nbsp;and knees to ease tension and aches and pains, helping you feel more refreshed in the morning, setting you up comfortably for the day ahead.&nbsp;&nbsp;

FAQs: Sleep supplements for the elderly&nbsp;

What is the safest sleep aid for the elderly?&nbsp;

Everyone has varying tolerances for medications and even natural supplements. My advice is to discuss your options with your doctor before trying a natural&nbsp;supplement and&nbsp;observe&nbsp;the impact on your sleep.&nbsp;

Can I take L-theanine with my blood pressure or heart medication?&nbsp;

Yes, but with caution. L-theanine can cause a lowering of blood pressure, which might make you feel dizzy. Always speak to your doctor first before starting a new supplement.&nbsp;

What's&nbsp;the difference between L-theanine and melatonin?&nbsp;

While both are marketed as sleep aids, L-theanine and melatonin work quite differently. L- theanine is thought to work by calming the mind, while melatonin can help to regulate your internal sleep clock.&nbsp;

Do I need a prescription for melatonin in the UK?&nbsp;

Yes. Melatonin is prescription-only in the UK. This means you&nbsp;can’t&nbsp;buy it over the counter in shops or pharmacies.&nbsp;

What other treatments are there for insomnia in older adults?&nbsp;

There are many holistic treatments and approaches to managing insomnia, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), lifestyle habits, bedtime routines and using an&nbsp;<a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/adjustable-beds" target="_blank">adjustable bed.</a>&nbsp;

Is there a sleep supplement that&nbsp;actually works?&nbsp;

Both L-theanine and forms of magnesium may help promote relaxation and sleep, but the evidence is still new and evolving.&nbsp;

What is the healthiest thing to take for sleep?&nbsp;

A low dose of melatonin or natural supplements such as magnesium or L-theanine. Please speak to your doctor first before taking any new supplement.&nbsp;

What vitamin is my body lacking if I have insomnia?&nbsp;

Insomnia should be looked at holistically, taking into consideration stress levels and lifestyle. However, low magnesium, vitamin D levels and other minerals and vitamins such as folate, vitamin B9 and iron can cause fatigue and insomnia.&nbsp;

Which vitamin is not good for sleep?&nbsp;

There&nbsp;isn’t&nbsp;one&nbsp;particular vitamin&nbsp;that hurts sleep. Some B vitamins may be stimulating for some but not for others.&nbsp;

What vitamin makes you sleep better?&nbsp;

Vitamins such as B12 and D have been shown to have a positive effect on sleep, but you need to take a blood test first to&nbsp;ascertain&nbsp;whether you have a deficiency.&nbsp;

Pink sleeping mask next to a beside clock covered in natural supplements

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Dr Nerina on L-Theanine and Other Natural Sleep Aids 

If&nbsp;you’re&nbsp;finding getting in and out of bed a struggle, a bed lever could be useful.&nbsp;

This handy mobility aid helps&nbsp;support&nbsp;movement in bed. Designed with a curved, easy-to-grip handle,&nbsp;it&nbsp;provides steady support to safely sit up, roll over, get up, or get into bed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A bed lever can make&nbsp;a huge difference&nbsp;to those who find standing,&nbsp;repositioning&nbsp;or getting comfortable in bed&nbsp;more&nbsp;difficult.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Read on to learn more about bed&nbsp;levers, and&nbsp;discover&nbsp;whether one could be the right choice for&nbsp;you and your needs.&nbsp;

A bed lever helps by offering a steady,&nbsp;sturdy&nbsp;grip, making&nbsp;moving in and out of bed&nbsp;as well as&nbsp;adjusting&nbsp;positions&nbsp;(such as&nbsp;sitting&nbsp;up and&nbsp;lying down) easier, quicker, and importantly, safer.&nbsp;

People with reduced upper body strength may find a bed lever useful.&nbsp;Being able to&nbsp;move&nbsp;themselves in and out of bed can help&nbsp;maintain&nbsp;independence and reduce&nbsp;reliance&nbsp;on a caregiver.&nbsp;

When you&nbsp;shouldn’t&nbsp;use a bed lever&nbsp;

Bed levers can be incredibly beneficial mobility aids, but there are some&nbsp;situations&nbsp;where they may not&nbsp;be suitable, including:&nbsp;

&nbsp;An under-mattress lever is a popular choice for most beds. This&nbsp;type of lever&nbsp;can be easily installed between the mattress and&nbsp;the bed&nbsp;frame.&nbsp;

A double-sided lever is similar in design to an under-mattress model but provides support from both sides of the bed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Unlike an under-mattress lever, a floor-standing lever&nbsp;is attached to the floor. The sturdier base is ideal for accommodating a higher weight capacity.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Specifically made for&nbsp;<a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/adjustable-beds" target="_blank">adjustable beds</a>, like ours, an adjustable bed lever is securely clamped to the bed frame. This means it can move freely with the bed.&nbsp;

Remember to check your equipment regularly and follow the supplier’s&nbsp;instructions for any necessary adjustments.&nbsp;

How to install a bed lever step by step&nbsp;

Installation can vary&nbsp;depending on the&nbsp;type of bed lever you choose, but here are some handy tips to&nbsp;help&nbsp;ensure&nbsp;you’re&nbsp;able to use&nbsp;your&nbsp;bed lever correctly:&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bed levers and your adjustable bed - A note from us&nbsp;

Did you know the quality of the bed itself affects how much work a bed lever needs to do?&nbsp;An&nbsp;<a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/adjustable-beds" target="_blank">adjustable bed</a>&nbsp;set to the right height can reduce the effort of getting in and out.&nbsp;

Oak Tree Mobility adjustable beds are made to fit and can be set to a height that works best for you. However, if getting in and out of bed is a daily struggle, it may be worth considering both solutions together.&nbsp;

FAQS about bed levers for adjustable beds&nbsp;

What’s&nbsp;the difference between a bed rail and a bed lever?&nbsp;

A bed rail is designed to prevent someone from falling out, while a bed lever helps a person transfer in and out of bed and adjust their position, e.g. rolling over and sitting up.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A bed lever is made from a sturdy, hard-wearing metal with a rounded handle&nbsp;that&nbsp;can be easily gripped by the user.&nbsp;

Can a bed lever be used on any bed frame?&nbsp;

Mostly – it&nbsp;depends on the type of bed lever<a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/help-and-advice/adjustable-beds/adjustable-bed-add-ons-more-than-just-a-bed" target="_blank">. Click here</a>&nbsp;for more information on bed mobility aids for adjustable beds.  &nbsp;

Where should a bed lever be placed?&nbsp;

A&nbsp;bed lever is typically placed at one-third of the bed. This is considered the best position for most people.&nbsp;

Are bed levers only for the elderly?&nbsp;

No, a bed lever can be used by anyone who&nbsp;has trouble&nbsp;getting in and out of bed. This can include wheelchair users, people with limited mobility, or those who have&nbsp;difficulty&nbsp;standing.&nbsp;&nbsp;

What’s&nbsp;the best bed lever for the elderly?&nbsp;

The right bed lever&nbsp;depends on your individual needs. However, older people may&nbsp;benefit&nbsp;from a bed&nbsp;lever&nbsp;that can be adapted to an adjustable bed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Speak to the team at Oak Tree Mobility&nbsp;

At Oak Tree Mobility, we&nbsp;don’t&nbsp;think mobility should hold you back. Call us on 0808 258 0548, and our friendly mobility experts will guide you to the right&nbsp;solution&nbsp;–&nbsp;we’re&nbsp;always here to support&nbsp;you.&nbsp;

Our range of made-to-fit&nbsp;<a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/rise-and-recline-chairs/" target="_blank">rise and recline chairs</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/adjustable-beds" target="_blank">adjustable beds</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://oaktreemobility.co.uk/bath-lifts" target="_blank">bath lifts</a>&nbsp;is expertly designed to help you&nbsp;maintain&nbsp;the comfort and independence that you deserve.&nbsp;&nbsp;

1.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.merseycare.nhs.uk/patient-leaflets/bed-levers-guide">NHS Merseycare guide</a>

2.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.england.nhs.uk/long-read/patient-entrapment-in-beds-bed-rails-and-related-devices/">Patient entrapment in beds, bed rails and related devices</a>

3.&nbsp; <a href="https://yourhealth.leicestershospitals.nhs.uk/library/csi/therapies/hands-burns-plastics-therapy/4249-safe-use-of-bed-levers/file">Safe use of bed levers</a>

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What is a bed lever and when is it useful?

How long does a recliner last? Why our chairs are built to endure

How to choose the best living room chair for good posture

What is a perching stool, and who is it for?

What is a self-propelled wheelchair? Benefits and uses

What is a transfer board, and how does it work?

Why is reading good for you as you age?

From an early age, Emma has always used her creativity to help others. From creating visual displays in St. Pilgrims Hospice charity shops during her Fine Art degree, to using social media to support sustainable initiatives, her focus has always been the same – to empower and uplift.

Her career has taken her through the worlds of fashion, skincare, and even speciality coffee, but the common thread throughout has always been helping people live happier lives.

Now working at Oak Tree Mobility as a Copywriter, Emma brings her passion for words and creative sensibility to help make a difference to those who need it most.

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