How To Clean Your Recliner Chair

There’s nothing quite like sinking into your favourite rise and recline chair after a long day. Whether it’s your spot for watching TV, having a cuppa, or grabbing forty winks, your recliner works hard to keep you comfortable. 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 give your rise and recline a proper clean, we’ll walk you through the best ways to freshen up the fabric, what to avoid, and how to keep the mechanics and electronics of your chair in good working order.

Preparations before cleaning

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

Unplug electronics

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.

Unzip removable covers

While our rise and recline chairs are designed with fixed upholstery for a sleeker look and 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 in some cases shrink them.

Patch test the fabric

Cleaning products contain a myriad of different chemicals which may or may not 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 ten to fifteen minutes and check for any discolouration, fading or changes in fabric texture.

If there are no obvious signs of a reaction, these products are safe to use. For added peace of mind, you might want to use our Care and Protect Kit which has already been safely tested and will keep your Oak Tree furniture in great condition.

Cleaning a fabric recliner

Fabric recliner chairs come in a variety of exciting colours and textures, from smooth microfibre, to plushy woven finishes, like in our Signature Fabrics range. While they provide great comfort and support, fabric chairs also trap dust, hair and crumbs and require a routine clean.

Recommended products

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. For optimal results and long-term care, consider using our Care and Protect Kit, which has been specially formulated for Oak Tree furniture.

Method

Start by hoovering your rise and recline chair. Pay particular attention to seams and crevices, which can pick up a surprising amount of debris.

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.

Cleaning a leather recliner

Leather rise and recline chairs are a great choice to any living space and when cared for properly can last a very long time. However, because of its unique properties, leather does need to be cleaned with specific products, in order to prevent the material from drying out, cracking, bleaching or fading.

Recommended products

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.

Method

Start by dusting down your chair. 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 remain 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.

Cleaning products to avoid

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  lead to water stains, internal and structural damage, and can create mold. Lastly, try to avoid harsh scrubbing pads, which can fray materials and finishes.

Caring for the mechanics

Now that we’ve explored how best to clean the exterior of your rise and recline chair, it’s also important to think about the mechanics on the interior too. As a rule of thumb, you should always carry out regular checks of the  underside of your furniture. Listen out for squeaking and clanging sounds as these could be signs of stiffness.  If noticeable, try adding a small amount of lubricant to moving parts. Additionally, avoid placing excessive weight on structurally weaker parts of the recliner, such as the footrest, backrest and arms.

Checking the electronics

After cleaning your chair, make sure everything is dry before plugging it back in. Once dry and reconnected, check that all buttons work properly; rise, recline, heat or massage. Make sure to inspect specific functions, such as how evenly the footrest lifts too. If something doesn’t feel right, please refer to your chair guide manual. Any electrical concerns might be a simple loose cable, but if problems persist, contact Oak Tree Mobility’s customer services team on 0800 073 0063 and do not attempt to repair yourself.

Get your 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 are 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 FREE home appointment or request our latest brochure to explore the full collection.