A recliner sofa is one of the most comfortable pieces of furniture in a living room. It is also one of the more difficult pieces of furniture to protect.

Unlike a standard sofa, a recliner has moving parts, adjustable footrests, reclining backs and separate seating sections. This means a normal sofa cover may not fit properly or may move every time you open the footrest.

That is why choosing the right recliner sofa cover is so important.

A good cover can help protect your recliner from everyday wear, pet hair, food and drink spills while also giving an older sofa a completely different appearance.

But not every recliner cover is the same.

In this complete recliner sofa covers guide, we explain how to choose the right type of cover, how to measure your recliner, which fabrics to consider, how to install the cover, how to reduce slipping and how to look after it once it is fitted.

Whether you have a 1-seater recliner chair, 2-seater reclining sofa, 3-seater recliner or a recliner with a centre console, this guide will help you make a more informed choice.

Why Do Recliner Sofas Need Special Sofa Covers?

The main difference between a normal sofa and a recliner is movement.

A standard sofa generally stays in the same position throughout the day.

A recliner does not.

When you pull the lever or press the electric control:

• The footrest extends.
• The seat changes position.
• The backrest may move backwards.
• The shape of the furniture changes.
• Fabric can become stretched or pulled.

This is why a standard loose sofa cover may move, bunch or interfere with the reclining mechanism.

Purpose-designed recliner sofa covers are made to work with the movement of reclining furniture. Depending on the design, they may include separate pieces, elasticated sections, straps, openings or other features that help accommodate the mechanism.

SofaCoverUK currently has a dedicated Recliner Covers UK collection covering different recliner sizes and styles, including 1-, 2-, 3- and 4-seat options.

What Are the Benefits of Recliner Sofa Covers?

A recliner cover can provide several benefits at the same time.

Protect Your Original Upholstery

Recliners are often used for long periods every day.

The most heavily used areas include:

• Seat cushions
• Armrests
• Headrest
• Footrest
• Backrest
• Areas around the reclining mechanism

A removable cover adds an extra layer between the original upholstery and everyday use.

Refresh an Old Recliner

You do not necessarily need to replace a comfortable recliner simply because the fabric looks dated.

Changing the cover can give the furniture a new colour or texture without replacing the entire sofa.

This can be particularly useful when your existing recliner is structurally sound but the upholstery has become:

• Faded
• Stained
• Scratched
• Worn
• Outdated

Make Cleaning Easier

A removable recliner cover can be taken off for cleaning, depending on the care instructions for the specific product.

This is particularly useful for homes with children and pets.

For more detailed maintenance advice, see our Recliner & Wingback Sofa Cover Care Guide, which covers washing, drying and maintaining the fit of recliner and wingback covers.

What Type of Recliner Sofa Cover Should You Choose?

There is no single cover that is right for every recliner.

The first step is identifying what type of furniture you have.

1-Seater Recliner Chair

A single recliner chair normally needs an individual recliner cover.

This is often the simplest type to cover because there is only one reclining mechanism to accommodate.

SofaCoverUK offers dedicated Recliner Chair Covers in different materials and styles.

2-Seater Recliner Sofa

A reclining loveseat or 2-seater recliner needs additional attention.

Some designs have:

• Two completely independent reclining seats
• A fixed middle section
• A centre console
• Separate armrests

If your recliner has a console between the seats, a normal 2-seater cover may not be suitable.

In that case, look for a product specifically designed for a recliner with centre console.

SofaCoverUK has a dedicated Sofa Covers With Center Console collection designed to accommodate features such as cup holders, storage areas and control panels.

3-Seater Recliner Sofa

Three-seat recliners are usually more complicated than single recliners because several moving sections may operate independently.

Before ordering, check whether the cover is intended for:

• Three separate reclining seats
• A fixed centre seat
• A centre console
• Independent footrests
• Manual or electric reclining mechanisms

A cover designed for the wrong configuration may look suitable when folded but become problematic when the sofa reclines.

Recliner With Centre Console

Centre-console recliners deserve special attention.

The console may contain:

• Cup holders
• Storage
• USB charging
• Remote controls
• Other controls

A normal sofa cover can cover or restrict these features.

A dedicated Centre Console Sofa Cover has a specific opening or configuration for the console, depending on the product.

One-Piece vs Multi-Piece Recliner Covers

One of the most important decisions is whether you need a one-piece or multi-piece recliner cover.

One-Piece Recliner Covers

A one-piece cover is designed to cover a larger portion of the furniture with a single continuous piece of fabric.

Advantages can include:

• Simple installation
• Fewer pieces to wash
• Quick removal
• Clean overall appearance

However, fitting can be more challenging on complicated recliners.

Multi-Piece Recliner Covers

Multi-piece covers divide the furniture into separate sections.

Depending on the product, there may be individual pieces for:

• Backrest
• Armrests
• Seat
• Footrest
• Console
• Individual reclining sections

The main advantage is flexibility.

Because the individual sections can move more independently, a multi-piece design can be easier to fit on a complex reclining sofa.

The best choice depends on the construction of your recliner rather than simply choosing whichever option looks more convenient.

How to Measure a Recliner for a Sofa Cover

Measuring correctly is one of the most important steps in buying a recliner cover.

Do not choose a cover simply because your sofa is called a “2-seater” or “3-seater”.

Two recliners with the same number of seats can have very different dimensions.

SofaCoverUK's current measurement guidance recommends paying particular attention to the total width, depth, height and arm dimensions, while recliners should be measured in the upright position.

Step 1: Measure the Overall Width

Measure from the outside of one armrest to the outside of the other.

Do not measure just the seating area.

Write down the measurement in centimetres.

Step 2: Measure the Overall Depth

Measure from the front of the recliner to the furthest point at the back.

Keep the recliner in its normal upright position unless the individual product instructions say otherwise.

Step 3: Measure the Height

Measure from the floor to the highest point of the backrest.

A tall recliner may require more fabric than a compact chair.

Step 4: Measure the Armrests

Measure the width and height of each armrest.

This matters because the arms can vary considerably between recliner designs.

Step 5: Check the Footrest

Pay attention to the footrest area.

The cover must allow the footrest to open and close without pulling the entire cover out of position.

Step 6: Check the Centre Console

For a 2-seater or 3-seater recliner with a central console, measure the console separately and check whether the product is specifically designed for this configuration.

For a more general guide, see our How to Measure for Sofa Covers.

Why Recliner Covers Slip

Slipping is one of the most common problems people experience with sofa covers.

On a recliner, movement makes the problem even more noticeable.

Every time the footrest moves, fabric can shift forward or sideways.

The biggest causes are usually:

• Incorrect sizing
• Insufficient anchoring
• Smooth leather upholstery
• Loose fabric around the seat
• Poor installation
• A cover not designed specifically for reclining furniture

Our Recliner Sofa Covers That Stay Put article goes into much more detail about choosing the right fit, anti-slip features and cover construction.

How to Stop a Recliner Sofa Cover From Moving

You cannot eliminate every small movement from a cover on a moving sofa.

However, the right design can significantly improve stability.

Look for features such as:

Elasticated Edges

Elastic helps the cover follow the shape of the furniture and stay closer to the lower edges.

Adjustable Straps

Some recliner covers use straps or buckles to anchor the cover underneath the furniture.

Anti-Slip Materials

Non-slip or gripper materials can help prevent movement, particularly on smooth leather upholstery.

Deep Tucking

Where the cover design allows it, tuck excess fabric firmly into the gaps between the seat and backrest.

However, standard foam tuck rods are not always the best solution for recliners because moving mechanisms can dislodge them. Our dedicated recliner guide explains why purpose-designed anchoring matters more on reclining furniture.

Should You Choose Stretch Fabric for a Recliner?

In many cases, stretch fabric is a useful choice because the furniture changes shape as it reclines.

A stretch material can move with the sofa rather than fighting against the mechanism.

Look for fabrics containing elastic fibres such as spandex or elastane when flexibility is important.

SofaCoverUK's current recliner collection includes stretch jacquard and velvet options, among other styles.

Stretch fabric can be particularly useful for:

• Manual recliners
• Frequently used recliners
• Sofas with moving footrests
• Users who regularly recline
• Furniture with curved or complex shapes

What Is the Best Fabric for a Recliner Sofa Cover?

The best fabric depends on how you use the sofa.

Jacquard Recliner Covers

Jacquard can be a good option when you want:

• Texture
• Pattern
• Everyday durability
• A more traditional appearance

SofaCoverUK currently offers jacquard recliner covers in multiple seating sizes.

Velvet Recliner Covers

Velvet creates a softer, more luxurious appearance.

It can work particularly well if your main goal is to refresh the style of an older recliner.

The SofaCoverUK Recliner Covers collection currently includes velvet recliner options.

Waterproof Recliner Covers

For homes with pets, children or frequent spills, liquid protection may be a higher priority than appearance.

SofaCoverUK has a dedicated Waterproof Recliner Chair Covers collection featuring options specifically marketed for protection against spills and stains.

Remember that water-resistant and waterproof are not necessarily the same thing, so always check the individual product description rather than assuming every recliner cover provides identical liquid protection.

How to Put a Recliner Sofa Cover On

Installing a recliner cover correctly is just as important as choosing the right size.

Start with the recliner in the upright position and with the footrest closed.

Step 1: Identify Each Section

Before fitting anything, identify the:

• Backrest section
• Seat section
• Arm sections
• Footrest
• Centre console, if applicable

Step 2: Start With the Back

Position the cover over the backrest and centre it.

Make sure there is a similar amount of fabric on both sides.

Step 3: Fit the Arms

Pull the cover over the left arm and then the right arm.

Do not fully tighten one side before positioning the other.

Step 4: Fit the Seat

Move the fabric forward over the seat.

Smooth the material rather than pulling everything towards the front.

Step 5: Tuck Excess Fabric

Push excess material into suitable gaps around the seat.

Do not place fabric where it can interfere with the moving mechanism.

Step 6: Secure the Cover

Attach straps, elastic or other fixing mechanisms according to the product instructions.

Step 7: Test the Recliner

Slowly open the footrest.

Watch how the cover moves.

Then return the footrest to the closed position and check that the cover has not shifted excessively.

Finally, recline the backrest and test again.

If the fabric pulls tightly against the mechanism, stop and reposition it.

A Common Mistake: Installing the Cover With the Footrest Open

It may seem logical to install a recliner cover while the sofa is fully extended.

Usually, that makes the job harder.

The cover is intended to accommodate normal movement between the upright and reclined positions.

Starting in the normal upright position gives you a better reference for where the cover should sit.

SofaCoverUK's current measurement guide similarly recommends measuring recliners in the closed, upright position before choosing the cover.

Can You Use a Normal Sofa Cover on a Recliner?

Technically, sometimes.

Practically, it is usually better to choose a cover specifically designed for recliners.

The problem is not just the dimensions.

The problem is movement.

A regular sofa cover may look fine when the recliner is closed but:

• Pull forward when the footrest opens
• Expose the seat
• Restrict the mechanism
• Bunch around the arms
• Shift out of position

A purpose-designed recliner cover is more likely to accommodate those changes.

This is also why “recliner compatible” should be treated as an important product specification rather than assuming that a standard stretch sofa cover will fit every type of reclining furniture.

Can You Put a Recliner Cover on a Leather Recliner?

Yes, but leather presents an additional challenge.

Leather is smooth, so fabric can slide more easily across the surface.

For a leather recliner, pay particular attention to:

• Accurate measurements
• Stretch
• Anti-slip features
• Straps
• Secure edges

A cover that works well on a textured fabric sofa may move more on smooth leather.

For more advice, read our recliner sofa covers that stay put guide.

Can Recliner Sofa Covers Be Machine Washed?

Many recliner covers are designed to be removable and washable, but always check the care label and product instructions first.

For washable covers, gentle washing is generally preferable to harsh cycles.

Our dedicated Recliner & Wingback Sofa Cover Care Guide recommends checking the care label, using a gentle 30°C cycle where appropriate, avoiding fabric softener for technical stretch fibres and air-drying whenever possible.

Do not wash a cover while it is still attached to the recliner.

And never soak or wash the recliner's mechanical components.

How Often Should You Wash a Recliner Sofa Cover?

There is no single schedule that suits every household.

A recliner used daily by one person in a low-traffic room will need less frequent washing than one used by:

• Several family members
• Dogs
• Cats
• Young children
• People who eat and drink on the sofa

Instead of following a rigid calendar, inspect the cover regularly.

Wash it when you notice:

• Visible stains
• Odour
• Accumulated pet hair
• General dullness
• Heavy dust
• Loss of freshness

Frequent washing should still be balanced with correct care because excessive heat can damage elastic fibres.

How to Dry a Recliner Sofa Cover

Drying is particularly important for stretch covers.

High heat can affect elasticity and the shape of the fabric.

Where the care label permits, air drying is generally the safer option.

Avoid putting a wet cover directly over a radiator.

Also avoid aggressive heat if your cover contains elastic fibres.

Our care guide recommends air drying covers and avoiding concentrated heat such as placing them directly on radiators.

Recliner Sofa Covers for Homes With Pets

A recliner can become a favourite sleeping place for a dog or cat.

Unfortunately, it can also become a favourite place for:

• Fur
• Mud
• Dirt
• Scratches
• Food
• Drool

A removable cover can provide an extra protective layer without changing the underlying furniture.

For pets, consider:

• Durable stretch fabric
• Washable construction
• Medium or darker colours
• Secure fitting
• Waterproof options where spills are a concern

Our Waterproof Recliner Covers are worth considering when liquid protection is one of your main priorities.

Recliner Sofa Covers for Families With Children

Recliners are often used in family rooms, TV rooms and living rooms.

Children can bring food and drinks onto the sofa, while the moving mechanism creates additional areas where dirt can accumulate.

A removable cover makes routine cleaning easier than trying to clean the original upholstery every time there is a small accident.

For a family recliner, consider:

Washability + secure fit + suitable fabric + easy installation.

What Colour Recliner Sofa Cover Should You Choose?

Colour depends on the style of your living room.

For a neutral room, popular directions include:

• Grey
• Beige
• Taupe
• Oatmeal
• Brown
• Navy

For a stronger focal point, consider:

• Forest green
• Deep blue
• Burgundy
• Rich brown

If you have pets or children, very pale colours may show everyday marks more clearly.

A medium-tone colour can be a practical compromise between appearance and maintenance.

What Size Recliner Cover Should I Buy?

Do not choose your cover by seat count alone.

For example, two different 3-seat recliners may have completely different:

• Widths
• Arm sizes
• Back heights
• Seat depths
• Console sizes
• Footrest configurations

Always compare your measurements with the specific product's size chart.

Our Recliner Covers collection includes different size options, but the exact measurements still need to be checked against your sofa.

What If My Recliner Is Between Two Sizes?

Do not simply guess.

First, check the individual product's size recommendations.

For stretch covers, some extra flexibility may be available, but there is a limit to how far the fabric can safely stretch.

A cover that is significantly too small can put unnecessary pressure on seams and may fail to cover the arms or footrest properly.

A cover that is too large can bunch and move excessively.

This is why accurate measurement is more useful than relying on labels such as “3-seater”.

Electric vs Manual Recliners

The type of recliner mechanism also matters.

Manual Recliners

Manual recliners usually operate using a lever or bodyweight mechanism.

A stretch cover can often accommodate the movement when correctly designed and fitted.

Electric Recliners

Electric recliners may have:

• Buttons
• Control panels
• USB ports
• Power cables
• More complex moving sections

Make sure the cover does not block controls or interfere with the mechanism.

For electric recliners, check the individual product description carefully before ordering.

Recliner With Cup Holders or USB Controls

Modern reclining sofas often include a centre console with cup holders, storage and electronic controls.

A standard cover may hide or interfere with these features.

A dedicated Sofa Cover With Centre Console is a better starting point when your recliner has a built-in console.

Common Recliner Sofa Cover Mistakes

Mistake 1: Buying a Standard Sofa Cover

A standard cover may not accommodate the moving mechanism.

Choose one designed for reclining furniture.

Mistake 2: Guessing the Size

“3-seater” does not tell you the actual width.

Measure first.

Mistake 3: Ignoring the Footrest

The footrest is one of the most important moving areas.

Make sure the cover allows it to open and close properly.

Mistake 4: Forgetting the Centre Console

A console requires a cover designed around its shape.

Mistake 5: Using Too Much Fabric Around the Mechanism

Loose fabric should not be allowed to interfere with moving parts.

Mistake 6: Choosing Appearance Over Function

A beautiful cover that prevents your recliner from working properly is not a good cover.

Recliner Sofa Cover Buying Checklist

Before ordering, ask yourself these questions:

Does the cover specifically say it is designed for recliners?

If not, be cautious.

Does it fit my exact seating configuration?

Check 1-, 2-, 3- or 4-seat specifications.

Does my recliner have a centre console?

If yes, choose a compatible design.

Does the cover allow the footrest to move?

This is essential.

Does it have enough stretch?

Stretch can be particularly useful on moving furniture.

Does it have anti-slip or fastening features?

These can improve stability.

Is the fabric suitable for my lifestyle?

Think about children, pets, spills and cleaning.

Is the cover washable?

Check the individual care instructions.

Recliner Sofa Covers vs Reupholstery

What if your recliner looks old?

You have two main choices.

You can have it professionally reupholstered, or you can use a removable cover.

For a structurally sound recliner where the main problem is faded or damaged upholstery, a cover can be a much simpler way to refresh the appearance.

Reupholstery may make more sense where the recliner has deeper structural problems or where the furniture has significant sentimental or financial value.

For more information, see our comparison guide:

Sofa Covers vs Reupholstery: Which Is Better?

How Long Can a Recliner Sofa Cover Last?

The lifespan depends on:

• Fabric
• Frequency of use
• Washing frequency
• Exposure to sunlight
• Pets
• Children
• Friction
• Quality of installation

A cover used on a heavily occupied family recliner will naturally experience more wear than one used occasionally in a spare room.

Look after the cover according to its care instructions and avoid unnecessary high heat during washing and drying.

Should You Buy a Recliner Sofa Cover?

A recliner cover can be a practical choice when your furniture is still comfortable and structurally sound but the original upholstery needs protection or a visual refresh.

It is particularly useful for:

• Pet owners
• Families
• Older recliners
• Rental homes
• High-use TV rooms
• Furniture with faded upholstery
• Homes where spills are a concern

The important thing is choosing a cover based on the actual construction of your recliner, rather than buying a generic sofa cover and hoping it fits.

Final Verdict: The Complete Recliner Sofa Covers Guide

The best recliner sofa cover is not simply the one with the best colour or the lowest price.

It needs to work with the way your furniture moves.

Before buying, identify your recliner type, measure the furniture carefully and check whether you need a single-seat, multi-seat, centre-console or waterproof design.

Then consider the features that matter most:

Correct fit

Stretch

Secure fastening

Footrest compatibility

Washability

Suitable fabric

Protection level

A well-fitted recliner cover can protect your furniture while also giving your living room a completely new appearance.

Start by browsing the SofaCoverUK Recliner Covers collection.

For specialist requirements, you can also explore:

Waterproof Recliner Chair Covers

Sofa Covers With Center Console

and our Sofa Cover Buying Guide UK.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do recliner sofas need special covers?

Usually, a purpose-designed recliner cover is the safest choice because recliners have moving backs and footrests that a standard sofa cover may not accommodate properly.

Will a normal sofa cover fit a recliner?

It may fit the sofa dimensions, but it may not work properly when the sofa reclines. A dedicated recliner cover is generally a better choice for moving furniture.

How do I measure a recliner for a cover?

Measure the recliner in the upright position. Check the overall width, depth, height and arm dimensions, and pay particular attention to the footrest and centre-console configuration.

How do I stop a recliner sofa cover from slipping?

Choose the correct size and look for useful anchoring features such as elasticated edges, straps or anti-slip materials. Correct tucking can also help, but do not allow fabric to interfere with the reclining mechanism.

Are recliner sofa covers washable?

Many are, but washing instructions vary by product. Always check the care label before washing. Some SofaCoverUK guidance recommends a gentle 30°C cycle where appropriate and air drying rather than high heat.

Are recliner covers good for dogs?

They can be useful for protecting recliners from everyday pet hair, dirt and wear. For households where spills are also a concern, consider a dedicated waterproof recliner cover.

Can I cover a leather recliner?

Yes, but leather's smooth surface can make covers more prone to movement. Accurate sizing and suitable anti-slip features become particularly important.

Can I use a cover on an electric recliner?

Potentially, but check that the cover does not interfere with the control panel, power cables or moving mechanism. Always follow the product's compatibility information.

Do recliner covers work with centre consoles?

Some do, but you should choose a cover specifically designed for a centre-console configuration. SofaCoverUK has a dedicated centre-console collection.