Whether you’re relocating, redecorating, or need to make some repairs, there are various situations when knowing how to take apart a recliner becomes necessary.
Many recliners, especially electric recliners for the elderly, come with removable backs to make it easier to move them.
The process can be somewhat annoying, but it doesn’t have to be! We’re here to give you an easy-to-follow set of steps to walk you through how to remove the back of a recliner and reassemble it stress-free.
Before Getting Started
Before taking apart a recliner, it’s crucial to take some preparatory steps and adhere to safety precautions to ensure a smooth and secure process.
This preparation will save you time and help prevent potential injuries.
Preparatory Steps:
- Clear the Area: Ensure there is ample workspace around the recliner by removing any obstacles. This will give you enough room to manoeuvre the furniture components.
- Disconnect Power: If your recliner is electric or battery-operated, disconnect the power source to prevent accidental activation during disassembly.
Safety Precautions:
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Wear PPE: Safety goggles, heavy-duty gloves, and sturdy footwear are essential to protect yourself from potential hazards.
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Ventilation: Work in a well-ventilated area to minimize exposure to dust or fumes.
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Understand the Mechanism: Ensure you have a firm grasp of the recliner’s mechanism before attempting any disassembly.
Tools Needed
Having the right tools on hand is essential for efficiently taking apart and reassembling a recliner. Gathering these tools beforehand will make the process smoother and help you avoid unnecessary interruptions.
Tool Checklist:
- Screwdriver Set: Include both flathead and Phillips screwdrivers.
- Wrench Set: An adjustable wrench will cover various sizes.
- Pliers: Standard and needle-nose pliers are useful for different tasks.
- Rubber Mallet: A soft-faced hammer can also work.
- Zip Ties: Useful for managing wires if the recliner is electric.
- Plastic Bags or Containers: For organizing and storing hardware.
- Painter’s Tape: For marking and labelling components.
- Small Flashlight: A headlamp is ideal for better visibility in tight spaces.
Key Takeaway: Having a well-prepared toolkit ensures you can tackle the disassembly and reassembly processes efficiently. Proper tools are a foundation for a successful project, saving you time and frustration.
How to Disassemble a Recliner Chair or Sofa
Disassembling a recliner or sofa chair can be broken down into manageable steps:
1. Flip the Recliner
Start by ensuring there is plenty of space around your recliner. This allows you to move it away from the wall and access the back and bottom.
Steps:
- Move the recliner to an open area.
- Carefully flip it to expose the underside.
2. Remove the Fabric
The fabric at the base of your chair or sofa may be detachable. This is usually secured by Velcro or buttons, making it easy to remove.
Steps:
- Check the base of the recliner for velcro or button closures.
- If the fabric is stapled, note that disassembly might damage it.
- Pull up the detachable fabric to reveal the frame.
Key Takeaway: Removing the fabric is a straightforward step that exposes the recliner’s frame, making subsequent steps easier. Ensure you handle the fabric gently to avoid unnecessary damage.
3. Detach Individual Seats
For sofas, separating individual seats can make the disassembly process easier.
Steps:
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Use a wrench to remove bolts on the underside.
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Once the bolts are removed, individual seats will separate.
Key Takeaway: Detaching individual seats simplifies moving and handling large furniture pieces. This step is particularly useful for sofas with multiple sections.
4. Remove the Back
Removing the back is crucial for making the recliner easier to move.
Steps:
- Locate the brackets that lock the chair or sofa back.
- Use a screwdriver to lift the bracket out of its notch.
- Tap the back upwards with a rubber mallet to release it.
- Repeat on the other side and slide the back off.
Key Takeaway: Successfully removing the back of the recliner significantly reduces its size, making it easier to transport. Ensure you handle the brackets carefully to avoid damage.
5. Store Components Safely
Keeping track of all components is essential for smooth reassembly.
Steps:
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Use painter’s tape to label and organize screws, bolts, and fasteners.
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Place labeled hardware in plastic bags or containers.
Key Takeaway: Organizing and labeling components ensures you can easily identify and reassemble the recliner. Proper storage prevents loss and confusion.
How to Reassemble Your Recliner
Once you’ve successfully moved your recliner and are ready to reassemble it, the process involves reversing the steps you took during disassembly. Refer to the labelled and organized hardware to ensure a smooth reassembly.
Reverse the Steps
- Introduction: Reassembly should follow the disassembly steps in reverse order. This ensures that each component is reattached correctly.
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Steps:
- Start by aligning and sliding the back of the recliner into place.
- Use a rubber mallet to secure the brackets.
Key Takeaway: Reversing the disassembly steps ensures that each part fits back into its original position, maintaining the structural integrity of the recliner.
Align and Attach
- Introduction: Proper alignment is crucial for the recliner’s functionality.
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Steps:
- Ensure brackets align with their corresponding slots.
- Tap the brackets with a rubber mallet to secure them completely.
Key Takeaway: Ensuring proper alignment and attachment of components is vital for the recliner’s stability and operation. Double-check each connection for security.
Reattach Hardware
- Introduction: Reattaching all screws, bolts, and brackets correctly is essential for a secure reassembly.
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Steps:
- Refer to the labeled hardware to reattach each piece.
- Tighten screws and bolts to ensure stability.
Key Takeaway: Accurate reattachment of hardware is key to restoring the recliner’s functionality. Take your time to ensure all components are securely fastened.
Test the Reclining Mechanism
- Introduction: Before using the recliner, it’s important to test the reclining mechanism to ensure it functions correctly.
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Steps:
- Test the mechanism to ensure it locks into place securely in both upright and reclined positions.
Key Takeaway: Testing the reclining mechanism confirms that the recliner is fully functional and safe to use. Ensure all movements are smooth and the locks are secure.
Conclusion
By following these detailed steps, you can confidently disassemble and reassemble your recliner.
Proper preparation, the right tools, and careful handling of each component ensure a smooth and stress-free process.
Whether you’re moving, redecorating, or making repairs, knowing how to take apart your recliner makes the task manageable and efficient.
Final Thoughts:
- Recap the importance of each step and how it contributes to the overall process.
- Encourage readers to share their experiences or additional tips in the comments.
- Invite readers to subscribe for more practical furniture guides and tips.
Taking apart and reassembling a recliner doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right preparation and steps, you can handle the process with ease and confidence. See our recliner blog for more guides.