How To Choose A Rocking Chair

The fact that a rocking chair is an extremely comfy chair, addictively at that, is well known to one and all. But what everyone may not be aware of is that not all rocking gliders may be best for you. In fact, if you happen to buy the wrong rocking chair, not only will you be uncomfortable in it, but it could actually pose a danger. Thus, in the interest of your comfort and safety, here are some tips to finding the right rocking chair.

1. Size of the rocker: The first thing that you need to check is that this piece of furniture is the right size for you. When you sit on the rocker, your legs should not dangle off the floor but should reach the floor comfortably. However, make sure that your knees are not up against your chest, which will indicate that the rocking chair is small for you. Also ensure that the sit is big enough so that you are comfortable, but not too big that your arms do not reach the armrests properly. Your head should not rise above the back rest but should just reach the headrest.

2. Intended space: The location where you will be placing your rocking chair directly affects what kind you will eventually buy. For instance, if the location is an indoor one, then a upholstered rocker is an ideal choice, as is one with multiple cushions. But the same rocking seat would be a disaster for an outdoor location as the cushions and padding would get spoilt due to the natural elements. Thus, for outdoor locations such as gardens, lawns, patios etc, you should choose rockers that are made from water proof materials, are durable, and strong enough to withstand natural weather conditions.

3. Pitch of the rockers: The curved rocker at the bottom of the chair is what makes it so unique. The motion of the chair as well as its safety when using it depends on the pitch of the rockers. To test the pitch, sit in the chair and rock forward and backward. If the motion is not jerky and feel is smooth, the pitch is correct. Another thing to look at is that there should not be any danger of the chair tipping in the front or back. If you feel like you cannot recline completely as the chair will fall backwards, then the chair's pitch is off.

4. The rocking motion: Everyone knows that the motion of the chair should be smooth and continuous. But did you know that you should not have to rock the chair every few seconds? Yes, thatâ€™s right. A rocking chair that has the complete range of motion will keep going for a couple of minutes with just a single push. So, that is what you should be looking for.

5. The comfort factor: The rocking chair should be absolutely comfortable for you. Your hands should reach the armrests comfortably and should fit on them properly. The seat should have a downward slope and should support your lower back too. In addition to being firm, the back and the seat of the chair should be flexible. You may also want to look at an ergonomic rocking chair. If you are not 100% comfortable sitting in the rocking chair, do not buy it.

6. The safety factor: If you have small children in your home, you should ensure that the rocking chair is safe for them. The curved rockers can crush tiny feet and toes, thus you may want to look at gliding chairs that do not have curved rockers but have gliders that rest completely on the floor. These are safer with children around.

7. Your budget: Rockers and gliding rocking chairs can be available for as less as a few hundred dollars and go up to thousands of dollars. Therefore, your budget will be a big factor when choosing a chair. A good way to save some money is to buy used rocking chairs. As long as the main rockers of the chair are in perfect condition, most used gliders and rocking chairs can be restored to look as good as new.

8. Your home dÃ©cor: While safety and comfort are the two main criteria when selecting a rocking chair, you should take care to choose one that fits in with the dÃ©cor in your home. No one will appreciate a monstrosity in the middle of the living room, even if it is a highly comfortable one. Thus, look around to find a rocking chair that fulfills your needs and is attractive looking.

9. Assembling the chair: Some rockers arrive fully assembled, and some have to be put together at home. If you are not good at following instructions and assembling things, you probably want one that is shipped completely assembled.

Keeping the above factors in mind when you go shopping for a rocking chair, choosing the right one will be a breeze!