October 17, 2025 | Terry Smith

Maintenance for riser recliner chairs: 5 things you should know

Riser recliner chairs are designed to make everyday life more comfortable and independent, especially for people with reduced mobility.

Like any piece of equipment with moving parts, they need proper care to keep them working smoothly and safely. Whether it’s for home use or in a care environment, regular maintenance will help extend your chair’s lifespan and prevent any serious issues.

Here are five key things you should know about maintaining your riser recliner chair.

1. Keep it clean and free from dust

Dust and debris can easily collect in the moving parts of a riser recliner chair, especially around the mechanisms and under the seat. Over time, this can cause friction and wear.

Wipe down the surfaces regularly with a damp cloth
Vacuum underneath and around the chair regularly
Avoid using harsh cleaning chemicals that could damage upholstery or electrical components

For fabric chairs, a fabric-safe cleaner is best, while leather and vinyl surfaces should be treated with an appropriate conditioner to prevent cracking.

2. Check the electrics and handset regularly

Riser recliners rely on their electrical components to function, so it’s important to make sure they’re working correctly. Check that:

The power cable is intact and not frayed
The plug fits securely in the socket
The handset buttons respond properly and aren’t sticking

If the chair seems to be moving more slowly than usual or stops halfway through, unplug it for a few minutes, then plug it back in. If issues continue, feel free to contact us or whoever supplied your chair.

3. Inspect the mechanism and frame

The rise and recline mechanism carries a lot of weight and movement every day, so it’s a good idea to inspect it regularly. Look for signs of wear, such as unusual noises, loose bolts or uneven lifting.

A qualified technician should service the chair at least once a year to check that everything is aligned, lubricated and safe to use. In care settings, routine inspections are often part of equipment maintenance schedules to meet safety standards.

4. Maintain the upholstery

The upholstery not only affects comfort and appearance but can also influence hygiene.

Clean spills quickly to prevent staining
Rotate or adjust cushions if possible to ensure even wear
For healthcare environments like care homes, use approved cleaning products that won’t degrade the fabric

Keeping the upholstery in good condition also helps ensure the chair is kept comfortable.

5. Schedule regular servicing

Just like a car, a riser recliner benefits from professional servicing. Our technicians can identify early signs of mechanical or electrical problems before they become serious issues.

For chairs we sell, we recommend a service every 12 months, but this may vary depending on how often your chair is used and the environment it’s used in. Keeping a maintenance record is also a good idea, especially in care or clinical settings where compliance is very important.

Final thoughts

A riser recliner chair is an investment in comfort, independence and safety. With simple, regular maintenance and professional servicing, you can keep it performing at its best for years to come.