Taking apart a Lazy Boy recliner is a simple way to make moving day much easier on your body and your home. By detaching the backrest and securing the base, you can turn a heavy, awkward piece of furniture into manageable parts that fit through narrow doorways.
Moving a Lazy Boy recliner often feels like trying to wrestle a giant, heavy turtle. These chairs are famous for their comfort, but their bulky size and complex internal mechanisms make them a nightmare to maneuver through tight hallways or narrow doorways. If you are preparing for a move, you might be dreading the heavy lifting. The good news is that you do not have to move the chair in one piece.
Learning how to take apart a Lazy Boy recliner for easy moving is a total game-changer. Most models are designed with modular components that can be detached in just a few minutes. By breaking the chair down, you significantly reduce the weight and the footprint of the item. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring your favorite seat makes it to your new home without a scratch or a strain on your back.
- Preparation is key: Clear your workspace and have the right tools, like a flathead screwdriver, ready before you begin.
- The backrest comes off first: Most Lazy Boy recliners feature a simple locking lever mechanism that allows the back to slide off vertically.
- Secure the footrest: Always use zip ties or stretch wrap to keep the reclining mechanism shut so it doesn’t pop open while you carry it.
- Protect your floors: Use moving blankets to pad the heavy metal base to prevent scratches or damage during transport.
- Don’t force it: If a part feels stuck, stop and check for debris or hidden tabs rather than using brute force, which could damage the frame.
- Label your hardware: If you remove any screws or bolts, keep them in a labeled plastic bag taped to the bottom of the chair frame.
📑 Table of Contents
Gather Your Supplies and Prepare the Area
Before you dive into the disassembly, you need to set the stage. Working in a cramped, cluttered room makes the process harder than it needs to be. Start by clearing the area around the recliner. Remove any side tables, rugs, or lamps that might get in your way. Having a clean, open space allows you to move around the chair comfortably.
Essential Tools for the Job
You might be surprised to learn that you rarely need a complex toolkit. In most cases, a long, flathead screwdriver is the only tool required. Because some older models might have bolts rather than locking levers, keep a small wrench or a pair of pliers handy just in case. You should also have a roll of stretch wrap or heavy-duty tape nearby. This will keep the footrest locked and secure once you start moving the frame.
Removing the Backrest of the Recliner
The backrest is usually the heaviest and most awkward part of the chair. Removing it is the most important step in making the move manageable. Almost all modern Lazy Boy recliners use a slide-and-lock system that requires no actual unscrewing of bolts.
Locating the Locking Levers
Stand behind the chair and reach into the small gap between the backrest and the seat cushion. You are looking for two metal locking tabs or levers. These are usually located on the brackets that connect the backrest to the base. Once you feel them, push the levers upward or outward, depending on your specific model. While holding the levers open, lift the backrest straight up toward the ceiling. It should slide off the metal tracks with a bit of a wiggle.
If the backrest does not move, do not force it. Sometimes dust or fabric can get caught in the tracks. Use a flashlight to see if there is any debris blocking the path. A gentle side-to-side motion while pulling upward is usually enough to release the tension.
Securing the Base Mechanism
Once the backrest is removed, you are left with the base. This part contains the heavy metal reclining mechanism. This mechanism is sensitive and can be dangerous if it swings open while you are trying to lift it. If the footrest pops out unexpectedly, it could cause an injury or damage your walls.
Using Stretch Wrap to Lock the Footrest
To prevent the base from opening, wrap the entire bottom section in heavy-duty stretch wrap or moving plastic. Go around the frame several times until the footrest is held firmly against the seat. If you do not have stretch wrap, a couple of strong zip ties can also do the trick. Just loop them around the frame and the footrest bars to hold them shut. Make sure to remove these once you have arrived at your destination and set the chair up in its new spot.
Protecting Your Furniture During Transport
Even though you have taken the chair apart, you still want to protect the fabric or leather. Recliners are expensive investments, and the stress of moving can leave them scuffed or torn. Invest in some high-quality moving blankets or furniture pads.
Wrapping for Maximum Safety
Wrap the backrest separately and the base separately. Secure the blankets with tape or plastic wrap to ensure they do not slip off while you are carrying the pieces. If you are moving the chair yourself in a truck, keep the base upright. Never stack heavy boxes on top of the seat cushion, as this can compress the foam over time and ruin the comfort of your chair.
Handling the Re-Assembly at Your New Home
Re-assembly is essentially the reverse of the removal process. Once you have moved the two pieces into the room, place the base exactly where you want it. Take the backrest and align the brackets with the tracks on the base. Lower the backrest onto the tracks at the same time. You will know it is locked when you hear a distinct “click” as the locking levers snap into place.
Testing the Mechanism
Before you sit down, test the chair. Push the footrest out and pull it back in a few times. If the back feels loose, check the levers again to ensure they are fully engaged. It is always better to double-check the locking mechanism while the chair is empty than to find out it is loose while you are sitting in it.
Conclusion
Learning how to take apart a Lazy Boy recliner for easy moving is a skill that will save you time, stress, and potential back pain. By focusing on the removal of the backrest and properly securing the base mechanism, you transform a difficult chore into a simple task. Whether you are moving across town or just rearranging your living room, these steps ensure your recliner stays in great condition. Remember to take your time, keep your tools handy, and prioritize protecting your furniture with blankets. Your back will thank you when you are finally relaxing in your favorite chair in your new home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all Lazy Boy recliners come apart the same way?
Most modern Lazy Boy recliners use a standardized locking lever system, but some older or specialized models may have bolts. If you do not see locking levers, check the underside of the backrest for screws that may need to be removed with a screwdriver.
Is it safe to move the chair alone after taking it apart?
While taking the chair apart makes it much lighter, it is still heavy and awkward. It is always best to have a second person help you lift and carry the base to ensure you do not strain yourself.
What if I lose the hardware during the move?
If your model uses screws or bolts, place them in a small plastic bag and tape that bag directly to the metal frame of the chair. This prevents the hardware from getting lost in a moving box.
Can I use tape directly on the upholstery?
You should avoid putting tape directly on the fabric or leather, as it can leave sticky residue or damage the surface. Always wrap the chair in moving blankets or plastic film first, and put the tape on the wrapping material.
What should I do if the locking lever is stuck?
If the lever feels stuck, check for fabric caught in the mechanism or dust buildup. Using a small amount of silicone-based lubricant can help loosen the metal tracks, but be careful not to get any oil on the upholstery.
How long does the disassembly process take?
For most people, taking apart a Lazy Boy recliner takes less than ten minutes. Once you are familiar with where the levers are located, the process becomes very quick and intuitive.