How to Fix a Recliner That Leans to One Side (Without Losing Your Mind)

If your recliner has started to lean to one side, don’t worry—you’re not alone, and it’s usually fixable. Whether it’s from wear and tear, uneven padding, or something coming loose underneath, you can get it sitting level again with a little time and a few basic tools.

Step 1: Flip the Recliner Over (Carefully!)
Lay down a blanket or mat and gently tip your recliner onto its back so you can see the underside. Be careful—it’s heavier than it looks, and you may want a second person to help.

Step 2: Inspect the Frame and Joints
Check for any cracked wood, loose bolts, or bent metal on the recliner’s frame. Most leaning issues come from something out of alignment or loose. Tighten any screws or bolts you find with a socket wrench or screwdriver. Don’t overtighten—just snug enough to hold firmly.

Step 3: Check the Springs and Reclining Mechanism
Look closely at the springs and moving parts. If a spring is broken or stretched out on one side, that’s likely your problem. You can usually find replacement springs online, and swapping them out is often as simple as unclipping the old and clipping in the new.

Step 4: Pad It Up (if needed)
If everything underneath looks fine, the issue might be with the seat padding. Sometimes the cushion compresses more on one side. You can add extra foam under the seat cover or cushion to even things out.

Step 5: Test It Out
Set the recliner back upright and give it a try. Still leaning? You may need a pro to look at the frame. But in most cases, these simple fixes will get your chair sitting straight again.