Oversized Chaise Lounge

Put it in the living room. It’s perfect for conversations, for reading a book or for a mid-day siesta. It can fit into a corner, by the window or even float smack bang in the middle, to make the space appear bigger than it is. Put it outdoors and you can get a dose of the sun and air while napping, eating a meal or getting a tan.

Despite all the positives, it’s not a universal fit for all homes. Here are some of the factors that you must consider before you get home an oversized chaise lounge.

There’s a reason why it’s called an ‘oversized’ chaise. That’s because it has a much larger footprint than a conventional chaise lounge. Typically, it can fit two adults. So, grab that measuring tape and get to work. Measure the length, the width, the height and the backrest and compare it with the available space in the room or in the patio.

Ensure that the height of the chaise and the backrest is comfortable for the person who will be using it most frequently. A very tall person might find it cumbersome to get in and out of a low chaise lounge. And vice-a-versa.

Don’t forget to calculate the additional space needed around the chaise for clearance.

Chaise lounges are generally considered to be patio furniture. And if it’s intended for outdoor use, then look for a weather resistant frame made of hardwood, wicker, aluminum, plastic or stainless steel.

Wrought iron chaises might seem obsolete. But they add a vintage flavor to your décor and are surprisingly easy to blend with a variety of décor themes.

But if you are the finicky homeowner who likes to redo or rearrange the patio furniture every week or so, then consider chaises with casters that are easier to move around. Or materials that are lightweight.

Wicker is a great choice. So is softwood. The caveat is that softwood doesn’t hold up to the elements very well.

Choose a weatherproof, non-absorbent, mold and mildew resistant fabric like Vinyl or sunbrella for the upholstery.

Goes without saying that removable and washable covers for the cushions and pillows will be easier to maintain as compared to permanent ones.

For indoor use, nothing beats the elegance of solid wood. You can pick a variety that blends with the rest of the décor pieces. You can also choose softwood, like pine. It’s cheaper than oak or other hardwoods.

• A chaise with an adjustable backrest is perfect for loungers who just like to put up their feet and watch the world go by. Various reclining positions from 45 degrees to completely flat, allow you to go from poolside lounging to catching some shuteye.
• Armrests and footrests will make it easier to get in and out of the chaise. For outdoor applications, even a contemporary, armless one would do just fine.
• In a high-usage setting or in a household with kids, an upholstered chaise with plush cushioning will be a better pick. It will make your all-day sojourns a lot more comfortable.
• Fire-retardant foam with a waterproof lining is one of the best materials for the cushion fill.
• If you have niggles and aches in your joints, then memory foam will help ease the soreness a tad.
• Polyfill is a cheaper fill material but will need to be drained every time a guest comes soaking wet out of the pool to rest on the chaise.
• In any case, ensure that the cushion has a waterproof lining or cover.