Many of us associate the rocking chair with warm evenings spent at our grandparents' house and stories told by the soft light of a lamp. However, over the years it has become not only a utilitarian piece of furniture, but also a decorative element, defining the character of a room. So let's take a better look at the advantages and types of this iconic piece of furniture.
A rocking chair can have a positive effect on health
Photo by Elena Kloppenburg © UNSPLASH
PdD Guide
Rocking chair – what is it?
A rocking chair is a piece of furniture equipped with a mechanism that allows it to rock gently back and forth. Rocking armchairs are usually comfortable and have a distinctive design that makes them popular both inside homes and on verandas or terraces.
Traditionally, a rocking chair consists of a frame, seat and backrest, often padded with soft material or covered with cushions for extra comfort. There are different styles and designs of rocking chairs, from classic wooden constructions to modern variants made of metal or plastic.
Rocking chairs are prized for their relaxing functionality and are often chosen for areas designed for rest and relaxation in homes, gardens or terraces.
Where to buy a rocking chair?
Proven manufacturers use high-quality materials for production. This means that the rocking chair will be durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. One such company is VOX. It's also worth checking out Kave Home's offerings. The full list of manufacturers we recommend can be found in the search engine of the Products for Home portal under the keyword „rocking chair”.
The rocking chair should match the style of the interior
© WestwingNow
Rocking chair – what material to choose?
Rocking chairs can be made from a variety of materials, depending on style, function and aesthetic preferences. Here are some examples of materials that rocking chairs can be made of:
Wood
Wood is a popular material for traditional rocking chairs. It can be solid wood or plywood.
Metal
Some rocking chairs have a structure made of metal, such as steel or aluminum. Metal armchairs look more modern. They are also resistant to weather conditions.
Plastic
Rocking chairs can also be made of different types of plastics, such as polypropylene, polyethylene or composite plastics. These materials are easy to clean and weatherproof.
Rattan or wicker
Some rocking chairs have a structure made of rattan or wicker, which gives them a natural and rustic look. Such armchairs are popular in boho-style interior design.
Regardless of the material from which the rocking chair is made, it is important that it is solidly built and provides adequate stability and comfort.
You can opt for a traditional or more modern armchair
Photo by Paul Hanaoka © UNSPLASH
Is a rocking chair healthy?
A rocking chair can be beneficial to your health if used properly and in moderation. Gentle rocking can help relax muscles and reduce tension in the body. This is beneficial for people suffering from muscle tension or back pain. The rocking motion can also have a relaxing effect. Using a rocking chair helps reduce stress and anxiety levels and supports overall well-being. Using a rocking chair also helps stimulate balance and coordination by engaging various muscle groups in the body. However, there are also some factors to consider to ensure healthy use of a rocking chair. For example, people with back problems should consult a doctor to make sure it is safe for their condition. Excessive use of such a chair or too much rocking motion can lead to dizziness or nausea. It is also worth remembering that some people may experience discomfort or imbalance when using a rocking chair.
The rocking chair is also perfect for outdoor use such as in the garden, on the terrace or balcony
Photo: Mahin Mostafa © UNSPLASH
What to pay attention to when choosing a rocking chair?
Material
Make sure that the material from which the chair is made is sturdy and durable. Wood, metal or plastic are the most commonly used materials for rocking chairs.
Seat and backrest
Check that the seat and back of the chair are comfortable and well contoured. These elements must provide back support and sitting comfort.
Rocking mechanism
If possible, try out the rocking mechanism to make sure it works smoothly and seamlessly. A well-designed mechanism should be stable and quiet.
Size and proportions
Pay attention to the proportions of the rocking chair in the context of the available space. Make sure that the armchair will not be too big and will not overwhelm the space.
You can renovate a rocking chair yourself
Photo by Jon Tyson © UNSPLASH
Style
Choose an armchair that matches the style of your interior design. There are many different designs available on the market, from classic models to modern and minimalist variants.
Weather resistance
If you are looking for a rocking chair for the garden, make sure it is made of weather-resistant materials, such as aluminum, stainless steel or wood with special protective coatings.
Price and quality
It's always a good idea to balance price with quality. Choose a rocking chair that offers quality workmanship and durability in relation to its price.
Rocking chair for feeding
A rocking chair for feeding is a specially designed piece of furniture that offers a comfortable and ergonomic place for feeding babies. The chair should have a comfortable seat and an ergonomic backrest that will provide support for the back and spine during long feeding sessions. Some rocking chairs for feeding are equipped with a footrest or armrests to help maintain a comfortable position. The seat's upholstery should be soft, easy to clean and stain-resistant, making it easy to keep clean in case of food spills or other unforeseen situations. Some rocking chairs for feeding have built-in pockets or storage compartments for storing essential feeding accessories, such as diapers, wipes and bottles.
The seat and back of the chair should be comfortable and well contoured
© WestwingNow
How to renovate a rocking chair?
Metamorphosis of a rocking chair can be an interesting project that will refresh its appearance and restore its functionality. Before restoring the armchair, carefully evaluate its condition. Check that the structure is stable and that there is no damage that may affect the use of the furniture. Thoroughly clean the armchair, removing dust, dirt and old care products. Then you can apply appropriate maintenance products to help maintain its appearance and durability in the future. If the wood or metal surface looks damaged, you can restore it by sanding and applying a new coat of varnish, paint or oil. If your chair's upholstery is damaged or outdated, consider replacing it. You can do it yourself with new upholstery material and special tools or have a professional do it for you.
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We encourage you to take use the database of reputable and reliable furniture manufacturers we are building in the Products for Home portal, as well as the articles we publish about furniture.
