Virtually everyone knows what a recliner is, however, motion furniture is an industry term whose meaning is a bit more elusive to consumers. Essentially, motion furniture refers to a piece of upholstered seating that reclines, rocks, or moves in some way. While reclining furniture is by far the most common type of motion furniture, the recliner has a lesser-known, motion furniture cousin – the swivel chair. 
Today, we’re answering a common question we hear and see online from those shopping for swivel chairs. “What is a self-returning swivel chair?” Or, “This swivel chair says it has a self-return feature. What does that mean?” Well, we’re glad you asked!
In the paragraphs below, we’ll define self-returning swivel chairs, talk about how they work, and discuss their pros and cons. By the end, you’ll know if a self-return function is right for you!
Okay, So What Is a Self-Returning Swivel Chair?
A self-returning swivel chair is a swivel chair that is engineered to return to a default, forward-facing position. Where normal swivel chairs can be turned a full 360 degrees and left to face any direction, self-returning swivel chairs will always return back “home” once the user stands up or releases the chair.
Lastly, although most frequently associated with upholstered swivel chairs meant for interior living spaces, self-return functions are often included in the construction of many swivel patio chairs, barstools, and desk chairs as well. In these other instances, this feature may be called memory return, return to center, or auto return.
How Does a Self-Return Mechanism Work?
Most self-return mechanisms operate using a spring coil encased between two metal swivel plates. These plates smoothly glide on a set of steel ball bearings and are typically installed on the chair’s base.
When the chair is facing forward in its default position, there is no tension on the spring coil. However, as the user swivels the chair, tension increases. When the user stands, the tension in the spring relaxes, returning the chair to its original, forward-facing position. Depending on the specific self-return mechanism, the chair may swivel 90 degrees or 180 degrees.
The Pros & Cons of Self-Return Swivel Chairs & Stools
So, how do you decide if a self-returning swivel chair is right for you, or if you’d prefer a chair with a regular swivel mechanism? Below are a few pros and cons to consider.
The biggest benefits of a self-returning swivel chair are the tidy look and the convenience. Instead of continually having to rotate your chair to the right position like with a typical swivel chair, your living space will look much more put together when your chair always stays properly positioned. As a result, your chair is always in the right place when you go to sit down. Other practical benefits are improved stability when transitioning from seating to standing (and vice versa), along with the fact that your kids, grandkids, or other mischievous little ones can’t spin endlessly in your swivel chair like it’s a carnival ride.
The only significant drawback is the fact that self-returning swivel chairs and stools remain under tension when you turn them. This means that your feet really need to remain firmly on the ground at all times or else you’ll automatically swing back into center alignment. Since they are always under tension when turned, self-return swivel chairs aren’t really made to stay in any positions other than straight forward.
Finally, it is true that self-return mechanisms can be slightly more stable than a regular swivel chair for those with mobility issues due to the tendency of standard swivel mechanisms to rotate when sitting down or standing up. However, standing up from a turned position in a self-returning swivel chair does take some getting used to.
Shop Swivel Chairs, Recliners & Other Motion Furniture at Woodstock Furniture & Mattress Outlet!
Are you in the market for a swivel chair? If so, we’ve got a great selection here at Woodstock Furniture & Mattress Outlet, including a number of self-returning swivel chairs for your home and patio! If you live in the Metro Atlanta or North Georgia area, your next step is easy. Come see us at our 100,000 square foot flagship store in Woodstock/Acworth, our showrooms in Dallas/Hiram and Rome, or our brand new showroom coming soon to Covington, GA!
Have additional FAQs about motion furniture, upholstered seating, fabrics and leathers, or anything else related to furnishing your home? Visit our extensive library of answered customer questions and furniture industry knowledge here.
