Buying a Power Lift Chair at Big Lots: An Affordable Option, but Rational Evaluation Is Needed

For many American families, Big Lots is a familiar discount home goods retailer, known for offering "brand-name products at clearance prices." When elderly family members struggle to stand up safely from regular sofas due to joint pain, post-surgery recovery, or declining physical strength, some consumers naturally turn to Big Lots—either by visiting its stores or searching for "power lift chairs" on its official website—hoping to find a practical assistive chair at a budget-friendly price.

Indeed, Big Lots periodically offers Power Lift Chairs, especially during the spring refresh season and year-end holiday promotions. These chairs often attract budget-conscious families with significant discounts. However, most of these products are clearance items or seasonal special models, with quality and functionality falling between basic home-use and professional medical-grade options. Understanding their true positioning, advantages, and limitations can help you save money without compromising the core safety needs of the elderly.

Does Big Lots Actually Sell Power Lift Chairs?

Yes, but not year-round. Big Lots operates on an "opportunistic purchasing" business model—meaning it buys bulk excess inventory, display models, or discontinued items from brand manufacturers and resells them at steep discounts. Therefore:

Power Lift Chairs typically appear as limited-time special offers;

Not all stores have them in stock—larger stores in big cities or suburban areas are more likely to display them;

Once sold out, they are rarely restocked, and the next batch of models may be completely different;

The official website (biglots.com) updates its available styles simultaneously, but the selection is far less than that of La-Z-Boy or Amazon.

Common partner brands include mid-range furniture manufacturers such as Lane Venture and Best Home Furnishings. Occasionally, certified refurbished models from Golden Technologies may also be available (though this is extremely rare).

Key Advantages of Big Lots’ Power Lift Chairs

1. Highly Attractive Prices

This is Big Lots’ most prominent advantage. Brand-new Power Lift Chairs are often sold for $399–$699, which is 30%–50% lower than similar new products from other retailers. If you take advantage of additional discounts (such as "Buy One, Get One 50% Off" or member-exclusive days), the cost-effectiveness becomes even higher.

2. In-Store Testing for Intuitive Comfort Evaluation

If the store has display models, you can personally test whether the lifting function is smooth, whether the backrest provides adequate support, and whether the remote control is easy to operate—this is a crucial experience that online shopping cannot replace.

3. Home-Style Design Aesthetics

Most models available at Big Lots use fabric or faux leather and feature simple designs that blend well with living room decor. This avoids the "cold, medical device" feel, making it easier for the elderly to accept psychologically.

4. Flexible Payment and Return Options

Big Lots offers:

Installment payment options with the Big Lots Credit Card;

A 30-day return policy (receipt and original packaging required);

Free local delivery at select stores (varies by region and purchase amount).

Practical Limitations to Approach with Caution

1. Incomplete Functions—"Lift" May Not Live Up to Its Name

Some chairs labeled as "power recliners" only support recline adjustment and lack the true lifting mechanism that assists with standing. Be sure to check if the product description explicitly states that the "chair lifts and tilts forward to assist standing." Without this function, the chair provides limited help to elderly individuals with mobility difficulties.

2. Limited Durability and Motor Performance

Since most products are clearance or off-season models, some may use thin foam padding, bonded leather, or low-power motors. With frequent daily use, the following issues may arise over time:

Sagging seat cushions;

Slower or jerky lifting;

Malfunctioning remote controls.

3. Generally Low Weight Capacity

Most models have a maximum weight capacity of 250–300 pounds (approximately 113–136 kg). If the user has a larger build, it is advisable to evaluate carefully or choose a professional heavy-duty product instead.

4. Short Warranty Period and Manufacturer-Dependent After-Sales Service

Big Lots typically only offers a 90-day limited warranty, covering manufacturing defects. However, repairs for key components such as motors and electronic parts must be handled by the original manufacturer. If the brand’s customer service is unresponsive, getting repairs can become difficult.

How to Shop Wisely at Big Lots?

Confirm Inventory by Phone First

Call your local store and ask: "Do you currently have any power lift chairs on display?" This avoids unnecessary trips.

Focus on Testing Three Key Functions In-Store

Whether the lifting process is smooth and quiet;

Whether the seat depth fits the elderly person’s leg length (thighs should be fully supported, with a small gap behind the knees);

Whether the remote control buttons are large and clear, making them easy to operate for individuals with declining eyesight or hand dexterity.

Inspect Fabric and Craftsmanship Details

Gently pull the stitching, press the seat cushion to check rebound speed, and smell for pungent odors (which may indicate low-quality glue or foam).

Request a Warranty Card and Instruction Manual

Even if the price is low, you should keep complete purchase documents to protect your rights if issues arise later.

Which Families Is It More Suitable For?

Elderly individuals who need mild assistance and have a limited budget;

Families looking for a second leisure chair for the family room or guest room;

Households that prioritize aesthetic coordination over medical-grade performance;

Consumers who accept the expectation of "replacing the chair after a few years."

Conclusion

Buying a Power Lift Chair at Big Lots is a practical choice that trades affordable pricing for basic functionality. It may not match the long-term reliability of brands like Golden or Pride Mobility, but it remains a consideration-worthy option for families with specific needs and usage scenarios.

The key point is: Do not focus solely on the price tag—instead, clarify the essence of the chair’s functions. True care is not about how cheap the chair is, but about how well it fits the user’s needs—ensuring that every time the elderly stand up, they feel safe and supported.

So, if there is a Big Lots near your home, feel free to stop by. But bring your questions, patience, and a willingness to test-sit. Because the best choice is always based on real experience—let love start with a stable, secure lift, and even in a discount store, choose something solid and reliable.