Product Review: VASAGLE EKHO Collection - Storage Ottoman Bench

 

This is a storage ottoman/bench. It is not really a great ottoman unless you are going to use it at the end of a bed because, with the legs on, it sits higher than most couches, so it would be uncomfortable to use it as a footrest. It is, however, perfect for a front entryway or mudroom. It is slim (just over 47 inches wide) and is not as deep as some storage benches (just under 16 inches deep). However, it has enough room to store off-season coats, hats, and gloves (for those who live in climates that necessitate different spring/fall/summer and winter outerwear). 

The only required assembly is putting the legs on, which is more difficult than it needs to be. Instead of putting a threaded end on the end of the legs so you can screw them directly into the base, three small screws attach the legs to the base. The screws can be a bit hard to line up with the screw holes unless two people are working together, one person holding the legs in place and another person turning the screws. Once the legs are on, the bench is high enough off the ground that you can vacuum under it, whether using a regular or robotic vacuum. It is also very sturdy as a bench. Two adults can easily sit on it without an issue. Ultimately, it is a good storage option, especially if you have limited storage in a mudroom or front entryway. 

Product Review: MCombo Electric Power Lift Recliner Chair

 

I bought this for my mom when her old recliner broke. She was having trouble getting out of chairs as she gets older, so wanted a power recliner that would help with getting up. This comes in two large boxes, one with the back/headrest and one of the arms, and the other with the base and the other arm. The box with the base is somewhat heavy (in the neighborhood of 88 pounds) and the other one is very light. The chair itself is very easy to put together. The arms and back just slide into place. The instructions are a little light when it comes to describing how to connect the power components, but it is pretty easy to figure out by looking. There is a power pack that connects to a cord under the chair that then plugs into the wall. That powers the chair itself through the remote (which also connects to a cord under the chair). Then there is a separate power pack that will power the two USB ports in the right side panel of the chair. All in all, it takes about 10-15 minutes to put together.

It is fairly comfortable, although not as comfortable as some of the more plush recliners out there. The only drawback is that using the remote is the only way to get the leg rest up and down. You cannot put it down manually, which makes getting out of the chair quickly a bit difficult, especially if you are fully reclined,a nd could get you stuck if the power goes out or the remote accidentally gets unplugged. That said, for a mid-range priced power recliner it is a very good value. I definitely recommend it.