You will come across various types when looking for a futon, folding beds, sofa convertible,
floor mattresses and so forth. A futon can mean many things, depending on where you are or
who you ask.
Futons came from Japan, also known as the shikibuton, as the traditional Japanese bed. The first futons were fairly small, consisting of a few simple parts – a mattress and maybe a pillow. In the evening they are placed on a tatami mat or directly on the floor. Then, the whole bed is plied
throughout the day and aired or stored outside.
The name futon can now mean a sofa sleeper, and any folding cushion that turns into a bed later adopted in the west. In a metal or wood frame, they typically come as a mattress. Even modern futons have a denser version of cotton, rubber, latex and even internal prints than in the original Japanese edition.
Buying Guide/What to look while buying?
Selecting the right futon relies on a variety of main factors, type of mattress, budget and favorite
place to sleep. Many considerations should also be weighed before committing to a futon
mattress, including how much the mattress is used and the sleeper’s weight.
1. Thickness:
Futon mattresses, with most ranging between 6 ” and 9″ can be measured anywhere from 3 ” to
10″ If you’re smaller, you’ll get a thinner mattress, but heavy people want to find the
thickest alternative.
2. Size:
The most common futon mattress sizes available are Twin, Full and Queen but some futon
mattresses are offered in the sizes loveseat and bunk bed size.
3. Comfort:
In general, as the futon mattress thickens, it should feel more comfortable. Be mindful that when
the futon is in both sitting and flat positions, it should have a relaxed feeling.
4. Mattress type:
For futon mattresses, their earlier low quality models have come a long way. You will also find
futons with fabrics identical to the conventional ones, including foam memory and coils. For
those looking for a more minimalist futon option, traditional shikibutons made from cotton-
polyester are also available.
5. Sleeping position:
Your favorite sleeping position is your main factor in selecting your most comfortable mattress.
The futon you choose should promote healthy alignment in the spinal cord and loosen pressure
points, each of them require a specific level of support and cushioning.
6. Durability:
You will want to choose a costlier model, which is durable, if you plan to sleep on a futon for the
most part of the time. A less durable mattress should work fine when the futon is a guest bed
since it will not be used so often.
7. Style:
Futon frames and mattresses are available in various styles, including bifold, triple and loveseat.
The mattress type that you select will conform to your frame. Based on the manufacturer, you
will also have the option of paint and covers materials. Some futon mattresses are available in
just one or two earthy colors, while others are available in cotton or linen and tufted and non-
tufted items in up to fifty colours.
8. Weight:
Like traditional mattresses, it takes knowledge of your body shape, your sleep location and
weight to shop for a best futon mattress. A slimmer color mattress should be fine if you are lighter or purchase a child’s mattress. If you are heavy or overweight, your body will best be protected by a thicker mattress that avoids too much discomfort and even pain during the night.
Futon Frame:
In metal or wood, future frames are open. Solidity, price and of course the look is the key to
finding the right one for you. For futon mattresses, wooden frames are the common choice. They give a cool, relaxed look when they are a little small.
The most affordable futon frame option is metal frame accessories. They are also much lighter,
which is good if you look for an easy option or plan to put everything together for yourself.
Make sure the supporting laths don’t split more than 2–3 inches no matter what material you
pick. You want the mattress not to push through the breaks and lose form.
