How to Buy the Perfect Futon

Your Guide to buying the best futon

Overview

A futon is a versatile piece of furniture that can be used as both a sofa and a bed. When shopping for a futon, it's important to consider what type of style and size you need, along with any other features like padding, materials, and frames. This buying guide will provide an overview of the various types of futons, what to look for when shopping for one, and tips for purchasing the best futon for your needs.

Key features

  • Size: Choose a size that fits in the available space and that can accommodate your needs.
  • Frame: Look for a sturdy frame with hardwood or steel construction.
  • Mattress: Consider the mattress type (foam, innerspring, or hybrid), as well as its comfort level (soft, medium, or firm).
  • Cushions: Look for removable cushions in a fabric that matches your décor.
  • Design: Choose a design that fits your style and the décor of the room.
  • Price: Consider what you can afford and look for a futon that is not too expensive.

See the most popular futon on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Comfortable: Futons are generally more comfortable than a traditional bed due to their thick cushioning and supportive frames.
  • Versatile: Futons can be used as both a sofa and a bed, providing seating and sleeping space in a single piece of furniture.
  • Space-saving: Futons provide a space-saving alternative to traditional beds, eliminating the need for a separate bed frame and mattress.
  • Affordable: Futons are generally more affordable than traditional beds, making them a great option for those on a budget.
  • Customizable: Futons come in a variety of sizes, fabrics, and colors, so you can find a futon that works for your space and style.

Cons

  • Cost - Futons may be relatively inexpensive up front, but they may require frequent replacement because they often break down quickly and can't always be repaired.
  • Uncomfortable - Futons are typically known for being less comfortable than traditional mattresses, which may be a deal-breaker for some potential buyers.
  • Size - Futons come in limited sizes, so if you have a large bed frame, you may not be able to find the right size futon to fit.
  • Easy to Spill On - Futons are generally made from fabrics that are easy to spill on and difficult to clean.
  • Difficult to Move - Futons are usually heavier than traditional mattresses, making them difficult to move and maneuver around tight corners.

Best alternatives

  1. Sofa Bed - a sofa with a fold-out mattress, typically convertible to a single or double bed.
  2. Daybed - a sofa which can be used as a bed during the day and folded away
  3. Pull-out Sofa - a couch with a pull-out bed that can be extended to provide an additional sleeping area.
  4. Sleeper Chair - a chair with an attached fold-out mattress, providing a space-saving sleeping solution.
  5. Murphy Bed - also known as a wall bed, this is a bed that can be folded up into a cupboard or closet when not in use.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Futon Cover - A cover designed to fit over a futon, usually made from a variety of materials such as cotton, leather, or synthetic fabrics.
  • Futon Mattress - The mattress that sits atop the futon frame, usually made from cotton, foam, latex, or a combination of materials.
  • Futon Frame - The actual frame of the futon, which is used to support the futon mattress.
  • Futon Bed Skirt - An accessory that is used to cover the underside of a futon mattress.
  • Futon Pillows - Pillows that can be added to the futon for extra comfort and support.
  • Futon Slats - The slats that are used to support the futon mattress and frame.

Common questions

  1. What sizes are available for futons? Futons can come in a variety of sizes from twin to king, with standard sizes being twin, full, and queen.
  2. What is the difference between a futon mattress and a traditional mattress? A futon mattress is typically made with foam or cotton batting layers and is thinner and firmer than a traditional mattress.
  3. What types of materials are futons made from? Futons are usually made from different types of foam, cotton, wool, or a combination of materials.
  4. How long will a futon mattress last? The life expectancy of a futon mattress will depend on the material it is made from and how it is used. Generally, a futon mattress can last anywhere from 3-10 years.
  5. What type of frame should I look for when buying a futon?When buying a futon, look for a frame that is durable and can support the weight of the mattress. Frames can be made from a variety of materials such as wood, metal, and plastic.
  6. Are futons comfortable to sleep on?Futons are generally considered to be comfortable to sleep on, however, this depends on the materials used and the quality of the mattress.

Trivia

Futons have been around since the 8th century, when they were first developed in Japan as a traditional form of bedding. Initially, they were made of straw and animal skins and were used by the samurai as a place to sleep during long journeys. Eventually, the futon was adapted for use as a sofa, and it eventually became the popular piece of furniture that we know today. Interestingly, the word ‘futon’ is derived from ‘futae’ which is the Japanese word for “bedding”. Sources: https://www.thesleepjudge.com/futon/origin/

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.