Ultimate Guide to Futon Mattresses: Types, Sizes, and More

A futon is an easy and beneficial piece of furniture. The mattress is supported by a frame that may be folded into a bed or used as a sofa. Many futons use natural or organic mattresses composed of wool, cotton, latex, or memory foam. In this article, we will answer all your futon-related questions and inquiries, from sizes, types, FAQs, and much more.

What is a futon mattress?

A futon is a Japanese name that stands for a mat or cushion made of cotton. A futon mattress is a thin, flexible mattress that doubles as a sofa. Compared to standard mattresses, futon mattresses are usually more flexible and lighter.

This makes it a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a multipurpose piece of furniture. When not in use, it may also be folded up and stored.

Futon mattress compared to a normal mattress

A futon mattress is made to be used as both a bed and a couch. During the day, futons are folded up and kept as couches, and at night, they are unfolded to become beds, making them ideal for those who like versatile furniture. Although a futon mattress isn't as comfy as a traditional bed, it's still a very cost-effective choice for those looking to cut costs on their bedding.

Traditional mattresses, on the other hand, usually offer more support for your entire body because they have more material and more layers as they are thicker and heavier. The additional memory foam, filling, and cushioning significantly improve the quality of your sleep.

Futon Mattress Sizes and Description

Twin Futon

Twin futons are the smallest of the so-called adult bed sizes, measuring 38 x 75 inches. Although twin beds can accommodate adults, they can only fit one person and are popular as the most compact solution in dwellings such as flats or dorms, where every inch counts.

Twin XL Size Futon

The twin XL mattress is 38 inches wide, just like the twin standard mattress. It does, however, lengthen the mattress by 5 inches, resulting in overall measurements of 38 by 80 inches.

Twin XL beds are still excellent for small places since they can fit taller people because of their length. They’re the go-to option for guest rooms and student dorms due to their modest size and versatility.

Full Futon

The most popular futon mattress size is the full or double. A full-size bed's 54 by 75 inches in dimensions makes it ideal for solo sleepers.

Although a full-size futon mattress may theoretically fit two people, it is typically too small for two people to sleep comfortably on for an extended period, which is why it is sometimes referred to as a double bed. Our standard recommendations for mattresses for couples are queen or king-size beds.

Queen Futon

Futon mattresses of queen size are also quite common. A queen-size bed's 60 by 80-inch proportions allow it to fold into an average-sized recliner for daytime usage.

King Futon

King-size futons measure 76 by 80 inches, making them quite spacious for couples. Since the proportions of a king-size bed might make for an oversized bi-fold couch, you'll likely find a king-size futon with a tri-fold form to handle the extra width.

Considerations When Choosing a Futon Mattress Size

• Available Space: Apart from being smaller than beds, many futons can be folded into sofas, providing extra space. Measure your designated area to ensure easy access and avoid tight squeezes. Check mattress dimensions, as sizes vary by design.
• Frame Compatibility: Consider the frame type. Foldable mattresses often stand solo, while traditional and Western styles need metal or wood frames for support.
• Personal Preferences: Determining which choice best fits your unique style is vital as well. Mattress choices are mostly determined by the ideal mattress that can cater best to your body and the type of support you prefer.

Pros of the Futon Mattress

Accommodates your guests

In addition to being smaller than beds, a lot of futons may be folded into couches to provide more room. A futon is an excellent choice for those who frequently host friends or relatives around for the night. Because futons take up little space, you may easily accommodate overnight guests without running out of room.

Convenient

If you're looking for a more compact sleeping solution that also functions as a seat, futons turn the sitting space in your living room sofa into a comfortable, long-lasting bed. The couches can be used as sofas or beds when you have guests over, as they offer a more flexible living and sleeping space.

Reasonably priced

Futon mattresses are less expensive than standard mattresses since they are thinner and require less material. It is a very affordable alternative for customers looking to save money.

Cons of the Futon Mattress

Less comfortable

Although a futon mattress is not as comfortable as a standard bed, it is a very cost-effective option for people trying to save money on bedding. Since they are often made of natural fibers, they are not suitable for people who suffer from allergies.

Not as durable

Futons' mattresses aren't as thick as traditional mattresses because of their easy folding capabilities. Futons may begin to show signs of wear after being regularly changed from a bed to a sofa. If they are going to be used frequently, they may wear out faster.

Types of Futon

Bi-fold Frame

Futons with bi-fold frames are the most popular kind. To create a regular couch, bi-fold futon frames are folded in half lengthwise in the middle. If you want a conventional sofa by day and a bed by night without having to deal with the hassle, bi-fold futons are fantastic.

Bi-fold mattresses can be as thick or thin as you wish, and they are often available in queen and full sizes.

Tri-fold Frame

Tri-fold futons are couches or chairs with footrests that are made by folding their mattresses into thirds. Tri-folds are a great option for those who want to relax, like the Avenco Tri-Folding Mattress. With this kind of structure, the mattress folds into thirds; hence, smaller mattresses and more flexible materials like memory foam or latex foam are often preferable.

Loveseat Frame

Futon frames for loveseats are intended to fit into compact areas. Because they are much longer than they are wide, they are more likely to be tri-fold in design. When folded, twin and twin XL mattresses turn into loveseats; therefore, a futon of this size would only sleep one person.

Types of Futon Mattresses

Memory Foam

One of the most popular mattress types is memory foam, and for good reason. The purpose of this particular kind of polyurethane foam is to support and cradle the human body while it sleeps.

Memory foam is adaptable and contoured enough to bend into tri-fold and bi-fold futon mattress designs.

Innerspring

This style of innerspring mattress is ideal for people who are looking for a more supportive and bouncy futon, similar to a regular mattress. Individually wrapped coils are used in this futon, which is typically cushioned with foam or cotton layers for increased comfort.

Hybrid

Futons make excellent candidates for hybrids due to their comfort and support. Many people believe hybrid mattresses are unsuitable for futons because they have coils, but unlike typical innerspring mattresses, which feature a stiff open coil support system, hybrid mattresses include a flexible pocketed coil support core that can accommodate both futons and adjustable bases.

Types of Futon Frames

Wood

Wood frames are better alternatives than metal, but they are a bit pricier. There are hardwood and softwood frames available, providing you with a variety of color and style options.

For futons, wood offers various benefits over metal. For starters, because they have broader slats, you may utilize a less thick mattress without becoming uncomfortable. Second, they're commonly accessible at furniture stores, so you'll most likely be able to discover one that fits your budget.

Wood is particularly suitable for folding and loveseat structures, where it is most effective.

Metal

Metal frames for futons are generally the most affordable option, especially if you prefer a simple bifold frame and are looking for contemporary styles. However, because they often contain bars rather than smooth surfaces, they can be rather unpleasant when used with a lighter mattress.

Metal is a popular material for trifold frames, although it may be found in any futon frame form.

Why You Should Give Futons A Try?

• Small and portable: Futons are quite light. It will also take up little space in your bedroom, and you can effortlessly fold it to conserve space when not in use. Because of this, they are excellent additions to playrooms, living rooms, and bedrooms.
• Easy to clean: Futon mattresses are simple to care for and clean. To keep it in good condition, use a moist cloth or a vacuum cleaner.
• Ideal for napping or lounging: Futon mattresses are particularly useful when you want to have a quick sleep in your living room or want to be extra comfy while watching your favorite movies.
• Reasonably priced: Futon mattresses are often less expensive than traditional mattresses. It's an excellent purchase, whether you're a college student or just want to save money and acquire two pieces of furniture for the price of one.

FAQs

How much weight can my futon take?

There is no definitive answer to that, as the durability and how much weight a futon can hold will depend greatly on its construction.

Why are futons so low to the floor?

Futons are low to the ground because they were inspired by Japanese futons, which are a sort of mattress meant to be laid directly on the ground.

Do any other beds fold up and store away like a futon?

A Murphy bed can be folded up and stored away like a futon and is a sort of bed that is hinged at one end and folds up vertically against your wall when not in use. Some Murphy beds also fold up into a closet or wall cabinet.

Is a futon big enough for two people?

Full and queen-size futons can generally hold two people. These are not only comfy for two people, but they can serve as a couch or loveseat for guests.

Can I use any mattress on the futon frame?

You cannot use any mattress on a futon bed frame since not all mattresses are suitable. However, if you have a suitable one, you may utilize your existing mattress with an adjustable bed foundation.

How do I ensure my futon mattress size matches my futon frame?

The width of the mattress should be measured first. A twin is 39 inches tall, a full is 54 inches tall, and a queen is 60 inches tall. Add 0-6 inches to the length of the arms. The wall space required to fit a bifold futon frame is 39 to 66 inches.

Conclusion

A futon is a simple and useful piece of furniture that can be folded into a bed or utilized as a sofa as it is lightweight and flexible. This makes it an excellent alternative for anybody seeking multifunctional furniture.