You deserve a peaceful and restful sleep after a long day’s work, and there is nothing more uncomfortable or irritating than a slipping or sagging futon underneath you when it is time to relax.
We get you!
That is why we searched high and low for the best tips on how to keep your futon from sagging, which could eventually give you headaches instead of easing your body pains.
Why futons sag
Before we know the fix, it is good to understand what causes futons to sag. What are these?
- Stuffing used (pure cotton, foam, memory foam)
- Repeated and prolonged use
- Sitting or lying down in the same spot
- Going over the recommended weight limit
- Frames digging into the futon when used
- Your sleeping habits
How to keep futons from sagging
Unlike in cartoons where characters just have to pummel the lumps on their beds to fix and get them back to their perfect conditions, in real life, we can’t beat them into submission as that would only cause more damage.
Here are some great tips you can follow to keep your futons from sagging:
Add support by placing a board under the futon mattress.
Most of the time, futon mattresses sag because the slats supporting them are too far apart or thin, which is typical of cheaper metal frames. The inadequate support results in maldistribution of weight, causing the slats to dig into the futon mattress and damage its structural integrity.
You can prevent this by fitting a bunkie board or plywood on the slats before setting down the futon mattress. Besides preventing sagging caused by the slats, the board will help secure the futon and keep it even on the frame, ensuring a comfortable and restful sleep.
Use toppers
Mattress toppers can help reduce sagging. They offer a more even sleeping area and another layer of comfort.
The toppers are mostly made with foam, wool, down, or feathers with varying thicknesses.
If you are to buy a mattress topper, remember that a thicker futon made with denser material can offer better protection and longer usage.
Flip and rotate the mattress
To prevent lumps from forming, we highly advise that you flip the futon mattress upside down and rotate it from top to bottom at least once a month. This will even out the futon mattress filling and ensure you do not sit or lie down in the same spot.
If you are a side sleeper, this practical tip is especially beneficial. It would allow you to rest the heavier parts of your body (hips and shoulder) on different areas of the futon mattress instead of on the same spots.
Add variation to how you fold the futon
Traditional Japanese and Western-style futons are all designed to be folded and tucked away. However, if you keep folding the futon mattress the same way every day for years, it will cause excessive wear on the folded part, especially the center, shortening its lifespan.
To fix this, all you have to do is to refold the futon in reversed direction. Follow this as part of the futon’s daily maintenance to prevent sagging and keep it in good condition.
To learn more about caring for futons, check out this additional article on How Often to Air Out Futon.
