Traditional Japanese and Western-style futon mattresses are all foldable. They are designed to be folded and hidden so the room can be maximized and used for other purposes during the day or when we are not sleeping.
This guide will help you learn more about futon mattresses and how easy or difficult they are to fold.
Traditional and modern-day futons
The main differences between the Japanese and Western futons are where they are placed when unfolded and how they are stored away when not in use.
Traditional futons are placed on the floor or a tatami mat. They are made with cotton or soft materials that make them flexible enough to be folded and put away in a closet.
Meanwhile, modern-day futons found in the West are furniture with a thick sleeping mattress that folds into a sofa and turns into a bed with a frame when unfolded.
Types of Futon Mattresses
Futon mattresses are made with different materials and offer distinct levels of comfort and support depending on the material used.
- Pure Cotton – This type of futon is made purely with cotton and is the easiest to fold. Remember that it is also the thinnest and firmest among others available in the market.
- Cotton and Foam – Mattress made with combined cotton and foam is the most popular type of futon because they are available in various shapes, sizes, and thickness. This futon is medium firm and easy to fold.
- Coil and Innerspring – Some futon mattresses also come with coils and inner springs specially designed for restless sleepers. Most designs prevent motion transfers between coils, which makes the bed less bouncy when you shift around while sleeping. However, because of the additional materials used to make this type of mattress, it is heavier and thicker than other futons. The springs could also pose problems during folding or unfolding as they could get stuck.
- Memory Foam –Mattress made with memory foam offer the most support and comfort among other types of futons because it molds to the body and evenly distributes weight, which could help relieve body pains, thus promoting more restful sleep. However, this level of comfort comes at a price and may cause a dent in your pocket.
What to consider when choosing a futon mattress
Futon mattresses are deal breakers. You wouldn’t want to sleep on an uncomfortable bed or force someone to sleep overnight on it, now would you? And you also wouldn’t choose a piece of tacky furniture in contrast with your interior design.
So, how do you choose the right futon mattress? What are the things you need to consider?
- Usage – Think how often someone will be sleeping on the futon. If you will entertain occasionally, it is best to buy a cotton futon mattress that is cheaper and easier to tuck away.
On the other hand, consider splurging a little if you often have guests at home and go for a more comfortable coil spring mattress or a cotton foam mattress that can hold its shape even if you use it for a long time. - Aesthetics – Buy something that would look great with your other stuff, especially if you will place the futon in the living room.
Another thing to remember, “Futons are the tacos of beds” and should be warm, comfy, and homey.
Choose a frame that complements your living room interior and a thick, comfortable mattress that would go well with it.
Don’t forget to consider the size of the room when choosing the futon frame and mattress sizes so it doesn’t look out of place or take up too much space.
If you are wondering if futons are still in demand, read Are futons still popular? Bring out the beauties.
