How To Keep A Futon Mattress From Slipping? Comprehensive Guide

Helen Skeates
Helen Skeates
28 min read

If you live in a tiny apartment and don’t have a lot of space, a futon mattress and bed can be a terrific alternative to a standard bed, as well as a way to save money, as a futon mattress is more convenient for the price.

There are numerous advantages to sleeping on a futon. As long as you don’t have any chronic diseases, there have been no reported side effects from doing so.

Generally speaking, it’s an excellent option for everyone, but it’s critical that the frame and mattress of the futon be both comfortable and durable enough to last for at least a few months without losing their shape.

But many individuals who use futon mattresses complain that the mattress slides around as they sleep, which is inconvenient because it causes tossing and turning and, worst of all, keeps you awake at night with no chance for you to fall back asleep.

In this post, we explain why this happens and how futons suddenly begin to slide. If you have a problem with your futon’s firmness, we can help you identify it and fix it by utilizing extra goods or doing some DIY work.

You’ll know what’s causing your futon mattress to slide after reading this article, and you’ll also know how to protect your futon mattress from sliding. What are you waiting for?

The term “futon” refers to a wide variety of bed coverings. An American futon is sometimes referred to as an extensible sofa that is frequently found in the living room. This is also a wonderful choice for smaller places, such as student residences and dorms. In addition, a frame for the futon mattress is included.

Futons are most commonly found in Japan, where they look very different from the rest of the world. Smaller mattress and a duvet cover are included with this conventional bed. The majority of the time, futons are constructed completely of cotton, but there are certain variations that include extra materials to give them a softer feel. No wooden frame is included; instead, it’s set on foam, tatami matt, hardwood matt, or even the ground in the case of a more simple installation.

Japan Low Level Bed gives an Asian feel bedroom

Since many futons come with specific stripes to keep them attached to the mat, the latter is less likely to slide. A Japanese futon is extremely unlikely to move around on the floor due to the way it is constructed.

However, this is not the case with the former. Since many people have trouble getting a good night’s rest while using a futon mattress, we decided to write this guide to help them out. There are many ways to repair this, but first, let’s find out what causes it to happen.

What is a futon?

The term futon refers to a sofa that doubles as a guest bed in the United States. Many people are turning to futons as their major means of sleeping because of its growing popularity. Futon and couch bed are often used interchangeably, however they are not. When not in use as a bed, a sofa bed can be used as a couch with the cushions removed. For a futon, the mattress serves both as a sitting cushion and as a mattress at the same time.

Futons are made differently in Japan than in the United States, where they originated. Futon is, in a nutshell, the traditional bedding in Japan. A mattress plus a duvet make up a futon. A futon, a quilted sleeping pad, is typically packed with cotton or fiberfill and rests on the floor, tatami, wooden mat, or foam. U.S. futons are not placed on the floor, as they are in Japan. A typical couch is around the same height as these.

Can you sleep on a futon every night?

A futon’s primary function is to provide a mattress. To put it another way, a futon is designed to be used as a regular bed. Sleeping on a futon has not been proven to be harmful to your health. It’s fine to sleep on a futon every night as long as it’s cushioned and supported properly.

Sleeping on a futon or a bed might create back pain if you’re not properly supported and cushioned. Because most people prefer to sleep on their beds, we shouldn’t write off futons as unsuitable for regular use. No matter what kind of bedding you choose, if you don’t have enough support and comfort, you’re going to have issues.

If additional comfort is needed, you may always add a second soft layer to your futon.

So, should I get a futon then?

A futon does not appear to be dangerous to sleep on, as previously stated. It is entirely up to you whether or not you want to sleep on a futon on a regular basis. Because a good night’s sleep is so important to our health, it’s important to pick a sleeping surface that’s both pleasant and convenient for you. Always choose a type of bedding that allows you to sleep soundly and wake up feeling rested and rejuvenated.

Having said that, if you’re considering purchasing a futon for your bedroom because of its ability to save on floor space, you should proceed with caution. An authentic Japanese futon is the best option since it strikes the right mix between firm and supple. Additionally, it’s lightweight and portable, making it ideal for storage. It’s especially helpful if you’re living in a small apartment where bulkier furniture would make the room appear even smaller. Authentic Japanese futons are also more long-lasting. Western futons are comfortable for a short time, but they can cause serious harm to your back and neck if used often. Even the most costly and well-made Western futons lack lumbar support, necessitating the use of additional pillows for the head and knees.

If you’re used to sleeping on a bed and replacing it with a futon, you should be prepared for an adjustment period. Whenever we change the place where we sleep or a style of bedding, we need time to adjust and that’s perfectly natural.

Is futon equally good for everyone?

The transition to a futon can be a bit of a challenge if you’re used to sleeping on a regular bed. To become used to a new area to sleep or a new type of bedding, it’s normal to take some time.

In contrast, a futon may not be ideal for those who require a high-profile bed to get in and out of easily, such as the elderly, pregnant women and those with limited mobility. Everyone has a different ability to get up and down from the floor. As a result, if you have joint or mobility concerns, you may not be able to sleep on a futon comfortably.

Despite the fact that not all side sleepers find futons uncomfortably soft, many suffer from shoulder ache and aching hips and buttocks after spending the night on a hard surface. However, even if this may be due to the futon’s poor choice, side sleepers should nonetheless keep this in mind.

Those who sleep on their stomachs may also find it difficult to sleep on a futon nightly. Thin layering and lack of support are the most common causes of this problem. You may want to consider a futon that is extra firm, but also comfortable, so that you don’t feel like you’re suffocating when you sleep on your stomach.

It’s possible that futons aren’t as cozy for larger people. In general, futons aren’t built to hold a lot of weight, so you can wake up with a sore back or shoulder pain. Those who sleep on their backs are more likely to benefit from a futon since it provides both comfort and support. Improve your posture and reduce your back discomfort by sleeping on a high-quality futon mattress.

Benefits of sleeping on a futon

There are numerous advantages to sleeping on a futon on a regular basis. We’ll touch on them briefly in the next paragraphs.

Back pain relief

80% of the population will suffer from back discomfort at some point in their life, according to statistics. Back discomfort affects about 65 million Americans, while 8 percent of individuals suffer from chronic back pain. Back discomfort can be alleviated by using a futon. Thus, back discomfort might be alleviated as a result of the hardness of the mattress.

Low risk of allergies

The danger of an allergic reaction is low because most futon mattresses are made of cotton and are chemical-free. An further disadvantage of a thick mattress is that it might harbor bacteria and fungus that trigger allergic reactions in some people.

Improved air circulation

Air can flow freely through futon mattresses since they are constructed of natural materials. For those who live in tropical and humid climates, this will allow for a more restorative night’s sleep.

Convenient for children

When a youngster sleeps on an authentic Japanese futon mattress, they are less likely to tumble out of bed. With active youngsters, this futon feature is very crucial. With a futon, babies may crawl and roll around to discover their surroundings.

Easy maintenance

Vacuuming with an upholstery attachment can help keep your futon clean and comfortable. A futon mattress can be cleaned using a vacuum cleaner. The simplest way to keep your authentic Japanese futon clean is to let it air out in the sun.

Futons are affordable

The low cost of sleeping on a futon as opposed to a traditional bed is a significant factor in the popularity of this option. Mattresses can be pricey, and many people can’t afford them. In some cases, cheap beds might be uncomfortable and injure one’s body. When you need a place to sleep, futons come in handy. They’re cheap and cozy, so you can’t go wrong with them.

Are there any disadvantages?

Futons have many drawbacks as well, but they aren’t without their advantages. Metal or wood slats holding the futon mattress up, for example, could be uncomfortable and lead to back strain.

Since it’s lighter than the actual bed, a futon can move easily. Changing its location in your home is made easier by its mobility, but it may not be ideal when you’re attempting to sleep. Place the futon against a wall or in a corner of the room to keep it from moving about when people enter or exit the room. Make sure the futon is set on a rug or mat before using it.

It’s easy to transport a futon because it’s lighter than a regular bed. When you’re attempting to move it around your house, it’s beneficial, but it may not be convenient while you’re sleeping. Keeping it near a wall or side corner of the room will keep it from moving about when people enter and exit the area.. Alternatively, the futon can be placed on a rug or mat.

Futon mattresses, on the other hand, don’t hold up as well as a regular bed mattress does. A futon may not be the best choice for you if you require a lot of back support while you sleep. As much support as a futon offers, it falls short of that provided by a substantial mattress on the bed. A bed is a better choice if you have back or spine issues that necessitate additional support. Daytime naps could benefit from the futon, for example.

Causes of Your Futon Mattress Sliding

Futon mattresses must be well-made and compatible with your bed frame if you want them to be comfortable. In addition, the bed frame should be durable and built of metal or solid wood. The following could be the cause of your futon mattress moving out of its position.

Unbalanced Futon Materials

When you buy a futon mattress, we understand that many individuals are looking to save money. If you’re attempting to save money, you shouldn’t count on it lasting very long. Cotton and polyester, which are commonly found in futon mattresses, aren’t exactly well-known for their stability when it comes to keeping a futon mattress firmly in place.

Japanese Storage Bed | Get Laid Beds

Futon mattresses have a tendency to slide or fall over the bed, which can be extremely comfy during the night for you while you sleep. In order to maintain a constant sleeping posture, we recommend a firmer mattress with foam and additional fiber layers.

It’s important to remember that we spend nearly a third of our lives sleeping, therefore a comfortable mattress is essential.

Old or Broken Futon Frame

An additional option is that you’ve been sleeping on a futon frame that’s decades old or badly damaged. Many people believe they are saving money by purchasing used futons, but they are doing themselves no favors by doing so.

A metal or wood frame is commonly used for futons. Due to their lack of durability, wooden frames are not as common on the market as their metal counterparts. In addition, several companies use ivory or a weaker tree for processing while producing a bed frame, which results in a less-sturdy or durable frame.

As your futon ages, the screws loosen and the frame sags, making it unsteady to sit on. A shaky bed frame can cause the mattress to slide, which in turn can lead to the bed slipping and slamming.

If you can afford it, get a new futon bed, and don’t be afraid to pay a little more if it means you’ll get a better night’s sleep and better quality.

You’re to Blame

In combination with the first and second options, you could be held responsible. For one, you may be a heavy sleeper on a soft futon, or the futon may be too low for your comfort. You may be able to shift the futon as a result.

As a final possibility, you could be a restless sleeper who is unable to regulate his or her nightly motions, causing the mattress to shift and roll away.

It’s possible that there are a variety of causes behind this. Possibly, your mattress is too soft or too hard, or you’re a sweaty sleeper and become hot while you’re sleeping. Fortunately, there are numerous approaches of dealing with these problems.

Incompatible Mattress And Frame

Surely you’re to fault for this one as well. Maybe, but who knows. There are others who prefer to purchase the mattress and frame separately. The fact that some companies only allow you to purchase them separately adds to the confusion, as does the practice of selling bed frames and mattresses separately.

For this reason it’s possible that your bed frame or mattress are the wrong size for your frame. Keep in mind that if the discrepancy in dimensions isn’t too great, there are a number of ways to remedy it.

5 Ways to Keep Futon Mattress From Sliding

Getting some shut-eye can be difficult if not impossible when the futon mattress slides around because of the aforementioned reasons. To help you get a better night’s sleep, we’ve put up a list of things you can do to keep your mattress in place.

Place Cotton Sheets On

You’ve undoubtedly heard this before, but it’s worth repeating: Beddings are essential for a good night’s sleep.

If you don’t want to deal with allergies and irritations while sleeping, you’re also making your bed a softer, cooler, and more supportive place to rest.

Fitted sheets are also an option if you choose. If you don’t want the sheets to come off the mattress, the second choice is definitely the better one to go with.

If you’re a restless sleeper or you sleep hot, they are a lifesaver. They keep the mattress from sliding off the futon when you’re fast asleep.

Notes from the editors:

Pure cotton or sateen fitted sheets are recommended.

In order to keep your body from slipping as you sleep, use percale instead of cotton. Also worth noting is that it’s a little more pricey.

Alternatively, you can buy a sofa cover that can be removed and yet get the same result.

Velcro & Grip Strips

Futon mattress and frame reinforcement with Velcro & Grip strips is a terrific idea. A local hardware store is the best place to look for these items because they can be obtained just about anyplace.

Polyfoam grip strips have one side that is sticky, and the other side is non-sticky. Not only do they keep your mattress in place, but they also reinforce your bed frame, making it more stable and less noisy. There’s no need to panic, though, because even if your mattress or bed frame is to fault, you can still solve the problem.

Velcro strips are similar to grip strips in that they provide a firmer hold on your futon mattress. To note, Velcro strips are more durable than grip strips, hence they are more commonly used to reinforce a bed frame.

Notes from the editors:

  • You’ll need to remove the futon from the frame in both circumstances.
  • Take a measuring tape to your futon mattress and measure the length of the grip stick on each side. Pressure should be applied to either side of the mattress in order to strengthen it.
  • The hook side of Velcro must be glued to the bed frame.
  • To ensure that the hook and loop are compatible, the loop sides are attached to the mattress.
  • You can use safety pins or more glue to ensure that they are in contact with one another.
  • Combine them, being careful not to damage your mattress in the process to ensure the measurements were accurate.
  • This Anti Slip Tape or Melsan Velcro hooks and loops is an option.

DIY Corner Straps

What follows is an intriguing project if you consider yourself to be a visionary and a designer. A DIY futon holder was a popular way for individuals to strengthen their futon mattresses. As a result, your mattress should remain in place and your frame should no longer wobble or squeak. Even if it doesn’t completely save the issue, you can use grip strips in conjunction with this strategy.

Notes from the editors: What you need to know:

  • Begin by gathering the materials you’ll need to make the cording.
  • Check to see that the bed frame and mattress are the right sizes!. How much cording is needed will depend on these information.
  • Cut the rope so that it is twice as tall as the futon frame. Cut it eight times.
  • You’ll have to sew cording into the futon mattress at every corner. You’ll need two cords on each side for that.
  • Afterward, you’ll need to secure the cording pieces you just sewed onto the bed slats by wrapping or tying them in place. If you do it this manner, the futon will remain in its original position.

Rubber Mat

The purchase of a rubber mat can help keep your mattress in place without fear of shifting. Alternatively, you may buy a rubber mat from Amazon, like the BalanceFrom Puzzle Exercise, which is similar to the mats used in gyms and exercise rooms for pilates and Yoga, or you can make one yourself.

Notes from the editors:

Since these rubber mats collect a lot of dust, you should remove them and clean your bed frame at least once every few weeks if you have dust allergies.

Mattress Topper

As previously said, some people are heavy or hot sleepers, and this is causing the mattress on the futon to slide about.

While a mattress topper won’t be able to stop your bed frame from shaking, it can provide additional support to a mattress that’s too firm or moves too much.

The use of a cool, supportive foam mattress topper can help you prevent overheating at night, allowing you to cradle your curves and have a more comfortable night’s sleep. You won’t be able tossing and turning on the futon mattress because you’ll be relaxed and able to sleep deeply.

Top 5 Futon Bed Reviews

Here are some of the top futon mattresses now on the market to help you decide which one is ideal for your needs.

Kodiak

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • This bed has a futon-type of mattress.
  • For those who prefer to sleep on their back or side, this mattress is ideal.
  • Colors are available in five distinct hues.
  • High-density foam and innerspring unit
  • A combination of high-density foam and springs.

You may have a hard time finding the right futon bed for your needs. Comfort and quality are important, but you may not want to spend a lot of money. However, for those on a tight budget, the Kodiak mattress is an excellent option.

For those who prefer to sleep on their backs or their sides, this 8-inch-thick bed has a hinged innerspring unit with 276 coils and a high-density foam structure that provides excellent support. In addition to the comfortable cotton layers, the bed’s hinged construction should make the transition from sitting to sleeping considerably easier.

Why we adore it

  • There are no hazardous materials in this bed because it has been certified by Certipur-US, a respected certification agency.
  • With five color options, you may find the one that best suits your particular style.

DHP 8-Inch Independently-Encased Coil Premium

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • a futon mattress type
  • The most comfortable position for those who want to sleep on their backs
  • Colors are available in six different hues.
  • The coils are encased in foam.
  • Inch-by-inch

This versatile mattress can be utilized as a couch or as a bed, depending on your preference. It is constructed of 15-gauge independently-encased coils to ensure long-term durability and support for the back. Quality foam and polyester layers between the cover and the coils enhance the mattress’s level of luxury.

The hypoallergenic polyester used for the entire cover should help keep skin free of allergens. Standard full-sized futon frames are compatible with the product’s design. There are a variety of hues to pick from as well.

What is it about it that appeals to us?

  • If you want to sleep on it frequently, this mattress is a good choice because of its permeable microfiber cover, which is designed to keep perspiration and odors at bay.
  • Because it can withstand a lot of weight, the futon is an excellent choice for people who are bigger than average.

Mozaic 8-Inch Memory Foam

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • This bed has a futon-type of mattress.
  • Side sleepers will appreciate this option the most.
  • There are a total of eleven different color variations available.
  • Memory foam.
  • 100% American-made

Memory foam is a great alternative for individuals who prefer a softer, cradled feel. Visco memory foam and polyurethane fill the core, which is encased in a combination of cotton. Side sleepers will appreciate the soft, cloud-like softness this provides, which should help relieve pressure on the shoulders and hips.

To maintain this bed, it should be a breeze. A simple detergent and a rag worked wonders on the tufted poly-cotton fabric cover.

What sets it apart from the rest?

  • Because it can be flipped over if it becomes too soft to provide the support you need, the flippable design should considerably extend its lifespan.
  • This mattress is excellent for both sleeping and sitting. It’s built to last and can be used in a variety of ways without sacrificing comfort.

Serta Sycamore Double Sided Convoluted Foam

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • This bed has a futon-type of mattress.
  • It’s best for back and stomach sleepers.
  • Colors are available in five distinct hues.
  • Inch-by-inch
  • 100% American-made

This type, which is also an entry-level futon mattress, is surprising for all the benefits it offers. There is no better place to start than Serta, which is substantially less expensive.

The bed has two layers of convoluted foam for better airflow and a 4-inch cotton fiber padding for increased aesthetics, support, and convenience. Although it’s a low-cost model, it has all the features you’d find in a much more costly one. This high-end-looking bed doesn’t break the bank thanks to the box-border design.

Why did it make the cut?

  • Serta futons are proudly created in the United States, so you know you’re getting a high-quality product made under fair working circumstances.
  • A luxurious, soft sensation is hard to get by in futon beds, yet the bed is still supportive. Additionally, it is lace tufted, which provides both comfort and a fitted aesthetic at the same time.

Mozaic Trupedic

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • 8-inch wide
  • Polyester and foam
  • Medium-firm
  • Produced in the United States

The Mozaic Trupedic is our top pick for a futon mattress under $100. Customers on a budget can obtain all the benefits of a high-quality mattress at a price that’s significantly lower than the competition.

In addition to being 8 inches thick, the mattress boasts a foam construction wrapped in cotton and a polyester fabric on the outside. As a local product, the Mozaic Trupedic is manufactured in the United States.

12 "Design Winning" Japanese Inspired Bed Frames

Futon mattresses needn’t be dull, according to the company’s website. This mattress comes in a fashionable dusty blue color that should fit into any home style.

Why it was selected

  • There is a medium-firm mattress on the futon, which implies that it is suitable for back, stomach, and side sleepers.

Futon Mattress Buying Considerations

Purpose

You should think about how often you’ll have guests over and what kind of guests they might be. Space requirements for children may be lower than those for many adults. A cotton-filled bed, for example, could be a less expensive option for usage as a guest bed on rare occasions when that is all you need it to be.

For those who intend to use their futon as their primary bed, you’ll want to invest in a high-quality, durable futon bed that’s both sturdy and comfortable, such as a hybrid model.

Keep in mind that sleeping on a mattress that doesn’t fit your posture can lead to major health problems. A misalignment in your spine caused by a cheap bed could end up costing more money in the long term because of medical bills or time off from work.

A Japanese-style futon can be an interesting choice to consider if you’re seeking for an alternative to a traditional bed.

Aesthetics

Even if budget is a major factor, don’t forget about the design of the bed you’re eyeing. As a guest, your couch should not only fit the rest of your furniture, but also provide a comfortable place to rest your head at night.

While many people consider coil-filled futon mattresses to be extremely comfortable, some can lose a lot of their shape over time.

Memory foam futon beds, on the other hand, may keep their shape for far longer periods of time. Additionally, futons that are frequently used as couches may prefer the latter.

Comfort

Comfort is the most crucial consideration when purchasing a futon mattress. It’s important to remember that comfort isn’t just about getting a good night’s sleep, but also about being able to sit comfortably. This is a futon, not a standard bed, thus it must fulfill two functions at once.

It’s important to pick a bed that’s both comfy for sleeping and sitting on, as well. Because of this, it is important to pay attention to the materials utilized to make the product.

Thickness

The thickness of the mattress will be determined by the type of futon you have and its general structure.

If your couch bed is constructed of wood, for example, you may have to select for a sturdier futon mattress rather than a sleek and thin one. Your sleeping experience will be better if the mattress and framework are in sync.

Adult sleepers may find that an 8-inch-thick futon mattress offers superior comfort over a 6-inch-thick one, although this will depend on the materials used. An extra factor to consider here is the weight of the person who will normally sleep on it—the thicker the mattress needs to be to prevent bottoming out, generally speaking.

Number of Folds

Both a bi-fold and a tri-fold mattress will be available for purchase. Bi-fold means that it folds into two independent sections when it is unfolded. Folding a tri-fold three times creates three distinct pieces.

A person’s frame type determines how many folds there are. Keeping this in mind, the manufacturer should be consulted to see if you require a tri-fold or a bi-fold unit. If you’re replacing an existing bed, all you have to do is check the folds that you currently have and buy a unit appropriately.

The Frame Matters

The sort of frame you choose can have a significant impact on the mattress you buy, as we’ve already explained. The mattress should be suitably supported by the frame’s quality. Would you buy a high-end frame and then cover it with a low-cost futon bed, or the other way around?

With a hardwood frame and a long-term use in mind, you can ensure that your futon mattress is compatible with your plans.

On the other hand, if you’re searching for a short-term solution, you may be able to afford something less expensive. Using wood composite or particleboard frames with a lower-quality bed is a great way to save money and get a good night’s sleep.

Durability

Choosing the right materials to build your bed is critical to its long-term durability. A good rule of thumb is to look for a futon mattress constructed of durable materials that also provide you with the comfort and convenience you need.

In addition, you should check the warranty terms. This will give you an idea of how long the manufacturer thinks the mattress will last without showing any signs of wear and tear.

However, if you want your bed to endure as long as possible, you should take adequate care of it as well.

Size

The size of your mattress will be determined exclusively by the size of the bed frame. The only need is that the first match the second precisely.

Conclusion

You can avoid your futon mattress from slipping by attaching a piece of material to the corners of the mattress. Not only will this keep it from shifting, but it will also keep the cloth from becoming damaged.

Carpet squares, towels, and even old clothing can all be used for this purpose, as long as they are in good condition. Adhesive strips or Velcro straps can be purchased at your local hardware store to keep the clutter to a minimum after employing these objects as corner holders.

Make sure that whatever method you use, it can be securely attached without damaging other surfaces in your home, such as walls and furniture legs.

Helen Skeates

Helen Skeates

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