How To Store A Futon Mattress? Comprehensive Guide

We will show you the proper way to put away a futon mattress in three easy steps. We’ll start by cleaning and folding the futon so it can withstand the storage environment without getting soiled or wrinkled. And we’ll even assist you in setting a time limit for how long the futon bed needs to be in your possession.

What, though, if the futon mattress you bought is worn out? See if any of these ideas strike your fancy for your old futon.

What is a futon?

A futon may seem like a simple thing, but there is still some debate about what exactly that is. Can we call a futon a sofa? Is that the framework of a sofa that folds up? Is there nothing special about it besides the absence of springs?

Actually, the definition of futon is quite simple: in Japanese, a futon is a traditional bed, so the word futon has come to mean “bed” in English. The mattress (shikibuton), the comforter (kakebuton), and the pillow (makuton) are all included. The futon’s American progenitor, the shikibuton, dates back to ancient Japan. The typical thickness of a futon is only three inches, making it a good firm bed, though it is usually too firm for side sleepers.

In the United States, a futon is typically thought of as a sofa that folds out into a bed. The unique construction of a futon is just one of the key distinctions between it and a conventional bed. Layers of materials like organic cotton, wool, and latex are compressed to make a futon. When the layers are complete, they are tufted into place to secure the batting and ensure the product will last for a long time. Futons are higher maintenance than standard mattresses because they are constructed primarily of natural fibers and contain very little latex, if any at all. A futon mattress, which is typically on the firmer end of the spectrum, can last anywhere from 8 to 15 years with the right maintenance.

In our Seattle workshop, we make both shikibutons (a thin futon in the Japanese style) and traditional futons with a variety of natural fills. Our futons are crafted from organic cotton, Eco-Wool, and natural and organic latex that is sourced from within the United States. The reason we don’t use synthetics or chemicals is straightforward: organic materials are superior. A futon constructed from organic cotton, wool, and latex will last for years and provide the same level of comfort and support as their synthetic counterparts, but at a much more reasonable price.

Futon spring cores are available from some retailers. Since springs typically break under the strain of repeated folding and unfolding, futons with them typically don’t last very long. If you prefer a mattress with springs, consider the Soaring Heart Signature Mattress, the Aspen, which is constructed to much stricter standards and with superior organic and natural materials than the average innerspring mattress.

Last but not least, we’d like to warn you that a futon is not a budget-friendly replacement for a sofa or bed. Since their introduction, futons have been unfairly criticized for being a low-quality substitute for conventional furniture. You get what you pay for, just like with anything else. Each of our organic futons is the product of over a hundred hours of labor from the organic carding mill to the builders, and they are a fantastic alternative to conventional mattresses or sofas. They’re pricey, but they’ll last a long time and make your feet feel great.

Price Range for Futons

Futons are more cost-effective than conventional sofas and beds. You have the option of purchasing a complete futon set, which includes the frame and mattress, or of purchasing just the mattress or the frame separately. Standard foam mattresses with a cotton or polyester cover can be found for under $100. Mattresses made of memory foam for futons tend to cost a little more. Depending on the size and quality, they can cost anywhere from $100 to $300. Memory foam mattresses of the highest quality can cost upwards of $400.

There are also coil mattresses available for between $100 and $400. Coil mattresses are typically more expensive than traditional futon mattresses. Mattresses can range from $200 to $600, with the more luxurious models costing significantly more. It’s important to note that futons come in the same range of sizes as beds; the most popular being double and queen.

Futon Mattresses vs. Hybrid Mattresses

Because hybrid mattresses are designed specifically for beds and futons are meant to serve as both a bed and a couch, it can be difficult to make a fair comparison between the two. A hybrid futon mattress combines the benefits of both memory foam and coils into a single product, making it the best of both worlds.

Even if you invest in a high-quality futon frame and mattress, you won’t find the same level of support and comfort as you would with a hybrid mattress.

How Firm is a Futon Mattress?

A futon mattress is typically firmer than a mattress designed for a traditional bed. These mattresses can double as a couch and a bed, so they need to be relatively thin. Mattress and frame construction are two separate factors that contribute to the overall firmness of a bed.

Memory foam products conform to your body more than regular foam futon mattresses, but regular foam futon mattresses are the firmest option. Futon mattresses with coils can be as soft or as firm as the user prefers.

Though the mattress remains exposed in the sofa position of some futons with firm cushions, it is typically covered by additional pillows. These can make the futon feel softer than it actually is when you sit on it, but you won’t be able to make use of the sofa-oriented padding when the futon is in the sleeping position, so it will feel firmer then.

How To Store A Futon Mattress Short-Term And Long-Term

Step 1. Clean the futon mattress

You should clean your futon before putting it away, just like you would a mattress. For any length of time that the futon will be in storage, this holds true. Dust and stains on the mattress can set deeper into the material and accelerate its deterioration if they are not regularly removed.

But how does one go about disinfecting a futon pad? When preparing a futon mattress for storage, a simple vacuuming is usually all that’s required, though this does depend on the mattress’ current condition. Cleaning the futon with baking soda will leave it smelling fresh, but if there are any stains, use vinegar or a mild detergent to remove them first.

Step 2. Fold the futon mattress

You should look over the futon mattress for flaws before you fold it up. Before putting something away for storage, make sure it is in good working order and complete. Then, you’ll need to figure out how to fold your particular futon by disassembling it.

Traditional shikibuton futon mattresses, which look more like pads than sofa beds, can be folded up into a fraction of their modern counterparts’ space. The futon that resembles a sofa bed can be a bi-fold or tri-fold style that you secure with straps; the shikibuton futon, on top of which you place a kakebuton and sheets, can be folded or rolled. As long as it has ventilation, a mattress bag or box can be used to transport a rolled or folded futon.

Step 3. Place the futon mattress in your storage

Before placing your futon mattress in a ventilated storage case, make sure it is completely dry. As an added precaution against dampness, aerating it outside is recommended. When storing items like mattresses, keep in mind that dampness can lead to mold growth.

Try to locate a dry, stable spot inside the house. As an alternative to a conventional bed, a futon takes up much less space and can therefore be stored effectively in a closet. To avoid damaging the futon, avoid setting anything heavy on top of it, and keep the hardware pieces in a locked bag nearby.

How Long Should You Keep A Futon Mattress?

A futon mattress is durable enough to last anywhere from 5 to 20 years. Since there are many variations of futons and materials to choose from, their lifespan is typically quite long. The longevity of your futon depends on a number of factors, including how often and how well you clean the mattress.

The futon mattress, for instance, should be replaced if it’s too worn and uncomfortable to sleep on even if it hasn’t yet reached the end of its useful life. However, when you consider that some people only use their futons for guests, it’s not surprising that some of them can last for a decade or more. The final step in extending the life of your futon is to keep it out of the way when it’s not in use.

How Often Should You Air Your Futon?

Futons, like all stored mattresses, benefit from being aired out every six months to a year. Because ventilation eliminates the possibility of moisture buildup in your mattress, it can be done even more frequently than that. Giving your futon some fresh air and sunshine will not only revitalize it, but the UV rays will also help to disinfect the fabric.

It’s important to double-check the location where you keep your futon. Avoid placing the futon in damp locations like the bathroom. Condensation on windows, mold, and even dust mites are all indicators of too much moisture in the air.

Can You Fold A Futon Mattress?

A futon mattress can be folded, which is why it is so convenient for apartments and other small spaces. The futon may be folded into a couch when not in use, depending on its construction. Keep in mind that the manual for your futon may specify that it be rolled instead of folded.

How do you maintain a futon mattress?

1. If you want to keep your mattress clean and healthy, you should vacuum it once a week.
2. In the event of spills, immediately apply stain treatment and consider purchasing a futon mattress cover.
3. Futons should be aired out once a week to prevent the buildup of staleness and odor.
4. Whenever it’s not in use, store the futon.
5. Keep the futon mattress in good condition by fluffing, rolling, or folding it every day.

How Do You Keep A Futon Mattress In Place?

A futon mattress can be secured in place in the same way that a standard bed mattress is. Before you buy grip pads and strips, make sure the bed actually fits into the frame. If you put them under the futon, the mattress should stay put when you get in and out of bed.

Choosing The Best Futon Mattress – Complete Buyer’s Guide

Amerisleep AS1

what We Like

• Extremely malleable, yet it maintains its form on a futon
• The futon with the most lifelike bed-like feel
• Ultra-supportive
• To avoid overheating, foam cooling pads are a great investment.

What We Don’t Like

• costlier than, to put it mildly

Considerations on the Whole:

This mattress is the best option for those looking for a futon that mimics the feel of a traditional bed. It is constructed entirely out of a special bio-pur memory foam that is both supportive and breathable. This mattress can be used with any standard bed frame, adjustable bed frame, or futon frame. It can be used as a couch when not in use and is easily pulled down to become one of the most comfortable futon mattresses available.

Having been in business for over ten years, it is safe to assume that AmeriSleep knows what they are doing when it comes to producing sleep products. This cutting-edge mattress is made to help you get a better night’s rest by reducing pressure points and maintaining a comfortable temperature.

Consider this mattress for your futon if you’re interested in trying a more conventional design, with the knowledge that you can return it for a full refund (including shipping costs) within 100 days if you’re not satisfied.

Fuli Traditional Japanese Futon Mattress

What We Like

• contains fewer than 30 pounds
• Constructed by genuine Japanese artisans
• There are three layers, resulting in impressive thickness.

What We Don’t Like

• Not all sizes are equally foldable; the larger ones especially struggle.

Final Thoughts:

The futon has its origins in Japanese and enjoys widespread renown there. Futon mattresses inspired by the Japanese Shiki style are the product of Fuli’s manufacturing. Less than thirty pounds, including the cover, is all that holds this mattress together. The filling is made up of three levels of soft and supportive 100% polyester.

The adaptability of this futon pad is its greatest strength. This mattress is available in ALL standard mattress sizes (Twin, Twin XL, Full, Full XL, Queen, and King) and can be used on the floor or with a futon frame. It’s unusual to find a futon mattress with so many potential applications.

This futon is crafted in Japan, where traditional values of meticulous craftsmanship are valued over the more capitalist priorities of the United States. When in doubt, prioritize comfort.

Try this one out if you want a cheap floor futon or a futon mattress that can be used with a frame and offers a surprising level of comfort and adaptability. If you buy something from Amazon and decide within 30 days that you don’t like it, for any reason (including personal preference regarding level of comfort), you can get a full refund.

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• The Roots Of Your Sleeplessness

• An Easy-to-Follow Plan
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• Q&A: Most Typical Inquiries

D&D Floor Rolling Futon Mattress

What We Like

• Form factor reduced for shipping
• Excellent for tummy sleepers and those with excess weight.
• Protection from flames

What We Don’t Lik

• greater emphasis on adaptability at the expense of durability or convenience

General Reflections:

The D&D floor mattress is a good option if you’re looking for a thin, minimalist futon pad. This futon mattress is not intended to be used as a permanent replacement for a bed, but rather as a low-cost, space-saving replacement for an extra bed when guests come to stay or when you need a nap. Even though you can use this futon mattress for sleeping, meditating, or sitting, we wouldn’t suggest it as your primary sleeping pad.

The mattress is packed with 90% cotton and the remaining 10% is divided between polyester and resilient foam. It’s shipped in a convenient and small box to cut down on shipping costs and make it simple to move around.

The queen-sized mattress can be compactly rolled up and stowed away when it is not in use. In terms of its folded size, this futon mattress scored among the best we looked at. It will be difficult to achieve the desired thickness by folding the mattress in half to create a twin size. All it can do is lay flat or be rolled up. It’s convenient for occasional use and compact quarters, but it can’t replace your primary mattress.

DHP 8-Inch Independently-Encased Coil Mattress

What We Like

• Reasonable in price
• At a whopping 8 inches in depth
• 100% compliant with all national safety standards

What We Don’t Like

• Requires the use of a futon frame

In Conclusion:

The DHP 8-inch futon mattress is an excellent choice for people who prefer a firmer feel and who require more support. The total thickness of the mattress is 8, but that includes the two inches of foam and polyester on top and the six inches of premium coils below. There are a total of six color options available, and each one highlights the mattress’ tufted microfiber cover and adds to the plush feel. The weight is distributed exceptionally well thanks to the independently encased coils.

More concerned with comfort than portability, this futon mattress is ideal for home use. It isn’t suitable for use as a futon mattress on the floor. In place of a full-size, framed futon, this is the next-best thing. This futon mattress is more akin to a standard innerspring mattress than the plush varieties used for the floor.

As a result, it offers greater mobility than a standard innerspring bed. Your futon frame folds up and out of the way with little fuss.

Classic Brands 8 Inch Futon Mattress

What We Like

• A combination of high-quality innerspring coils and supportive foam
• Adjustable to fit either a futon or a standard bed frame
• Separate packages for coils
• It’s 8 inches thick

What We Don’t Like

• Easily rips at the seams and snaps

Completed Reflections:

This firm mattress from Classic Brands works great with both futons and traditional bed frames, making it a versatile hybrid option. Wrapping each coil separately provides extra security and makes it simple to store and transport. The innersprings are topped with two inches of foam for extra cushioning and support. You can choose between a black or brown hardy microfiber polyester cover.

Keep in mind that you will need a frame with this futon mattress, just like the DHP futon mattress we discussed above. For storage or use, it requires a frame due to the coils that prevent it from being rolled up. The only real difference between this bed and a DHP is the mattress material. For those who prefer a softer surface and don’t have problems staying cool in bed, a memory foam mattress is a great option.

The microfiber cover is a nice touch, and it helps that the mattress is foam-based, because it facilitates cleaning. For quick cleanups, you can simply wipe it down with a damp cloth, and if necessary, you can take it apart and hand wash it. If you don’t take off the cover, mold can grow in the foam, so be careful with the water.

Take a look at this Classic Brands futon mattress if you want something that is more sturdy and resembles a regular bed in appearance and feel.

Artvia Home Deluxe 8 In. Futon Sofa Mattress

What We Like

• Plush and comfortable to the extreme
• The fabric manages to be both strong and supple.
• Viscoelastic inner springs

What We Don’t Like

• Since white is easily stained, covering it is necessary.

In Conclusion:

This futon mattress by Artiva comes in a standard full size and eight different color options, and it was made entirely in the United States. Inner springs and a cushiony foam, cotton, and fiber mixture line the inside. The tufted design adds an extra layer of padding and comfort.

This 8-inch-thick mattress works great in a bed frame but can also be used on the floor in a pinch. It’s one of the more pricey choices here, but you’ll get a futon mattress made in the USA and high-quality materials for your money.

If you suffer from seasonal allergies, or have ongoing issues with allergies due to poor indoor air quality or asthma, the futon is a great option for you because it is hypo-allergenic.

A cover is recommended for this futon unless you prefer visible spills. All you get with this futon is the mattress—no frame or cover are included. However, there are a plethora of covers offered on the web, allowing you to stock up on spares for unexpected visitors or to experiment with the decor in your bedroom.

Serta Cypress Double Sided Innerspring Futon Mattress

What We Like

• Providing moderate assistance
• Wrapping the springs in foam and fabric.
• Consists of 288 individually wrapped Bonnel coils.

What We Don’t Like

• Weakness in the seams.

Opinions on the Whole:

When it comes to bedding, Serta is a name that almost everyone knows and associates with quality. There is no exception to this rule with their Cypress futon mattress. Supportive and comfortable for extended periods of time, this bed features 288 Bonnel innersprings and a layer of foam and fiber on both the top and bottom of the coils. If you need a larger size but still want to save money, go with this.

This cotton-blend mattress is offered in both full and queen sizes, and works best when placed on a futon frame. It cannot be rolled up or folded for compact storage. That being said, it is also one of the least supportive mattresses here. You won’t be fooled into thinking that you’re sleeping on a’spare’ futon mattress, as the transition from this to a regular bed is seamless.

If you want to provide guests with a comfortable sleeping space without taking up too much room when they aren’t visiting, this is the perfect mattress for you.

Mozaic Full Size Cotton Twill Gel Futon Mattress

What We Like

• Best in class comfort and durability
• Foam with a gel layer on both sides of memory foam that can be reversed
• Embroidered cotton twill exterior

What We Don’t Like

• Since it is thick, it resists folding.

General Reflections:

Mozaic also provides an option for a mattress made entirely of memory foam for those who are allergic to or prefer an alternative to innersprings. The support and comfort of the gel dual memory foam futon mattress make it ideal for extended periods of use. In addition to being reversible, this memory foam futon mattress can be folded and unfolded with ease. A tufted cotton twill cover is also available, in a total of eight different hues.

While many online retailers show this futon alongside a matching frame, you’ll only receive the mattress and cover if you buy from them. It’s the only replacement futon mattress on this list that comes in more hues than the rest combined.

This is a fantastic option if you prefer foam mattresses and are in the market for a thicker mattress to fit your current bed frame. You’re not taking much of a risk by giving this one a shot because you can send it back within 30 days if you’re not satisfied.

Types of Futons

The western-style futon, which can be folded into a couch, and the traditional Japanese futon are the two main varieties. There are advantages and disadvantages to both, but they both serve the same purpose: to provide a comfortable, compact retreat in which to rest or entertain.

Traditional Japanese Futons

The traditional Japanese futon is a floor mattress that can be rolled up or folded for storage. They care less about thickness and more about portability and basic comfort. The majority of the time, they are not framed. You should check the dimensions and thickness of the futon mattress before you buy it because some of them are too thick (or too thin) to fit in a futon frame.

The main advantage of a futon mattress in the Japanese style is the extra storage space it provides. A Japanese mattress is ideal for those who value sleeping comfort at night but value their personal space during the day. The convenience of being able to fold or roll your mattress up for storage means that its thickness has to be compromised.

Western-Style Futons

A futon, especially one made in the western style, can serve as both a couch and a bed. That’s an odd statement to make, no? For those who seek a compromise between formal and casual decor, however, these pieces of furniture are a fantastic option.

How it functions is as follows. When the futon is folded out into the sofa configuration, it can be used in the same way as any other sofa. Some futons even have armrests, so you can lean back and get comfy while you’re watching TV or chatting with friends. The armrests add a touch of style and help to complete the sofa look.

The real value of a futon, however, lies in its ability to fold down into a bed that’s both comfortable and reasonably thick. Though the specifics may vary from futon to futon, you should be able to quickly transform your sofa into a comfy bed.

The mattresses for futons can be purchased with or without the futons themselves. Don’t settle for the cheap mattress that came with your futon frame when you can upgrade to something more comfortable elsewhere. There are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for a futon mattress.

Key Factors to Look For

It’s crucial that you have a clear idea of your requirements before shopping for a futon. Think about where you plan to put the futon and why you want one. You can begin researching futon features that will be most helpful to you once you have an idea of where the futon will be placed and what its primary purpose will be. You’ll find a list of the most popular and helpful additions below.

Futon Frame Material

Frame and mattress sets require careful consideration of the frame material and mattress type. The most common types of futon frames are made of wood, wood composite, and metal.

For good reason, wooden futon frames are extremely common. As opposed to cheaper alternatives, this material is long-lasting and reliable. Wooden frames typically come with added comforts, such as armrests and drink holders.

If you’re looking for a futon but don’t need something too sturdy or expensive, wood composite is a great choice. Although not as long-lasting as wood, it shares the same visual appeal.

Metal is an economically viable, high-strength material. Frames for futons are typically lightweight and simple to convert from sofa to bed.

Comfort

Futon mattresses, contrary to popular belief, can be extremely plush and comfortable for back and side sleepers alike. A firmer option is preferable for the futon mattress since it will be used for both sitting and sleeping. Finding the sweet spot between sitting support and lying comfort can be challenging.

Bed & Mattress Material

The most comfortable futon mattresses typically feature multiple layers of foam and conventional innerspring construction. There’s a chance you’re thinking about upgrading to a latex foam mattress. For this reason, memory foam mattresses are a good choice for use on futons because they retain their form. But memory foam has a problem with heat retention. Both have their advantages, but ultimately your decision should be based on what makes you feel most at ease.

Thickness

The days of thin, flat futon mattresses are over. It’s not uncommon for high-quality mattresses to be 8 inches thick. These thicker mattresses are ideal for sitting or lying down, as their extra height makes them very accommodating.

The thicker mattress will be more accommodating for larger adults, particularly those who prefer to sleep on their sides. The thickness of a mattress is important not only for sleeping comfort but also for its suitability as a couch. In most cases, greater thickness is preferable.

Size

A mattress that doesn’t fit the frame you bought is useless. Duh. 🙂 Check out our blog post on the various mattress sizes available for futons to learn more.

Benefits of a Futon Mattress

A futon is a great investment whether you have a small space and need an extra bed or you just want to offer your guests a comfortable place to rest.

Price

There is no need to spend a fortune on a new mattress and box spring when you can get a quality futon instead. This is because the compact mattresses use fewer materials overall. The cost of a futon mattress typically compares favorably to that of a conventional bed’s mattress.

Versatility

When you move from a couch to a bed, you instantly increase your options. A home office that has this feature can be easily converted into a guest bedroom, thereby increasing the space’s utility. If you live in a tiny house or studio, being able to scale back during the day can be a lifesaver.

Furthermore, futons typically weigh under ten pounds, making it easy to relocate them for the night or rearrange furniture.

Long-Lasting

The frames and mattresses of many futons are constructed from durable materials designed to withstand heavy use for years. Cotton foam mattresses quickly lose their shape and comfort after being purchased. However, the spring and foam mattresses designed specifically for futons are soft, supportive, and long-lasting despite the futon’s dual use as a couch and bed.

Change Them Up With a Cover

Altering the cover or mattress topper of your futon is a simple way to give it a new look and feel. Simply by swapping out the mattress cover, you can transform the look of your bedroom from day to night. Futon covers are a simple way to safeguard your futon from spills and dirt and can be hidden away under more attractive blankets or sheets.

Conclusion

Well, that wraps things up! We’ve discussed the best ways to store a futon mattress to extend its life. Get it all cleaned up and checked out for damage or broken parts first. After that, pick a ventilated storage case and a dry spot to put away the futon.

We’re crossing our fingers that our futon-care advice will stick in your mind, too. Type “futon” into the search bar to learn more.