Highest Rated Futon Beds Reviewed – Our 2021 Picks

Futon beds have been around for a while. They were first used as traditional bedding for the Japanese. Today, they are used across the globe with slight variations from the original mattress. One aspect has however remained constant; they are an excellent choice when you’re short of space.

We’ve found that a lot of us would like to have friends and relatives over, but sleeping space becomes an issue. That doesn’t have to be the case anymore, as futons offer a fantastic solution.

Even before you consider having friends over, a lot of us have to deal with limited sleeping space on a daily basis and as such, will find the futon to be the best choice.

The futon can be a sofa by day and a mattress by night. Overall, they are a convenient solution when you don’t have sufficient sleeping space, and they are available at a small percentage of what you’d pay for a mattress on the market.

The challenge with these beds is that they have flooded the market, and as a result, you may make a wrong pick.

To guide you in identifying the top alternatives, we’ve highlighted and reviewed futon mattresses, but which is the best? For, that you will need to read our overview. Plus, we have included a buying guide, and benefits of owning one among other aspects.

Buying Guide for a Futon Mattress

When purchasing a futon, like any other mattress, you need a guide to help you make the best pick. We’ve given a list of factors that can be of assistance;

Versatility

The futon, unlike other mattresses, can adapt to more than one function. The best futons make a comfy and supportive sofa or bed whenever you need one. They are excellent for small spaces because you can fold them to a couch or for storage when you’re not sleeping. The purpose of your bed will dictate the type of mattress that you’ll pick.

What’s the purpose of you buying it?

When you have limited sleeping space, it can be ideal. For instance, you may only have one bedroom and are sharing the house. That means one of you will have to use the sofa. Under such circumstance, since you’ll be using it on a daily basis, you’ll have to pick one with comfort, support, and durability.

If you only bring out your mattress when you have guests over, then a cheap one will do. The ones for everyday use are slightly costly, and getting a futon may be a better alternative.

Comfort of Sleep

What level of comfort are you looking for?

Futons have different construction materials, each offering a specific comfort feel. The fill material can be cotton, wool, foam, innerspring or spring. These materials each provide a unique comfort feel. However, note that you should achieve comfort both while sitting and sleeping.

Futons are not like our everyday mattresses. They serve more than one purpose, to be both comfy and supportive while sleeping and sitting. So, if it’s for daily use, you’ll want to look for one with durability and firmer support. There are some constructed with innerspring and foam to enhance the comfort that you receive and are made of a high-grade material for such situations.

When you’re picking out a bed, focus on comfort. Ensure that you receive the same amount of comfort while sleeping and sitting. And that if you use it on a daily basis, it should withstand the wear and tear staying cozy at all times.

Aesthetics

Futon serves a dual purpose, and as such will require some appeal. Since a lot of us will have it in the living room, it will be ideal to make it have some charm. Everything from the design, color, and fabric needs to have beauty.

There are many colors to choose from. You can pick one that blends with where you’re going to be placing it. Some are tufted while others are plain. Therefore, you have a range of options while analyzing aesthetics.

The size also plays into its appeal. Some people prefer a bulky bed while others will go for a thin one as it appears sleek and is also easy to store.

There are standard futon mounts available, although some are custom made. The structure also plays a significant role in the overall aesthetic appeal.

Interchangeability

You will, of course, have to purchase a futon that can easily convert from a sofa to bed and vice versa. Many people find it difficult to fold it back to a couch. In fact, you’ll see that individuals tend to stay away from specific brands because of this.

The other issue with interchangeability is the folding style. They are two categories – Tri-fold and Bi-fold.

Each has its advantages and disadvantages;

• Tri-fold – It’s not as popular as the bi-fold and is slightly complicated with an extra fold for reclining the bed when necessary. It folds into three pieces.
• Bi-fold – The majority are designed with this design. It’s straightforward as it has a single fold. It folds into two pieces.

The bed structure will determine the number of folds you decide to choose.

Thickness & Firmness

The level of comfort and support that you seek will decide the level of depth and firmness that you’ll want. Other factors include the aesthetic appeal.

You’ll find that futons have a 6″ or 8″ thickness. For an adult looking to enjoy maximum comfort and sufficient support, you’ll find that the 8″ thick bedding will be more suitable. A thicker mattress offers more comfort. For children, teenagers or light weighing individuals, a 6″ thick futon mattress will be appropriate.

The challenge with a thicker mattress is that you may find that it lacks the appeal because of the bulky nature, which also makes it challenging to store or fold. Therefore, some individuals will find it easier to use a thin futon.

The thin mattress is simple to store, sleek and will have a higher appeal.

The level of firmness depends on the type of material used in making the bed. There are those made of cotton, wool, foam, innerspring or latex, each providing a specific firmness level.

For firmer support, foam mixed with innersprings is superior, while the cotton and wool give a plush firmness feel.

Durability

Durability is particularly essential if you’re using the futon mattress on a daily basis. Therefore, it should be able to withstand the wear and tear.

The type of material determines the level of durability of any mattress. As a result, depending on the materials used, you can identify which one will serve its purpose longest. For example, innerspring is an excellent material as it provides support, but tends to sag over time. Therefore ensure that quality springs are the one used.

We all desire a mattress with some level of durability. It’s only achievable when we pick a bed with the right materials. The warranty period is also vital as it informs you of how long the bed can last.

How you use and keep it is crucial to ensuring that it lasts longer. Proper care is necessary to achieve durability.

Types of Mattresses

The market has varied futon mattress types, all constructed using a variety of materials which we’ve discussed. The kind of content is vital because it dictates the amount of comfort, support, and its durability.

Foam

Foam is one of the most popular bed construction materials. The majority of futon mattresses on the market today are made using foam. Foam has its benefits and disadvantages depending on the type.

Although it’s cozy, supportive and great for pressure relief, not all of them are best to use. There are many memory foam options which pose a danger to your health and the environment. Therefore, you’ll have to be cautious, only going for foam that has received CertiPUR certification.

A foam mattress tends to be slightly expensive than other varieties. It’s because they’re quite cozy and supportive regardless of the sleep posture that you take. That means, whether you sleep on your back, stomach or side, it is favorable.

They are also more durable; and will serve you for a while before you can witness any wear. For those planning only to use it on specific occasions, the foam may not be a good alternative because of pricing.

Spring

Spring is the standard material for many mattresses available on the market today, and it has been the case for almost a century. However, because of the disadvantages experienced, the majority are opting to use foam or hybrid beds.

Spring futons contain metal coils, and to enhance cushioning and support, they have a quilted layer. The simple construction design makes them quite affordable compared to pure foam, though, they are costly than a cotton or wool filled futon.

Despite it being used by most individuals, it has some disadvantages. Innerspring beds tend to sag over time with use and is difficult to fold because it’s slightly bulky and heavy to carry.

You need a futon that can transform with ease. Some people will find it difficult to fold, and therefore challenging to convert to a sofa when necessary. If you’re using it frequently, ensure that you can easily convert it.

Innerspring Coil

Compared to cotton or wool filled futons, they have more cushioning and will, therefore, be more comfy and supportive. They are among the highly recommended as you’ll not only have a fantastic sleep but they also provide the much-needed support.

A closer look at the innerspring types and one can note some similarity to a mattress that has spring. We have been using spring mattresses for decades, and they are the oldest type of beds.

When we sleep, we desire comfort, support, staying cool and pressure relief. Some can’t offer all that because of their design and material used. An innerspring coil mattress will combine the innersprings with high-density foam to guarantee that you stay comfy. The futon will absorb pressure points.

The problem with innerspring is that they tend to sag over time. They can also be a challenge to fold or convert to a couch.

Wool Filled

Wool offers warmth and the reason why the majority of individuals in cold areas will prefer wool constructed futon over a cotton one or the others.

Wool is a rarely used in mattress construction, and therefore a reason as to why such futons are rarely on the market. Only a handful of brands make such wool bedding.

Other than keeping you warm, the wool is also quite soft and will offer a plush, comfortable feel. It’s not ideal if you intend to use the mattress on a daily basis. Although it’s soft and will give a cozy feel, it may not be supportive enough for everyday use.

Wool filled mattress will offer discomfort to hot sleepers, but the soft feel makes it suitable for use. If you’re considering getting a wool bed, and are in colder regions, it will be a great choice.

Cotton

Cotton filled mattress offers both advantages and disadvantages. It may not be as warm as a wool filled bed but will provide some reasonable amount of comfort and support.

Advantages of cotton made futons include:

• Affordability – if you’re on a budget it will be a great pick
• Lightweight
• Easy to fold

They, however, aren’t as firm and supportive as the foam, spring and innerspring varieties. They also don’t provide the same amount of comfort. Cotton futons will wear and tear faster than most of the other construction materials.

These cotton filled mattresses are a modern design. Traditionally, futons have a firm surface like the ones used in Japan. The foam and innerspring types have an almost similar firmness feel.

Cotton is suitable when you don’t plan on using the bed on a regular basis. It lacks durability.

Other

There are other materials used in making futons today. You don’t have to limit yourself to spring, memory foam, cotton or wool. They include;

Latex – Although it offers a ‘unique’ comfort feel, a lot of people are opting to go for a latex one. It’s important to identify which type of latex you desire, is it synthetic or organic? Natural latex will contour easily, sleep cool and give pressure relief. You can combine the latex with wool to enhance the comfort and support.

Foam & Polyester – A blend that has more durability compared to other futon beds. The polyester gives a medium-firm feel. It’s also lightweight.

Foam/Cotton Hybrid – Some hybrid designs combine foam or cotton with coil springs. They are supportive and comfortable but not to the level offered by foam futons, but are durable than most. They are also quite expensive.

Are Futon Pads Worth it?

There are circumstances where a futon pad will be a worthwhile investment, while for some, it may prove futile. Getting the pad depends on many factors which include;

Is the bed cozy enough?

There’s no point in getting one if the bed is already comfortable. There are some which don’t have the same level of support and comfort as those that are spring and foam constructed.

Do you love the feel it gives?

Some people find that adding the pad makes it bulky and therefore makes it uncomfortable to use. If you don’t mind the bulkiness then buying one will be a good idea. Those that find it to be bulk can use a thin blanket or like that, without adding any cover or pad.

Futon pads are used to adjust the level of comfort. If you’re comfortable, then you may not need it.

Benefits of Owning a Futon Bed

There are a couple of advantages that we’ve identified to owning a futon bed, and we have highlighted. These are some of the reasons why we own them;

Converts to a Sofa

The fact that these bed can convert to a sofa is probably the primary reason why a lot of us love them. If you’re short on sleeping space, they are among the highest-rated because they will convert to a mattress. Sometimes, what you want is an extra sofa cum bed.

Futons convert to a sofa, and will give it the required shape. You’ll fold it as necessary, and you’ll have your chair. Some don’t even need a structure to maintain the sofa shape. The mattress itself can convert into a very cozy seat.

Great for Guests

There are times when you’d love to have friends or relatives over, but you don’t have space or extra bedding. Well, not any more thanks to the futon.

When you’re thinking of having your friends or relatives over but find sleeping space is a challenge, get yourself a futon. If you’re not planning on using it on a daily basis, then a cheap one will be sufficient. The expensive ones are usually made of highest quality material and are great when you’re planning on using it daily.

For your guests, a comfy, supportive and affordable mattress will be enough. It will best serve its intended purpose.

Our Top Futon Mattress Review

In this section, we have identified our top-rated list of futon mattresses.

DHP satisfies almost every aspect that we look at when purchasing a futon. If it’s appeal, the DHP is available in multiple colors including black, tan, charcoal and brown. The DHP combines 15 gauge encased pocket coils with certiPUR-US Certified foam, to provide you with a wonderful sleeping experience. The cover fabric contains microfibers and has an 8” or 6” thickness depending on the one you pick.

We found that it can fit on any standard futon structure and therefore it won’t be a problem finding one. The only challenge with most people is folding it to fit on a sofa and breaking the package. Over time, you’ll get used to folding it.

It’s stiff but will give a soft sleeping surface suitable for a wonderful nights rest. We recommend it because it’s not only appealing but also comfortable and supportive thanks to the foam and coil combination.

Serta Cypress Double Sided Innerspring mattress is among the top-grade and most affordable compared to the majority of high end futons. It combines over 250 innerspring coils with 2 layers of 1” thick CertiPUR Certified Foam. Above the foam is a layer of “cottonique” which enhances the comfort that you get on this futon.

There’s a certain level of comfort and support that we seek whether seated or sleeping. The 8” thick Serta offers that cozy feel that we desire.

Support and durability are essential and are provided by the Bonnel innerspring construction. You’ll enjoy some excellent back support. The cover has microfibers which improve its breathability, although it’s not as appealing most.

The foam used is eco-friendly, and will therefore not be a threat to your health or the environment. It’s made in the USA and only available for sale there. It doesn’t ship internationally.

Our Final Thoughts

The best-rated futon beds have been around for decades thanks to their efficiency. They can be a sofa when you need them to be or a bed. They are versatile, and as such, one must be keen while purchasing.

We’ve listed our top picks and offered tips on what to look for. You’ll have to look for more than comfort and support as aesthetics play a significant role.

The intended use, construction materials, and appeal will guide you. They are worth it and perfect when you don’t have enough space. We recommend them as they are also affordable.