Not all mattresses can work well on a futon frame, therefore it’s important tochoose the right mattress that will give you support and comfort among other things. To help you choose the right futon mattress we browsed around different brands and selected tens of mattresses to test out.

For testing, we have our 2 stage review process where we check to see if the mattresses meet their manufacturer’s claims. Our second stage where we sleep on the mattresses for a few weeks gives us a more definitive experience that we write about. After testing the mattresses, we shortlisted them to our 8 top options. The best futon mattress is AS1 by Amerisleep which boasts high flexibility. Let’s get into it.

Types of Futons

There are two types of futons: The traditional Japanese futons, and the western version that folds into a couch. Both types have benefits and drawbacks but are ultimately designed to fulfill the same goal — a space saving place to sleep or relax. 

Traditional Japanese Futons

Japanese futon mattresses are generally floor mattresses that can either be folded or rolled up to be stored. Thickness isn’t their main focus, but rather, portability and basic comfort. They don’t generally go on a frame. In fact, some of them don’t fit in a futon frame because of their thickness (or lack-thereof) so make sure you look at the dimensions and thickness of the futon mattress before you purchase.

The big benefit of the Japanese style futon mattress is that they are extra space saving. For people who might want a bed at night, but extra space during the day, a Japanese mattress is a great choice. You sacrifice mattress thickness for the ability to fold or roll it for easy storage.

Western-Style Futons

A western-style futon is a unique and practical combination of a sofa and a bed. Sounds weird, right? But these furnishings have a marvelous way of transforming a room for people who might want a little bit of both.

Here’s how it works. When the futon is in the folded position of a sofa, you can use this just like you would any other couch. Bonus feature: Some futons have armrests so you can lean back and cozy up while watching a movie or hanging out with friends. Not only that, but the armrests provide a stylistic feature that solidifies its couch appearance.

Now, the true benefit of a futon is its ability to fold down into a comfortable bed with decent thickness. Each futon will work differently, but there will be an easy way to turn your cozy couch into nighttime slumberland.

Futons and their mattresses can be purchased as a set or separately. There are higher quality mattresses available, so you won’t have to be stuck with an uncomfortable pad that came with the futon frame you want. If you’re looking for the best mattresses for a futon, you need to consider the following factors.

Key Factors to Look For

Not all futons are made equally, so it is vital that you know what you need. Consider your home and your needs: Why are you wanting to purchase a futon? Once you have an idea of the space you are putting the futon and what its main purpose will be, you can start looking into features that will benefit you the most. Below we have included some of the most common and useful features.

Futon Frame Material

If you are buying the full experience – frame and mattress – then you should think about what material you want the futon frame to be and what the mattress comes with. There are three common futon frame materials: Wood, wood composite, and metal.

Wood is one of the most common futon frame materials, and for good reason. This material is sturdy, durable, and lasts longer than other options. You are likely to find more features like armrests or cup holders with a wood frame as well.

Wood composite is a wonderful option if you are strapped for cash or do not need a long-lasting futon. It lacks in durability, but it has the same aesthetic appeal as wood.

Metal is a strong material at a mid-range price. These futon frames tend to be easy to change from couch to bed, and are lightweight enough that you can move them around with ease.

Comfort

Despite common misconceptions, futon mattresses can be ultra-plush and comfortable for back sleepers, side sleepers and others. Since the futon mattress will serve as a couch and a bed, a firmer option is an ideal choice. Support and comfort for both sitting and lying can be tricky, but you should be able to find a nice middle ground. 

Bed & Mattress Material

Many of the best mattresses for futons are made with layers; these layers can be made from foam or typical innerspring support. You might even be considering a latex foam mattress. Memory foam mattresses keep their shape, which is beneficial for futon use. However, memory foam can hold heat. Both options have their benefits, but it boils down to what will keep you comfortable.

Thickness

Thin and flat futon mattresses are no longer the only option. Some of the best mattresses can be as thick as 8-inches. These plush mattresses are taller and will be more comfortable for either sitting or lying.

For larger adults, especially side sleepers, the thicker mattress will provide more support and comfort. Thickness is essential when looking at sleep comfort, but thickness also plays a role in how well the mattress functions as a couch as well. Generally speaking, the thicker the better.

Size

Make sure that you buy a mattress that fits with the frame you purchased. Duh.  If you want to know about futon mattress sizes, check out our blog post about the different sizes futons come in.

Benefits of a Futon Mattress

Whether you live in a studio apartment or want an extra place for guests to sleep, a futon provides many benefits to you.

Price

When compared to traditional mattresses and frames, even a quality futon can be purchased at a great deal. This is due to the reduced amount of materials used in the compact mattresses. Generally speaking, the price of a futon mattress is much less than a traditional mattress

Versatility

Switching from a couch to a bed opens up the doors for what you can do with. This can allow you to turn a home office into a guest bedroom, so you double the usefulness of a space. If you have a small home or studio apartment, then having the option to downsize during the day frees up needed space.

Futons also tend to be lightweight, so you won’t have to struggle if you need to move it for a night or rearrange a room.

Long-Lasting

Many futons are made with quality materials that will guarantee the frame and mattress last for a long time. Mattresses that are filled with cotton foam tend to get lumpy quickly and rendered useless. However, spring and foam mattresses made for the futon are comfortable and durable even with frequent switching between couch and bed.

Change Them Up With a Cover

You can personalize your futon by switching mattress toppers or covers. You can change the look of your room from day to night by changing the mattress cover. Protecting your futon from stains and debris is easy with futon covers, and this can go underneath decorative covers.

Conclusion

The days of a lumpy, uncomfortable futon mattress are long gone. Today, futon mattresses come in comfortable memory foam futon mattress pads or even a traditional spring mattress that offer great support for side sleepers, stomach sleepers, and back sleepers alike. The ability to switch between a couch and a bed in a moment’s notice allows you more versatility and relieves stress during unforeseen circumstances. Purchase the best futon mattresses today and free up some space in your home at a reasonable price.

Save space, throw one of the best pillows you have on the futon and get ready for a surprisingly comfortable night sleep. Don’t be one of those people that settles for a crappy mattress just to get a good price. Shop smart, save money, and improve your home!