Types of Futons (Different Styles)

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You’re interested in getting a futon bed but you still know too little about it to make a good decision. What are your options? What frame should you use? You’ll find out everything you need to know about the different types of futons and what frame to choose in this article.

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Different types of futon mattresses

The different types of futons are:

• Traditional
• Lounger
• Bunk bed
• Japanese
• Outdoor

Why are you buying a futon mattress? Will you use it as an everyday sleeping surface or will it only be for guests? Are you looking for something comfortable for your kid’s bunk bed?

Whatever your reason is, it’s good to know about the different types of futons first before making a choice.

Read the section below to learn about the types of futons and the benefits that each one can provide.

Traditional

A traditional futon is the most popular of all futon styles. It typically consists of a mattress and a frame that can be used as a sofa during the day and converted into a comfortable bed at night. Traditional futons are a great option if you live in a small apartment as they take up minimal floor space when in the sofa position.

You might be thinking that a traditional futon is just a normal sofa bed. Well, it’s not. Although they may look very similar, they do have some key differences that you can look out for.

In a futon, the cushions for sleeping and the cushions for sitting are the same. While in a sofa bed, the mattress usually rests on a separate frame, often built under the sofa seats.

We recommend a traditional futon to those who have limited space and those who need a sleeping space for guests.

Lounger

Next up, we have lounger futons which are larger than a traditional futon and feature armrests on either side. Remember those comfy chairs you usually see at the doctor’s office? There’s a high chance those were lounger futons.

Unlike a traditional futon which is used for both sleeping and sitting, a lounge futon is made for, well, lounging. If you need additional seating space in your living room, a lounger futon is a great option.

A lounger futon can also be a nice supplement for those who have more traditional furniture in their home.

Bunk bed

Bunk bed futons are basically two futon mattresses stacked on top of each other which can be used as a sofa during the day and a bunk bed at night. This type of futon typically has a ladder so you can access the upper berth more easily.

Are you short on space? A bunk bed futon is an excellent option because it gives you two full beds that only take up the floor space of one bed.

We recommend a bunk bed futon for those who have children that need to share a small room. Additionally, bunk bed futons are also a great alternative for dorm rooms if you’re a college student.

Japanese

This futon type is the one that started it all, the OG futon if you will. Japanese futons are traditional Japanese beds that are laid out on the floor and can be used as a mattress or folded up and stored away.

A traditional Japanese futon mattress is typically less than 6 inches thick and made with organic cotton for soft cushioning. I should also mention that there are several components needed to complete a traditional Japanese futon set. These include the shikibuton (mattress), kakebuton (duvet), mofu (blanket), tatami (mat) and a sobakawa (buckwheat pillow).

Do you want a more minimalist sleeping space? Go for a Japanese futon mattress.

Outdoor

An outdoor futon can have the same structure as a traditional futon but it’s designed to withstand the elements. This is typically achieved through the use of a water and weather-resistant cover.

You can use an outdoor futons for your patio or porch, and you can also bring it inside your house should you need an extra bed. Double function means double the value. That’s the main benefit you’ll get across all types of futons.

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Types of futon frames

Different styles of futon frames include:

• Bifold
• Trifold
• Loveseat
• Armless

Now that you know all about the different types of futons, I’m going to tell you about the types of futon frames. Knowing what type of frame to choose is important because it’s the foundation of the entire futon. It holds the parts together and folds to adjust the backrest from an upright position into a flat one for sleeping.

The following are the most common futon frame types used today.

Bifold

A bifold futon frame features two sections that can be folded in half to create a sofa during the day and a bed at night. This type of futon frame is best for those who live in a small studio apartment. Just pair it with an American/Western style futon mattress and you’ll have somewhere to sleep at night and sit during the day.

Trifold

As its name suggests, a tri fold futon frame consists of three sections that can be folded in thirds to create a bed or a sofa. Keep in mind that they will get lower and closer to the floor when they are folded out completely. We think that they are great, compact options for a small room.

However, the major downside of a trifold futon frame is that you can only use a thin mattress or else it will not fold into thirds. And boy it wasn’t easy trying to get the perfect set up with a tri fold futon frame during our testing. No wonder it’s not so popular.

Loveseat

A loveseat futon frame is designed to be used in pairs, with each side featuring a folding mattress. This type of futon frame is designed to make you and your partner feel comfortable even with limited space. It’s a great couch alternative and its name is spot-on, at least for romantic partners.

But that’s not all. A loveseat frame can also be used for two kids or for accommodating two guests for the night.

Armless

Structured without an armrest, an armless futon is easier to convert into a bed than a bifold futon. It has a more elegant and sleek design which many of you might prefer. In this day and age, people are always finding ways to keep up with modern looks and armless futons certainly give you a modern vibe.

We recommend armless futons for taller sleepers and those who toss and turn throughout the night. Since the armrest is not in the way, you can stretch your feet all the way and get more overall comfort.

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Futon frame materials

We mentioned the different types of futon frames above so you know what to choose. But what exactly are they made of? Well, futon frames are typically made from either metal or wood and are upholstered with futon covers for protection as well as aesthetic effect.

Metal

A metal frame provides flexible support for all types of futons and it will also go with most designs. It will also be lighter and easier to move around than a traditional wooden frame.

However, metal frames do have one major caveat and that’s their durability. That includes the squeaking and creaking that usually occurs after long-term use. If you’re looking for a frame that will last for many years, we suggest that you opt for a solid wooden frame.

Keep in mind though that a metal frame will almost always be more affordable than a wooden frame.

Wood

Want a more traditional look for your futon? A wooden frame is going to be your best bet. It’s sturdy, durable, and it can also be versatile in terms of appearance.

If I were to choose between a wooden or metal frame, I would definitely go for the former. A solid wood frame just offers a lot more support and it will last longer than most metal frames on the market.

In fact, wooden frames are the most commonly used foundations for futon mattresses and for good reason.

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FAQs

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Conclusion

Now that you know all about the different types of futons and futon frames, you’re finally ready to decide on a futon. Just make sure that whichever futon you choose nicely suits your needs and you’ll get tons of benefits.

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Next step: Read our Airweave futon review. This premium Japanese floor futon is by far the most comfortable brand we’ve ever tried. If you aren’t sure which brand to go with, choose Airweave.

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