Tips to Make the Most of Your Futon

What is a Futon?

A futon consists of an adjustable frame that has an upright position for sitting or a flat position for lying down. The mattress is different than a bed mattress in that it’s thinner and is designed to bend with the frame without buckling or resisting. The mattress usually has a removable, fitted cover so that the futon looks appealing to the eye.

How Will You Be Using Your Futon?

When selecting a futon, it’s important to determine how you’ll be using it. You can probably use a futon interchangeably with a sofa since it has roughly the same shape and size when in the upright position. Here are some considerations for futon usage:

• Space – You need to make sure that you have enough space to place the futon. If you want to use it as a bed, you’ll probably need an extra foot or two to open the piece. Consider this Tucson Rustic Walnut Futon. If you want to open this beautiful piece, you will need a foot or two space in front (you can easily pull it away from a wall) or behind it. Image

• Decór – You want your futon to match the color and style of the space you’re going to be putting it in. For instance, the gorgeous Sivley Charcoal Futon would fit with a modern, minimalist, or even mid-century motif.

• Durability – Will your futon be in the living room where it will get lots of use, or are you putting it in the home office in case you have an overnight guest? You always want to go with the highest-quality, most durable piece you can afford. Look for a solid wood or metal frame, durable fabric, and quality filling.

• Fabric – Many futons come with stain-resistant fabric, which is important to keep you futon looking great for a long time. Some mattresses have removable, machine washable cover. This can be a handy option because you can launder it periodically. They’re also easy to replace. If your futon is in a high-traffic or high-usage area, you need to consider stain management in your purchase.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Futon

Futons are a truly fun piece of furniture and you can get a ton of usage out of them if you make a good choice. Here are a few tips to help you get started.

• Measure Your Space – Many people only think about the width of the futon when measuring their space, which is important, but you should also consider the depth. Take a tape measure and measure the area on the floor where you want to put the futon. Then take those measurements with you when shopping or compare them to dimensions on the website.

• Maximize Utility – A futon is also a bed that’s perfect for overnight guests. You may want to consider that when choosing a place to locate your futon. A spare room or home office may be a better place to host a guest than a living room.

• Buy a Spare Mattress – You can change the look of your futon in under a minute with a spare futon mattress. For example, Slumberland Furniture sells this attractive Microsuede Futon Mattress in five different colors. Make sure that your spare or replacement mattress is the right size for your frame.

• Pick a High-Quality Frame – You want your frame to last at least as long as your mattress. Wood and metal make the best materials for futon frames. Also, if you’re able to, examine the hinge to make sure that it’s made from high-quality materials. If your hinge bends or comes loose, you may not be able to open or close the piece, or worse, the top separates from the bottom.

• Put an Ottoman in Front of It – Ottomans are a favorite piece of furniture because they’re handy. You can use your ottoman to put your feet up or add a tray and use it for a coffee table.

Can you Use a Normal Mattress with a Futon?

This is a pretty common question since many new futon owners happen to have a normal bed mattress that is the same size as the frame. Unfortunately, regular mattresses are not ideal for a futon. Most mattresses don’t bend naturally, which means that if you want to sit upright you’ll have to force the mattress. If you are even able to accomplish this, it will press against the frame, putting it through unanticipated strain. Futon mattresses are relatively inexpensive when compared to a mattress, so buy the right type of mattress for your product.

How Can Make Your Futon Extra Comfortable?

Choosing the right kind of futon mattress is the first step when it comes to comfort. Choose your futon mattress like you would a mattress you intend to sleep on. Determine the firmness you prefer and shop for those mattresses. Unlike a bed mattress, however, you typically won’t be covering your futon with sheets and bedding — at least when you’re sitting on the futon. For that reason, you’ll want to choose a futon mattress with a soft texture, like microsuede, for instance. You can also dress up your futon with a throw and a few toss pillows. Not only does this make your futon look great, but these accessories can also be used to make you feel cozy when watching TV or reading a book.