Blog Post

Finding the Best Futon Sofa Bed

Nov 24, 2022

If you are looking to buy a new futon sofa bed, you might be wondering which one will be the best for your needs. Here's a guide to help you.

Futon Sofa Bed Buying Guideline

1. How to choose the best futon mattress

Learn about all your options when buying a futon sofa bed

There are a number of factors that you should take into consideration when choosing the best mattress for your futon sofa bed. These include:

  • Your preferred sleeping position
  • Your body type
  • If you experience pain when you wake up
  • How you will use your futon sofa bed


Read on to discover how your sleeping position can help you determine the type of mattress you buy.


Your preferred sleeping position


You should select a mattress that works well with your preferred sleeping position. Here are the different sleeping positions and the types of mattresses that suit them.


Stomach: If you usually sleep on your stomach then you should choose a firm mattress. Sleeping on your stomach puts a lot of stress on your spine, which can lead to back and neck pain over time. If at all possible, it's best to choose a different sleeping position. However, if you find that you can only sleep well on your stomach, then make sure you purchase a mattress that will give you the support your spine needs.


Back: If you are a back sleeper, then you should avoid softer mattresses. This is because you will need a firmer foam mattress to give you the support that you need to keep your spine properly aligned


Side: When you sleep on your side, you are putting pressure on both your hips and your shoulders. You should look for a softer mattress that will better cushion your body and relieve the pressure on your hips and shoulders. Memory foam futon mattresses are a good option for side sleepers.


Combination: If you tend to change positions all night long or turn over frequently, then you are considered a combination sleeper. A good choice for combination sleepers is a medium-firm futon mattress. This type of mattress will give you the right amount of support and comfort. Memory foam mattresses are probably not your best option because you may find it more difficult to change positions.


Your body type

If you have a lighter body weight, then you should get a slightly softer mattress

Your body type can also affect the type of mattress that will work best for you.


Heavier body weights: If you are a heavier person, then a firmer bed is a better option to give you enough support. If you prefer the comfort of a foam mattress, then look for higher quality one to give you more support and durability.


Lighter body weights: If you are a lighter person, then you will probably find that a medium-firm mattress will feel much firmer to you than it would for someone else. If you sleep on your side or you need pressure or pain relief, a softer mattress will be a better choice for you.


Taller people: If you are over 6 feet tall, then you should look for a queen or king-sized mattress. If you choose a single or double, your feet will probably hang out over the edge!


If you experience pain when you wake up


If you find that you wake up in pain each morning, then the right type of mattress could help to ease that pain. 


Lower back and neck pain: If your pain is in your lower back or in your neck, then your mattress may not be giving you enough support. In the past, people with this type of pain were encouraged to purchase a very firm mattress, however, now it is felt that a medium-firm mattress may be a better option for you.


Muscle, joint or pressure point pain: If you are experiencing muscle, joint, or pressure point pain, then a medium-firm foam mattress could help to ease it as well as reduce the amount of time it takes you to fall asleep.


How you will use your futon sofa bed

Choose a softer mattress if you futon sofa bed will mainly be used as a couch

How you intend to use your futon sofa bed will also play a role in the type of mattress you choose. If you want to use it more as a sofa and you will only use it occasionally to sleep on, then you will probably want to select a softer mattress. If, however, you intend to sleep on your futon sofa bed every night or frequently, then you should select a more durable, longer lasting mattress.

2. What size of futon sofa bed should you choose?


Futon sofa beds come in a full range of sizes including:


  • Single: 39" x 74"
  • Double: 54: x 74"
  • Queen: 60" x 80"
  • King: 76" x 80"
  • Custom sizes


Choose a futon sofa bed that will fit into the space that you need it to. 

3. How much should you expect to pay for your futon?

You can expect to pay anywhere from $600 to $1,500+ for your futon sofa bed

On average you can expect to pay anywhere from about $600 for a metal frame, double sized futon including a mattress to $1,500 and up for a queen sized high-quality hardwood frame including a mattress. The amount you pay for your futon sofa bed will depend on a number of factors including:


  • The type and size of frame you choose
  • The type of mattress you want
  • The type of futon cover you get
  • The quality of the futon


You should also ask about any additional delivery or assembly fees as these will add to your total cost.

4. What should you look for in a futon frame?

Check for wooden slats on both a metal and wood frame futon sofa bed

There are many different types of futon frames to choose from. Here are some things to consider when you are choosing your frame.


Materials:


The two most common types of futon frames are made of either metal or wood. Metal or unfinished pine frames are usually less expensive than typical hardwood frames so they make a great choice if you are on a budget. 


Slats:


When choosing your futon, take a close look at the slats. They should be at least two and a half to three inches wide. This is a good rule of thumb for both metal and wooden futons. If you buy a metal futon frame that has metal slats, the metal will start to dig into your mattress over time and cause it to sag. Higher quality metal futons are designed with hardwood slats instead of metal. This type of slat will give your mattress better support and stop it from sagging.


You will pay more for finished pine and hardwood frames, but if you are looking for a more attractive looking piece of furniture that will probably last longer, then these options would be your better choice.


Frame Design:

There are many different futon sofa bed frame designs

A simple L Frame or A-Frame shape will cost you less than one that has arm rests. If your frame has storage drawers that slide out or armrests that fold down into trays, it will also add to the price. However, these great added features are often worth the extra cost.


Quality:


It is a good idea to consider the quality of your futon when making your decision. A higher-quality, Canadian-made futon will last longer than a lower-quality one and will usually look better. 

Futons by The Futon Shop


The Futon Shop has the largest and best selection of Canadian-made futon sofa beds! We also sell futon covers, bean bag chairs, mattress protectors and so much more.


At the Futon Shop we know how amazing our futons are because we are both the manufacturer and the retailer! Since 1984 we have been manufacturing our own line of high-quality futons in a wide variety of styles and sizes. If you prefer, we can also make a custom size to meet your exact requirements. 


All of our futons are crafted right here in Canada at our Burlington location, so you can be sure that you are getting a quality product that will last. We are the largest futon manufacture in Canada, and we have been building our own line of high quality futon mattresses as well. You can come see our incredible lineup at our Burlington location or you can shop for all of our products online. We even ship all across Canada. 

Start Shopping

"I ordered a futon I needed for guests and then picked it up at the store in Burlington.
I had great service through email communications and at the store. And it's a great futon! Highly recommend."


- David Barker


Read more reviews


The Futon Shop Burlington Showroom Business Hours

Tuesday - Friday: 10:00am - 4:00pm   |  Saturday: 10:00am - 3:00pm     Sunday - Monday: Closed


5205 Harvester Rd, Burlington, L7L, ON, Canada



Futons Hamilton
By Dawn Sherwin 06 May, 2024
Fussy sofas and cumbersome beds have met their match in the versatile and stylish futon. With a unique blend of functionality and comfort, futons have cemented their place in modern spaces, becoming a favored furniture item. Simultaneously, it captures the essence of convenience and style for many households. Here are eight compelling reasons why the futon captures hearts and reveals why it's not just a college dorm staple anymore.
Futons Burlington
By Ron Becker 15 Apr, 2024
Futons have garnered a devoted following for a myriad of reasons, chief among them being their unmatched versatility. Ideal for small spaces, futons effortlessly transition from a cozy sofa by day to a comfortable bed by night, making them a perfect solution for guests or those living in studio apartments. They also offer an aesthetic appeal, with designs ranging from traditional Japanese styles to modern, minimalist looks that can complement any decor. Furthermore, the affordability of futons compared to conventional beds and sofas allows individuals to furnish their spaces on a budget without compromising on style or comfort. Beyond practicality and style, many appreciate the simplicity of a futon's design, which promotes a less cluttered and more mindful way of living. In addition to their practical and aesthetic benefits, futons are also celebrated for their environmental friendliness. Unlike traditional furniture that can be cumbersome and often requires complex assembly or specialized disposal methods, futons are typically made from natural materials like cotton, wool, and latex. This not only makes them more sustainable but also easier to recycle or repurpose at the end of their life cycle. Many futon owners find peace of mind knowing they have chosen a piece of furniture that aligns with their environmental values. With the increasing awareness and concern for the planet, the choice of a futon becomes not just one of convenience and style, but also a proactive step toward a more sustainable lifestyle. Futons are not just for students! The notion that futons are merely for college dorms or temporary living situations is quickly becoming outdated. Families, professionals, and retirees alike are discovering the practicality and comfort that a well-chosen futon can offer. Whether it's for a spare room that doubles as an office, or as a primary bed in a minimalist living setup, the adaptability of the futon caters to a wide demographic. This shift in perception underscores a broader trend towards multi functional furniture that doesn't compromise on either form or function, reflecting a more versatile approach to interior design and living spaces. The evolution of futon designs has also played a significant role in their surging popularity. Today's market offers a range of styles, from traditional Shikibuton, a type of Japanese mattress that can be folded and stored away, to the more substantial, sofa-like convertible futons that are common in Western homes. This diversity ensures that there's a futon for every taste and requirement, whether one prefers the minimalist aesthetic of a floor mattress or the practicality of a convertible couch-bed. High-quality futons now incorporate durable, comfortable materials that rival those used in standard mattresses and sofas, ensuring that choosing a futon no longer means sacrificing comfort for convenience. Coupled with the rise of small-scale living and the minimalist lifestyle movement, futons are increasingly becoming a symbol of thoughtful, intentional living. They reflect a rejection of the unnecessary, encouraging a focus on what truly adds value to one’s living space. For many, a futon is not just a piece of furniture, but a choice that supports a lifestyle free from the encumbrances of excessive possessions. This paradigm shift towards valuing simplicity and functionality has propelled futons from the fringes of furniture choices into the mainstream, aligning perfectly with contemporary life's demands and philosophies. When you’re ready to add a futon to your home furnishings, take a trip to The Futon Shop in Burlington. Futons are their specialty and you will love the selection of futons and accessories. The Futon Shop 5205 Harvester Road, Burlington (905) 633-9697
By Dawn Sherwin 21 Feb, 2024
Originating from Japan, the futon is a traditional style of bedding that comprises a padded mattress and duvet, both of which can be folded and stored to save space. The Western adaptation has morphed into a multi-functional piece of furniture that doubles as a couch and a bed, ideal for small living spaces or as a cost-effective furniture option. Ensuring versatility and comfort, futons have become a staple in dorm rooms, guest rooms, and minimalistic living environments worldwide. Futons are not only practical but also renowned for their simplicity and minimalist aesthetic. When selecting a futon, consumers consider the quality of the frame, typically crafted from wood or metal, for durability and support. The choice of futon mattress varies from traditional cotton to modern foam options, offering different levels of comfort and resilience. Accessories such as covers and pillows can be added to enhance the futon’s comfort and match the interior decor, making it a versatile choice for any room. The functionality of a futon is further extended by its ability to seamlessly fit into tight spaces and multipurpose rooms. This quality makes futons an ideal solution for urban living, where every inch of space is valuable. Beyond the practicality, the futon culture embraces a philosophy of simplicity, frequently associated with the minimalist movements and sustainable living practices that advocate for less consumption and a de cluttered way of life. Hence, futons not only serve a functional purpose but also represent an environmentally conscious choice for consumers who wish to minimize their ecological footprint. Maintaining your futon in good condition requires simple yet consistent care. Regularly cleaning the mattress by vacuuming can help keep dust and allergens at bay. If the futon cover is removable, be sure to wash it as per the instructions—most are machine washable—which helps in maintaining its appearance and hygiene. For the frame, wiping it down with a damp cloth can prevent the accumulation of dirt and preserve the material. Additionally, rotating and flipping the mattress periodically will ensure even wear and can prolong the life of your futon. Proper maintenance not only increases the longevity of the futon but also enhances your overall comfort and satisfaction with this versatile piece of furniture.Futons are widely recognized for their cost-effectiveness, offering a budget-friendly alternative to traditional beds and sofas. Their economical appeal is particularly evident when considering the dual-purpose. When you’re ready to enter the world of futon ownership, the experts at The Futon Shop are here for you! They are proud to manufacture futons at a location in Burlington so your futon is locally made. They can also arrange your futon to be shipped across Canada. No matter your budget or style, there is sure to be a futon to fit your needs! The Futon Shop is here for you! Take a visit to The Futon Shop in Burlington to get inspiration for your interior decorating using futons and their accessories. Call the friendly stall at 1-844- 93 FUTON!
Futons Burlington
By Dawn Sherwin 30 Jan, 2024
Futons are often thought of as just a piece of furniture for students or a small and cheap option for those on a budget. However, futons have come a long way since their humble beginnings and can now be found in many homes around the world.
a room with a couch and a sign that says the futon shop
By Dorcus Srivaram 11 Dec, 2023
Looking for great gift ideas this holiday season, consider gifting a futon to your loved ones. The futon shop is here to make your work easy, read more to explore the futon gift.
Futon Home ideas
By Dorcus Srivaram 20 Nov, 2023
Futons are versatile pieces of furniture that can be perfect for any home. They offer a comfortable spot to sit and relax, and they can also be used as a bed for an overnight guest.
Comfortable Futons
By Dorcus Srivaram 17 Oct, 2023
Are you tired of your living space being cramped and uninspired? If so, it's time to consider a futon. Not only does it add a stylish touch to your home, but it is also extremely versatile for small spaces.
Futon Maintenance
By Dorcus Srivaram 27 Sep, 2023
Futons are a popular choice for many people as they provide both seating and sleeping options for small living spaces. They also offer a stylish and modern look that can be easily incorporated into any home décor.
Small room interior designing with futon shop
By Dorcus Srivaram 07 Aug, 2023
A futon is a type of furniture that originated in Japan and has become increasingly popular in Western countries.
Napping
By Chelsey Smith 11 Jul, 2023
Find out what the perfect nap time is, and the benefits of a good old cat nap!
Show More
Share by: