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Futon vs Sofa Bed vs Bed vs Murphy Bed: Which Is Best For Me?

May 30, 2022
If you are trying to compare a futon vs sofa bed vs bed vs murphy bed, here's help. CLick here to get a detailed description for each type of sleeping option and then check out the following sections for a comparison in the following categories.
  1. Cost
  2. Size Options
  3. Overall comfort
  4. Ease of use
  5. Small space rating

Futon vs Sofa Bed vs Bed vs Murphy Bed


To help you decide which type of sleeping option is the best choice for you, here are some detailed descriptions.

Futon:

A futon is made up of a frame that is constructed of either metal or wood. A futon mattress sits on top of this frame.


The futon mattress is used as both the couch cushion, back support and the sleeping mattress

Sofa Bed:

There can often be a lot of confusion about a futon vs sofa bed. Some people think of them as the same thing when actually they are quite different.


A sofa bed has its mattress hidden underneath the frame of the sofa when you are using it as a couch. It comes with separate seat cushions as well.


Photo by Maniago, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Bed:

A bed is a fixed structure that does not fold up and it usually is not used for any purpose other than sleeping. Alternatively, a bed can also be used to lounge on during the day.


Photo by Kenny Eliason on Unsplash

Murphy Bed:

A murphy bed is a type of bed that is hinged at one end and folds up vertically against your wall to store away when you aren't using it. Some murphy beds also fold up into a closet or cabinet on your wall.


The mattress is usually attached to the frame with elastic straps to keep it from slipping off when it is folded away.


Photo by David Boyle, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

1. Cost 


It is hard to compare the cost of a futon vs sofa bed vs bed vs murphy bed because the price you pay will depend on a number of factors including the quality, style, size, and type you choose.


Generally speaking though, if you are comparing roughly the same size and quality of a product, a bed is going to be your most expensive because you are paying for a box spring, mattress and headboard. Your next most expensive would be your sofa and murphy bed because of their more complex structures. Futons are generally your least expensive option.


2. Size options 


Futons, sofa beds, beds, and murphy beds can all be purchased in a single, double, queen, and even king options.


Futons come in a full range of sizes including king

3. Overall comfort


Futons: Futons have thicker mattresses than sofa beds which make them more comfortable to sleep on. If you are going to use your futon for sleeping on a regular basis, then they are a better choice than either a sofa bed or a murphy bed. You can even purchase high-quality mattresses for your futon such as memory foam ones which can make them just as comfortable as regular beds. 


Beds: Most beds are made up of a box spring and a mattress which together will give you lots of support and a very comfortable sleep. Your overall comfort will however depend on the quality and age of your boxspring and mattress. If your mattress is old and worn out, then it is not going to be very comfortable.


Sofa Beds: A sofa bed mattress needs to be thin enough so that it can be folded and hidden away inside the sofa. This means that the sofa bed is usually the least comfortable option. 


Murphy Beds: Murphy beds don't have box springs so the mattress lies on a wire mesh or wooden platform that holds it in place. This can make them rather uncomfortable to sleep on.


Most beds have a boxspring and a mattress - Image by Dim Hou from Pixabay 

4. Ease of use 


Futons: Futons are generally very easy to convert from a seating position to a sleeping position and vice versa. For many models, you simply need to press the back of the futon down or lift the front of the futon up to turn it into a bed. To bring it back into a sofa position, simply lift the back up or push the front down.


Sofa bed: To use a sofa bed for sleeping, you need to first remove the seat cushions to expose the top of the bed frame. You then have to pull the frame up and unfold it. The frame is usually made of metal and it can be quite heavy to pull out. When you are finished sleeping, you need to fold the frame back inside the sofa and place the seat cushions back.


Bed: You don't have to make any adjustments to convert it into a bed. Just climb in and fall asleep. This makes it very easy to use. However, if you want to use the space for another purpose, then a bed is heavy and awkward to move out of the way or to store.


Murphy bed: To store your murphy bed away, you need to lift it up at the bottom and walk it up to its vertical storage position. You need to be careful that the bed is securely stored before letting go so that it doesn't accidentally fall on you.

Futons are very easy to operate

5. Small space rating


Futon: A high quality futon is often the best choice for small bedrooms, dorms, apartments, and multi-purpose spaces in the home. They take up relatively little space and they are functional for many different circumstances.


Sofa Bed: A sofa bed is also multi-functional giving you both the option of sitting and sleeping on it. However, if you want to use it for sleeping more than just occasionally, it is not a very comfortable option.


Bed: A bed will take up the most space and it is not as multi-functional. If you are tight on space, then a futon would be a better option for you.


Murphy Bed: A murphy bed takes up very little space when you are not using it, making it a great choice for small spaces. However, once you put it away, you can not use it to sit on and you are left with an empty space with no furniture in it.

Futon vs sofa bed: Both are multi-functional - Photo by Jelrik Stevens on Unsplash

For the Best Quality and Best Price for Your Futon, Choose The Futon Shop


If you are looking for the best quality futons at the best price, contact The Futon Shop. 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 Ontario 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 even build our own line of high quality futon mattresses. You can come see our incredible lineup at our Burlington location or you can shop for all of our products online. We ship all across Canada. 

Start Shopping

"We purchased from here instead of getting something shipped from Amazon because we were hoping for better quality & better customer service, not to mention supporting local, and we were not disappointed. Everyone we spoke with was super kind & helpful, our order was ready quickly and they fully loaded it into our vehicle, and when we had a slight issue with our order they were extremely quick to resolve it. The futon looks great and the mattress is really comfy. We did go with the tahoe pine frame which is not the best quality wood, but that’s to be expected in our price range - opt for better if you can afford it. Overall, worth the extra drive to Burlington (or the shipping cost if you get delivery)

."

- Kathleen Pacheco


Read more reviews


The Futon Shop - Burlington Showroom


5205 Harvester Rd, Burlington, L7L, ON, Canada


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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.
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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
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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!
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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.
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