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How to Choose a Futon With Mattress

Feb 03, 2023

If you are in the market for a futon with mattress, here are some factors to consider to help you make the right decision. Click on each section to learn more.

Choosing a Futon with Mattress

1. "Futon with Mattress" or "Futon with Frame?"

The term "futon" refers to the mattress not the frame

The phrase "futon with mattress" is a little misleading because a futon is a mattress. Unlike a traditional bed mattress that is rigid, a futon can be folded and it often comes with a frame to hold it up off the ground.


The first futons were made in Japan. These first futons didn't have a frame at all. Instead, they were laid out on the floor on top of mats made from rush. Japanese futons consisted of a mattress and a duvet that you could fold in half and store away in a cupboard when you weren't using it. 


In the 1980s, a modern version of the Japanese futon started to become very popular. These "Western-style" futons were sold with a frame that had slats to support the futon and elevate them off the floor. The frames were either made from wood or metal.


So in essence, when you are shopping for a futon, you aren't looking for a futon with mattress, but you are looking for a futon with a frame. However, whichever phrase you use, a futon supplier will understand what you mean.


2. Which Size of Futon with Mattress Should You Buy?

Futons come in a full range of sizes so you can choose the one that best suits your situation

You can purchase futons in the same standard sizes that traditional mattress come in including:


Single: 39" x 74":

Single futons are very narrow so they are a great choice if you have a tight space to fill. They are only appropriate for one person, so they would be a good option for a child's bedroom, dorm room, camper, or as an extra bed in an office or guest room.


Double: 54" x 74":

Double futons are a great option for children, teenagers, or single adults. They can be used from time to time for two adults, however, you would find this to be quite snug.


Queen: 60" x 80":

Queen-sized futons are an extremely popular choice for one or two adults to sleep comfortably. They will give you more room than a double to move around and they are also longer than a double or single. This is great especially if you are taller.


King: 76" x 80":

A king-sized futon will give you the most sleeping and sitting space possible. It's the perfect option for two adults to sleep comfortably with lots of space to move around at night without disturbing the other person.


Custom Sizes:

Futon Manufacturers like the Futon Shop, can make a futon in custom sizes to go in those hard-to-fit spots that you might have. 

3. What to Look for in a Futon with Mattress

Canadian-made futons will tend to be higher quality than imported ones

If you are wanting a futon that will last and look great, you should take a look at its construction and where it was made.


Construction:

There is a wide variety of quality levels when it comes to futon frames. When selecting your frame, it is very important to take a close look at how it is made, especially the slats. Whether you choose a wood or a metal frame, the slats on the frame should be made from wood.


Higher quality metal frames will have wood slats instead of metal ones. Wood slats will give your futon better support and help it to last longer. The slats should also be at least two and a half to three inches apart and set close together. 


Canadian Made:

If your futon is Canadian-made, it will probably be of a higher quality than one that has been made outside of the country. This is because foreign manufacturers need to compensate for high shipping costs.


To do this they tend to cut costs by using inferior materials or to get unskilled workers that they can pay them less to make them. Canadian manufacturers like the Futon Shop use highly skilled labourers and the best materials to make their futons.

4. How to Care for Your Futon with Mattress


Futons are relatively easy to take care of. 


Futon Frames:

If you purchase a high-quality futon frame, it should last you for many years, especially if you know some simple tricks for keeping it looking its best. Hardwood frames are extremely durable and you can easily buff out or hide accidentally nicks, dents, or gouges in the wood surface if they occur.


Check out our post "Futon Repair - Basic Improvements and Touch-Ups" to learn how or watch this helpful video on how to fix scratches in wood.

Learn how to take care of your wood futon frame

The video will show you how to repair both light and deeper scratches in your wood frame as well as how to fill and fix actual gouges in the wood.

5. Different Styles of Futons


Futons come in a wide range of great styles to suit any style. From traditional to modern, here are a number of great futon packages offered by the Futon Shop.

Trust the Futon Shop for the Best Futons with Frames


If you are looking for the best quality futon frames and mattresses 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 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 manufacturer in Canada and we even build our own line of high-quality futon mattresses. You can come to see our incredible lineup at our Burlington location or you can shop for all of our products online. We ship all across Canada. 


Looking for a small futon? Here are a few options to choose from. Click here to see our full gallery.


Shop Now

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



"Thank you so much Anne and Ron!  We are very pleased with the futon we purchased.   It is very comfortable and has been used in both forms within its first week of use.  Everything we wanted was in stock and we were able to load up right away.   It is wonderful to be able to shop locally and get domestically produced items.  The futons are made by the shop and the frame we got comes from a from a company in Stayner.   Highly recommend The Futon Shop as the first place to shop if you are considering a futon."


- Jamie O'Donnell


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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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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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