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How To Open and Close a Futon Sofa Bed Correctly

Aug 18, 2022

There are different types of futon sofa frames and each one opens and closes differently. It is important to know the type of frame you have to operate it easily. Click on the following sections to learn more.

If you are looking for a high-quality, Canadian-made futon at a price you can afford, contact us.

Learn how to operate your futon sofa easily

How to Operate a Futon Sofa Bed


1. Bifold Futon


A bifold futon has a two-part frame. One part will form the seat of your futon sofa and the other forms the backrest. The shape is similar to that of a piece of paper folded in half when it is being used as a sofa and that same piece of paper opened up and laid flat when it is being used as a bed.


Here are the steps to follow to open and close a basic bifold futon without a spring mechanism.


OPENING

Step 1:
Make sure that you have enough space between the back of the futon and the wall for it to lay out flat. If not, move your futon away from the wall.

Step 2:
If your futon has a latch, make sure that it is undone, before you try to open it. 

Step 3: 
Grab the frame under the seat section at the front of your futon with two hands. If you have a very large futon, you may need a second person to help you.

Step 4:
Start
lifting up the base and pull it towards you. You will need to be moving backward as you are lifting and pulling.

Step 5:
Set the base down on the floor once both it and the backrest are completely flat.

A bifold futon frame is made up of two parts

CLOSING

Step 6:
To close your futon, first, take off all of the bedding and pillows so that nothing will get caught in the frame.

Step 7:
Go around to the back of your futon sofa and start pulling up with two hands on the top bar until it is upright and secure it in that position.

Step 8:
Adjust the mattress so that it lines up properly with the seat and the backrest. 

Step 9:
If your futon has a latch, make sure to secure it.

A bifold futon sofa is shaped like a piece of paper folded lengthwise

2. Bifold Futon with Spring Loaded Mechanism


OPENING

Step 1:
Make sure your
futon is pulled out far enough from your wall so that it can fold out easily.

Step 2:
Place your hand underneath the middle of the front bar of the seat section on your futon (above the stretcher rail).

Step 3:
Lift up and over in a rainbow movement (like an arc) to open the frame. You don't have to use a lot of force because the
spring-loaded mechanism does all the work for you making it very simple to operate.


CLOSING

Step 1:
Move over to the side of your futon and place one hand on the
mattress and one hand on the back of the frame. Alternately, you could place one hand on the arm and one hand on the back of the frame if you find this easier.

Step 2:
Push down on the mattress or the arm and lift the back up at the same time. The springs will also help you to lift up your
futon.


The following video will show you how to operate this type of futon sofa.


 A spring-loaded mechanism helps you open up your futon sofa easily

3. Bifold Studio Frame Futon


This bifold studio frame also comes with a spring mechanism to help you operate it. It is designed with a special extension piece to the frame so that it can open up into a full-sized double bed while having a smaller footprint when it is being used as a sofa.


OPENING

Step 1:
Grab the frame at the front of your futon sofa and lift it over the stopper. This will put your futon into a lounging position.

Step 2:
From the lounge position, lift the futon frame to flip it onto its back.

Step 3: 
Push the frame forward and lift it up towards the ceiling to unlock it from its peg mechanism.

Step 4:
Push it forward again and lift and pull it forward to lay it down flat.

Step 5:
Once it is flat, pull the frame towards you to extend it out even further. Two legs will come down that you can lock into place.

Step 6: 
Place the extension mattress piece onto the extended frame.


CLOSING

Step 7:
To close the frame, simply repeat these steps in the reverse order.

The above picture shows you how to flip the futon frame onto its back - Image Source: Youtube

4. A-Frame Futon


An A-frame or trifold futon frame is made up of 3 parts. Two sections form the backrest and one section forms the seat. This style is especially good for really tight spaces.

The A-Frame frame is made up of 3 parts

OPENING

Step 1:
Move the futon sofa frame away from any walls so that you will have enough space to completely fold it out.

Step 2:
If your futon is designed with a safety latch, undo it.

Step 3:
Grab the bottom rung of the backrest frame and pull it towards you until it lays flat on the floor.

Step 4:
Unfold the mattress and stretch it out along the base.

Stretch all three layers out onto the floor

CLOSING

Step 5:
To fold up your futon, you might find it easier to remove the mattress. 

Step 6:
Lift and fold the backrest of the frame until it makes an upside-down "V" shape. 

Step 7:
Fold your mattress under itself and place it on the frame.

Step 8:
You can also make your A-frame futon into a longer one by simply folding only one end up and leaving your futon frame in an "L" shape as in the picture below.


You can also use your A-frame futon as a lounger

For the Best Quality and Best Priced Futons, 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 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 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.

Start Shopping

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


"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


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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
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.
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