Blog Post

How to Use a Futon: A Guide

Mar 09, 2023

If you are new to futons, here's a helpful guide that will teach you everything you need to know about how to use a futon. Click on each of the following sections to learn more.

What is a futon and what makes them unique
How to use a futon: Tips for opening & closing
Futon uses

If you are looking for the best quality, Canadian-made futons, contact us.

How to Use a Futon

1. What is a futon and what makes futons unique?

A futon is a versatile piece of furniture that can be used as both a sofa and a bed

Futons are an incredibly ingenious piece of furniture that can be used as both a bed and a couch. They originate in Japan where they were used as a space-saving type of bed. The Japanese futon was made up of two parts: a mattress and a duvet. They were often stored in a large closet during the day and brought out at night for sleeping. These early futons were usually laid out on a rush mat.

The main difference between traditional Japanese-style futons and the modern versions you see today is that modern futons are placed on slatted frames to lift them up off the floor. Instead of storing your futon away in a closet, like the Japanese futons, Western futon frames can be folded up and used for seating during the day.

The term futon refers to the mattress part of this multipurpose furniture. Futons are made of cotton batting that is covered with cotton ticking. They are they sewn together using through-thickness stitches, called tufting, to hold the material in place.

2. How to use a futon: Tips for opening & closing

It is quite simple to learn how to use a futon. Most modern and well-made futons are very easy to operate and convert from a seating position to a sleeping position and vice versa. There are different types of futon frames and each one opens and closes differently. Here are some of the main types with a brief description of how to operate them.

A-Frame Futon

It is easy to learn how to use a futon, especially an 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. To open an A-frame futon, do the following:

Move the futon frame away from any walls so that you will have enough space to completely fold it out.
If your futon is designed with a safety latch, undo it.
Grab the bottom rung of the backrest frame and pull it towards you until it lays flat on the floor.
Unfold the mattress and stretch it out along the base.

When you want to close up your futon, take the following steps:

To fold up your futon, you might find it easier to remove the mattress.
Lift and fold the backrest of the frame until it makes an upside-down "V" shape.
Fold your mattress under itself and place it on the frame.
You can also make your A-frame futon into a longer chaise lounge-style seat by simply folding only one end up and leaving your futon frame in an "L" shape as in the picture above.

A-frame futons are especially good for really tight spaces because they take up very little room.

Bifold Futon

A bifold futon frame has two parts: the seat and the backrest

A bifold futon has a two-part frame. One part will form the seat of your futon and the other forms the backrest. Here's how to open up a basic bifold futon frame:

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.
If your futon has a latch, make sure that it is undone, before you try to open it.
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.
Start lifting up the base and pull it towards you. You will need to be moving backward as you are lifting and pulling.
Set the base down on the floor once both it and the backrest are completely flat.

To close your bifold futon, do the following:

To close your futon, first, take off all of the bedding and pillows so that nothing will get caught in the frame.
Go around to the back of your futon and start pulling up with two hands on the top bar until it is upright and secure it in that position.
Adjust the mattress so that it lines up properly with the seat and the backrest.

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

Bifold Futon with Spring-Loaded Mechanism

It is very easy to learn how to use a futon with a spring loaded mechanism

If your futon frame has a spring-loaded mechanism, it will be especially easy to open and close. Here's how to open one:

Make sure your futon is pulled out far enough from your wall so that it can fold out easily.
Place your hand underneath the middle of the front bar of the seat section on your futon (above the stretcher rail).
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.

Here's how to close it:

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.
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.

This video demonstrates how to use a futon

If you are still unsure about how to use a futon, contact us and we'd be happy to help you.

3. Futon Uses

Futons are multi-purpose pieces of furniture that can give you options when it comes to additional sleeping and sitting solutions. You can put a futon in a variety of rooms in your home such as:

Home Office
Bedroom
Living room
Basement
Garage
Attic or Loft
Family Room
Den
Cottages

They are a great way to optimize your space in your multifunctional areas. When you have extra overnight guests, they can turn into your room into the perfect extra bedroom.

Because of their small size and versatile design, they also make a great option for college dorms or even trailers.

The Futon Shop: for the Best Futon Canada Wide

If you are looking for the best futon Canada has to offer, 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.

Start Shopping

"I am very happy with my futon/frame purchase. I called the store and someone helped me find a frame that was in stock and was able to ship the futon to me in a couple of days. And received it 3 business days later, right before Christmas."

- Diego Borja

People Love Their Futons

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

Tell Me About Futons

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!