Blog Post

Wooden Futon vs Metal Futon: Which Is Best?

May 19, 2022

If you are trying to decide which would be better to buy, a metal or a wooden futon, here are some factors to consider. Click on the links to learn how metal and wooden futons compare in each category.

You might also be interested in the following:

If you are looking for high quality and best prices on Canadian-made futons, check out our selection.

Metal Vs Wood Futon: A Quick Comparison

Metal Futon Wooden Futon
COST Least Expensive More Expensive
LIFESPAN Shorter lifespan Longest Lifespan
THE LOOK Modern, Contemporary Classic, Traditional, Beautiful Natural Grains
DURABILITY Less Durable than Wood More Durable Than Metal
SET-UP Requires 1 Person Requires 2 People

Discover the difference between metal and wooden futons

1. Cost


The price that you pay for your futon will depend on the style, quality of workmanship, size, and material you choose. For example, a hardwood futon manufactured by a reputable company is going to cost you more than a metal one that you purchase in a box store. When you are looking at the price of futons, see if it includes the mattress or is you have to purchase the mattress separately.


If you love the look of wood but you can't afford a hardwood futon, then there are other wood options such as unfinished pine that are much less expensive and often cost the same or less than a metal futon.


Metal futons : Generally metal futons are one of your least expensive options. 


Unfinished pine futons: Unfinished pine futons are another very inexpensive option as well. In fact a basic A-frame or L-frame can actually cost you less than a metal futon.


Finished pine futons: Finished pine futons will give you the lovely look of natural wood in a variety of different finishes and will cost you less than hardwood.


Hardwood futons: Hardwood futons are your most expensive option, however they are worth the higher price-tag if you are looking for an exquisite looking wood finish that will last you for years to come.

An A-Frame unfinished pine futon can cost less than a metal frame futon

2. Average Lifespan:


A hardwood futon, made from wood such as oak, birch, ash, and maple,  will have a longer lifespan than a metal futon. If you are looking for a futon that will last, then spending the extra money for a hardwood frame is worth the investment. 


3. The Look:


Metal and wooden futons have quite distinct looks. The style of your room and the overall look that you are going for can help you determine which one would be better for you. In the past futons had the reputation of being a cheap-looking piece of furniture. That is no longer the case. 


Metal futons: Metal futons have come a long way in regards to style in recent years. They are very sleek and contemporary looking so they are a great choice if you want a modern design. 


Wooden futons: Wooden futons, on the other hand have a very classic and traditional design. A hardwood futon will look amazing in any room. You can't beat the natural beauty of a hardwood frame that showcases the incredible looking grain of the wood.


Wooden futons also give you a wide selection of stains and varnishes so that you can select the perfect hue to go with your room. 

Metal frames can look very contemporary

4. Durability:


Not all futons are made the same. Generally speaking a wooden futon is going to be more durable than a metal one. 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 the slats are narrower, then they won't give you enough support and they could even damage your mattress. When purchasing a metal frame, also take a look at the welds. Make sure that they look solid. If the welds are bad then your futon is not going to last very long.

5. Set-up:


Metal futons are much lighter than wooden futons which makes them easier to set up. One person can usually move and do the set-up for a metal futon whereas you will usually need two people to handle and set up a wooden one. The good news is that a reputable futon company will usually offer to set up your futon for you for a reasonable fee.


Many futons today are much easier to operate than they were in the past. Companies like the Futon Shop have greatly improved the design to make them a breeze to operate. The following video will show you how easy it is to work this wooden futon.

Futons are much easier to operate now

Questions to answer to help you choose between a metal and wooden futon


How big of a space do you have for your futon?


Metal futons usually take up less space. If space is tight and you are looking for extra storage, you could choose a wooden futon that has storage drawers underneath.


What style of room do you want to put your futon in?


Choose a futon that will go with the other furniture in your room. For example, if you already have wooden furniture, then a wooden futon would probably be the better choice.


What is your budget?


If you are on a tight budget, then you are probably better going with a metal or unfinished pine futon. If you can afford it, then spending more on a hardwood frame will be a better investment as it will last longer.


How long do you need your futon to last?


If you just need a temporary sleeping and seating solution, then a metal futon might be your best option. For example, if you are purchasing one for a dorm room and it only needs to last 4 years, then go with a metal frame.


Where will you put your futon?


If you want your futon to go in your living room, and you will use it every day, then a hardwood futon would probably be the best choice. If you are placing it in your basement as an extra seating or sleeping area when you have overnight guests, then you might just want to purchase a metal futon.

Metal and wooden futons both have advantages

Shop Now

The Futon Shop: For the Best Quality and Best Price for Your Futon


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

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


Our Burlington Location

"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


Read more reviews


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: