Futons are popular alternatives for regular beds and mattresses as they are versatile and can be used as a couch, sofa or bed. It is ideally suited for your bedroom, living rooms, guest rooms, student dorms, vacation houses, offices and RVs. While traditional Japanese futons are placed on a mat, modern futons are placed on a wooden frame or a low platform. A futon has three main components: a supportive frame, a thin mattress, and a covering.

Types of futon frames and pads
Futon designs have undergone multiple tweaks in design, making them more versatile to modern apartments. Metal and wood are the most commonly used material for frames. You can also choose from frames with and without arms. The most popular and best-selling futon frame types are:

Bi-fold frame: You can fold it as a sofa or straighten it as a bed
Tri-fold frame: You get additional space to stretch your legs. You can use it as a bi-fold futon, sofa or bed.
Loveseat frame: It is a smaller futon, comfortable for one adult and a child. It is also suitable for balconies and corner spaces.

Types of futon pads
In America, futons are available in standardized sizes, while some brands allow you to customize the height per your requirement. The pads or mattresses sit on a futon frame and are thinner than standard mattresses, so they can be folded easily. A futon mattress may last between five to 10 years. The most common type of futon mattresses are foam, foam with cotton, memory foam, coil, latex, cotton, and wool.

Futons – A shopping guide
Futons are popular as they are affordable, lightweight and versatile. They could be the right product for you if you move frequently, live in a small space, or prefer functional furniture. Here are some points to consider before you buy a futon:

Measure the available space accurately
Though futons are available in standardized sizes, knowing how much space is available can help you decide on the right size. The futon should not only fit in the existing space but also not hinder movement or be a hazard for kids or seniors.

Choose the right frame and pad size and type
Wooden frames usually come with arms and are heavier and difficult to move. They are ideal for those who don’t need additional beds often. Metal frames are usually armless, lightweight, come in modern designs, and are easily moveable from one room to another. Thin mattresses look good on metal frames, whereas thick mattresses are best for wooden frames. The standard sizes for futon mattresses and pads are twin, twin XL, full, full Xl, queen, king, and California King.

Choose a right cover
Choose a cover that is easy to maintain, durable, and matches the theme and aesthetics of your room.

Test the futon and mattress
If you buy a futon in a retail store, test if it is easy to operate, fold and move. Check the firmness of the mattress that suits you before buying. If you are shopping online, look for reviews and comments beforehand.

Choose from the best futon retailers and suppliers
Look for suppliers with a good reputation and offer benefits like customization, free shipping and a good warranty. Choose a brand that offers multiple futon types and mattresses. Some of the leading futon retailers and suppliers include Wayfair, The Futon Shop, Overstock, Futon Planet, Hayneedle, and Futonland.