How to Buy a Futon

How to Buy a Futon that Fits

Futons come in a wide variety of sizes to fit just about any room. However, not all futons are created equal when it comes to setting them up in a room. Knowing how to buy the right futon for you will help you avoid an uncomfortable piece of furniture and unnecessary returns.

Some models are designed to fit right up against the wall, while others must be placed 8-12 inches away from the wall if they will also be used as a pullout bed. This is an important consideration if space is a premium in your home. Most futons can be pulled out to a twin size bed, though some others can be as large as a king or queen size bed. Remember, the larger the bed size, the bigger the futon and its footprint in the room will be.

Warranty and Return Policy

Check out the warranty and return policy on the futon prior to purchase. Frames should be built to last for at least 5 years. A return policy is important because you may decide after sleeping on one that it isn’t for you.

Comfort

Since you, or guests in your home, will probably sleep on your futon, comfort is one of your top priorities in selecting one. Try out a futon in the store you are purchasing it from before you buy. Some futons are attractive, but they are very uncomfortable to sit or lie on. If you are buying a futon online, try to find a similar model in a local store before you buy.

Style

Futons are no longer slabs of wood that fold up like an accordion. They come in many styles to suit just about any taste. Whether you like modern or beach cottage, there are models that will look great in any home. Depending on the room you plan on using your futon in, you can choose from frames made of metal, wood and even wrought iron. There are even futon styles that are simply made of foam cushions held together with a flexible material cover.

Frame Size

Futons are made either in a bi-fold or tri-fold frame. The bi-fold frame works best for rooms that have limited space. A tri-fold frame will take up much more space in your room, especially if you choose to use a thick mattress.

Choosing a Mattress

The mattress you choose for your futon is just as important as the frame itself. If you have purchased a futon and you don’t like the mattress that came with it, buying a new futon mattress that suits you is easy. The following are some guidelines that will help you choose a mattress that is functional and comfortable:

• Weight: The weight of your mattress is important if you have to move it frequently. While heavier mattresses usually last longer, lighter mattresses (such as those made of foam) are much easier to move.
• If you will be using the futon as a sofa and a sleeper, consider purchasing an innerspring mattress. They are the most comfortable to sleep on, though they do weigh more than other futon mattresses and are also the most expensive.
• For futons that are used more frequently as a sofa, consider purchasing thick foam or foam and cotton blend mattresses. They are less expensive than innerspring mattresses, but serve well for occasional use as a sleeper.
• Choose an economy 6-inch thick mattress if your futon will be primarily used as a sofa. These are the cheapest futon mattresses on the market. However, they are usually uncomfortable to sleep on since they offer the least support.
• Purchase a mattress cover for your futon. This will extend the life of your futon and protect it from spills and daily wear.

Futons are great functional pieces of furniture. Whether they are used as sofas, sleepers or a combination of both, they offer the owner versatility for entertaining. The cost of a futon ranges from around $100 with a mattress, to several hundred dollars. Consider purchasing a futon for your home instead of a guest bed; they’ll take up less room and can be used all of the time. How to buy a futon depends upon your needs and your space limitations.