What Are The Types Of Futon Frames?

May 30, 2019

Different types of futons are available, from the original Japanese futon, to the modern western variants that you store on a frame and fold from a couch to a bed. Even within those categories are multiple types, and each one has different functions and advantages.

Japanese Futon

The traditional Japanese futon was created to save space, as many modern futons are made to do today. This was because many Japanese families only had one room to live in. This was nothing more than a thin mattress laid only on the tatami mat floor of their home that was stored during the day.

Bifold Futon Frame

The bifold futon is a common type of western style futon. In this style, the mattress is folded in half on top of the frame. The frame then folds down to a flat position for sleeping. Bifold futons can come with different sizes of mattress, affecting the size of the couch when it is folded. Originally, futon mattresses were made from cotton or foam, however, modern futons are available with springs, latex, wool, and even chemical free components.

Loveseat Futon Frame

This type of futon is designed to fit where there may not be too much wall space. There are three loveseat sizes available, twin, full, and queen. As well as acting as a bed and loveseat, loveseat futons also have a third "lounger" position, in which a small deck pulls out to elevate the legs. This puts the futon somewhere in between the two positions of bed and sofa. In addition to the space saving quality, another advantage of this type of futon is that a thicker mattress can be used as opposed to a trifold futon without taking up more room.

Trifold Futon Frame

These are also built to save space. They have a three part design. Rather than a loveseat style that has a separate ottoman section, the trifold frame consists of three connected pieces. This includes the back section, the seat section and the ottoman section. Only thin mattresses can go on a trifold futon so the mattress can properly fold over the back of the frame or underneath itself in couch position. The mattresses most commonly used for this type of frame are not recommended for regular use as they tend to be thinner.