Futon Information

Frames

• William Brouwer created the first futon frame in 1983. He created a futon that sat off the floor. Since he created the original futon frame, manufacturers have come up with two predominant types of folding frames: bifold and trifold. A trifold frame requires folding the mattress twice, while a bifold frame folds the mattress once. The bifold is the industry standard; however, manufacturers still offer the trifold models as well. Frames are now available in twin, double, full and queen sizes. Select your size according to your needs. For example, a twin or double size futon is suitable for a child's room, while a guest room might use a full or queen size piece.

Mattress

• The futon is an American derivative of the Japanese term "shikibuton," which is a floor mattress. A futon mattress is made from cotton so that it can easily fold. You can find mattresses in high-quality innerspring and plush varieties. For daily use, a high-quality innerspring futon mattress is more comfortable, while you can get away with a basic futon mattress for occasional use. Mattress slippage is a common complaint of futon owners. Placing a nonslip pad under the mattress will help prevent it from sliding off the frame, according to Futons.org.

Covers

• A futon mattress is bare, just like a traditional mattress. Rather than covering a futon mattress with a sheet, futon covers are used to add patterns and style so that a futon looks more like a couch than a bed. Most futon mattresses fit up to an 8-inch-thick mattress, but large mattresses require special-order covers. Before purchasing a special-order cover, measure the length and width of the futon without its cover.

Maintenance

• A futon receives a lot of wear, especially if you use it frequently. Keep the Allen wrench that came with your futon for assembly somewhere accessible. Every six months, retighten the screws of your futon; this will reduce wear and keep the assembly tight. During your six month upkeep, look at the pins that connect the seat and back sections together. Reconnect any pins that have fallen out of place or replace any that appear to be broken.