Futon Vs. Sofa

Function

• "Futon" is a Japanese word used to describe a thin mattress that can be stashed in a closet when not in use to conserve space. The Western concept of a futon has been expanded to mean a combination of a mattress and a frame, which together form a sofa that can convert into a bed. Futons are comparable in function to convertible sofa beds, which are also known as sleeper sofas.

Types

• Futon frames are made of metal or wood. To function as a sofa, futon mattresses are either folded into thirds width-wise or into halves lengthwise, then arranged on the frame. To form a bed, the frame and mattress are both straightened out. A sleeper sofa is indistinguishable in appearance from a traditional sofa, yet can be converted into a bed, generally by folding down the sofa back.

History

• The American concept of a futon was the brainchild of a Boston furniture designer named William Brouwer, who, in the 1970s, came up with a design for a mattress supported by a wooden frame that could function as a sofa during the day and a bed at night.

  Futons were originally marketed to those in need of temporary and inexpensive bedding and seating, such as college students, and were generally avoided by those seeking more durable furniture. Over the years, higher-quality materials have gone into the construction of futon mattresses and frames, making them more similar in quality to traditional sofas. Futon mattresses, which used to be filled with lumpy, low-quality stuffing, are now constructed of the same premium materials as regular bed mattresses and are comparable in comfort and support.

Considerations

• Futons are less expensive than sofas and also perform two functions with one single piece of furniture. Sofas are sold preassembled, whereas a futon frame often must be put together by the purchaser. Because futon frames and mattresses are two separate and unattached pieces, some futon mattresses have trouble staying in place on the frame while in a sofa position.

Potential

• The distinction between sleeper sofas and futons will likely continue to decrease. As futons continue to be constructed from high-quality materials, they are more likely to be viewed as a permanent alternative to sofas instead of a short-term solution. At the same time, as the quality increases, the price will increase as well, thus narrowing the difference between sofas and futons even further.