The Different Types of Futon Mattresses
A lot of people are unaware that there are many more types of futon mattresses than just the 100% cotton variety. Cotton futon mattresses and cotton with foam futons are by far the most common but there are a number of other options for those searching for a suitable futon mattress.
Cotton Futon Mattress
This mattress is your traditional futon mattress filled with cotton with a cotton cover. It is a firm mattress but can easily fold to form a love seat or sofa. It often comes with a wooden frame that can be folded into a sofa also. The cotton mattress can be prone to moisture, especially from your body heat while you sleep and thus requires airing out in a well ventilated room. To prevent lumping, rotating and flipping the mattress every few weeks is also recommended.
Cotton & Foam Futon Mattress
This is the most popular futon mattress because it holds its form better than the 100% cotton mattress and yet is still very affordable. It essentially allows for a good sleeping experience while still being firm and holding shape. The core is made up of layers of foam which is surrounded by a cotton batting. The more foam layers there are, the softer the mattress will be. The shape of this mattress will hold for about twelve years before it needs to be replaced.
Wool Futon Mattress
The wool futon mattress is not very common because many people (myself included) have allergies to wool. Still, wool is a natural insulator, which makes this futon mattress eco-friendly and better in cooler climates. These mattresses also have foam cores since wool alone does not hold it’s shape well. You’ll definitely need to get a futon mattress cover as well since wool tends to be very absorbent. This mattress requires the same amount, if not more maintenance as the cotton mattresses.
Polyester Foam Mattress
Typically, the less cotton in the bedding, the longer it will last. This holds true for synthetic fabrics such as polyester. Polyester provides the support and firmness that a person would want in a futon mattress. It contains a foam core with a single layer of cotton around the foam to provide softness. This mattress can support all body types because they are very resilient and can hold their shape for a very long time. The mattress is lightweight and is made for everyday use. It should be flipped and rotated about every three months.
Futon with Innerspring Futon Mattress
This mattress resembles a typical box spring mattress. It comes in all sizes from a twin up to a king, whereas most other futon mattresses only come in sizes up to a queen. Within the mattress are springs which are encased with several layers of foam. It does not fold up and is only designed for sleeping purposes. This mattress is much bulkier than others and is also more expensive. It will last as long as a typical commercial mattress and it requires light maintenance which includes being flipped and rotated about every six months.
As with most products, the price will be reflected in the design and quality of the materials. However, with futons the lesser the quality of material, the less you will want to use it for sleeping purposes. Cheap cotton futons do best as sofas or as a guest bed. If you want a futon for your permanent sleeping surface however, the other options listed are a better choice.
So which one do I prefer? Well as a traditionalist I actually prefer either a high quality staple cotton futon or a cotton and foam futon which actually gives you the best of both worlds; the natural fiber of cotton and the high density foam for longer lasting durability and support.
