Mattress Ratings > Futon Ratings
What
Is a Futon?
"Futon" is the word Americans use to refer to the traditional
Japanese bed. In Japanese the word is "shikibuton," which
means mattress. A traditional futon is essentially a thin mat filled
with textile batting that is simply laid directly on the floor.
The American futon is different in that it consists of a mattress
and a wooden or metal frame on which the mattress is placed. It also
features a cover that goes over the mattress to protect and decorate
it.
In addition, the American futon has duel use in that it can
serve as furniture during the day in the form of a chair or couch
and then can convert to a bed at night.
Futons are often available in a range of colors, sizes and fabrics.
Their versatility and space-saving nature make them popular
among students, small-apartment dwellers, or anyone seeking convertible
furniture.
Futon mattresses today consist of cotton/blend batting, foam, innersprings
or a combination thereof. More advanced materials such as latex and
memory foam are being increasingly used.