Futon Mattress Sizes and Dimensions

Futons are one of the best ways to turn your living room sofa into a guest bed in one easy step. One minute, it’s a couch; the next, it’s a bed! That gives you tons of freedom to repurpose your office space, game room, and more into a great guest space.

However, there seems to be a lot of confusion as to futon mattress sizes. Are they the same size as bed mattresses? Can you get a new mattress for a futon? What kind of mattress goes best on a futon?

Below, we’ll answer all your burning questions about futon mattresses and more.

SEE ALSO: Best Mattress for Tall People

Futon Sizes

Futon sizes typically follow the dimensions of standard mattress sizes. That means a twin is a twin and a king is a king, whether it’s a futon mattress or a traditional bed mattress. Let’s take a look at their dimensions.

Twin

At 38 inches by 75 inches, twin beds are the most compact of all the adult bed sizes. They’re great for average-height adults who live in small apartments or dorm rooms. You’re more likely to see twin mattresses on loveseat futons or tri-fold futons designed to be chairs.

Twin XL

Like the twin size mattress, the twin XL size mattress is 38 inches wide. However, it adds 5 inches to the length, making the total mattress dimensions 38 by 80 inches.

Twin XL beds are still great for compact spaces, such as mattresses for guest rooms, but they’re long enough to accommodate taller sleepers. Because they’re versatile but small, they’re also a common choice in college dorms.

SEE ALSO: Best Mattresses for College Students

Full/Double

The full or double bed is the most common futon mattress size. At 54 inches by 75 inches, the dimensions of a full size bed are excellent for single sleepers who like to roll around or spread out.

While it’s also called the double bed because it can technically accommodate two people, a full size futon mattress is generally too narrow for two people to sleep comfortably long-term. When it comes to mattresses for couples, we usually recommend queen or king size beds.

Queen

Queen size futon mattresses are also quite popular. At 60 by 80 inches, the dimensions of a queen size bed can comfortably accommodate taller sleepers and couples while still folding into an average-sized sofa for daytime use.

King

At 76 inches by 80 inches, king size futons are super roomy for couples and can even fit a kid or two if you’ve got a family of guests. You’ll probably see a king size futon in a tri-fold design to accommodate the extra width since a king size bed’s dimensions can make for a bulky bi-fold sofa.

Advantages of Choosing a Futon for Your Space

Futons are a versatile choice, offering both seating and sleeping in one convenient piece of furniture. They’re ideal for small spaces like apartments or guest rooms, where maximizing functionality is key.

Futons are also budget-friendly, often costing less than traditional sofa beds or standalone beds, while still providing a range of sizes and styles to suit different needs.

Another advantage is their easy maintenance and portability. Most futons come with removable, washable covers and are lightweight, making them simple to clean and move around. You’ll find various frame designs, from bi-fold to tri-fold and loveseat styles, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your space.

In addition to being practical, futons also offer a stylish option for modern homes. With different colors and materials available, they can complement any décor, all while serving the dual function of a sofa and a bed.

By opting for a futon, you gain the flexibility of a space-saving, cost-effective, and stylish furniture piece that seamlessly transitions between seating and sleeping, perfect for modern living.

Ideal Futon Mattresses

While many futon mattresses can double as sofa cushions, if you want to replace one with a more “mattressy” mattress, you do have a few options.

SEE ALSO: Best Mattress for Kids

Memory Foam

Memory foam mattresses are one of the most popular mattress types, and with good reason. This special type of polyurethane foam is designed to cradle and support the human body during sleep.

As a futon mattress, memory foam is flexible and contouring enough to bend with tri-fold and bi-fold designs.

Beware, though, memory foam tends to morph to fit the shape of your body, so it may compress down more than you prefer if you’re using your futon as a sofa. Firmer memory foams should counter this issue at least somewhat.

Latex Foam

Natural latex is a little less contouring than memory foam and a little better at retaining its shape. For this reason, it might make a better futon mattress alternative than memory foam. A latex mattress will not only provide a comfortable sleeping surface but it will also offer a more responsive sitting surface for when your futon is folded into a sofa.

Plus, latex foam is an excellent material for people sensitive to synthetic allergens.

Hybrid

Since hybrid mattresses contain coils, many people think this mattress type won’t be any good for a futon. However, unlike innerspring mattresses (many of which have a rigid open coil support system), hybrids have a pocketed coil support core flexible enough to bend with adjustable bases and futons alike.

Hybrids are a good option for futons because they’re supportive and comfortable.

However, one thing to watch out for is gravity. If you’re planning to keep your futon folded the majority of the time, you might want to consider a mattress without coils, as the constant pull of gravity on the upwardly bent portion of a hybrid mattress could warp the coil system.

SEE ALSO: Hybrid Mattress Buying Guide

Futon Mattress Thickness

Futon mattresses come in a variety of thicknesses, typically ranging from 3 inches to 9 inches, with some going as thick as 12 inches or more. The best thickness for your futon depends on how often it will be used and the comfort level you desire. 

For futons that double as a regular sleeping space, a thickness of 8 inches or more is recommended, as it compares to the comfort of a standard mattress. Thinner futon mattresses, while suitable for occasional use, may lack the support needed for daily use.

The comfort level of a futon mattress also plays a crucial role.

Futons generally come in plush, medium, and firm options. Plush mattresses offer a softer feel, ideal for side sleepers who prefer gentle cushioning. Medium comfort provides a balanced experience, making it suitable for most users, especially back sleepers. 

Firm futons, on the other hand, are great for stomach sleepers and those seeking extra support, particularly for back pain relief. By choosing the right thickness and comfort level, you can ensure your futon provides the perfect balance of support and relaxation.

Types of Futon

There are three basic types of futon frames: bi-fold, tri-fold, and loveseat. Each has its strengths and weaknesses.

Bi-fold Frame

Bi-fold futons are the most common frame type. Bi-fold futon frames fold in half lengthwise right down the center to make a standard sofa.

Bi-fold futons are great if you want a regular couch during the day and a bed at night without having to go through all the difficulty of pulling out and setting up a hide-a-bed.

Bi-folds are most likely to come in queen and full sizes and can have mattresses as thick or thin as you prefer.

Tri-fold Frame

Tri-fold futons fold their mattresses into thirds to create a sofa or chair with a footrest.

Tri-folds are an excellent choice for people who enjoy a lounger. Since the mattress folds into thirds with this frame type, thinner mattresses are usually better, as are more flexible materials like memory or latex foam.

Loveseat Frame

Loveseat futon frames are designed to fit into small spaces. They’re more likely to be tri-fold in design since they’re much longer than they are wide. Twin and twin XL mattresses convert into loveseats when folded, so a futon of this size will only sleep one person. Some loveseat futons also feature a built-in ottoman for added comfort.

Materials Availability in Standard Futon Sizes Frame

Futon frames come in various materials, each offering unique benefits in terms of durability, aesthetics, and functionality. The most common materials used for futon frames include wood, metal, a combination of both and Plywood.

Wooden futon frames are popular for their sturdy build and classic look. They come in different finishes and types of wood, such as oak, pine, or maple, allowing them to blend well with various interior styles. Wooden frames tend to be long-lasting and can support heavier mattresses, making them ideal for regular use.

Metal futon frames, on the other hand, are lightweight and often more affordable. They offer a sleek, modern look and are typically easy to move around, making them great for small spaces or temporary setups. 

However, they may not provide the same level of durability as wooden frames, especially for heavy or daily use.

Combination material frames combine both wood and metal elements, offering a balance of strength and design flexibility. These hybrid frames often feature metal for structural support and wooden accents for visual appeal, creating a versatile option that fits both traditional and contemporary spaces

Plywood is another material often used in futon frames, valued for its affordability and versatility. Unlike solid wood, plywood is made by layering thin sheets of wood veneer, which gives it strength and resistance to warping. 

Plywood frames are generally lighter than solid wood frames, making them easier to move while still providing decent durability. Though not as visually appealing or long-lasting as hardwood, plywood futon frames can be a budget-friendly option for those who want a wooden appearance without the higher cost. 

Plywood frames are suitable for light to moderate use, and they are often found in minimalist or modern futon designs. When choosing plywood, ensure the frame is of good quality to avoid potential bending or cracking over time.

By choosing the right material, you can ensure your futon frame not only suits your décor but also meets your practical needs.

Futon Alternatives

When it comes to stowaway beds, you have lots of options besides futons. Murphy beds, for example, can fold up into a cabinet and stow in the wall, while hide-a-beds have a bed underneath the sofa cushions. Rollaway beds can stow inside a closet, while trundle beds slide into a bedframe.

Murphy Beds

Murphy beds have a lot of advantages. Their cabinets can come with tons of fun designs and even storage space, and you can use them long-term. You also have a wide range of options when it comes to mattresses for a Murphy bed.

One of the best things about Murphy beds is that you don’t have to fiddle with sheets and pillows to convert them. You just flip the mattress into the wall, and that’s that.

Hide-a-beds

Hide-a-beds or fold-away beds fold up and stow under the cushions of an ordinary-looking couch. These are great if you want a couch that doesn’t look like a futon.

But if you’re going to have guests frequently or long term, these might not be the most comfortable option because their frames aren’t all that supportive and their mattresses are typically thinner.

Rollaway Beds

Rollaway beds, meanwhile, have a wheeled frame that can fold the mattress in half so it can roll into a storage area like a closet. These are a convenient option for those who don’t like a lot of steps to set up a mattress for guests.

However, if you have a small closet space, you might be better off with a futon.

Trundle Beds

Trundle beds are a good alternative to futon mattresses if you want a bed for guests. A trundle bed is built into the drawer of a bed frame, so you can slide it out when it’s needed and keep it stowed away when it’s not necessary. This style of bed is typically inexpensive and compact.

You just have to make sure you don’t use too thick or heavy of a mattress with a trundle. Look at bunk bed mattresses and such.

Choosing The Right Sheet for The Standard Futon Size

Selecting the right futon cover size is essential for both aesthetics and functionality. A well-fitted cover not only enhances the look of your futon but also protects the mattress from wear and tear.

Futon covers come in a range of sizes to match standard futon mattress dimensions, including twin, full, queen, and king.

To ensure the best fit, first, measure the thickness of your futon mattress. Thicker mattresses, especially those 8 inches or more, may require deeper covers, while thinner mattresses can work with standard-sized covers. 

Additionally, it’s important to consider the type of futon frame you have, as bi-fold or tri-fold futons may affect how the cover fits when folded or unfolded.

Stretchable or zippered covers can offer a snug fit, preventing slipping and giving a tailored appearance. With a wide range of colors, fabrics, and patterns available, choosing a futon cover also allows you to match your futon to the overall decor of your room. 

By selecting the right size and style, you can keep your futon looking fresh and extend the lifespan of your mattress.

FAQs

Are there other stowable beds beside a futon?

Yes. In addition to futons, Murphy beds fold into the wall, hide-a-beds fold underneath regular couch cushions, and rollaway beds fold up to store inside a closet. There are also other, less common configurations, such as the sectional sofa bed. In this setup, an L-shaped sectional can fold in half to make a square bed.

Air beds are another option for those who don’t mind pumping them up. Trundle beds are an extra bed that stores underneath an actual bed for people who are alright with sharing their bedrooms with guests. And if you’re okay with sleeping on the floor or a tatami mat, Japanese futons are made to roll up just like a blanket even though they’re stuffed with plush material.

Do they have California king futons?

King and California king size futons are bulky and tough to fold. While you might still run across a king sized futon (though they’re not as prevalent as full and queen futons), a California king’s dimensions are 72 by 84 inches or a full 6 feet by a full 7 feet. This means California kings are just too cumbersome to make good futons.

Is a futon mattress comfortable for anyone to sleep on?

Yes, a futon mattress can be suitable for a wide range of sleepers, depending on its thickness and overall comfort level. When selecting a futon mattress for regular sleeping, it’s advisable to opt for a thicker option, ideally one that is plush or medium-firm. This thickness is essential for providing adequate support across different sleep positions, whether you sleep on your back, side, or stomach. A well-chosen futon mattress can enhance comfort and ensure restful nights.

How do I choose the right futon mattress size?

Choosing the right futon mattress size is essential and depends on several factors, including your available space and intended use. The ideal futon mattress size depends on your space and intended use.
For smaller or compact areas, twin or full-size futons are excellent choices as they provide adequate sleeping space without overwhelming the room. If you need more sleeping space or plan to accommodate two people, a queen or king-size futon would be more appropriate, ensuring both comfort and practicality in your living space while providing ample room for sleeping.

Can a full-size mattress be used on a futon frame?

Yes, a full-size mattress can indeed be used on a full-size futon frame, as long as the frame is designed to support that specific mattress size and weight. However, it’s generally recommended to use a futon-specific mattress instead.
Futon mattresses are designed to fold and fit comfortably on the frame, allowing for easy conversion between sofa and bed configurations. Using a standard mattress might affect the overall functionality and comfort of your futon setup.

How much weight can my futon take?

That depends on its construction and size. Wooden futons are generally more sturdy than metal ones (though this depends on their quality). Futons made for two sleepers can hold more weight than futons made for one. That means a full or queen can hold more than a twin or twin XL.

Naturally, the best way for you to tell how much weight your futon can hold is to look at its label. Most futons will come with a user manual or at least a booklet with safety and assembly instructions, which should tell you its maximum weight capacity.

Can two people sleep on a futon?

If a futon is wide enough, then two people can sleep on it. Full and queen size futons can generally hold two people. Just remember that full size futon mattresses might not be comfortable enough for two people to sleep long-term. If you’re going to be having guests regularly, you might want to upgrade to a queen size mattress.

What kind of sheets does my futon need?

Since the mattress that comes with your futon may not be as thick as a standard mattress, you might want to consider a shallower sheet like the sheets made to go on trundle beds or hide-a-beds. Some futon mattresses have a plush or cooling cover that eliminates the necessity for a futon sheet. If you buy a standard-thickness mattress for your futon, you’ll need to get sheets of standard depth.

Is it okay to sleep on a futon mattress every night?

Yes, sleeping on a futon mattress every night is perfectly acceptable, particularly if the mattress is sufficiently thick and supportive. To ensure long-term comfort and prevent discomfort over time, it is advisable to choose a futon mattress that is at least 8 inches thick or thicker. This thickness will provide the necessary support for your body while you sleep, making it a viable option for those seeking an alternative to traditional mattresses for nightly use. Proper selection can lead to a restful and rejuvenating sleep experience.

Bottom Line

Futons are perhaps the best two-in-one sofa bed on the market today. In one or two quick motions, they can fold into a couch or a bed without the hassle of a hide-a-bed or the inconvenience of a rollaway bed that needs extra storage. Far from being pure function, futons can come in tons of fun designs that make them just as much of a statement piece as a couch and a bed.