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Futon beds - Things to Know​

Futon beds have become very popular in western countries over the years. Though many people may not know what exactly a futon really is. From their Japanese origins to what we see today, there are some differences, we are going to have a look at them.

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In case you were unaware, Futon beds originated in Japan where they are also referred to as “Futon” and are said to have been first used by samurai. Futons generally consist of two main parts, the “Shikibuton” – the bottom mattress – and a “Kakebuton” – a thick quilted bed cover – similar to goose down comforters. They are made to sleep at night, then folded up during the day and stored away so that the room they occupy can be used for other purposes.



Futons are flat mattresses laid out on a traditional Japanese floor called “Tatami”. They are generally filled with cotton and wool, but today they can also be filled with synthetic fibers. The pillows or “makura” are normally filled with either bean, buckwheat chaff, or plastic beads.

When not in use the futon is stored in a cupboard out of harm’s way. Though they do need regular airing and sunlight to keep them fresh, they are beaten with a bamboo cane, which is similar to the western carpet beater.

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In the west though, they are quite different, we have adapted the futon bed to suit our needs. To many when the word “futon” is mentioned they automatically think of a futon sofa bed. Where instead of the mattress being folded away and kept in a cupboard during the day, it folds up into a usable sofa or armchair. If it is to be used as a full-time bed, they generally won’t be placed on the floor or “makura”, but will have a fixed wooden bed frame to lift it away from the floor, normally to keep the user away from any drafts and cold air on the floor. In the west, we also use much thicker mattresses on our futons. They are more like the traditional mattress used in western beds.

The main reason for the futon bed’s popularity in the west is the fact that they are very cheap. They appeal to the masses who want a simple, fashionable, and comfortable bed.



Futon beds have come a long way from their origins in Japan. They have been embraced by many countries, even if they have been modified along the way. They are a great option if you are short on space, need to save money, or even if you just like the look of them. There are plenty of them out there for you to choose from.

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