Most Comfortable Futons (Top 7 Choices)
There’s nothing quite like sinking into a futon at the end of a long day. If you’re limited by space or looking to convert a loft into a games room, futons are petit and stylish additions to your home space. That’s why we’ve spent hours of research compiling a shortlist for the most comfortable futons available on the market.
Below are the contenders. We’ve tried to include something for every budget in this list so settle down, make a cup of tea, enjoy the read and find the most comfortable futon for you.
Top 7 Most Comfortable Futons
| Image | Name and Feature | Our Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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DHP Emily Futon Couch Bed | Check Price | |
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Jerry Sales Eldorado Futon | Check Price | |
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Nirvana Stanford Futon | Check Price | |
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Kodiak Best Futon Lounger | Check Price | |
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Better Homes And Gardens (BHG) Solid Wood Futon | Check Price | |
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Royal Sleep Memory Foam Futon | Check Price | |
|
Best Choice Products Modern Faux Leather Futon | Check Price |
7 Most Comfortable Futons Reviewed for 2023
Here are the latest reviews of the 7 most comfortable futon beds:
1. DHP Emily Futon Couch Bed
Dorel has a long history of providing furniture for modern Americans. The brand was established in 1969 following a coming together of juvenile furniture with a major furniture retailer.
Originally based in Canada, the company moved into the US market in 1989 where their unique brand of imported furniture was an instant hit.
They’ve become synonymous with the futon industry so it’s little surprise that we’re kicking off our list with the DHP Emily futon. Marrying together convenience and comfort this futon can be used as both a lounger and an extra sleeping bed. The stylish chrome base will be a great addition to any living room whilst the light linen fabric is airy and smooth.
Available in nine distinct colors from the soft undertones of beige to statement faux leather this futon will add modern charm to any room. For those limited by space, the foldable back will come in handy, and for those limited by budget this piece certainly is affordable. The tufted back rests are surprisingly comfortable whilst the overall construction is impressive so it’s no surprise to see this at the top of our list of the most comfortable futons.
2. Better Homes And Gardens (BHG) Solid Wood Futon
From an established brand to a lesser-known one. BHG stocks in large retailers like Walmart and has a reputation for providing comforting home furniture without the expensive price tag.
This solid wood futon adds a rustic feel to your home decor whilst its solid wood arms feel reassuringly sturdy.
It may lack a little sophistication in looks but this futon more than makes up for that in terms of comfort. The plush 8” futon mattress feels like a big hug when you sink into it. It still has that characteristic firmness you would expect with a futon but expectations are balanced well against its comforting feel.
The futon is foldable and will double up as a bed if you have guests staying over. The only issues we could find is that the solid wood arms limit the bed size for taller sleepers. Having said that the easy setup and sturdy metal under frame makes this futon a superb budget option.
3. Jerry Sales Eldorado Futon
If you’re looking for a lounger that will fit in a snug space and deliver unrivaled versatility then look no further than this Eldorado futon.
This bespoke furniture is made to order straight from the factory in St. Paul Minnesota. Flawless quality and intriguing design combine to make this superb center-piece.
The stand-out features of the Eldorado futon are the marrying together of design with practicality. The hardwood frame can be supplemented with additional draws should you need extra storage space. The upholstery is available in either faux leather or linen and can be folded down to provide extra sleeping space.
The mattress on top is a clever hybrid of spring coil and futon. This gives it good bounce but is firm enough to encourage you to spend hours watching your favorite movies, or reading your favorite books.
If you’re entertaining, the fold down feature combined with the spring coils means your guests won’t be able to tell the difference between sleeping here or on their mattress at home. In fact the only fault we could find with this futon was the setup instructions. It does take a while to get it right but, once it’s fully set up you won’t regret paying extra for the Eldorado.
4. Nirvana Stanford Futon
This futon range is made in US and is exclusively available through DCG stores. Each piece is bespoke bringing together heritage feel with modern design and manufacturing techniques.
Since their inception, Nirvana futons has come to be known for their high-quality, luxury furniture. The Stanford series is an example of classic American design with a contemporary twist.
This piece has three separate sitting positions to comfort you throughout the day. The sofa position can be flicked back 45 degrees to make loungers and, as the night draws in, you can pull it down to provide an extra bed for your guests.
The Stanford set is all about having the luxury of choice. Owners can choose what type of firmness they want from their mattress and you can have rolling draws placed underneath.
The hardwood frame brings a natural feel to your living space and is climate controlled which means it won’t shrink or expand in fast-changing temperatures.
For a sofa futon that is built to last, fully adjustable and stylish you need look no further than the Nirvana Stanford futon set.
5. Kodiak Best Futon Lounger
Kodiak furniture has been providing students with comfortable loungers for nearly thirty years. Their products are typically on-trend with an affordable price tag and clever design.
This lounger has fold up sides which double as armrests when folded up. When folded down, you can provide a longer sleeping mattress for your guests.
This particular lounger is available in a choice of 19 different designs. There are demure pastille colors as well as out-there polka dots or floral patterns. This futon can operate as both a subtle addition to a small space or as a bold centerpiece.
In terms of comfort we were a little disappointed with the 6” mattress which tends to feel the barred metal frame underneath, especially when folded down. But with a price tag that is this affordable we can’t complain too much. It’s a comfortable futon which can add a bit of pizzazz to your living space.
6. Royal Sleep Memory Foam Futon
Everything about this futon bed is princely except for the price tag. Established in 1984 this Texan-based company knows all there is to know about sleeping.
Don’t be fooled by the basic looking website this brand uses cutting edge technology to deliver comforting sleeping surfaces. This futon is one of the most complex that we’re reviewing today.
The mattress is made up of four different layers including two layers of comforting memory foam. It’s 8” thick but, thanks to the foam, delivers a surprisingly soft sitting feel. The traditional wooden slat design delivers an excellent flat sleeping surface once you fold it down.
Looks-wise this sofa has a pleasing all natural finish which hides it cheaper price tag. It’s no center-piece but the subtle wood tones add a nice finish to your living room decor. So long as you flip the mattress regularly it’s a superbly comfortable addition and belongs on our list of most comfortable futons.
7. Lugo Leland Convertible Sofa
Lugo furniture comes all the way from the UK. The brand has built a reputation for themselves as the go-to supplier for hotels, cruise ships and distinguished members clubs.
Branching out into personal furniture, the Lugo Leland sofa is versatile with the rich texture, design and feel of its commercial products.
This futon is slightly more expensive than the others covered on this list. The quilted upper mattress is superbly soft and is suitable for heavier people. It’s plush with a good balance between sink and support. In fact, this is the most comfortable futon we’ve sat on all day.
It has to be said that the design makes it look a little more like the type of furniture you’d see in a hotel reception. The faux leather outer is good quality as well as easy to clean and maintain. Put it in the right space, and this futon delivers a subtle, wealthy highlight to any room.
8. Mercury Row Benitez Sofa
The Mercury Row Benitez sofa has one of the most eye-catching silhouettes we’ve seen. Perfect for open-concept interior design, this is a thick and gorgeous looking living room piece. We’ve included this product because it’s clever design is perfect for relaxing into. The colors available are more minimalist than versatile. Available in either black or off-white it’s the overall shape and contouring that really makes this piece stand-out. The plush 9” mattress is a joy for sleeping or sitting in a trendy loft-space.
As well as having an effortlessly beautiful appearance this futon has some unique design features. The foldable backswings on a hinge that can be set at a 45-degree angle for watching movies. It’s also split meaning that you can get creative with your sitting arrangements.
The base frame is sturdy using a practical combination of solid and manufactured wood. This means it looks great from the outside without adding too much weight to the overall package. A slightly more expensive addition to your household this European inspired Benitez sofa is more than worth the money.
9. Kebo Deluxe Memory Foam Futon
Premium looking furniture doesn’t have to come with a premium price tag. Leading North American sofa supplier DHP has delivered an affordable yet modern futon using supportive memory foam. The faux leather outer shell is the first thing that catches your eye and the eye of your guests. This adaptable futon is perfect for smaller spaces or games rooms. The sleek, minimalist design gives it a subtle touch while the sturdy base provides excellent support in either flat or sofa setup.
At this price point having memory foam is a huge plus. It adapts to the contouring of your body which means you’ll have no problem spending long sessions on this fashionable futon. Assembly is very straight-forward and should only take about 15 minutes out of the box. There is good reason why this is considered one of the most comfortable futons on the market.
Types Of Futons
Cotton Futon
Cotton futons will be primarily in the thin category between 2 to 4 inches. They wear quickly but are cheap enough investments.
Polyester
Most futons are made from polyester due to its cheapness and versatility. If you’re opting for polyester look out for a Greenguard certificate to guarantee its environmental safety.
Innerspring
Innerspring is featured solely on thick, premium-grade futon mattresses. They’re the closest thing to a real bed and will be used in conjunction with foam or natural materials. The most comfortable futon option by far.
Micro-fiber And Foam
Micro-fibers are more breathable than thick memory foams which will offer excellent support and comfort. Ideal for those who intend to use their futon primarily as a sleeper. Check for the CertiPUR-US certificate to guarantee low emissions on their products.
Things To Consider When Shopping For the Most Comfortable Futons
Below we’ve put a simple guide together to help you decide on your perfect futon. We’ve based this on our own experience, industry experts and popularity. Here are a few of the things you should keep in mind when it comes to investing in a futon mattress.
Care About Brands
Well-known brands always cost a little bit more than their lesser-known counterparts. That’s because investing in a well-known brand guarantees basic aspects of your furniture. Good-quality manufacture, customer service and independently certified materials are all common-place in reputable US-based brands.
That’s not to say that unknown brands won’t have the basic qualities. Opting for a no-name brand will save you heaps but you’ll have to carry out a lot more research to ensure you get the right product. A dodgy folding mechanism, poor workmanship or design can really ruin your futon experience.
If you’re opting for a no-name brand check out as many customer reviews and independent reviews as possible before making the purchase.
Know The Fabric
Arming yourself with as much detail as possible paramount. That means knowing the types of fabrics on offer, their properties and which is your ideal buy.
Memory Foam
Memory foam fabrics are increasingly popular because they offer unrivaled levels of support and comfort. These will usually be firmer than other materials and make for excellent sleeping surfaces.
The downside is that they tend to be less plush than other materials and retain heat. Combining a memory foam inner with a leather cover, for example, will restrict airflow a great deal. If you’re set on a memory foam mattress, try to find one with lots of ventilation or cooling gel.
Natural Fabrics
Natural fabrics can be anything from cotton or wool, to shredded bamboo-based foam. The big advantage of naturally source materials is that they have no noticeable smell. They’re environmentally friendly and will be without chemical emissions or harmful toxins.
These natural fabrics promote excellent air-flow. They’re also premium products which make for the most comfortable futons. If you intend to use the futon as a regular bed, you may find natural fabrics to be too firm.
The downside of the natural approach is cost. Using natural fabrics costs a lot of money to source, sustain and produce so those extra costs get passed on to you. If you can afford it, these make for the finest futon materials.
Polyester
Inexpensive futons will almost always be made from polyester. It’s a cheap material to use and has decent levels of comfort and quality. The downside of polyester is it has a high amount of toxins and won’t be bio-degradable.
Eco-consciousness
The environmental footprint is getting larger and we must make a unanimous effort to reduce it. Natural fabrics are obviously the best for the environment as they have no carbon footprint whilst being fully bio-degradable.
If you’re not investing in an all-natural futon then be aware that different products have a different environmental impact. CertiPUR-US is an independent organization that tests polyurethane foam. Products that meet or exceed environmental expectations in the production of polyurethane foam will be awarded a certificate from CertiPUR-US.
The other important certificate to look out for is the Greenguard certificate. This usually applies to electrical products but also covers the manufacturing practice of mattress providers. A Greenguard gold award means the product is manufactured in an environmentally friendly way.
Covers
Covers are the part of the futon that you’ll be directly interacting with daily. If you’re using a memory foam inner, then look for a linen or bamboo-based cover. These materials will help the mattress to breathe but can be more difficult to clean.
The other popular material is leather or faux leather. Stains will easily wipe away and the futon will be fully water-proof. They can feel sticky against the skin though and will make for a hot sleeping surface during the night.
Removable machine-washable covers are an excellent choice. They’re practical and low-maintenance whilst waterproof covers will help to maintain the integrity of the inner-mattress.
Why Should You Buy A Futon?
Price
Unlike sofas, futons tend to be a lot cheaper to invest in. There’s a huge range of styles to choose from plus they fit into the smallest of spaces. Whether you want to add a sitting space to a small flat or decorate your loft conversion, futons offer an affordable, stylish solution.
Versatility
As well as being low-priced, futons are a useful item to have around your home. If you’re entertaining the foldable design is perfect for providing extra space for guests to sleep. Some futons even have a 45-degree hinge, which means you’ll own a sofa, lounger and guest-bed all in one.
Better Than Floor Mattresses
If it’s a choice between a futon and a floor mattress the futon wins every-time. They’re just much easier to manage. You don’t have to worry about storing them away, or pulling them out at night. Most futons can be folded flat in a couple of seconds and they don’t take up any additional floor space.
Key Features of the Most Comfortable Futons
Making a comfortable sitting or sleeping arrangement is down to three things: mattresses, covers and frames.
Thickness
Generally speaking, you should be looking at least a 6” thick mattress. If you’re a heavier person, then you’ll naturally need a thicker mattress. It’s also worth looking at the material. Memory foam, for example, can deliver an extra level of comfort without becoming too bulky. For full luxury, a foam and spring hybrid is your best bet.
Frames
The frame is an often underrated component in the comfort stakes. A solid metal frame will certainly be sturdy but combined with a thin mattress and a heavier person won’t be more comfortable. The best design is wooden slats which bend with weight and help to distribute it easily. These tend to be more expensive so, if you’re on a budget, make sure to supplement a metal frame with a thicker mattress.
The type of folding mechanism is also important when it comes to choosing the right frame. The best option is a three-way hinge. This allows you to use the futon as a sofa, lounger and bed thanks to a 45-degree locking angle. A folding mechanism should also be as practical and as easy to use as possible. This improves the life-span as well as being safe enough to avoid getting sore fingers.
Covers
Finding comfort is as much about how it feels to the touch as how it feels when you sit on it. Faux leather is easy to clean but it does tend to retain heat whilst feeling sticky on bare legs and arms. Linen covers will collect stains but they tend to breathe a lot better than their faux-leather counterparts. Think carefully about what kind of covering you’re looking for because it can make or break a good futon.
Personal Preference
When we talk about personal preferences we’re talking about firmness. If you like to spend long hours in front of the television then a firmer futon will be ideal. If you just like sinking into a welcoming sofa after a long day then a thicker, plusher surface will be right for you.
The other thing to consider of course is what type of bed you’d like to sleep in. If you’ll be using your futon as a guest-bed regularly then you should invest more in spring coils or memory foam. Likewise, if you’re a heavier person, a firmer more supportive futon will be right for you.
We’ve covered all the key points in this list and offered a range of affordable and most comfortable futons available. Feel free to take the tips from this buyer’s guide and conduct some of your own research before making a purchase.
What You Need To Know About A Futon
The Good
Futons, or sofa sleepers as they’re sometimes called, are the most versatile piece of furniture you can own. If you have limited space or live in a studio flat, having a sofa that doubles up as a guest best is invaluable.
Sofa futons are also cheap considering they fulfill multiple roles in your home. Premium products add style, comfort, and practicality to any living space. Taking into account their uses, futons are relatively inexpensive to own as well.
The Bad
Sleeping regularly on a low-cost futon can be bad for your back and neck. Equally futons with an overly-complicated, or poorly designed, folding mechanism can quickly become more hassle than they’re worth.
Size can be the biggest strength and the biggest weakness of a folding bed. In some designs the mattress is simply not long enough to accommodate adult sleepers whilst, when folded up, only provides enough room for two people.
The Mattress
The mattress is undoubtedly the most important feature when it comes to finding the most comfortable futons. The type you’ll want really depends on what you intend to use the futon for. If you like sinking into a comfy sofa after a long days work you’ll prefer a plush, soft futon mattress. Alternatively, if you intend on sleeping regularly you’ll need something firmer to avoid aches and pains.
Futon mattresses are mainly made from memory foam materials. These are malleable enough to be folded away whilst comfortable enough to provide a good sitting or sleeping surface. The more expensive end of the market will use natural fibers like cotton or wool in their sleeping surfaces which emit no chemicals or toxins during the night. Cheaper futons may rely on polyester.
When choosing the most comfortable futon the mattress size, thickness and firmness should be at the forefront of your mind.
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