Futon mattresses often don’t get the recognition they deserve. High quality futon mattresses can rival a regular bed mattress in terms of comfort and good sleep. But the term “futon mattress” is really a general description of a few different types of non-traditional bedding. There’s the well-known futon mattress and frame that converts from a couch to a bed, folding futons that don’t require a frame and are often seen in dorm rooms, and the traditional Japanese shikibuton, the original futon mattress.
We reviewed dozens of different futon mattresses to identify the best of the best. We looked at framed mattresses, free standing futon mattresses, and the traditional Japanese mattress. Furthermore, we checked out the different materials used to make the mattresses, such as cotton, foam, springs, and memory foam.
We chose Classic Brands Classic Black 8-Inch Futon Mattress as our favorite because it has individually wrapped coil springs that enhance the sturdiness of the mattress, while the encasement prolongs the life of the springs.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Futon Mattresses
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Top Pick | Classic Brands Classic Black 8-Inch Futon Mattress | 4.3 |
| Runner Up | Cozzzi Trifold Foam Folding Mattress | 4.5 |
| Best for Budget | Best Choice Products Thick Folding Portable Mattress Topper | 4.5 |
| Best Memory Foam Futon Mattress | Milliard Tri Folding Memory Foam Mattress | 4.7 |
| Best Japanese Futon Mattress | FULI Japanese Traditional Shiki Futon Mattress | 4.4 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Our Top Pick: Classic Brands Classic Black 8-Inch Futon Mattress
Classic Brands Classic Black 8-Inch Futon Mattress hits our top spot for its versatility. This futon mattress fits a standard full-size futon frame, but it can also be used on a regular solid bed frame or box spring. The mattress retains its shape when converting from a couch to a bed, and vice versa, thanks to its pocket coil design. Six inches of individually encased coil springs are topped with two inches of high quality foam. Not only does this give you more comfort and support, but it reduces wear and tear on the mattress as well.
The Classic Brands Classic Futon Mattress is covered in a soft microfiber polyester material. It’s easy to clean and maintain – just wipe it down with a damp cloth. The colors available for this futon mattress are brown and black. Choose the neutral color that is more apt to match your décor. The plush cover enhances comfort while the medium to firm foam gives support to your body. The futon mattress arrives compressed and rolled up, but rest easy with the one-year warranty that is offered by the company.
Classic Brands Classic Black 8-Inch Futon Mattress Key Features:
- 8-inch thickness
- Cover is quilted microfiber
- 1-year warranty
- Fits any full-size futon frame
- Can be used with regular bed frames
- Pocket coil springs
Our Runner Up Pick: Cozzzi Trifold Foam Folding Mattress
Cozzzi Trifold Foam Folding Mattress earned our runner up spot because it is a solid, folding mattress that offers supportive seating and comfortable sleeping. Though it doesn’t fit a futon frame like our top pick, this free standing futon mattress is made from dense foam, which gives it firmer support. And it’s not just for sleeping on either. You can use it to sit and read, meditate, do yoga, or just get comfortable on the floor with your pets.
This futon mattress has a cover that zips on and off, so it’s easy to take care of. Just remove the cover to clean it. It’s both machine washable and dryer safe so your futon remains newer longer. But the mattress is also lightweight and easy to carry around, which makes it convenient to take with you wherever you go. Pack it in the car for quick family overnights, camping with friends, or star gazing with your loved one. And since it folds in on itself, it stores easily in compact places.
Cozzzi Trifold Foam Folding Mattress Key Features:
- Cover has a zipper for easy removal
- Cover is machine washable and dryer safe
- Transforms in to a chair
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Folds for easy storage
Best Budget Pick: Best Choice Products Thick Folding Portable Mattress Topper
We chose Best Choice Products Thick Folding Portable Mattress Topper as our favorite budget pick. If every penny counts, consider this futon mattress for your needs. With four inches of high-density foam, the mattress folds and converts in to a couch. Its lightweight structure makes it versatile enough for use at home, college, camping, or even as an extra bed in a hotel. Whether you use it as a bed or lounger, this futon mattress is firm, sturdy and stable.
The Best Choice futon mattress has a removable cover, which helps keep the futon cleaner and lasting longer. Just toss it in the washing machine when it needs a wash, and either line dry it or spin it in the dryer on low. But it’s not just easy to take care of. The mattress comes with a carrying case and handles, so it’s convenient to take it on the go and store it away.
Best Choice Products Thick Folding Portable Mattress Topper Key Features:
- Comes with a carrying case
- Can convert to a sofa
- Folds in two places for easy storage
- Removable cover is machine washable and dryer safe
Best Memory Foam Futon Mattress: Milliard Tri Folding Memory Foam Mattress
The best memory foam futon mattress we found is Milliard Tri Folding Memory Foam Mattress. Sitting on top of more than four inches of firm foam is nearly two inches of memory foam. This combination enhances support for your body while also giving you a comfortable place to lie down. The sides of the cushion are a breathable mesh, allowing for more air flow. And thanks to the memory foam, your body temperature is better regulated while you sleep.
The cover of this futon mattress is made from soft bamboo, and it’s removable, so it’s easier to maintain. The memory foam has been certified as safe from harmful flame retardants, lead, mercury, heavy metals, and phthalates. Since the futon mattress folds in three, it’s convenient and versatile enough to take on the go, or move from room to room as needed. You can also fold it in to a chair or lounger, if you want to use it for something other than sleeping.
Milliard Tri Folding Memory Foam Mattress Key Features:
- Constructed with toxin-free fiberglass
- Extra soft bamboo cover
- Medium firm foam for sturdiness
- Folds in two places
- Memory foam regulates body temperature
- Breathable mesh sides
Best Japanese Futon Mattress: FULI Japanese Traditional Shiki Futon Mattress
A traditional Japanese futon mattress is different than the more well-known version of a futon mattress that doubles as a couch. We chose FULI Japanese Traditional Shiki Futon Mattress as our favorite Japanese futon mattress because it’s an authentic shikibuton, or shiki futon, made in Japan. The stuffing is 100 percent polyester, while the outer fabric is 100 percent cotton. It comes in a variety of sizes, and is roughly four inches thick. Traditional shikibutons are firm and offer solid support.
Typically, a Japanese futon mattress is part of a bedding set. The shikibuton is the mattress, the tatami is the mat that is placed underneath the mattress, and often there is a plush comforter or blanket for on top. This shikibuton can be used with or without other traditional Japanese bedding. Because it’s lightweight and resembles more of an American comforter, it’s easy to care for and keep fresh. Air it out on your clothes line, shake it over a railing, or gently beat on it to remove dust, dirt, and debris. This shikibuton can be rolled up so you can store it out of the way.
FULI Japanese Traditional Shiki Futon Mattress Key Features:
- Made in Japan
- Nearly four inches of padding
- Rolls up for space-saving storage
- Use with other traditional Japanese bedding
Who Should Buy a Futon Mattress
One of the main appeals of a futon mattress, regardless of the type, is that they’re great when you’re short on space. Whether it folds, rolls up, or converts into a couch, the futon mattress takes up less room than a traditional bed with frame, mattress, and box spring. And if you don’t have too much space, a futon that can double as another piece of furniture or be tucked neatly away in your closet can be a game-changer.
Futons are also cheaper than regular mattresses, but no less comfortable. Depending on the type you are looking for, a futon can be an inexpensive way to solve what could be a difficult problem – not having a bed or the space for one. Futon mattresses are also quite versatile in that you could sleep on it on the floor, a futon frame, or even use it on a box spring. They’re durable and made to last for years.
Important Features to Consider
A futon mattress should have a few important features. Here’s what to consider when selecting a futon mattress:
- To frame or not to frame. Futon mattresses can be used with or without frames. Some futon mattresses are designed with the frame in mind, while others are designed to stand alone. Consider which type you are looking for. If you want a futon with a frame, you’ll need more space than you would if you use a free-standing futon. A framed futon is also often sought after as a more permanent piece of furniture.
- Considerations for materials. Futon mattresses come in a variety of materials, and are available with different types of stuffing. Some futons are made with inner springs or pocket coils, much like a standard mattress. This gives the mattress more stability, but less flexibility. Futon mattresses that are made from firm foam, polyester, and cotton are generally firmer and offer more solid support. You can also choose memory foam as a filling, which gives the added feature of regulating your body temperature.
- Your living space and the purpose of your purchase. Why do you want a futon mattress? Your reason for needing a futon will partially determine which type of mattress you purchase. If you’re looking for a quick overnight option for guests, then a free standing futon mattress may be the optimal way to go. If you’re needing something for a small living space, then you might want to consider a futon that is both a bed and a couch.
- Maintaining your futon mattress. All furniture needs cleaning and maintenance. How easy it is to keep a futon mattress looking fresh and new may or may not be important to you. But it is something to consider. Always check with the manufacturer’s directions for taking care of your futon in order to keep it at its best. Some mattresses can only be spot-cleaned with a damp cloth, while others have removable covers that can be tossed in the washing machine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What mattress size is a futon?
Futon mattresses come in a variety of sizes. Futon mattresses that fit specially-made frames that are designed to convert from a couch to a bed can be found in chair, single or cot, loveseat, twin, full, and queen sizes. Likewise, free-standing futons that fold in two or three places are also found in those same sizes. The traditional Japanese futon, or shikibuton, comes in single, double or full, queen, and king. However, the Japanese dimensions of those standard sizes are different than they are in America.
Are futon mattresses comfortable?
Futon mattresses are designed to offer firm support. They are often reported to be more comfortable than a regular mattress. But it really depends on the type of surface you are most comfortable on. Comfort is subjective since some folks do well on a softer mattress, while others prefer a firmer surface. Futon mattresses tend to be geared toward those who like firmer mattresses.
How long does a futon mattress last?
If a futon mattress is treated well, it should last for years. Check out the manufacturer’s instructions for caring for your futon. Adhering to their rules will give it the longest life. Most futon mattresses should last you five to seven years. Higher quality futons can last 10 years or more.
Can you put a regular mattress on a futon?
A futon mattress is a type of mattress and often replaces a regular mattress. Technically, you could put a regular bed mattress on a futon, but it would defeat the purpose of the futon, and be a waste. However, a futon mattress can be placed on top of a regular mattress, if so desired.
If you don’t have a futon mattress but have a futon frame, you can place a regular bed mattress on the futon frame when it is open in the bed position. That said, you won’t be able to close the frame into the couch position because it will be too rigid to bend.
Other Futon Mattresses We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other futon mattresses. Even though they didn’t make our five best futon mattresses list, they’re the best of the rest, and still great futon options. The information you need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Futon Mattresses for Futon Frames
- Folding Futon Mattresses
- Japanese Futon Mattresses
- Memory Foam Futon Mattresses
Futon Mattresses for Futon Frames
DHP 8-Inch Independently Encased Coil Futon Mattress
The DHP futon mattress has individually wrapped spring coils, which are layered in between foam and polyester. The mattress fits any full-size futon frame.
Key Features:
- 15-gauge pocket coil springs
- Mattress cover is microfiber
- 8-inch thickness
Cost: $140
Mozaic Cotton Twill Futon Mattress
The Mozaic queen futon mattress fits a standard queen size futon frame. The mattress is made out of memory foam, with a thickness of six inches.
Key Features:
- Cover is cotton twill
- Made in the USA
- Certified safe flame retardant
Cost: $130
The Mozaic twin futon mattress fits a twin size futon frame, and offers eight inches of thickness. The mattress is made from polyester memory foam.
Key Features:
- Cover is cotton twill
- Mattress is reversible
- Made in the USA
Cost: $153
Folding Futon Mattresses
American Furniture Alliance Twin Tri-Fold Mattress
This tri-fold futon mattress regulates your body temperature as you sleep due to the breathable mat. The seams are double stitched for durability.
Key Features:
- Lightweight with carrying handles
- Thickness is 3.5 inches
- Made in the USA
Cost: $83
Milliard Full Tri Folding Mattress with Washable Cover
This folding futon mattress has a soft top with foam that is of medium firmness. The fiberglass casing has toxin-free fire protection.
Key Features:
- Bamboo cover is machine washable
- Mattress thickness is four inches
- Breathable mesh sides
Cost: $121
Milliard Tri-Fold Foam Mattress and Sofa Bed
The Milliard futon mattress doubles as a sofa. Comprised of high-density foam, the cover is removable for easy cleaning.
Key Features:
- Cover is machine washable
- Foam is certified safe
- Over four inches of thickness
Cost: $158
Cushy Form Tri-Fold Folding Mattress
This folding futon mattress has four inches of high-density foam, and has a removable cover.
Key Features:
- Comes with a carrying case
- Cover is machine washable
- 100 percent money-back guarantee
Cost: $105
Japanese Futon Mattresses
D&D Futon Furniture Traditional Japanese Floor Futon Mattress
This traditional Japanese futon mattress is made with cotton, polyester, and foam. The top is covered in a fiber batting.
Key Features:
- Made in the USA
- Meets flame retardant safety regulations
- Rolls and ties up for storage
Cost: $135
EMOOR Compact-Sized Japanese Futon Set
This Japanese futon set includes a kakebuton and shikibuton, which is a comforter and mattress, as well as a pillow.
Key Features:
- Recommended for use on a foam or tatami mattress
- 100 percent cotton fabric
- 100 percent polyester filling
Cost: $190
FULI Japanese Traditional Igusa Tatami Mattress
Crafted in Japan, this tatami mat is made with local rush grass.
Key Features:
- Folds in three places
- Lightweight and breathable
- Extra large twin size
Cost: $129
MAXYOYO Black Moon and Star Futon Mattress
This moon and star designed futon mattress is roughly four inches thick, with cotton and memory foam filling.
Key Features:
- Comes with a carrying bag
- Layer of memory foam in between microfiber cotton
- Soft top cotton layer
Cost: $140
MustMat Japanese Traditional Tatami Mat Futon Mattress
This traditional Japanese tatami mat has a rush grass surface, and is recommended for those who love to sleep on firm surfaces.
Key Features:
- Mat folds for convenient storage and carrying
- Has a light grass smell
- Just over an inch in thickness
Cost: $139
Luxton Home Japanese Shiki Futon Mattress
Made from 100 percent organic cotton, this Japanese futon mattress creates a firm sleeping surface.
Key Features:
- Polyester filling
- Padding is 2.5 inches thick
- Lightweight
Cost: $165
Memory Foam Futon Mattresses
Best Choice Products Tri-Folding Memory Foam Gel Mattress
This Best Choice Products futon mattress is made from memory foam, and has a removable cover for easy cleaning.
Key Features:
- Cover is machine washable
- Comes with handles for easy carrying
- Foam is certified safe
Cost: $70
Best Price Mattress Full Trifold Mattress Topper
This futon mattress has four inches of thickness, with a memory foam top layer and high-density foam bottom layer.
Key Features:
- 5-year warranty
- Removable cover is machine washable
- Infused with green tea extract
Cost: $110
Innovex Fold N Go Tri-Fold Memory Foam Mattress
An inch of memory foam plus another three inches of firm foam make up this Innovex futon mattress. The cover is water-resistant, which protects the foam from spills.
Key Features:
- Comes with a carrying case
- Cover is removable for cleaning
- Folds for easy storage
Cost: $92
Inofia Memory Foam Tri-fold Mattress with Bamboo Cover
The Inofia memory foam mattress is four inches thick, composed of memory foam plus a sturdier, durable foam. The mattress has been certified safe against toxic chemicals.
Key Features:
- Removable and washable bamboo cover
- 10-year warranty
- 100-night free trial
Cost: $160
Lucid Folding Mattress and Sofa with Removable Fabric Cover
The Lucid futon mattress has memory foam, doubles as a sofa, and is certified toxin free. The cover is suitable for indoors or outdoors, and is removable for cleaning.
Key Features:
- 3-year warranty
- Cover is machine washable
- 4-inch thickness
Cost: $151
Milliard Tri Folding Memory Foam Mattress with Washable Cover
The Milliard queen memory foam mattress allows air to flow freely, helping regulate your body temperature while you sleep. The mattress offers more than six inches of thickness.
Key Features:
- Memory foam is certified safe
- Removable jacquard cover
- Breathable mesh sides
Cost: $204
Olee Sleep Topper Tri-Folding Memory Foam Mattress
The Olee memory foam mattress is a single size that folds in two places so you can use it as a bed or seat.
Key Features:
- 4-inch thickness
- 100 percent polyester
- Can be placed on floor or bed frame
Cost: $67
