Dec
30
Futon Bunk Bed Comes of Age
Filed Under Home Improvement
The futon bunk bed is a familiar item with college students and young couples. Asian students were the first to use futons because of their familiarity with the traditional Japanese tatami. In Japan, a large mattress is placed on a two-inch foundation of reeds woven together.
Futons quckly became popular because of their functionality. Later, someone came up with the idea of lifting it up off the floor and creating a foldable frame that would be used as couch by day and transform into a mattress by night.
If you’re thinking of buying a futon or daybed as a space-saving solution, here’s what you’ll need to note.
Futon Frame
The design of a futon frame varies quite a bit between the different manufacturers. Quality futons are made of wood with the support slats placed close together. This provides comfortable support and prevents the mattress from being pressed between the slats. If the futon mattress squeezes between the slats, you’ll feel the pressure of the bars against your back causing discomfort and possible back problems.
Knowing where you will use the futon helps you choose the frame. Some models have to be placed away from the wall in order to serve as a bed. Since, in some instances, that distance can be four to six inches, you may need to choose a wall-hugger model. A special hinge allows it to fold out without hitting the wall much like the wall-hugger recliner.
Futon Mattress
Good quality futons come with higher quality mattresses. Originally, all those mattresses were very heavy. They were filled with only cotton and weighed up to eighty pounds. Although you can still find the all cotton variety, the modern daybed mattress is usually filled with a poly-cotton blend and weigh in between thirty and fifty pounds. This allows for superior support and softness without all the weight.
Today’s major mattress makers are also getting into the futon business. Innerspring versions are gaining in popularity. Although they sleep much more comfortably than the traditional mattress, they can be a bit trickier when it comes time function as a couch. While this can be a great option for a futon bunk bed that is used every day, it may be a bit pricey for a guest room.
Futon Cover
When it comes time to dressing up your daybed, remember that the choices are unlimited if you have chosen a neutral frame. The mattress can be covered with futon covers made of any number of materials from cotton to silk, and the material can be matched to your decorating choices. A more popular choice with today’s consumers is the leather or faux leather futon cover.
Summary
A futon bunk bed is a great choice for anyone looking for flexibility in tight spaces. They are comfortable and allow you to sleep well at night. They serve as a sofa when guests are around during the day. Futons have come a long way from their days as a second-rate sleep solution.
By: Louis Zhang
About the Author:
Want to get a good night’s sleep? For more on futon bunk beds and other sleep alternatives as well as mattress comparison tips go to Foam Mattress Central.
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