The Best Futons For Every Space, Style & Budget In 2022
A comfortable, stylish futon can be a perfect addition to your living room, office, or guest room. Especially if you live in a small space, a futon is a perfect space saver — it’s a bed, couch, and chair all in one!
Now, don’t worry, the days of huge and awkward-looking futons are long gone. Sure, you could always get a classic thin fold-out futon couch with a wooden frame, but there are now lots of futons that look so stylish you would have no idea they’re futons. Another important thing has also changed – futons no longer feel like a rock to sleep on. Well, some don’t at least. Boasting supportive memory foam, thick cushioning and other comfy materials, many modern futons can indeed keep you comfy and asleep all night long.
So turn your office into a guest room in just a few minutes with one of the best futons on this list. Whether you’re looking for something high-end or budget-friendly, there are awesome futons of all shapes, sizes, and materials in this guide.
- Most Durable: DHP Lodge Convertible Futon Couch Bed
- Best Futon Mattress: Kodiak Furniture Linen Charcoal Full-Size Futon Mattress
- Best Futon Overall: Novogratz Brittany Linen Futon
- Best Futon with Accessories: Best Choice Products Modern Faux Leather Convertible Futon
- Highest Weight Capacity: DHP Emily Futon
- Best Memory Foam Futon Mattress: The Futon Factory 6-Inch Foam Futon Mattress
- Best Inflatable Option: Intex Pull-Out Inflatable Bed Series
- Best Japanese Floor Futon: MAXTOTO Japanese Floor Futon
- Best Mid-Century Modern Futon: Mopio Chloe Futon Sofa Bed
- Best Luxury Futon: Novogratz Tallulah Memory Foam Futon
The Best Futon
1DHP Lodge Convertible Futon Couch Bed
If you’re looking for a durable, inexpensive futon, look no further than this DHP Lodge Convertible Futon Couch Bed. Our tester wanted an affordable futon sofa for her camper van, one she could both sit comfortably on as well as sleep in. She had 73″ lengthwise to work with and the DHP Lodge is 71.5″ long, so it was a close fit.
Our tester reports she has been sleeping on this sofa bed a few nights a month for the last six months. Overall, she found it quite comfortable for one person, a little cramped with two but she and her partner both fit fine regardless. She describes this futon sofa as quite comfortable but reports that the hinge is a bit hard and awkward if she lays right on it, so she added a mattress topper to make it a bit cozier.
In addition to being slept on, this futon sofa has been a platform and carried our tester’s things while she moved apartments, transported crashpads, been all over the west coast, hosted friends for chatting and wine and so much more. So far, this sofa bed has been comfortable, durable and tolerant of anything our tester has thrown at it so we highly recommend it.
Microfiber upholstery with padded seats
Durable wood frame
600 pounds weight limit
Easy click-clack mechanism
Available in four different colors
- BrandDHP
- Model2038519
- Weight51 Pounds
Super-durable construction
Comfortable enough for sleeping
Converts easily from sitting to lounging to sleeping
Excellent value for money
While pretty comfy, we still recommend a mattress topper for sleeping
Not the most stylish futon out there
2Kodiak Furniture Linen Charcoal Full-Size Futon Mattress
Maybe you found a solid wood frame for your futon on Facebook Marketplace or got one passed down from a friend. That’s great, but the mattress makes you cringe just to look at it, let alone sit or sleep on it! If you’re in the market for just the mattress to go on top of your futon frame, this is a great option.
This mattress uses 13 gauge open coil springs to provide a durable and comfortable surface for watching tv or to fall asleep on. Layers of cotton and high-density Certipur-US foam cover the coils to add plush comfort. The outside of the sofa cushions is covered with upholstery-grade fabric with a choice of colors.
Bear in mind that the listing is just for the mattress, not the bed frame. The mattress is designed to fit any standard-sized futon frame, so you can find a frame that suits you best. The internal hinge makes it easy to turn it from a couch to a makeshift bed. However, it doesn’t work right in every orientation, so make sure to arrange the mattress in the correct direction on the frame to get it to open and close with ease.
High-density foam and cotton cushions
Linen tufted cover
Open coil springs
Available in four colors
Dimensions – 74 x 54 x 8 inches
- BrandDHP
- Model5424696
- Weight50 Pounds
Fits any standard frame
Supportive and comfortable
Sturdy and stylish
Some people had issues with getting it set up properly
3Novogratz Brittany Linen Futon
Looking for the perfect mid-century modern couch but want it to play double duty as a bed? This stylish futon chair will fit perfectly in your perfectly curated living room or office but will also make for a great guest bed in a pinch.
In case it wasn’t obvious, the Novogratz Brittany Linen Futon is not your average-looking futon. Your guests will be wondering where the sofa bed is when they see this pretty couch. The ribbed tufted back with a choice of over 10 upholstery options and oak-colored legs add a pop of color and comfort to any room. Plus, the multi-functional split-back design allows you to not compromise during movie nights when one person wants to sit up straight while the other wants to recline or lie down. Each side independently reclines between three positions: sitting up, lounging, and sleeping.
The sturdy wood frame supports a polyester and foam lining which adds cushioning and comfort. This is a pretty firm couch due to the style of the cushions, which has led to some reviewers finding it less than comfortable to sleep on. But it’s pretty easy to add a thin memory foam mattress topper for sleeping, and if you’re looking for something that isn’t your everyday sitting couch, the Novogratz Brittany will add the perfect flair to your mid-century modern styled room.
Sturdy wood frame construction
Stylish linen upholstery
Comfy polyester and foam filling
Ribbed tufted cushion back
12 colors
- BrandNovogratz
- Model2115029N
- Weight84 Pounds
Stylish, complements any modern living room
The wooden frame is very sturdy
Affordable and easy to set up
Not the most comfortable futon out there
You’ll need a memory foam mattress topper for sleeping
4Best Choice Products Modern Faux Leather Convertible Futon
For your studio apartment, dorm room, or home theater, Best Choice Products Modern Convertible Futon adds a modern feel and the comfort and style of faux leather upholstery. The fake leather is good quality and comes with a choice of neutral colors including black, white, or dark brown upholstery options.
The back cushions adjust with three levels of reclining so you can choose your level of comfort. Plus the 500-pound weight limit easily allows two to sit (or lay) on this couch. However, it’s definitely on the smaller side of futons, which might make it challenging for two taller adults to sleep comfortably on the makeshift bed. We also recommend a mattress topper to make sleeping even comfier.
But the features that set this futon chair apart from the rest are the middle armrest and two cup holders. They provide additional comfort and serve a very practical purpose, plus easily detach when you fold the futon back to become a bed.
For more quality furniture, check out our selection of the best bunk beds.
Tufted faux leather upholstery
Chrome metal legs
Two cup holders
500 pounds weight limit
Range of reclining options
Seats two
3 colors
Fast conversion
- BrandBest Choice Products
- ModelSKY2878
- Weight61.7 Pounds
Great for smaller spaces
Large load capacity
Different reclining options
Not the most comfortable futon out there
Leather material isn’t great to lay on, we recommend a mattress topper
5DHP Emily Futon
The DHP Emily Futon is a simple, elegant futon that can work as a bed and a sofa. It features a split-back design that allows you to lower or raise just one half of the futon at a time. It comes with the option of velvet, linen or faux leather upholstery so you can choose what fits your space best. You can also buy the matching chaise lounge to add seating space and create a sectional.
The DHP Emily Futon packs even more in terms of weight capacity than the previous option, as it’s capable of holding up to 600 pounds of weight. The chrome legs add support whether it’s a bed or a sofa. There’s a hinge down the middle that allows the futon to fold completely in half which is helpful for storage or moving.
At 16 inches in height and 75 pounds in weight, this will be one piece of work to install. However, reviewers say it’s quite easy to set up, and comes with all the necessary tools and materials. Just get a second pair of hands to help you out, and you should be good.
For a peaceful night’s sleep, here are some lovely sleep accessories you might also like.
Square tufted cushion design
Chrome metal legs
Split back design
600 pounds weight capacity
8 colors
High weight capacity
- BrandDHP
- Model2007009
- Weight75 Pounds
Modern look, great for living room and office
Easy and quick to setup
High weight capacity
Firm cushions are not that comfortable for sleeping
While it has a great weight capacity, it could be more durable
6The Futon Factory 6-Inch Foam Futon Mattress
If you’re looking for comfort at an affordable price tag, this memory foam futon mattress is a great option. The six-inch memory foam mattress includes four layers of cotton padding around three layers of a memory foam core. Made in the USA, this mattress is perfect to replace your uncomfortable, old futon mattress. Choose either a full or queen-sized option, depending on your futon frame. It’s also flippable so you can make sure that it wears evenly.
The hand-tufted durable cover comes in a variety of color options and is easy to clean. The mattress ships compressed into a small space so make sure to give it a few days to expand before use. Unlike many of the options on this list, reviewers find this mattress to be comfortable enough to sleep on every night, so if you’re looking for something more suited to sleeping rather than looking elegant, this is the best memory foam futon mattress option out there.
6-inch memory foam wrapped in cotton
3 layers of memory foam, 4 layers of cotton
Hand-tufted and Made in the USA
Flippable mattress
Full and queen size options
Available in a variety of colors
- BrandRoyal Sleep
- ModelKhakiq12380
Comfy enough to sleep on long term
Well-made, looks much pricier than it is
Fantastic value for money
Some complaints about off-gassing
7Intex Pull-Out Inflatable Bed Series
If you’re looking for a more temporary option, this futon air mattress is a great thing to keep in a closet and pull out for guests, extra seating, or camping. While, like many air mattresses, it’s not the most durable for long-time use, it’s a budget-friendly option for the guest room. The velvety grey cover is comfortable, but we definitely recommend adding a sheet or mattress cover for added comfort while sleeping.
Couch mode includes armrests that actually do hold weight, and they come with cupholders. The sofa bed pulls out to create a queen-sized bed to fall asleep on. The mattress holds up to 440 pounds, which is pretty sturdy for an air mattress. The three quick inflate valves couple with a pump for easy setup, and quickly deflate for storage.
If you are looking for other air mattress options that are not necessarily futons, here are our reviews of the top inflatable air mattresses on the market.
3 inflation and deflation valves
Armrests with cup holders
Water-resistant
Folds for easy storage
- BrandIntex
- Model66552EP
- Weight7.69 Kg
Great for temporary use
Easy to store
Some reviewers had durability issues
Not the most comfortable, like most air mattresses
8MAXTOTO Japanese Floor Futon
The MAXTOTO Japanese Floor Futon actually does some of its best work as a mattress. It’s incredibly comfortable and makes for a great choice as a sleeping surface, and it also doubles as an outdoor sleeping pad. It comes in a variety of color options, including patterns like dinosaurs and constellations which would be a big hit for a kid’s camping or sleepover setup. This is a great option if you like Japanese futons.
The futon is made out of a mix of polyester and memory foam, which adds support and comfort while sleeping. On top of the memory foam core, polyester quilting adds a plush feel. Plus, you’ll get a dust-proof cover in the same color/pattern as the mattress which helps with durability, as well as two straps to help roll it up, and a carrying bag. Use it for sleeping on the floor, while camping, or as an extra bed for guests.
Microfiber cover
Polyester and memory foam fill
Rolls up for storage
Lots of color and pattern options
- BrandMAXYOYO
- Weight10 Pounds
Excellent versatility
Great for small spaces
Not very thick so may be uncomfortable when placed on hardwood floors
9Mopio Chloe Futon Sofa Bed
This seriously pretty sleeper sofa would look amazing in any room, but it’s especially great when you have less space to work with. The chevron pattern in the cushions adds a lot of charm to this sleeper sofa. Choose from a velvet fabric or a high-quality upholstery fabric in a variety of nice colors. The split-back design allows you to move each side independently in three different reclining options.
The Mopio Chloe futon boasts a foam-filled seat, cushy arms, and sturdy tapered legs. The setup is pretty simple, with the materials all nestled inside the futon sofa bottoms. Some reviewers had issues getting the legs on, but for the most part, it seems to be a pretty quick setup process. Once it is all set up, it’s ideal for relaxing, watching TV on movie nights, or just making your small space more welcoming.
Foam-filled seat
Split back folding design
Chevron stitching on back cushions
Available in various colors
- BrandMopio
- Weight97 Pounds
Stylish, looks great in any room
Great for small spaces
One of the comfier futons
Some reviewers had issues with assembly
10Novogratz Tallulah Memory Foam Futon
Don’t think luxury and futons mix? Think again. The Novogratz Tallulah Memory Foam Futon has a classic, expensive-looking vintage design with soft velvet upholstery with button-tufted arms and back. Sturdy and tapered wooden legs support the frame. The cushions are full of high-density foam for support, and memory foam for comfort.
The Tallulah Memory Foam Futon cradles your body while you take a nap or just curl up with a book. It really looks like something that has been in your family for generations and will fit perfectly in small spaces. Reviewers say it’s really easy to assemble, and it converts to a bed easily, with a split back design that allows you to move each side separately. The Tallulah futon is one of the best memory foam futon models on this list and would be a great addition to your guest room, living room, or office space.
Memory foam cushions
Velvet upholstery with button-tufted arms
Sturdy wood frame
Split back design
Available in several stylish colors
- BrandNovogratz
- Model2144979N
- Weight116 Pounds
Elegant, expensive-looking futon
Sturdy frame should last years
Very comfortable thanks to memory foam
Easy pull out mechanism
Velvet fabric attracts pet hair
Includes flame retardant chemicals that can cause issues for some
Why Trust Us
When shopping for anything home-related, from furniture to appliances, we at Gear Hungry we like to do our research. We research everything from the reviews to the materials before making a decision. As a gear reviewer, I am obsessed with finding the best quality products for both personal and professional use. I dig into the details and make sure to find out everything there is to know about any product. Research and product testing is a way of life here at Gear Hungry, and with that, we aim to bring you this guide to the best futons on the market currently.
Who This Is For
Futons are a great space-saving piece of furniture. But they are also just pretty cool as a multi-use product. And no longer do they only look like something you should relegate to the basement — a lumpy mattress on a solid wood frame. There are some high-quality, stylish futons out there that we included in our guide.
If you're looking for the best futons for your small space, multipurpose room, dorm room, office, or any other space, you've come to the right place.
How We Picked
We picked the best futons for this guide by researching and using personal experience from previous shopping trips for futons and a sleeper sofa. Having lived in a variety of small spaces, I've known the stress of having to decide between a couch or a bed or needing a small enough sofa that doubles as a sofa bed. When you have less space, you need something multi-functional. So, we have gathered some of the most versatile, coolest futons on the market to create this list of best futons.
How We Tested
Our futon testing for this guide looked a bit different than normal. When constructing her camper van, our tester was shocked at lumber costs and realized it would be more expensive to buy a bed and mattress for her bed than it would be to install an existing futon. With that in mind, she set out to find a budget-friendly futon or sofa bed that would fit perfectly inside her Ford Transit Connect. Once she found the right futon, she installed it and added risers for more storage space and has been trekking all over the west coast with it as her couch for hosting friends in the van and as her bed before days of climbing, skiing, paddling and exploring. Aside from testing, we also relied on detailed market research and customer reviews.
Features To Look For In Futons
Size - First things first, you want to consider the size of a futon sofa before you make a purchase. Whether you plan to use it as a couch or fold it out like a bed, you will want to make sure you know the size of the space you plan to put it, consider how many people will be using it, and make sure to check the dimensions on the product before purchasing. For example, our tester had very specific measurements she needed for her futon sofa because it was headed for the back of a camper van.
Quality - Your futon should also have high-quality materials. The cushion materials should be thick enough for you not to feel any springs or inner components, and they should be strong enough to last. Consider finding an affordable used solid wood frame and then shopping for a futon mattress to go on top if you are looking for the best quality futons at the lowest prices.
Durability - If your futon has a frame, you will want to make sure that the frame is sturdy. If it is one piece, you will want to make sure that the foam or cushioning used is high quality and will last for a long time. If you are buying online, consult reviews that talk about the longevity of the product.
Frame type - There are several types of futon frames, including bi-fold, tri-fold, and more. A lot of the time, you won’t have to worry about this because the futon will come with a frame. However, there are some futon mattresses on this list, and if you're purchasing one of those, you should consider the type of frame that works with it.
Frame material - The material of a futon’s frame can go a long way in telling you how well it will last. Wood is common for futon frames, which can be very sturdy depending on the type of wood and construction. Some futon frames are made of metal, which can also be durable, depending on the type of metal. However, metal frames typically don't look as nice as some of the wood frames do. Ultimately, the main point to consider is how strong the material is. If you’re sure that the material will hold your weight and stand the test of time, go ahead and purchase!
Mattress - A mattress is an important part of your decision process since it will be what makes you comfortable (or uncomfortable) whether you're using the futon as a sofa bed or a futon sofa. The best futon mattresses are made out of memory foam, or other high-quality foam that will last for a long time. There's also sometimes a payoff to be made for style vs comfort. Some of the most attractive futons are less comfortable to sleep on because they are firm and designed to be stylish.
Upholstery and color - Of course you want your futon to look good in your space, so the upholstery choice is a big one. Velvet, linen, and faux leather are popular choices for futon upholstery, but there are also other options. Many of the best futons on this list come with several color choices, giving you the option that will work best for your space.
Futon FAQ
Q: What is a futon?
A: A futon is a sofa that doubles as a bed. The classic ones typically have a wooden frame that can be adjusted up or down, which makes them a great option for guests, or for occasional sleeping use. However, some of the best futons now look more like a classic sofa rather than a futon, making them great for any room of the house.
Q: Is it OK to sleep on a futon every night?
A: Generally, there’s no problem with sleeping on a futon every night. However, you have to make sure that the futon is structurally sound and supportive enough. The frame needs to be strong, and the legs have to be durable. Also, many futon mattresses are not as comfortable as standard mattresses because they need to be able to fold and move, so watch out for this when you are choosing a futon to use consistently as a bed.
Q: Are futons comfortable?
A: Gone are the days that your futon feels like a rock when you sit down own it. Many of the futons on the market today are really comfortable and easy to relax on. However, there are still some models that are not as comfortable or others that sacrifice comfort for style. So generally, you might need to choose what is most important for you - comfort (essential if you plan on sleeping on it) or style (may be more important if the futon is going to be the centerpiece of your living room or office).
Q: How do you make a futon more comfortable?
A: If you're worried about your futon not being comfortable enough to sleep on, there's always the option of adding a memory foam mattress pad or other extra cushioning. Of course, you also want to make sure you add a sheet, as many of the upholstery options for your futon won't be very comfortable to sleep on top of.
Q: What is the difference between a sleeper sofa and a futon?
A: A sleeper sofa hides the mattress under the cushions, while a futon uses the same cushions for sitting on as for sleeping on. To pull out the mattress on your sleeper sofa, you have to take off the cushions and pull out a hidden bed. To use the bed on your futon, you simply recline it flat and there you go!
Q: What size bed sheet fits a futon?
A: If you want to cover up your futon, first look for a futon cover that is designed to fit over the entire futon whether its in bed or sofa mode to protect it like a sheet. But for sleeping, you should be able to use standard size sheets for your futon. Many are full-sized although some are smaller or bigger. Make sure to check out the dimensions of the specific futon sofa you are looking for if you want to use specific sheets for it.