Futons have been around for years and are a mainstay in any apartment. I can’t count the number of futons that I have had over the years. Futon is an English word derived from Japanese futon, a term that is typically used to describe a flexible padded mattress that can be folded and easily stored when not in use. The inside padding can be made of wool, cotton or synthetic bedding.

The Japanese futon differs from the futon that we are use to seeing in the states. Typically Japanese futons do not come with a frame or supported structure. Reason being the traditional sitting tradition in Japan is on the floor, there is no need for the Japanese culture to have a framed structure. Adapting the futon has made it a very popular piece of furniture in the western world. The futon makes great use of space with being able to recline into a bed or be used as a make shift sofa.

The downside of futons has always been the comfort. For those of you that have slept on a futon…you know what I mean. From squeaky springs to that middle bar in your back, the futon is not a piece of furniture that you will want to sleep on day in day out. Of course I speak from only my experiences. I will say that most of the futons that I owned in my apartments where of lower quality flat pack furniture from big boxed stores. I’m sure there are a lot of options out there for more comfortable futons. And if you know of any, please comment on them by using the comment box. I’m sure there are several readers that are looking for futons that are comfortable and affordable.

The upside to futons is the dual function and the space they take up is minimal. This is the main reason for them being so popular in apartments. They are great for your kids sleepovers or where additional sleeping space is required. No need to bring the roll-out bed anymore! Also they last forever…even the cheaper ones seem to hold up well. I would recommend you buy a futon cover if you will be using your futon as a bed. They are cheap and will add to the life of your futon.

A brief look at some of the cheaper and affordable futons on the market renders these results:

  • Mainstays Silver Metal Arm Futon, Black Mattress – Priced at Wal-Mart for $89.
  • Mainstays Contempo Futon Sofa Bed – Comes in multiple colors and priced at Wal-Mart for $139
  • Kebo Futon Sofa Bed – Also comes in multiple colors, but has not armrests. At Wal-Mart for $119
  • Black Button-Tufted Clik-Clak – Only comes in black and is priced at a Biglots furniture store for $229. A very contemporary look.
  • BEDDINGE LÖVÅS Sofa Bes/Futon – Comes with a slipcover and several color options. Priced at IKEA for $229.00.

These are just some of the futons that I would recommend for your apartment. Buying apartment furniture is about saving space and adding function…that’s what you get in a futon.