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15 Stylish-Yet-Comfortable Futons, Vetted By a Home Editor

Plus, expert advice on how to choose one

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Image by Paula Boudes

When we hear the word ‘futon,’ a specific image comes to mind: A lumpy, ugly sofa set on a wooden base (that’s either in a dorm room or your grandparents’ basement). Sure, they solve the practical issue of giving guests somewhere to sleep—especially if you live in an apartment with no room for a pull-out couch—but historically, futons haven’t been known for being ultra-comfortable (like your favorite sofa or reading chair). Well, we’re here to tell you that futons have come a long way since their original design—and we’re seeing everything from luxe modern options to rustic leather ones. And while a futon is always going to be somewhat firm (typically a six to eight out of ten on the firmness scale), we’re seeing plush, fiber- and feather-filled options crop up (that won’t create an eyesore in your living room). Below, find our top 15 most comfortable futon picks, plus expert advice on what to look for when shopping.

The Most Comfortable Futons of 2024 at a Glance

1

Most Comfortable Futon Overall

Burrow Shift Sleeper Sofa

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2

Editor’s Pick

Rove Concepts Bristol Sleeper Futon

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3

Most Plush Futon

Harmony Modular Futon Sleeper

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4

Most Customizable Futon

Crate and Barrel Bedford Sleeper Sofa

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5

Best Storage Futon

Article Nordby Sleeper

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Dr. Alice Williams is a board-certified emergency medicine physician with over 20 years of experience. She completed her residency at the University of California, San Francisco in Fresno, and in the last 10 years, she’s adopted a more holistic healing approach focused on diet and organic living.

How We Selected the Most Comfortable Futons

After scouring hundreds of reviews from big brands like Wayfair, Crate and Barrel and West Elm, as well as hidden gems like Rove and Design Within Reach, we narrowed things down further by looking for specific keywords like ‘comfortable’ and ‘firm yet supportive’ within the descriptions. Then, we culled things down even more, based on whether the futons on this list met the following criteria:  a) that it was indeed, a futon, and not a pull-out sofa with a mattress, b) that the materials were soft enough to sleep on without causing irritation (aka no scratchy polyester) and c) that they had a thickness of at least 6 inches. 

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Most Comfortable Futon Overall

1. Burrow Shift Sleeper Sofa

What We Like

  • two hybrid mattresses stacked on top of each other
  • layers cooling memory foam, therapeutic comfort foam and supportive core foam
  • armrests double as down alternative pillows
  • removable and machine-washable mattress covers

What We Don't Like

  • Only two fabric colors available (navy blue stone grey)

Burrow

We’re obsessed with this new introduction from Burrow because it has an ingenious design that mimics the feel of a plush hybrid mattress with the footprint of an apartment-friendly sofa. While a typical pull-out couch features a folded mattress that’s tucked under a metal frame, a basic futon has a back that lays down flat. This guy falls somewhere in the middle, where its seat is composed of two mattresses stacked on top of each other—and they’re arguably more comfortable than any innerspring mattress you’ll find in a traditional sleeper. The brand integrated layers of cooling memory foam, therapeutic comfort foam and supportive core foam from its Lyric Hybrid Mattress (which the brand tested with dozens of different sleepers, including the CEO of the company). You simply lift up the first mattress—which is easy enough to do on your own, thanks to the integrated handles—and lay it on the ground to reveal a genuine queen-sized sleep surface. Basically, it eliminates the sharp metal bar of a pull-out couch, while still maintaining the integrity of an all-in-one futon design. The added bonus (aside from its compact 84-inch width) is that the arm cushion inserts double as down alternative pillows; you can slip them into standard pillowcases when you have guests over. 

“I say confidently that this Burrow sofa is the comfiest sleeper sofa I’ve ever slept—and sat and napped—on. The magic is [from] within: Each mattress has a layer of cushiony memory foam that makes it feel like not just a mattress but a good mattress,” one reviewer shares. “One thing I was worried about is that since it is technically two mattresses shoved together, wouldn’t I feel the gap between the two? Burrow already thought of this issue, though, and sewed in a thick layer of fabric that keeps the two mattresses together and makes it so that with a fitted sheet, you barely notice the gap at all. You can really sleep right across it with no problems. And since it is queen size, anyone from myself to someone who’s over 6 feet tall can sleep comfortably on it, which you can’t say for many of the sofa beds where you just fold back the back cushions to create a bed.” 

What’s more, they also mention that it looks as good as it feels: “So many sofa beds tend to look larger and heavier than an average sofa, but with its minimalist design, Burrow’s avoids that. The sofa itself is designed with Burrow’s Field silhouette, which is the slimmest and most modern of Burrow’s sofas, with thin back and arm panels that give it a lovely midcentury edge. It’s got dark walnut legs and comes in two easy neutrals: either a gray or navy blue. And of course, the fabric itself is typical Burrow—we’ve already spilled red wine on it and with a simple stain remover it lifted up quickly. Even my cat’s incessant scratching hasn’t left a mark.”

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: 84” L x 32.5” W x 33.5” H
  • Fill Material: memory foam, therapeutic foam, core foam, down alternative pillows
  • Fabric Options: 2 stain-resistant performance fabrics

Editor’s Pick

2. Rove Concepts Bristol Sleeper Futon

What We Like

  • 4 color options
  • 2 brushed metal leg options
  • thick foam cushions with a padded armrests
  • modern and Italian-inspired design

What We Don't Like

  • expensive 
  • brand suggests using it as a bed with a mattress topper (sold separately)

Rove Concepts

Let’s just get one thing out of the way: this is, hands down, the most luxurious futon you’ll find online (trust us, we’ve done the leg work). First, you have its Italian-inspired design, which combines sophistication and casual comfort in a sleek modern profile with a 29-inch height. The cushy armrests also feature subtle curves that add to its wow factor while the soft-padded frame—crafted with polyurethane foam wrapped in polyester fiber—ensures plushness throughout. That said, it doesn’t sacrifice support, where the kiln-dried hardwood frame is enhanced with dowelled joints and reinforced corner blocks (so it won’t slide around when you’re converting it to the upright position). Bonus: It’s also customizable in four felt or velvet upholstery options and you have the choice between brushed brass or steel legs.

“Love this futon! Bought it for our office/guest room. Very nicely made and easy to fold out. At first, I was worried you’d feel the separate cushions, but it wasn’t an issue. The bed is comfortable, material is nice and the couch is a lovely design,” one reviewer says. Not to mention that many of the reviews applaud its beautiful and practical design: “Its [shape] is beautiful and I love the fabric. It is performance and stain-resistant, which I love. The gold accented legs are also great,” writes one person. Another says, “We added this futon to our office area and it looks incredible [in such a compact space]. It's firm yet supportive and has a lot of integrity. The fabric is such high-quality and really adds such style to the room.”

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: 82” W x 37” D x 34.3” H
  • Fill Material: polyurethane foam wrapped in polyester fiber
  • Fabric Options: 2 felt and 2 velvet

Most Plush Futon

3. Harmony Modular Futon Sleeper

What We Like

  • rated as level 1 (softest) on the firmness scale
  • removable back cushions don’t require frequent fluffing
  • mattress features pocketed springs surrounded by foam casing and fiberfill
  • designed for high-traffic areas and is stain-resistant

What We Don't Like

  • only one (white) linen fabric option available

West Elm

We ranked the Harmony as our number one pick for the most comfortable sofas money can buy—and this futon is from the same collection (meaning it uses all of the same materials). First, you have its seat firmness, which is rated 1 on the firmness scale (5 being firmest). This is due to the reversible, removable cushions that include high-gauge springs and fiber-wrapped, high-density polyurethane foam cores for ample support. The mattress also features pocketed springs surrounded by a foam casing and fiberfill—and to convert it into sleeper mode, you simply pull out the seat and push the back down. Then, of course, there’s its relaxed, organic modern design, which features a handcrafted upholstery of yarn-dyed linen in ‘Alabaster.’ And if you’re worried about how the fabric will hold up against spills and stains? It’s Greenguard Gold Certified and suitable for high-traffic use (tested up to 40,000 rubs). 

“[Upon testing this sofa for the first time, my husband and I] agreed quite quickly that it was definitely the most comfortable couch we’d ever sat on. I still feel that way every time I plop down onto it after a long day,” one reviewer writes. “The back cushions are 45 percent duck feathers and 5 percent duck down, so basically they are super extra fluffy and soft. [And] as soft and cushy as it is, this couch never looks too worn-in or worn-out, which was a big concern for me when I purchased it. We’ve had it for four years now and it still looks as good as the day we brought it home.” As for the fabric, she also says, “I like it because from afar, it just looks plain white, but up close you can see the fabric is a fine weave of white, taupe, and gray thread, so it really goes with anything. [We] now have a child. He is 18 months old and he often has his sticky little fingers all over my pretty white couch. I don’t worry because it is so easy to clean—I keep a small bottle of blue Dawn dish soap and spot-clean it with a little soapy water. This always works, especially on the arms where fabric isn’t easily removed. I even left a coffee ring on one of the arms for months because I didn’t notice it and the blue Dawn dish soap took it right out.”

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: 94.5" W x 40.5" D x 25.2" H
  • Fill Material: pocket spring, foam casing and fiber fill
  • Fabric Options: yarn dyed linen in ‘Alabaster’

Most Customizable Futon

4. Crate and Barrel Bedford Sleeper Sofa

What We Like

  • 7 configurations 
  • supportive foam cushions 
  • option to add storage in the chaise 
  • can be used as a trundle bed or full/queen-sized bed
  • customizable wooden legs

What We Don't Like

  • cushion covers are not removable or machine-washable 

West Elm

Right off the bat, we love how this option is customizable with seven configuration options, which span from a full- or queen-sized sleeper to a two-piece sectional with a storage chaise. No matter the configuration, each layout features an innovative trundle mattress that’s disguised as a front rail when it’s upright. Even better, you can use it as a trundle bed—simply pull out the rail for a lower profile—or a full-height bed, where you can pull the extension out further until it pops into place next to the bench seat. The foam mattress is designed to be body-conforming and supportive, but it’s also fit with a high-resiliency suspension system (so it won’t sink or sag over time). And while the seat cushions are constructed with high-density polyurethane foam and the back cushions are filled with fiber, both are encased in Dacron wrap (which is a fiber batting that provides a softer, more rounded feel for upholstered foam inserts). In terms of customization, however, the main draw is that Crate and Barrel designed it exclusively in collaboration with American Leather—and it has 199 fabrics to choose from, including neutral chenilles, statement velvets, coastal linens, moody twills and performance (stain-resistant) microfibers. The cherry on top? You can choose between charcoal, espresso, natural or walnut wooden legs. 

“I have tested many [futons] over the years and this is by far the winner. I first sat in this lap of luxury about five years ago and it stuck in my mind as really, the perfect couch. It has the perfect amount of cushion, fluffiness and structure for a great movie night or nap. If you need a second place to sleep all night, the couch pulls out into a king-size bed! All that tucked into a three-seater. This is a great option for a smaller/compact apartment space, or even as an addition to a larger living room,” one reviewer says. Another person also adds: “This sofa-bed's functionality and comfort are superb. It turns into a queen-sized bed with an easy-to-roll-out trundle (which rises and locks into place next to the sofa seat) forming two side-by-side mattresses—unlike the typical pull-forward folding-mattress design. These mattresses are very thick as they do not have to fold; this makes the sofa exceptionally supportive, deep and wide. Plus, when converted, the bed is exceptionally comfortable. The frame is heavy and rock-solid, nothing flimsy about it, and the sofa cushions are ultra-supportive.”

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: customizable 
  • Fill Material: high-density polyurethane foam, high-resiliency foam and fiber-fill encased in Dacron
  • Fabric Options: 199 options with multiple fabrics and colors

Best Storage Futon

5. Article Nordby Sleeper

What We Like

  • bed pops up with a simple pull
  • hidden storage compartment 
  • reversible chaise can be arranged on the left or right side
  • ultra-durable and sturdy 
  • stain- and spill-resistant fabric

What We Don't Like

  • limited color options 
  • might require a mattress topper for anyone who prefers a plush bed

Article

If you’re strapped on space—or would love something that has extra storage and organization built into its design—this sectional sleeper checks both boxes. Not only does it have a 60-inch storage compartment on the chaise (which can house all of your extra linens and pillows) but the L is reversible, so you can fix it to the left or the right side to fit any layout. The futon feature is equally as innovative; it includes a high-density foam bed with supportive polyester fiber that pops up with a simple tug of the handle. Oh, and it’s made with a stain-resistant fabric that can withstand pets, kids or the occasional wine spill. This is thanks to its 100 percent polyester, which has a ‘heavy duty’ Martindale Score of 50,000 (over 40,000 is usually designated as commercial grade). 

One reviewer writes, “I’ve now spent more than a few days sitting on this sofa while I’m WFH or watching TV, and the Nordby sofa is the most well-made sleeper sofa I’ve sat on. It feels sturdy and firm; you definitely don’t feel the sleeping mechanism below you… While those who prefer a more cloudlike sofa experience may find the cushions too hard (easily fixable with a mattress topper), I found them to be extremely well-made and supportive. They also don’t seem like they will sink in over the long run—they’re made to last and to stand up to daily use, not just intermittent guest room usage.” They also add: “The sleeper mechanism is so easy one person can do it, even if you’ve never used a sleeper sofa before. It simply pulls up and out using two tabs at the front of the sofa, then goes back in exactly the same way. Seriously, it’s so easy you might find yourself pulling it out just for movie night.”

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: 33” H x 104” W x 60” D
  • Fill Material: high-density foam with polyester fiber
  • Fabric Options: 3 stain-resistant polyesters

Most Splurge-Worthy Futon

6. Design Within Reach Tuck Sleeper Sofa

What We Like

  • firm and supportive cushions won’t sink over time
  • sophisticated contemporary design 
  • Crypton performance fabric options
  • back cushions fill the gap between the sofa and extension

What We Don't Like

  • expensive 
  • cushions feel springy; not for anyone who wants a plush and sinkable feel

Design Within Reach

Looking for a futon that would make even the snobbiest interior designers swoon? This is it. Designed by Thomas Müller and Jörg Wulff for Softline, it basically carries the Scandinavian sophistication that you’d find in their designs for fashion week in Berlin. The streamlined silhouette features narrow arms and a midcentury modern build, while the sleek metal legs make a contemporary statement (aka you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more stylish sleeper). In terms of comfort, it’s constructed with firm, high-resilience polyurethane foam cushions that feel supportive and bouncy. You simply lift up the seat and pull it toward you in futon mode—and the back cushions can be laid flat to fill the gap between the sofa and the bed with precision. What we love most is how you can customize it with more than 70 fabric and color options. It even includes Crypton performance fabrics, which look like designer upholstery but are constructed to be durable and pet-friendly. The yarns are coated with a patented technology to resist stains, spills, urine, blood and dirt. (See this video below if you don’t believe us.)

Take it from one reviewer who’s still loving this futon after three years: “We bought this sleeper sofa for our one-bedroom apartment to use as both a sofa and a guest bed. We were looking for something that wasn't too soft and ultra-durable. This one has held its shape well (no wrinkles, firm, and not saggy) and three years in, we're still happy! Our guests have enjoyed sleeping on it (they liked the firmness) and my husband and I have no complaints when it comes to comfort. We've recently had it in long-term storage for three months and it was stored vertically with all its weight on one armrest—we were really worried the armrest would be ruined and when it came out (and honestly the armrest was looking a bit sad). But after a deep vacuum with my Dyson carpet attachment, all the wrinkles disappeared. Overall, we've been enjoying the couch’s minimalist style and firm comfort.”

To that end, another reviewer adds: “We have had this sofa for almost two years now and we love it! We live in a one-bedroom apartment, but wanted a couch in our living room that could convert into a comfortable bed for 1-2 guests to sleep on... the couch can fit up to five people sitting on it (though usually, we don't have more than 3-4). We love how easy it is to pull out and push down the cushions that convert it into a double bed or a chaise lounge. To date, we've had several guests sleep on it and they've each told us it was a great night's sleep.”

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: 29” H x 85” W x 39” D
  • Fill Material: high-resilience polyurethane foam
  • Fabric Options: 79 options with multiple fabrics and colors

Best Futon Under $300

7. Novogratz Brittany Convertible Sofa

What We Like

  • mid century modern design looks more high-end than its price
  • sturdy and supportive cushions 
  • customizable seating options 
  • durable fabric that doesn’t pull or scratch

What We Don't Like

  • lower price means it might need replacing over time

Novogratz

After seeing this futon had a 4.2 out of 5-star rating with more than 7,900 reviews, we had to find out what all the fuss was about. First, we must mention that this is a fabulous pick for midcentury modern décor enthusiasts. It has ribbed channel tufting on the backrest, curved armrests and slanted solid wood legs that can instantly elevate a space (and it looks way more luxe than its $250 price tag). And while it transitions effortlessly into a futon with lowerable folding backs and easy push-pull split-back mechanisms, it’s also designed with support and stability in mind. The foam cushioned seat and padded arms are soft and supple, while the supportive, no-sag spring backing ensures it’ll hold up over time. Beyond that, it’s available in eight easy-to-clean linen hues—including light pink, dark gray, persimmon orange, mustard yellow, light gray, dark blue, light blue and dark green—and there are even two vegan leather options available at a similar price point. 

One reviewer writes, “This arrived in less than a week and [was] super easy to assemble—you basically just attach the arms and legs. Yes, it’s firm…but you want it to be firm, so it doesn’t get saggy. Most furniture with a clean, modern, MCM look ARE firm. If you want a 1990s-look sofa that you sink into and have to re-fluff a lot, this isn't it. We love how it reclines and how you can lower just one side if you want. We lay a piece of foam over the bottom for guests and so far, our guests have zero complaints. It looks really nice in our space and it’s plenty long for my 6'3 husband to lay down on without overcrowding the space. (And it’s even tall enough for the Roomba to go under without getting stuck.) We do have four cats, and the fabric does not seem to snag easily, thankfully, and it vacuums nicely!”

Another person also adds: “I have slept on this overnight with no aches or pains… its fabric has a nice smooth surface and the material is taught and tight with no sagging. I have read the reviews about stability and have no complaints about this...it went out into a bed no problem, no shakiness, no wobble and nothing collapsed or bent under the body weight. Couch went right back into upright position with little resistance (and if you’re worried about that, I'm betting a little WD-40 would make it easier to move the stabilizers.” That said, it’s also worth mentioning their warning: “At first, when you sit on it, you can tell you are sitting on top and you do not sink down into (or barely at all). However, after a few months of use, it has way more give. I know for a fact that now it is more comfortable than when we first purchased it.”

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: 31.5'' H X 81.5'' W X 34.5'' D
  • Fill Material: polyester and foam 
  • Fabric Options: linen-inspired polyester

Best Linen Futon

8. Article Solna Atelier Sofa Bed

What We Like

  • deep sleeping width 
  • firm and supportive cushions
  • polyester fabric is stain-resistant fabric
  • loose back cushions included
  • easy assembly

What We Don't Like

  • only 1 color option 

Article

To avoid making overnight guests feel like second-class citizens, Article designed this futon to feel just as good as it looks. It’s crafted with sumptuous, high-density foam cushions for a firm, supportive feel—and unlike other options on this list, it offers a generous 75 inches of sleeping space, all hidden when the back of the sofa is upright. The real draw is its Scandinavian design, which features a sleek steel frame and ivory polyester upholstery that’s soft to the touch (as well as stain- and spill-resistant). Also, assembly is a breeze, requiring only 20 minutes to set up, according to the brand.

Take it from one reviewer, who raves: “It goes without saying that this sofa bed looks so good, you wouldn't think it is one. The dimensions on the website are accurate and [this] is one of the most comfortable pieces of furniture I have ever owned… I can easily sit through a marathon of watching The Lord of the Rings extended edition (yes, all 12 hours). It is supportive and a delight to sit on. The fabric is beautiful in color and very resistant. It’s kept its shape and vibrancy for the seven months we’ve had it, and small stains come out easily without damage to the material. Extending it is also easier than you'd imagine.” They also add: “The delivery left us with it in the living room and all we had to do is assemble it (one step) and set it where we wanted it, and it fit perfectly!”

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: 32" H x 86" W x 37.5" D
  • Fill Material: high density foam with rubber webbing
  • Fabric Options: linen-inspired polyester (Atelier Ivory)

Best Bouclé Futon

9. CB2 Alesso Sleeper Sofa

What We Like

  • bouclé and Crypton performance fabric options (spill- and stain-resistant)
  • unique buckle accent
  • cushions are firm, thick and supportive
  • extends to a queen-sized bed

What We Don't Like

  • expensive 
  • made to order with extended delivery windows

Cb2

Pivoting toward trend-forward designs, can you believe this is a sleeper? Not only was it designed in collaboration with Ceci Thompson, Creative Director for VUUE, but it was also intended to be durable and comfortable enough for everyday use. It’s an all-in-one futon that features a continuous swoop from arm to arm, and it’s available in 20 fabric options with multiple bouclé, chenille, linen and shearling colorways. Our personal pick is the Crypton ‘Nomad Snow’ performance fabric (which, again, is the most durable fabric on the market). While the upholstery reads like a luxe linen with a hint of chenille, you can rest easy knowing that wine and coffee will roll right off the white finish. The leather straps make it a one-of-a-kind piece, wrapping around the sides and buckles at the front. You simply unbuckle the strap to fold out 79.5 inches of cushion—constructed with thick, supportive foam—that can accommodate two sleepers.

“When we found out this was a sleeper sofa we were shook, to say the least,” writes design guru Emily Henderson in a blog post. “The pretty little leather straps on the side unbuckle and the top seat cushion folds to the floor to create an entire floor mat and it’s DOPE. A genius design, a comfortable sitting experience (maybe a little firmer than plush) but who even cares because it’s SO PRETTY. This was one of our favorites. 10/10.” She’s not the only one obsessed: “Excellent design, modern, simple…perfect fit for my living room! Great size and really comfy,” another reviewer shares.

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: 104" W x 38" D x 28" H
  • Fill Material: high-density foam
  • Fabric Options: 20 options with multiple fabrics and colors 

Best Leather Futon

10. West Elm Andes Leather Futon

What We Like

  • cushions have a medium firmness on the comfort scale
  • 19 genuine top-grain leather or animal-friendly vegan leather options
  • modern with tall metal legs
  • seat won’t slide in the upright position

What We Don't Like

  • cushions take some time to soften up

west elm

With a mid-century modern build, tall cast metal legs and 19 leather finishes to choose from, this is our go-to option for a leather futon (that isn’t heinous). While you can pick between genuine top-grain leather or animal-friendly vegan leather, the tied-spring cushions are filled with fiber-wrapped, high-resiliency polyurethane foam cores—which offer a medium firmness level of 4 on a scale from 1 to 5, per the manufacturer. The frame is also hand-built with a solid, durable eucalyptus and engineered hardwood, so the base will never slide or sag when you’re converting it to a queen-sized bed.

Though we couldn’t dig up a review for this specific futon, one lifestyle blogger raves over the Andes sectional from the same collection (which is built with the same materials): “At first, my husband and I were hesitant about the low back and whether the couch would be comfortable since it looks like it could be on the stiffer side…We both rank it eight out of ten [on the comfort scale] and we can honestly say that it has the perfect balance between looks and comfort.” She also adds: “When the sectional was first delivered, the cushions were pretty firm, but they did soften up pretty quickly after some breaking in.”

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: 83.5" W x 40" D x 31" H
  • Fill Material: fiber-wrapped, high-resiliency polyurethane foam
  • Fabric Options: 19 leather and vegan leather options 

Best Velvet Futon

11. Kardiel Omer Fabric Sofa Sleeper

What We Like

  • velvet performance fabric is designed for everyday use
  • soft with supportive cushions
  • also available in bouclé
  • minimal gap in the middle

What We Don't Like

  • not available in neutral velvet colors

Kardiel

Puffy, contemporary and silky smooth to the touch—this velvet futon’s medium-firm feel is soft yet supportive. The cushions are made of high-resiliency foam, which allows you to sink into it without being swallowed, and the upholstery is made with a “generously plush velvet,” per the brand, “with a carefree texture to minimize tracing marks.” What’s more, it’s a performance fabric, which means it can hold up against pets, kids, spills—you name it. It’s also available in a blanc boucle option? (Read more about that fabric here).

“I've had this futon for over a month now. It's been a great statement piece in my living room, and I've tested the sleeper function a handful of times. Others had mentioned it was too firm, but I disagree. Some sleepers have a deep gap in the middle, and the Omer's gap is super minimal and doesn't cause discomfort,” one reviewer backs. Another person writes, “I was hesitant to buy a sofa without being able to test it in person, but I had read a lot of good reviews about Kardiel so I decided to try it…I’m glad I did! This piece is BEAUTIFUL and very comfortable. The fabric is so pretty and the quality is amazing. This is so much more stylish than a standard futon bed. The shipping was so quick too—it came in 2 weeks.”

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions:  88.6" W x 36" D x 31.5" H
  • Fill Material:  high-resiliency foam
  • Fabric Options: 2 velvet, 1 bouclé

Most Family-Friendly Futon

12. Raymour & Flanigan Mia Klik Klak Sofa

What We Like

  • 1.6-pound thick cushions
  • webbed to prevent sagging
  • won’t slide when converting to a bed
  • modern track arms
  • neutral upholstery is spill- and stain-resistant

What We Don't Like

  • only 1 color option 
  • might be too big for compact spaces when extended

Raymour & Flanigan

With neutral upholstery and modern track arms, this is the ultimate everyday option. Not only are its cushions made with 1.6-pound density foam wrapped in Dacron for added plushness, but it’s also crafted with eight-gauge sinuous springs and nylon webbing seat support to prevent sagging. Then, it has 100 percent polyester upholstery, which is designed to be stain-resistant, soft and durable—and therefore, perfect for anyone with kids or pets. The frame is constructed with pine and acacia wood, reinforced with corner blocks, heavy-duty metal fasteners, screws and glue for unprecedented strength and stability. The best part? Setting up the sofa as a bed is a breeze, as the unit rolls out to reveal 70 inches of sleeping width that lifts effortlessly from the hidden base.

“My son sleeps on this several times a week. He loves it. I asked him if he wanted a bed but he said ‘no, this was super comfy!’ A great piece for a great price when looking for a smaller house,” writes one reviewer. Another mentions: “My wife and I absolutely love this couch! Comfortable, well-built and easy to operate. Our current favorite thing to do is to set up what we call ‘Theater Bed Mode’ with the back inclined 45 degrees and the feet up. Great for movie date nights.”

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: 77" W x 38" D x 36" H
  • Fill Material: foam wrapped in Dacron, sinuous springs
  • Fabric Options: 100 percent polyester (Light Grey)

Most Compact Futon

13. Serta Monroe Sleeper Sofa

What We Like

  • includes Serta’s Dream Coil technology
  • offers relief from aches and pains
  • good for tight spaces
  • easy-to-clean fabric
  • 5 color options

What We Don't Like

  • designed to be very firm/supportive (might be too hard for some)

Serta

After reading through countless reviews of this futon (it has a 4.8 out of 5-star rating and more than 3,400 reviews, by the way), one thing’s clear: People are obsessed with how compact it is. Sitting at 54-inches wide, it’s a great option for tiny apartments. It’s unprecedented comfort has to do with the fact that it’s manufactured by Serta, so it includes high-density foam cushions with the brand’s signature ‘Dream Coil’ technology. The sleeper has a firm-yet-dreamy feel (that’s great for anyone with back pain) and the tufted upholstery is engineered with silky smooth, easy-to-clean microsuede fabric. Not to mention, the kiln-dried hardwood frame ensures the foundation will remain sturdy for years to come.

“I was worried it was going to be too firm, but when I laid down on my back, OMG, it felt amazing! I wake up every morning with pain [and I’m] tempted to try sleeping on the Monroe Sleeper [instead of my mattress],” one reviewer writes. “Love the thickness of the fabric and the white piping accents. Wipes clean very easily,” another reviewer adds.

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: 38.6'' H x 66.5'' W x 37.6'' D
  • Fill Material: foam
  • Fabric Options: 5 microfiber/microsuede options

Best Futon Mattress

14. Alwyn Home Harding Futon Mattress

What We Like

  • available in 4 thicknesses and 3 sizes
  • sinkable and soft
  • removable and machine-washable cover
  • 11 color options

What We Don't Like

  • frame not included

Alwyn Home

For anyone who’s looking for the best futon mattress (frame not included) on a budget, this is your guy. It’s crafted with bonded layers of shredded polyurethane foam and wrapped in a soft polyester fabric cover—which also happens to be removable and machine-washable. Though the memory foam core has a medium-firm feel (per the brand), you also have the choice of four thicknesses (6, 8, 10 or 12 inches) with thicker options that offer more of a plush feel. Add to that, the fact that it comes in three sizes (twin, full or queen) and 11 colors, including khaki, ivory, cinnamon, burgundy, red, dusty blue, black, navy, blue, green and silver.

One reviewer writes, “It’s SUPER COMFY FIRM! You’ll never feel the bed rails on this thing. While I was pregnant, this mattress was great for my back. I bought it for my son's bunk bed but would often end up sleeping in his room while he took the top bunk...I slept like a baby on this mattress. I’m talking about that good sleep that makes you drool.” Plus, another person raves: “It was really heavy and dense out [of] the box, yet soft to the touch. This will hold up for a long time in our game room. Comfortable laying down or sitting… The (10-inch) plush mattress is the only way to go! It's like a thick cloud and [I love that there are] so many colors to choose from!”

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: twin, full or queen
  • Fill Material: memory foam
  • Fabric Options: 11 polyester fabric options

Best Organic Futon Mattress

15. The Futon Shop Organic Cotton Plus Mattress 

What We Like

  • certified organic
  • breathable and hypoallergenic
  • good for joint pain and pressure-relief
  • available in multiple sizes

What We Don't Like

  • frame not included 

The Futon Shop

Per Dr. Alice Williams, “What started off being a guest bed in a guest room has now become a long-term situation. My parents have been sleeping on this futon mattress daily for several years now and they love it!” This is because the mattress is designed to be supremely supportive and firm with two inches of all-natural Dunlop latex, surrounded by layers of ultra-soft USDA Certified organic cotton. It’s available in ten sizes—from twin and single to California king—and it’s machine tufted with 50 to 70 tufts (depending on the size) to prevent motion transfer. The cherry on top? It was designed to be not only breathable and hypoallergenic (great for those with allergies) but with pressure-relief and joint support in mind.

Another reviewer raves: “Comfort is 100 percent…it is incredibly comfortable and perfect for my sleep style and height-weight ratio. I use it every day, for my bedroom, not a guestroom. I can feel my back thanking me. It came in a simple cardboard package, tightly wrapped and easy to unpack.”

Fast Facts

  • Dimensions: single, twin, twin XL, full double, queen, California king, twin loveseat, full loveseat, queen loveseat, Eastern king
  • Fill Material: Dunlop latex and organic cotton
  • Fabric Options: 1 organic cotton

Frequently Asked Questions

Meet the Expert

Dr. Alice Williams is a board-certified emergency medicine physician with over 20 years of experience. She completed her residency at the University of California, San Francisco in Fresno, and in the last 10 years, she’s studied a Western medical approach to disease and pain management.

What Are the Different Types of Futons?

First thing’s first: The difference between a ‘futon’ and a ‘sofa bed’ is that the latter has a separate mattress (that, in theory, could be transferred to a bed frame). With that in mind, you have two options: all-in-one futons and futon mattresses with a frame (stay with us). The first option is becoming increasingly popular for its visual appeal; the bed is built directly into the cushions of the sofa. You can lay the back seat flat when you want to use it for sleeping and prop it upright when you need it as a sofa. Futon mattresses have been around for decades (and are typically the kind you’d find in a dorm room). They come with a decorative cover that makes them look like a sofa and require a frame that’s usually sold separately. Futon mattresses work the same as an all-in-one—the backrest is laid flat to turn it into a bed—and the mattress is used for both sitting and sleeping.

The main difference? While futon mattresses on a frame are typically plusher, they’re far less easy on the eyes, compared to the built-in convertible options. (They’re also more expensive.)

Which Futon Mattress Materials Are Best?

As mentioned above, you have the option between an all-in-one and a futon mattress on a frame. Most often, the all-in-ones will feature foam- and fiber-filled cushions that offer firm yet springy support. Otherwise, when it comes to futon mattresses, Dr. Williams suggests looking for one that’s made from certified organic materials: “Organic futon mattresses can be quite expensive, but they’re worth the investment if you want to sleep better and be healthier. The best futon mattresses are those that are made with natural materials, such as cotton, wool or latex. They’re free of harmful chemicals and are more breathable than synthetic fibers.” 

To make things even easier for us, Dr. Williams provided a breakdown of futon mattress materials to look for based on your sleeping style:

  • Cotton futon mattresses are affordable and breathable. Most are made from organic cotton, making it hypoallergenic and ideal for people with allergies or sensitivities. That said, they may not provide enough support for some people.
  • Wool futon mattresses are cooling and offer ample support. Since wool is naturally fire-resistant, it helps regulate body temperature (making it ideal for those with night sweats).
  • Latex futon mattresses are versatile and eco-friendly. Not only is latex organic, biodegradable and eco-friendly, these futons are often available in a variety of firmness levels.

How to Choose the Right Futon

Naturally, you want to look for a plush, organic futon that’s built with breathability and support in mind. But if you’re in the market for a convertible, foam- and fiber-filled option (that’s just as pretty as it looks), you want to make sure it has the right thickness and weight. Per Dr. Williams, “Futons come in different thicknesses, commonly from four inches to eight inches. The thicker the futon, the more comfortable it will be. A good thickness is around six to eight inches. This thickness provides enough support for most people, but it is also thin enough to be folded into a sofa (for a futon mattress).” She also adds, “Check the weight and density of the mattress. A heavier mattress will be more supportive and last longer, while a lighter one may be more comfortable but won’t provide as much support.”

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Associate Editor

Sydney Meister is PureWow's Associate Editor, covering everything from dating trends and relationship advice (here's looking at you, 'soonicorns') to interior design, beauty...

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