What, ’sleepable’ isn’t a word? That’s okay, then we need a new one to describe the quality of sleeping on a futon mattress. In fact, we could add an adjective to come up with a highly sleepable experience, If you get one of the better quality futon mattresses that are available. These come with inner coil springs, toppers and even memory foam. I know, you never knew that futons even came with these options. Well, that is why I write articles like these. Futon beds provide for not only a great sleeping experience but also provide flexibility. Your mattress can give you a great night’s sleep and also have enough support to be used as a comfortable couch or sofa. This is what makes futon mattresses such great options!

If you thought that futons were just for college dorm rooms or cheapskates, then you are in for a surprise. The type of mattress that you sleep on is important for a variety of reasons that proper sleep provides. The quality of your sleep affects the mood you are in the next day, your level of energy and also your general health. Sleep is a vital function that our body’s need. Another thing affects the quality of your sleep and that is the size of the mattress itself. Whether or not you sleep with a partner is also a factor. If you sleep with another person in bed with you, the quality of your sleep will be determined by both you and your partner’s heights, weights, and particular sleeping styles. Some people are more still sleepers while others tend to thrash around a bit. The bigger the mattress, the less likely you will be affected by a highly ‘active’ sleeper. Maybe a queen mattress is too small, but do you need the California king size mattress is the question?

The materials that your mattress is made of also affects your ability to get restful sleep. Partly, I’m referring to the softer aspects of the mattress like the padding and springs. However, the other parts, like the in fill materials, wood, other fabrics, etc. can also affect your ability to get healthy sleep. The reason is that many mattresses are sprayed with chemicals and other agents used in the manufacturing process that can be hazardous to your health. It happens by way of off gassing of the noxious agents. Traditional mattresses are more prone to this problem, probably because they have been made for longer periods of time. People who are especially sensitive to chemicals and other allergens should be wary when shopping for a new mattress.

This is more of a problem, typically, with traditional mattresses. But don’t fall into the notion that just because you are looking for a futon mattress that you don’t have to worry about this. As a general rule, manufacturers of futon beds use less of these agents. This has to do with the manufacturing process itself. But, because of the similarities in futon and traditional mattresses now, it can still be a concern. Often, companies in other countries get blamed for the health hazards we experience here. But, in some cases, because the regulations are less strict overseas and the oversight is not as easy to monitor, the use of these agents – because of cost – is sometimes skipped. This actually can work to your advantage. With the amount of information available online, it is really a good idea to do your due diligence before you pick out your next mattress. The larger manufacturers should be happy to answer any questions and concerns you have regarding these matters.

If the issue is regarding a crib mattress, I wouldn’t even think about it until you are completely aware of this subject. It is up to you to provide your baby with the cleanest and purest bedding and mattress you can. You do have options. Even letting a mattress sit for some period before use will allow for that off gassing to happen outside your home and outside your baby’s body. Larger manufacturers sell natural futon mattress styles as well. In fact, the whole movement towards green products and bedding materials has created much demand for which we are quite thrilled. While there are still many more options in traditional mattress choices, there are options for organic mattresses and more are coming as consumers demand healthier products.

In case it hasn’t been made clear, the term ‘in fill’ is simply the term for the material used that makes up the mattress itself. In a futon mattress, the materials are similar to a traditional mattress, just in different amounts and proportions. In a futon, the material is usually a cotton-poly blend. The central core is often foam with several layers of cotton or poly batting wrapped or stacked. Then, the final layer is cotton with a cover that is usually stitched around it to hold it all together. This cotton cover is usually the only protection for the mattress itself. Futon covers are also sold that can provide protection and fashion for your futon, but that’s for another article. A futon can even have inner coiled springs just like a traditionally designed mattress. The better quality ones will usually have individually wrapped coils allowing for less noise and less motion transfer and vibration. This give you a quieter and more restful sleep.

Yet another option is cotton-wool blends for the in-fill materials. This usually has a cotton core or foam core that is wrapped in several layers of cotton and wool. Because wool is more dense, it usually offers a more firm and supportive feel. Wool also aids in moisture control as it is a naturally anti-microbial and naturally wicking fabric. If you use your futon for mostly a couch or sofa option, you may be less interested in these properties of the wool.

When it comes to sleeping on a futon mattress or a traditional bed, now the choices are more about health conscious and flexible options. Sure, futons can be less expensive, but the functionality and comfort of them is more of a driving factor now. So, whatever you decide suits your needs, feel comfortable sleeping at night knowing that you don’t have to pick quality over comfort any more.