How to Make Your Futon More Comfortable for Sleeping On
Struggling to sleep on your futon? These 6 easy tips can help turn your futon into a more comfortable and cozy bed—perfect for guests or everyday use.
Why Futons Can Feel Uncomfortable
When you think of a futon, you might picture something in a college dorm or a small apartment. Futons are great for saving space and money, but let’s be honest—they’re not always the most comfortable place to sleep.
Many people buy futons for guests or as a temporary bed, but end up frustrated when it feels too hard or uneven. The good news? You can make your futon much more comfortable with a few simple tricks.
Whether it’s for you or your visitors, these helpful ideas will improve how it feels to sleep on your futon.
1. Choose a Simple and Soft Futon
Some futons come with fancy designs, buttons, or zippers that might look nice but can be annoying when you’re trying to sleep. If you’re lying on buttons or rough fabric, it can poke or scratch your skin, making it hard to relax.
That’s why a minimalist futon is usually better. Look for one with a smooth, soft surface and no hard details. It might not look as fancy, but it will definitely feel better at night—and you can always dress it up with nice pillows or a throw blanket.
2. Add Wooden Slats Under the Mattress
If your futon mattress feels like it sags or sinks in the middle, the problem might be underneath. A futon frame without enough support can make the mattress droop, which leads to a sore back in the morning.
A simple fix is to add wooden slats—thin boards you can buy at a hardware store. Just place them across the frame to give the mattress a stronger base. This DIY project doesn’t cost much and can really help your futon feel firmer and more supportive.
3. Use a Mattress Topper
A mattress topper is a soft layer that goes on top of your futon mattress. If your futon feels too hard or thin, a topper can make it feel more like a real bed.
There are lots of topper types—memory foam, down alternative, and more. Pick one based on how you like to sleep. For example, if you’re a side sleeper, a thicker topper can help relieve pressure on your shoulders and hips. You can even tuck it inside the futon cover so it stays in place and looks neat.
4. Try a Featherbed for Extra Softness
A featherbed is like a big fluffy pad filled with feathers that you lay on top of the futon. It’s super soft and can help cushion your body while you sleep.
Even though it might look like a comforter, you sleep on a featherbed, not under it. It’s especially helpful for side sleepers, as it helps support pressure points like your hips and shoulders. This is a great way to make your futon feel plush without buying a new one.
5. Put an Air Mattress on Top
Another smart idea is to place an air mattress right on top of your futon. This adds a whole new layer of comfort and gives you more height, too. Futons are usually low to the ground, so the extra lift from an air mattress can make getting in and out of bed easier.
Just inflate it when you need it, and store it away afterward. It’s great for guests or when you want a break from your usual futon mattress. Just make sure the air mattress fits well and doesn’t slide around.
6. Layer Comforters for More Padding
Got a few extra comforters in the closet? Stack them on top of your futon mattress! This quick and affordable trick can help add softness and keep your body from feeling the hard surface underneath.
Instead of sleeping under them, place the comforters on the futon and then put your sheets over them. It’s an easy way to make your sleep spot more cushioned. If you’re setting it up for guests, consider using hypoallergenic comforters in case someone has allergies.
What If None of These Work?
If you’ve tried everything and your futon still feels uncomfortable, it might be time to shop for a new one. Some futons just aren’t made for sleeping every night, especially if they were designed more for style than comfort.
Luckily, there are many modern futons that are cozy, supportive, and still look great. Investing in a new one might be the best way to give yourself—or your guests—a better night’s sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it healthy to sleep on a futon?
Traditional Japanese futons are known to be good for your posture and spine. They’re often used on the floor and are made to support healthy sleeping positions.
Western-style futons, however, don’t always give the same support. If used every night, they might not be as good for your body as a regular mattress. That’s why it’s important to add layers or supports to make them more comfortable and healthy for sleep.
Final Thoughts
Sleeping on a futon doesn’t have to mean poor sleep. By using these simple tips—like adding a topper, featherbed, or even a few comforters—you can turn a basic futon into a much better sleeping spot. You can also improve the support underneath to help with sagging and back pain.
And if all else fails, it may be time to upgrade to a futon that’s made with better sleep in mind.
Being a good host or taking care of your own sleep is more than just polite—it’s a way to care for health and happiness. So go ahead and be a sleep hero—you and your guests deserve a great night’s rest!