futon frame

Size:  First determine the size of the frame and how big you want the futon.  Futon frames come in many sizes – a smaller chair size, a twin size, a full size, and a queen size frame.  Similar to determining the mattress size, the size of the frame will dictate how much space you need in the room.  Don’t forget that you will be able to open and close up the frame.  Therefore, when checking the space in your room, don’t just consider the size for sitting in a futon like a couch, also remember that you will want to use the futon as a bed and open it up entirely.  The frame will be larger than a mattress since it needs to support the mattress.  Therefore, choose a size that will fit your comfortably for both options.

Material:  Futon frames come in many different types of materials.  You will want to think about the type of material, but also

Wood futon frame

consider how heavy that material is.  Depending on who will be using the futon, you do not want to pick a frame that is too heavy for the person using it.  Otherwise, he or she won’t be able to take advantage of the futon and opening and closing up the futon will be very difficult for them.  If you would like a wood futon frame, think through what type of wood.  There is hardwood, pine, oak, rattan and tropical wood.  Each of these woods comes in different colors and some are sturdier than others.  Also note that different wood is a different weight and the sturdier wood may be much heavier to lift.  The other material is metal.  Metal is much lighter and easier to handle than wood.  In general, a metal frame is pretty sturdy.  It won’t look as nice as the wood frame, but it is useful and easier to maneuver than wood.  Those who want a lighter futon that they can easily open and close or move frequently, may want to consider a metal frame.

Types of futon frames:  

A futon frame comes in two main types:  the bi-fold and the tri-fold.  

Bifold futon frame

Bi-fold futon frame:  The bi-fold is the most common futon frame.  Here, the futon mattress is folded in half the long way.  This means that you would sit on the long length of the mattress and the futon couch would therefore have more sitting space.  These types of frames are easily converted from a couch to a bed and back since you only have to fold the futon once.  These frames also come in many sizes include the full, queen or chair size frame and the futon loveseat and futon bed.

Tri-fold futon frame:  The tri-fold frame is less common and manufacturer’s are not making as many these day.  These frames are great for small spaces because they fold up smaller.  Here, the futon mattress is folded in thirds with the bottom third folding under the middle.  Therefore, the seating area is shorter since you fold the mattress the long way in order to accomplish the folds.  Because you have to fold the mattress three times, the futon mattress on a tri-fold is a lot thinner and it is harder to convert from a couch to a bed.  Most people choose these frames if they plan on using the futon as a couch and less frequently as a bed.