The 13 Best Futons That Balance Comfort, Style And Support

Sofa dimensions: 85 x 39.8 x 47 inches | Sleeper dimensions: 85 x 53 x 22 inches | Fabric: Bouclé | Color options: 1 total, including Alabaster

Pros:

• Versatile and stylish look
• Sturdy oak and metal frame
• Folds easily

Cons:

• Currently only one color available

With its Scandinavian design and gorgeous oak frame, West Elm’s Jannick futon could easily pass for your standard—and very chic—couch. It’s sturdily constructed, with an inner metal frame that can support up to 600 pounds. The futon also features soft bouclé fabric and supportive seat and back cushions (note: West Elm classifies the seat as medium-firm). You can easily convert the futon into a full-sized, two-person sleeper by pulling out the seat and pushing the back down; the inner coil mattress is fiber- and foam-filled to help balance support and comfort.

What our experts say: The Jannick’s oak-and-metal build, bouclé fabric and fiber-and-fill cushioning meet experts’ criteria when looking for futons. Interior designer Denine Jackson says, “Futons should be made with highly durable fabric and constructed with kiln-dried wood and steel components.” Nancy Swanton of Abundant Home Design shares, “Look for futons with a high-density foam core topped with natural fibers like cotton or wool.”

Sofa dimensions: 74.5 x 37 x 36 inches | Sleeper dimensions: 74.5 x 45 x 18 inches | Fabric: Polyester | Color options: 3 total, including Harbor Blue and Cappuccino

Pros:

• Versatile design (with removable legs)
• High-density foam cushioning balances comfort and durability
• Comfortable padding

Cons:

• Sleeper is slightly smaller than full-sized

The Hayden Urban Sofa Bed features high-density foam cushioning, something that Swanton says molds to your body while helping it maintain its shape over time. Removable legs allow you to adjust the height to get that just-right feel. To convert from couch to sleeper, simply drop down the back; it folds flat into a cushiony sleep surface. The armless silhouette and relatively lighter weight (just over 100 pounds) also make it easy to place this futon just about anywhere. 

What the reviews say: Some users highlight this futon’s polyester upholstery for being soft and easy to wipe clean. Another buyer shares, “It looks great, is comfortable to sit on and is even more comfortable to lie on when turned into a bed. The fabric color is great and the feel is soft yet durable-feeling.”

Sofa dimensions: 66.1 x 19.8 x 15 inches | Sleeper dimensions: 66.1 x 37.6 x 15 inches | Fabric: Linen | Color options: 4 total, including Charcoal and Light Gray

Pros:

• A good value for those on a budget
• Modern, versatile design
• Offers several reclining positions

Cons:

• May be too firm for some

Ranging between $139 and $176 at Wayfair (depending on the color), this low-profile futon with mid-century elements is a great value pick designed to hold up to plenty of use. Supported by a solid hardwood frame, the futon features high-density foam cushioning for additional support; meanwhile, its metal legs add an extra-stylish touch to the look. The sofa offers several recline options: an upright position, a 30-degree “lounger” setting and a fully flat position for sleeping. This tufted model is no slouch in the comfort department, either: Its 7.1-inch seat cushion meets Swanton’s thickness criteria of 6 to 8 inches, which she says “offers the best mix of comfort and support.” 

What the reviews say: Users like this futon’s easy setup (which involves simply attaching the legs and positioning the sofa upright), versatile aesthetic and relatively dirt-resistant fabric. Some reviewers say it’s a bit too firm to use frequently as a sleeper, but those who prefer firm mattresses will find it comfortable.

Sofa dimensions: 83.5 x 40 x 31 inches | Sleeper dimensions: 83.5 x 40 x 31 inches | Fabric: Leather, vegan leather | Color options: 15 total, including Molasses and Navy

Pros:

• Easy mechanism for folding and unfolding
• Large leather and vegan leather upholstery selection
• Sizable sleeping space (unfolds to a queen)

Cons:

• The priciest on this list

The Andes looks so much like a regular leather couch that your guests might not believe you when you tell them it’s a futon. This sleek-shaped sofa is swathed in buttery soft leather, while the frame is crafted from sturdy, sustainably sourced wood and cast-metal legs—making for a futon that’s made to last. The best part is that it unfolds into a medium-firm, queen-sized sleeper, which easily folds back up again using a simple click-clack mechanism. And if real leather isn’t your thing, this futon is also available in vegan upholstery.

What our experts say: Futons get a bad rap for being less sophisticated than other types of sofas. Swanton says, “Their casual style might not suit every room, especially if you’re going for a more polished or refined aesthetic.” But the Andes futon is a noteworthy exception: Its top-grain leather and high-quality, minimalist frame give it a unique elegance.

Sofa dimensions: 32.3 x 40.6 x 37 inches | Sleeper dimensions: 74.8 x 40.6 x 10.6 inches | Fabric: Polyester | Color options: 4 total, including Moon Light and Charcoal

Pros:

• Ideal for tight spaces
• Simple, retro look and easy setup
• Comes with matching pillow

Cons:

• Some users say it’s more comfy as a chair than as a bed
• Firm sleeper may require a mattress topper

At a little over 40 inches wide, the Jazariah futon chair is petite, making it perfect for smaller spaces. That said, this futon chair is still roomy enough to serve as spare seating and a sleeper for one. (Or, you could buy two and push them together when needed, as one user did.) With its thick, supportive foam cushioning, armless design, and angled solid birchwood legs, this futon chair is decidedly simple yet modern. And according to several reviewers, you don’t have to worry about it falling apart after a few uses, thanks to its durable pine wood frame.

What the reviews say: One reviewer notes, “The chair was easy to set up, just [needed] to attach the feet. It functions perfectly in all three positions. … A topper is needed when sleeping on it because it’s extremely firm, but I believe it will also last a long time and not have cushion issues. … It fits just right and is big enough for two kids to sit comfortably.”

Sofa dimensions: 77 x 33 x 33.5 inches | Sleeper dimensions: 70 x 44 x 17.5 inches | Fabric: Velvet | Color options: 3 total, including Green and Ivory

Pros:

• Modern design and plush fabric
• Three reclining positions
• Can hold up to 600 pounds

Cons:

• Users say color the doesn’t exactly match photos

The Novogratz futon is a gorgeous statement piece, thanks to its bold color options and velvet upholstery. Featuring a ribbed and tufted back with vertical stitching and gold powder-coated legs, this futon has serious (but fun) flair that’ll blend well with modern living spaces. A split-back design lets you and the person next to you choose between three reclining positions: sitting, lounging or sleeping. When you’re ready to sleep, simply fold it all the way down. Just note that you may need a mattress topper for this if you plan to use it frequently for sleeping.

What the reviews say: According to a verified Amazon buyer, “The Ivory velvet fabric is luscious, and the quality far surpasses the price. The size fits perfectly in the space, and [the couch] was easy to assemble. Directions were clear and all parts were included…I prefer the clean lines and structure of this couch over some that are more slouchy.”

Sofa dimensions: 91 x 37 x 34 inches | Sleeper dimensions: 86.5 w x 45.5 x 34 inches | Fabric: Bouclé, chenille, tweed and more | Color options: 23 total, including Alabaster and Oatmeal

Pros:

• Very spacious and highly customizable
• Versatile minimal design
• Hidden built-in storage

Cons:

• Large footprint won’t work for smaller homes

Enjoy ample lounging and sleeping room with the Shasta Roll Arm futon. Coming in at an impressive 91 inches wide, this futon provides enough space for two adults to snooze in comfort. And if you need to move it through a narrow doorway, don’t fret—it has removable wooden legs, which you can take off permanently if you prefer a low-to-the-ground look. On top of all that, it features a storage section underneath the futon to house your bed sheets and other essentials. Choose from among nearly 30 available fabric options.

What our experts say: The Shasta futon is made from sustainable, durable rubberwood and ranges in cost from $999 to $1,199—squarely within the price point that both Jackson and Swanton say is an indicator of a quality futon. “In this range, you can expect to find futons made with natural materials that are built to last,” Swanton notes. “It’s an investment in both comfort and long-term use, ensuring your futon holds up over time.”

Sofa dimensions: 71 x 36 x 32 inches | Sleeper dimensions: 71 x 45 x 17 inches | Fabric: Treated polyester | Color options: 8 total, including Faux Leather and Performance Velvet
Pros:

• Greenguard Gold Certified
• Frame-and-panel joinery and iron