The 10 Best Japanese Futons – Our Top Picks in 2023
Sleep like a baby or lounge with your buddies with these comfy and flexible essentails.

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A Japanese futon mattress, also known as a shikibuton, is the conventional bedding style in Japan. Authentic Japanese-style futon mattresses are comfortable and compact. The best Japanese futon mattresses are designed with a three to four-inch cushion without any support structure, and the Japanese people have been using them for centuries.
These mattresses are portable, flexible, and versatile. You can neatly fold the Japanese futon mattress and store it during the daytime. While sleeping on the floors may be uncomfortable for some, these futons are also known to keep your joints in their proper position and are a good option for those with back issues. These mattresses are made with organic cotton and have a cozy base. In this article, we have listed the 10 best Japanese futons available online. Let’s check out!
In This Article
10 Best Japanese Futons
1. Best Support:Otis Moonshadow Futon Mattress
The Otis Moonshadow Futon Mattress features plush, soft, and comfortable foam. The supportive ultra-premium foam is perfect for everyday use on the sofa or as a sleeper. It is overstuffed with fibers to get better stability and comfort. You can use the futon on a bi-fold frame or a platform bed. The compression lace machine tufting ensures that the layers of foam are held together without sagging or shifting.
Features
- Dimensions: 80 x 76 x 8 inches, King Size
- Weight: 52 pounds
- Construction Type: Memory Foam
- Firmness: Plush
Pros
- Lightweight
- Flippable design
- Durable
- Available as custom sizes
- Plush comfort
Cons
None
2. Best Color Options:MAXYOYO Japanese Futon Mattress
The MAXYOYO Japanese Futon Mattress is available in four sizes and plenty of vibrant colors. This mattress features a unique and 5-layer structure design. The top and bottom layers are made of brushed cotton, the middle two layers feature soft microfiber cotton, and the central layer consists of high-quality memory foam. The 10 cm thick mattress is sturdy and will not collapse easily. It comes with a canvas storage bag, a pair of bandages, and a dust proof cover, so you don’t have to worry about cleaning it.
Features
- Dimensions: 24 x 21 x 15 inches, Twin size
- Weight: 83 pounds
- Construction Type: Cotton and foam
- Firmness: Low
Pros
- Easy to fold and store
- Easy to maintain
- No sink spots
- Durable
- Versatile
Cons
- Thin

3. Best Odor-Free Material:Luxton Japanese Shiki Futon
The Luxton Shiki Futon Mattress comes with extra padding but a thin build for a comfortable sleeping experience on the futon. The fabric is 100% organic cotton, which is soft and durable. The mattress’s firmness is just right, and this prevents back pain and aligns the spine for improving posture. You can also use it as a yoga mat, a sofa cushion, or camping gear for sleeping comfortably outdoors. The futon folds seamlessly and is easy to store in compact closets. It is antibacterial, hypoallergenic, and safe for babies.
Features
- Dimensions: 39 x 83 inches, Twin-long
- Weight: 59 pounds
- Construction Type: Cotton
- Firmness: Firm
Pros
- Lightweight
- Antibacterial
- Hypoallergenic
- Allergy-friendly
- Odorless
Cons
- Very thin
4. Best Cushioned Base:FULI Japanese Traditional Shiki Futon
The conventional mattresses can build up dust, dust mites, and hair over time, but the best part of the FULI Japanese Traditional Futon Mattress is that this mattress is easy to clean. You can either use a vacuum or leave the mattress in the sun for a while for sanitizing it. The mattress closely resembles the traditional craftsmanship of Japanese mattresses used in Japan for years. Additionally, it comes with 100% polyester filling and 100% cotton cover to offer a cushiony and soft base for sleeping.
Features
- Dimensions: 55 x 3 x 83 inches
- Weight: 14pounds
- Construction Type: Polyester
- Firmness: Medium
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight
- Foldable
- Durable
- Flexible
Cons
- Not as thick as stated
5. Best Portable Option:D&D Twin Size Traditional Japanese Floor Futon Mattresses
The D&D Futon Mattress is filled with two fiber layers, a foam layer, and white cotton battings, which make it remarkably comfortable. It is available in black and other vibrant shades. The unique tufted design looks exceptional in your bedroom or living room. You can also use this mattress for sleeping on the floor or on the couch as a cushion. The mattress is made using high-quality cotton. It is durable and easy to fold and roll up effortlessly. If you need a portable and easy to clean mattress, this is the perfect option.
Features
- Dimensions: 80 x 39 x 3 inches, Twin size
- Weight: 62pounds
- Construction Type: Polyester
- Firmness: Medium
Pros
- Versatile
- Affordable
- Easy to roll
- Easy to flip
- Durable
Cons
- Smells odd
6. Best Space Themed:YOSHOOT Futon Mattress
The YOSHOOT Futon Mattress features a three-layer design with a memory foam layer sandwiched between 2 cotton layers. It provides moderate softness and adequate support for your comfortable sleep. The mattress comes with a navy blue space theme and is ideal for your kid’s room. This futon mattress is available in twin, full, and queen sizes.
Features:
- Dimensions: 75 x 39 x 4 inches
- Construction type: Cotton and memory foam
- Firmness: Medium
Pros
- Dustproof cover
- Easy to store
- Portable
- High-quality filling
Cons
- Thin
7. Best Foldable:BJDesign Futon Mattress
The BJDesign Futon Mattress has a three-layer design and is available in twin, full, and queen sizes. This lightweight traditional futon mattress is 2.5 inches thick and provides adequate back support for a comfortable sleep. Moreover, it is gentle and smooth on the skin with its 100% pure cotton fabric. In addition, the mattress is foldable and easy to store.
Features:
- Dimensions: 82 x 53 x 2.5 inches, Full
- Construction type: Cotton
- Firmness: Firm
Pros
- Foldable
- Easy cleaning
- Lightweight
Cons
- Thin
8. Best Durable:Colorful Mart Japanese Floor Futon Mattress
If you prefer design over other features, the Colorful Mart Japanese Futon will impress you. The mattress goes through reactive printing, quilting, and binding process and looks exceptional. Especially if you want to buy a futon for a small space that adds to the beauty of your home, go for this one. The cover of this material is made using 100% polyester while its filling is made from 100% microfiber to provide the utmost comfort. Also, the mattress is airtight, so wait for 2-3 days for it to fully expand.
Features
- Dimensions: 9 X 78.7 inches, Kingsize
- Weight: 37pounds
- Construction Type: Cotton
- Firmness: Medium
Pros
- Easy to fold
- Odor-free
- Easy-to-clean
- Durable
Cons
- Thin
- Not as firm as stated
9. Best Soft Textured:MIINA Japanese Floor Mattress
The MIINA Japanese Floor Mattress is specially designed with the traditional Japanese method. It has a hardmarble katawata layer between 2 polyester layers that are further sandwiched between 2 cotton layers. This foldable mat provides good back support. You can use this mattress as a floor mat, yoga mat, sofa bed, floor bed, nap mat, etc. This mattress is available in sizes of twin, full, and queen. The mattress will take a few days to expand to its full size when opened initially. It is recommended to hang it in the sun frequently to maintain its fluffiness.
Features:
- Dimensions: 78 x 39 x 10 inches, Twin size
- Construction type: Cotton and polyester
- Firmness: Medium
Pros
- Foldable
- Soft
- High-quality material
- Portable
Cons
None

10. Best Dust-Proof Material:Maxyoyo Bohemian Futon Mattress
The Maxyoyo Bohemian Futon Mattress is specially designed with a five-layer structure. The top and bottom layers are of microfiber cotton material. The first and third layers are soft microfiber cotton material and the middle layer is made of memory foam to make you feel comfortable. This mattress is available in twin, full, queen, and king sizes. You can use this mattress as a bedroom or living room futon, guest mattress, campaign mattress, or sleeping floor mat. It has an attractive Bohemian print and dye. The pack includes a pair of bandages, a storage bag, and a dust-proof cover in exactly the same print.
Features:
- Dimensions: 80 x 39 x 4 inches, Twin size
- Construction type: Cotton and foam
- Firmness: Firm
Pros
- Foldable
- Versatility
- Lightweight
- Soft
- High-quality material
Cons
- Thin
If you want to buy an authentic Japanese futon, browsing the best options alone will not help. Here is a detailed guide to help you buy a functional and affordable Japanese futon mattress.
Things To Consider Before Buying A Japanese Futon
- Construction
These mattresses are made of organic materials, such as 100% cotton or blends of cotton, polyester, and foam that is inserted between the cotton batting to lend extra support. Pick one based on your preferences.
- Foldability
Japanese futons are highly foldable and available in bi-fold and tri-fold designs. The foldability of a mattress reflects how compact, storage-friendly, and portable it is. Some mattresses also come with ties to hold them when you roll them up.
- Size
If you are going to use the mattress on a bed, buy a mattress according to the bed’s frame size. However, if you are using it for multiple purposes like a floor mat, yoga mat, kid’s play mat, etc., you can pick any size you like. These mattresses are easy to store, so you can pick one of any size.
- Weight
The purpose of a Japanese futon is to offer comfort and portability and use a small space efficiently. If you want to use one mattress in different rooms and for various purposes, make sure that you pick a lightweight mattress that is easy to carry.
- Color And Design
While investing in a mattress, think about its aesthetics. Japanese futons are visually appealing with minimalist designs. They are available in plenty of vibrant and refreshing color options. Pick a color that compliments the furniture and décor.
- Care
Some Japanese mattresses are washable, while some are not hand or machine washable. The traditional way of cleaning a futon is to place it in the sun. This process sanitizes the mattress and removes dust mites. You can also use a vacuum to clean the mattress and remove dirt, hair, and debris. Choose a mattress that offers ease of cleaning.
Now that you know what factors to look for, let’s look at the purpose and types of Japanese futons.
Why Do You Need Japanese Futons?
- If you have visitors and guests, you can use a Japanese futon to prepare a comfortable and elegant bed for them.
- Are you living in an area that is too hot? If yes, a futon mattress is best for you as it is made of cotton fabric and natural fibers that are breathable, keeps you cool during any time of the day, and promotes airflow.
- A Japanese futon is eco-friendly and sustainable, and purchasing it is a great way of protecting the environment.
- These mattresses are highly versatile and can be used as mats, workout mats, kid’s play mats, couch cushions, loungers, etc.
- If you have a small living space, Japanese futons help you save space. Use the mattress when required and store it conveniently in a closet after use.
- The futon mattress helps in improving posture and relieving back and joint pain. If you have back pain and joint pain issues, go for a futon mattress.
The traditional Japanese futon mattresses are foldable, thin, and made using cotton. They offer comfort and support while sleeping. The two types of Japanese futon mattresses are listed below.
Types Of Japanese Futons
- Traditional Shikibuton Mattress: The traditional shikibuton mattresses are made of 100% natural cotton or silk. These mattresses feature a zipper cover and are filled with cotton batting. As they are not thick, they are used with tatami mats for added comfort and fluffiness.
- Foam Futon Mattresses: While the traditional futons are made of cotton and silk, some modern variations feature foam construction. These mattresses are not authentic Japanese futons but contemporary foam futon variations. They are firmer and thicker than the Japanese mattresses and offer excellent comfort.
Here are a few tips to take care of a Japanese futon.
How Do You Take Care Of A Japanese Futon?
- Like other mattresses, a futon can also accumulate dirt, debris, hair, and bacteria. It is recommended to dry the mattress in the sun. The cotton fabric can also absorb moisture and sweat. You can remove moisture and sanitize the mattress by placing it in the sun. Air out the mattress and remove the dust mites.
- You can also use a vacuum to get rid of dirt, dust, and other tiny particles from it.
- The futon may develop stains and dead mites that cannot be removed by drying or vacuuming. In this case, you can wash it. Check the care instructions and follow the guidelines mentioned to prevent wear and tear.
- Use a futon cover to keep the mattress clean. If the futon is not washable, use a washable cover to protect the mattress from dirt and dust particles. Wash the cover regularly.
- Don’t overexpose the futon to the sun – 1-2 hours between 10 AM to 3 PM is enough.
- Don’t beat the futon with sharp or strong objects to remove dirt or dust from it. Use any of the above ways to clean and maintain it.
The Bottom Line
A good night’s sleep is essential for a good day. The Japanese Futon mattress is a traditional bedding style of the Japanese that offers multiple benefits. These mattresses are foldable, occupy less space, and are easy to store. The Otis Moonshadow Futon Mattress is a great choice for everyday use. If you are looking a dust-proof option, try the MAXYOYO Japanese Futon Mattress, while the D&D Twin Size Traditional Japanese Floor Futon Mattresses are made with premium cotton and known for their authentic design and functionality. In addition, they keep you cool throughout warm nights and allow cozy sleep. These are also available in multiple designs and have the right firmness or softness to support your back. However, say no-no to mattresses that are too thin and collapse after a few months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Japanese futons comfortable?
Japanese futons are not as thick as foam and spring mattresses but are comfortable. These mattresses are laid on the floor and have a soft filling, so you can enjoy a sound sleep throughout the night.
Are Japanese futons healthy?
Yes. Japanese futons improve posture, disperse weight equally, support the joints, alleviate back pain, don’t sag or cause sink spots, and are healthy and beneficial for the body. These mats are also breathable and promote ventilation when used on beds.
Why do Japanese sleep on futons?
There are many reasons for Japanese people to sleep on futons. They are comfortable, space-saving, foldable, and offer plenty of health benefits.
Can you wash a Japanese futon?
You can wash the Japanese futon once or twice a year if it is washable. If it is not washable, you can place it in the sun or vacuum it. However, you can use a futon cover to protect the futon and clean the cover regularly.
Do the Japanese still use futons?
Futon mattresses are still very common in Japan. You can see futons hanging in the balconies of Japanese houses. However, some Japanese people prefer modern and thicker futons rather than traditional ones. You can also find futons in Japanese hotels.
How long do Japanese futons last?
Japanese futons can last anywhere between 5-15 years if maintained properly.
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