Futon Frames
- What are the sizes of futons?
- What are the different futon frame types?
- What is a futon lounger?
- How do I care for a futon frame?
- I have trouble assembling a futon. Do you have instructions?
What are the sizes of futons?
Futon frames are measured by the size of their mattress (the dimensions of the futon would depend on the frame style and the thickness of the arms). There are two types of futon frames: bi-fold futons and futon loungers. The following are the common sizes for futons:
Chair
When opened to a bed position, the chair futon body measures 28″ x 54″. An optional ottoman can be used with a mattress of 28″ x 21″.
Twin
Twin futon bodies come in three styles: Twin Chair, Twin Lounger, and Twin A-Frame.
- Twin Chair (Twin Split) body measures 39″ x 54″ when open. To use it as a bed, an optional stand-alone ottoman and a matching Twin Ottoman mattress (39″ x 21″) are required.
- Twin Lounger body is similar to the Twin Chair but includes the ottoman part that slides into the frame. A Twin Ottoman mattress is needed to use the Twin Lounger as a bed.
- The Twin A-Frame futon is a specific style of futon frame that accommodates a twin-size mattress. An all-cotton futon mattress is recommended, as mattresses with foam won’t allow the mattress to fold over. When opened to a bed position, the Twin A-Frame futon measures approximately 39″ x 75″.
Full
Full futon bodies come in four different styles: Full, Loveseat, Full Lounger, and Full A-Frame.
- Full size body measures 75″ x 54″ when open. It uses a regular Full-size futon mattress.
- Loveseat (Full Split) body measures 54″ x 54″ when open. To use it as a bed, an optional stand-alone ottoman and a matching Love Ottoman mattress (54″ x 21″) are required.
- Full Lounger body is similar to Loveseat but includes the ottoman part that slides into the frame. A Love Ottoman mattress is needed to use the Full Lounger as a bed.
- The Full A-Frame futon is a specific style of futon frame that accommodates a Full-size mattress. An all-cotton futon mattress is recommended, as mattresses with foam won’t allow the mattress to fold over. Alternatively, two separate mattresses can be used (one measuring 54″ x 54″ and the other measuring 21″ x 54″). When opened to a bed position, the Full A-Frame futon measures approximately 54″ x 75″.
Queen
Queen futon bodies also come in three different styles: Queen, Queen Loveseat, and Queen Lounger.
- Queen size body measures 80″ x 60″ when open. It uses a regular Queen-size futon mattress.
- Queen Loveseat (Queen Split) body measures 60″ x 54″ when open. To use it as a bed, an optional stand-alone ottoman and a matching Queen Ottoman mattress (60″ x 26″) are required.
- Queen Lounger body is similar to Queen Loveseat’s but includes the ottoman part that slides into the frame. A Queen Ottoman mattress is needed to use the Queen Lounger as a bed.
Please note that there are no King-size frames available as they would not look right and be extremely difficult to convert. Additionally, futon mattresses come in various sizes, allowing for more flexibility in their use.
How to Choose
If you need a small futon, consider Chair or Twin Chair sizes. If you want to use as little floor space as possible, but have an additional sleeping option for occasional guests, consider Loveseat or Lounger styles (Loveseat, Full Lounger, Queen Loveseat, or Queen Lounger). If you want to have more seating space, consider a regular Full or Queen-size futon.
Full Size
- 72 to 75-inch back width
- Makes the best everyday couch
- Bi-fold futon has 3 seats, tri-fold has 2 seats
- Comfortable to sleep 2 adults, (for loveseat w/ottoman only)
- Full lounger w/sleeper is perfect for small spaces
- Easier to convert a futon
Queen Size
- 77 to 80-inch back width
- Makes the best everyday bed
- Bi-fold futon has 4 seats, tri-fold has 2 seats
- More comfortable to sleep 2 adults, (for queen split w/ottoman only)
- Queen lounger w/sleeper is perfect for small spaces
What are the different futon frame types?
All different types of futons can be broken down into two categories: bi-fold futons and futon loungers.
Bi-Fold Frame
Bi-fold frames have 2 body parts, the sitting and backrest parts. Some manufacturers offer optional matching ottomans. Ottoman is a separate piece and can be used as a bench.
Lounger Frame
Futon lounger frames are also known as loveseats or space savers because they have an additional leg part (lounge extension) that folds into the frame and hides between the futon base and the seat deck.
Futon loveseats provide maximum sleeping and sitting space in the minimum floor space. They are ideal for small guest rooms, home offices, porches, or any other spaces where the wall space needed for a full-size bi-fold frame just isn’t there. With a full-size loveseat, you can fit a conventional full-size bed (54″ x 75″) into 60″ of wall space. With a twin-size loveseat, you can fit a conventional twin-size bed (39″ x 75″) into 45″ of wall space.
To gain some more storage space for your room, you can also buy an optional set of sliding futon drawers for your futon frame. Drawers come in standard sizes and fit under the sitting part of the frame. Some futons are also available with matching coffee and end tables.
What is a futon lounger?
A futon lounger is your best solution for a small space and the need to accommodate an option to sleep. Futon lounger frames are also known as loveseats or space savers because they have an additional leg part (lounge extension) that folds into the frame and hides between the futon base and the seat deck.
There are three futon lounger sizes:
Twin Lounger is the smallest frame available and becomes the size of a twin bed. This two-piece frame comes with its ottoman, with folding legs for easy storage! When used together, the loveseat and the ottoman convert to a twin-size bed. The two mattress sizes are 39″ x 54″ and 39″ x 21″. Overall width ranges from 41″ to 50.5″.
Full Lounger is perfect for tight spaces but has the size of a full-size bed. This two-piece frame also comes with a stow-away ottoman, which simply folds up and is stored underneath the loveseat. When used together, the loveseat and the ottoman convert to a full-size bed. The two mattress sizes are 54″ x 54″ and 54″ x 21″. Overall width ranges from 55.5″ to 65″.
Queen Lounger is another space-saving option for those who want a queen-size bed. This two-piece frame also comes with a stow-away ottoman for convenient storage. When used together, the queen loveseat and ottoman convert to a queen-sized bed. The two mattress sizes are 60″ x 54″ and 60″ x 26″. Overall width ranges from 61.5″ to 71″.
There are so many benefits to a futon lounger:
- It fits width-wise in narrow places
- It opens to a sleeper (with an opened built-in ottoman extension part)
- The frame is very durable and easy to convert
- You can pick the finish or style of the wooden or metal frame you like
- You can get a comfortable mattress and choose a cover style
- And last but not least, you can add a storage drawer on the bottom
How do I care for a futon frame?
Caring for a futon frame is simple and ensures its longevity and appearance. Here are some tips for different frame materials:
Cleaning
- Wood Frames: Wipe with a soft, damp cloth or gentle wood cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals. Dust regularly.
- Metal Frames: Dust with a soft cloth. Clean with a mild soap solution and dry completely to prevent rust.
Maintenance
- Regular Inspections: Check for damage or wear, such as cracks, rust, or loose components.
- Tighten Screws and Bolts: Check and tighten periodically to keep the frame stable.
- Repair Joints: For wood frames, apply wood glue to loose joints. Check metal frames for wear on welded joints.
- Lubricate: Keep moving parts smooth by lubricating mechanisms that convert the futon from a sofa to a bed.
Protective Measures
- Avoid Moisture: Prevent wood warping and metal rusting by keeping the frame dry.
- Use Furniture Pads: Protect floors and reduce noise by placing pads under the legs.
- Shield from Sunlight: Position away from direct sunlight or use curtains to prevent damage.
- Protect the Mattress: Use a futon cover to prevent spills and stains, protecting both the mattress and the frame. For more suggestions check out our guide on how to take care of a futon mattress.
By following these care instructions, you can help ensure that your futon frame remains in good condition, providing comfort and support for years to come. Regular maintenance also helps identify potential issues before they become serious problems, saving you time and money on repairs or replacements.
I have trouble assembling a futon. Do you have instructions?
Assembly instructions are usually included in the shipping box or on the product page, but if you need an online copy or want to watch an instructional video, read below. Most futon frame bodies are standard and have a similar assembly process for all sizes and models.
Strata Furniture Pre-built frame assembly (video), and KD frame assembly (video). Wallhugger is Strata’s patented mechanism that allows you to open and close the frame without moving it from the wall. Watch how to operate it here.
Prestige Furnishings KD frame assembly (video).
Kodiak Futon body, and Arms and stretchers assembly (video).
Lifestyle Solutions Bi-fold frame assembly, and Lounger frame assembly. Lifestyle uses a front-load mechanism on most of its frames. Watch how to operate it here or here.
J&M Furniture uses a back-load mechanism on most of its frames. Watch how to operate it here or here.
Night&Day Furniture — please refer to the product description.
If you are worried that you won’t be able to assemble the futon on your own, you can choose a Whiteglove Delivery & Assembly service during checkout. Our delivery teams specialize in furniture assembly and will be happy to assist you. If you need any further help with assembly instructions, don’t hesitate to contact us, we’ll do our best to navigate you through this process.
