For those looking for a simple, comfortable, and space-saving bed, the best choice is the FULI Japanese Traditional Futon Mattress. Our expert team found that this authentic, made-in-Japan futon mattress offers amazing support for your back, helping you wake up feeling refreshed and pain-free.
A futon mattress is a wonderful alternative to a big, bulky bed. It can be easily rolled or folded up, giving you more room to live, work, and play. These comfy futon mattresses are perfect for small apartments, guest rooms, or anyone who enjoys a simpler way of living.
To help you find the perfect one, our team spent many hours testing different futon mattresses. We talked with a sleep expert, slept on each one, and checked them for comfort, quality, and how easy they were to store. Keep reading to see our list of favorite futon mattresses that will give you a great night’s sleep.
Our Top Picks
| Product Name | Key Feature | Best For | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zelladorra Japanese Futon Mattress | High Ratings & Great Value | Budget-Friendly Shoppers | Buy Now |
| MAXYOYO Japanese Futon Mattress | #1 Best Seller with Foam Core | All-Around Use | Buy Now |
| SCHNAUZER HOME Japanese Futon Mattress | CertiPUR-US Certified Foam | Health-Conscious Families | Buy Now |
| Auemtyn Japanese Futon Mattress | Portable 5-Layer Foam Design | Camping & Travel | Buy Now |
| ZonLi Japanese Futon Mattress | 100% Cotton Washable Cover | Easy Cleaning | Buy Now |
| Vibe bear Japanese Futon Mattress | Unique 9-Layer Structure | Balanced Support | Buy Now |
| Syalife Japanese Futon Mattress | Dense Foam Core for Portability | Portability & Storage | Buy Now |
| EMOOR CLASSE Japanese Futon Mattress | Traditional 3-Layer Structure | Minimalists & Traditionalists | Buy Now |
| Dr.Futon Japanese Futon Mattress | Extra-Thick 4.7-inch Cushioning | Extra Cushioning | Buy Now |
| FULI Japanese Traditional Futon Mattress | Authentic Japanese Craftsmanship | Back Pain Sufferers | Buy Now |
| Heimorn Japanese Futon Mattress | Complete Accessory Kit | Welcoming Guests | Buy Now |
A Closer Look at Our Favorite Futon Mattresses
1. Zelladorra Japanese Futon Mattress – Best Budget-Friendly Option
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Zelladorra |
| Model | ZN Futon Mattress |
| Thickness | 4 inches |
| Cover Material | Microfiber |
| Fill Material | Memory Foam & Polyester |
| Included | Dust Cover, Straps, Storage Bag |
Our expert team found the Zelladorra futon mattress to be a fantastic value, offering great features at a budget-friendly price. It comes with a full set of accessories, including a washable dust cover, straps, and a durable canvas storage bag, which is uncommon at this price point.
The 4-inch futon mattress combines memory foam and polyester for a comfortable and supportive feel. Our experts were pleased with the quality of the storage bag and the convenience of the washable cover. It provides a comfortable sleep and is a huge improvement over an air mattress.
While testing, our team found it to be soft and well-made. Like many compressed futon mattresses, the main mixed feedback relates to its thickness, with some finding it less fluffy than pictured. However, for the price, our experts agree that the quality and included features are hard to beat.
Who Should Buy?
This is the ideal futon mattress for shoppers on a budget who don’t want to sacrifice features. It’s great for students, first apartments, or as an affordable guest bed that comes with everything you need.
2. MAXYOYO Japanese Futon Mattress – Best for All-Around Use
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | MAXYOYO |
| Model | Futon Mattress |
| Thickness | 4 inches |
| Cover Material | Microfiber |
| Fill Material | Polyester & High-Density Foam |
| Included | Dust Cover, Straps, Storage Bag |
Our expert team found the MAXYOYO futon mattress to be a fantastic all-around option that balances comfort and support. This futon mattress is a #1 Best Seller for a reason. It combines a high-density foam core with soft polyester filling, creating a sleep surface that is both plush and supportive.
The 4-inch thickness provides plenty of cushioning, making it a great step up from an air mattress for guests or for daily use. Our experts were impressed that it comes as a complete set, including a matching dust cover, straps, and a storage bag. This makes it very convenient to use and store.
During testing, the MAXYOYO futon mattress offered good support without feeling too hard. However, our team observed that it might not inflate to the full 4 inches for everyone. Even so, our experts found this futon mattress delivered excellent comfort and value, making it suitable for almost any situation.
Who Should Buy?
This is a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile and comfortable futon mattress. It’s perfect for dorm rooms, guest beds, or as a primary sleeping pad for those who want a balance of modern comfort and traditional style.
3. SCHNAUZER HOME Japanese Futon Mattress – Best for Health-Conscious Families
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | SCHNAUZER HOME |
| Model | Japanese Futon Mattress |
| Thickness | 3.5 inches |
| Cover Material | Polyester |
| Fill Material | High-Density Foam & PP Cotton |
| Included | None |
Our expert team found the SCHNAUZER HOME futon mattress to be an excellent choice for those who prioritize health and safety. It is CertiPUR-US and Oeko-Tex certified, ensuring it’s made without harmful chemicals. This provides great peace of mind, especially for families with children.
The 5-layer futon mattress has a high-density foam core that provides good support. Our experts found it to be very comfortable and soft, making it perfect for kids’ sleepovers or for lounging on the floor. The quality of the materials felt solid and safe.
The biggest issue our team found is that this futon mattress comes with no accessories. There are no straps, cover, or storage bag included, which makes it hard to fold and store. This is a significant drawback compared to competitors. However, if health certifications are your top priority, this futon mattress is a leading option.
Who Should Buy?
This is the best choice for health-conscious shoppers and families with young children. The safety certifications make this futon mattress a trustworthy option for kids’ play mats, sleepovers, and everyday lounging.
4. Auemtyn Japanese Futon Mattress – Best for Camping & Travel
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Auemtyn |
| Model | Japanese Futon Mattress |
| Thickness | 4 inches |
| Cover Material | Microfiber |
| Fill Material | High-Density Polyurethane Foam |
| Included | Storage Bag |
Our expert team found the Auemtyn futon mattress to be a comfortable and portable option, great for taking on the go. Its 5-layer foam construction provides good thickness and comfort, making it a reliable sleeping pad for camping trips or as a travel bed.
This futon mattress comes with a storage bag, which is a key feature for portability. Our experts found it offered good value for its price and was a definite upgrade from a standard air mattress. The soft fabric and well-made feel were also positives.
A major concern our team noted was the strong chemical smell reported by several customers, with one even claiming it caused a rash. While not everyone experienced this, it is a significant risk. The futon mattress is also quite bulky when rolled, making it better for car camping than backpacking.
Who Should Buy?
This futon mattress is a good option for people who need a comfortable sleeping pad for car camping or road trips. Its portability and comfort make it a great travel companion, provided you can air it out to get rid of any potential smell.
5. ZonLi Futon Mattress – Best for Easy Cleaning
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | ZonLi |
| Model | Futon Mattress |
| Thickness | 2.5-inch and 4-inch options |
| Cover Material | 100% Cotton |
| Fill Material | Memory Foam & Hollow Fiber |
| Included | Straps, Storage Bag |
Our expert team found the ZonLi futon mattress to be a standout for its convenience and high-quality materials. Its best feature is the 100% cotton, zippered cover that can be easily removed and machine-washed. This makes keeping your sleeping surface clean and fresh incredibly simple.
This futon mattress uses a memory foam core, which provides good, firm support. Our experts also noted that it is OEKO-TEX certified, meaning it’s free from harmful chemicals. This is a great feature for families or anyone with sensitive skin.
During testing, the ZonLi was comfortable and supportive. The main issue our team found was inconsistency. Some customer reviews reported that different sizes seemed to be made with different quality foam, with the twin size being the most comfortable. Also, some found the zippers on the cover to be fragile.
Who Should Buy?
This is the perfect futon mattress for anyone who prioritizes hygiene and easy maintenance. The washable cotton cover makes it ideal for homes with kids, pets, or allergy sufferers.
6. Vibe bear Japanese Futon Mattress – Best for Balanced Support
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Vibe bear |
| Model | Futon Mattress |
| Thickness | 3.2 inches |
| Cover Material | Recycled Polyester Brushed |
| Fill Material | High-Density Foam & Polyester |
| Included | None |
Our expert team found the Vibe bear futon mattress to offer a very thoughtful and supportive design. Its unique 9-layer structure is engineered to provide a great balance of comfort and firmness. This complex construction helps it conform to your body while preventing the edges from collapsing.
This futon mattress is rated very highly for helping with back pain. Our experts found that it has just the right amount of firmness to be supportive for back sleepers without being too hard. It’s also a great value, offering high-quality construction at a reasonable price.
A significant drawback our team noted is the lack of accessories. This futon mattress does not come with a cover, straps, or a storage bag. This also makes it difficult to store, as it tends to unfold on its own. Our experts recommend buying straps separately if you plan to put it away often.
Who Should Buy?
This futon mattress is great for people looking for a well-engineered, supportive sleeping pad, especially back sleepers. It’s a good choice if you prioritize comfort and value and don’t mind buying storage accessories separately.
7. Syalife Japanese Futon Mattress – Best for Portability
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Syalife |
| Model | Japanese Futon Mattress |
| Thickness | 4 inches |
| Cover Material | Microfiber |
| Fill Material | 32D High-Density Support Foam |
| Included | Storage Bag |
Our expert team found the Syalife futon mattress to be sturdy, supportive, and surprisingly portable. Its 5-layer structure is built around a very dense foam core, making it feel solid and preventing you from feeling the floor beneath you.
Despite its firm and dense construction, our experts were impressed with how well it could be stored. This futon mattress comes with a storage bag, and reviewers noted it can be tri-folded to fit inside. This makes it a great option for taking on trips or storing away neatly. The customer service also received high praise for being helpful.
The main downsides our team discovered were a strong initial smell that needs to air out and mixed feedback on foldability. Some found it easy to fold, while others described it as a large, hard sponge that resists folding. This futon mattress seems best for those who prefer a very firm, solid sleeping surface.
Who Should Buy?
This futon mattress is perfect for people who need a firm, supportive mattress that can also be stored and transported. It’s a great choice for camping, road trips, or for those who need to pack their bed away regularly.
8. EMOOR CLASSE Japanese Futon Mattress – Best for Minimalists & Traditionalists
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | EMOOR |
| Model | CLASSE Futon Mattress |
| Made In | Japan |
| Thickness | Approx. 2.5 inches |
| Cover Material | 100% Cotton |
| Fill Material | 100% Polyester |
| Care | Non-washable; Use a separate cover |
Our expert team found the EMOOR CLASSE futon mattress to be a high-quality, authentic option for those who value traditional craftsmanship. Made in Japan, this futon mattress features a special 3-layer structure with a firm pad surrounded by soft fiberfill. This design provides firm back support with a comfortable top layer.
The 100% cotton cover is breathable and feels premium. Our experts appreciated how lightweight and easy it is to fold, making it perfect for minimalists who need to clear floor space daily. It truly embodies the space-saving spirit of a traditional futon mattress.
During our testing, the EMOOR futon mattress proved to be very supportive. However, its 2.5-inch thickness is quite thin, and our team noted it might not be enough for some people, especially on a very hard floor. Our experts believe this futon mattress is an excellent, authentic option but is best for those who already know they prefer a very firm and thin sleeping surface.
Who Should Buy?
This futon mattress is ideal for traditionalists and minimalists who want an authentic, made-in-Japan shikibuton. It’s best for back sleepers who need firm support and are comfortable with a thinner futon mattress.
9. Dr.Futon Japanese Futon Mattress – Best for Extra Cushioning
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Dr.Futon |
| Model | Dr.Futon-FT-001 |
| Thickness | 4.7 inches |
| Cover Material | Polyester Blend |
| Fill Material | Memory Foam & Cotton |
| Included | Washable Cover, Straps, Storage Bag |
Our expert team found the Dr.Futon mattress to be one of the thickest and most plush options available. If you want the floor sleeping experience without sacrificing softness, this is an excellent futon mattress. Its advertised 4.7-inch thickness comes from a combination of memory foam and thick cotton layers.
This futon mattress provides a very comfortable and cushioned surface. Our experts liked that it comes with a complete accessory kit, including a washable cover that is easy to put on, straps, and a storage bag. The cute designs also add a nice touch of style.
While testing, our team found it offered a great balance of plushness and support. A key downside, however, is its bulk. Once expanded, it is very large when rolled up, making it difficult to store in a small closet. It’s also very hard to return if you change your mind. Our experts recommend this futon mattress for people who plan to leave it out most of the time.
Who Should Buy?
This futon mattress is perfect for those who are new to floor sleeping and want maximum cushioning. It’s also great for people who want a comfortable, ready-to-use guest bed that feels more like a real mattress.
10. FULI Japanese Traditional Futon Mattress – Best for Back Pain Sufferers
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | FULI |
| Model | Shikibuton Futon Mattress |
| Made In | Japan |
| Thickness | Approx. 2.5 inches |
| Cover Material | 100% Cotton |
| Fill Material | 100% Polyester |
| Care | Non-washable; Sun-drying recommended |
Our expert team found this FULI futon mattress to be the most authentic and effective for pain relief. Crafted in Japan, it offers a truly traditional sleeping experience. This futon mattress has a firm design that helps align the spine and ease aches.
The 100% cotton cover is breathable and feels great against the skin. Unlike foam-filled futon mattresses, this one uses polyester fiberfill, which provides a unique firmness that our team found surprisingly comfortable. It prevents you from sinking too deep, which is a common cause of back pain.
While this futon mattress is thinner than other models, this is by design. The firm surface encourages proper posture during sleep. Our team did note that proper care, like regular sun-drying, is very important to keep it fresh and prevent mold. Overall, our experts found the FULI futon mattress to be an outstanding choice for anyone serious about improving their sleep posture and reducing pain.
Who Should Buy?
This futon mattress is perfect for people who suffer from back pain and are looking for a firm, supportive sleeping surface. It is also a great choice for those who want an authentic, traditionally made Japanese futon mattress and are willing to invest in its quality and care.
11. Heimorn Japanese Futon Mattress – Best for Welcoming Guests
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Heimorn |
| Model | Japanese Futon Mattress |
| Thickness | 4 inches |
| Cover Material | Polyester / Microfiber |
| Fill Material | Memory Foam & Polyester |
| Included | Removable Cover, Straps, Storage Bag |
Our expert team found the Heimorn futon mattress to be an excellent, all-in-one solution, especially for hosting guests. This mattress comes with everything you need right out of the box: a removable and washable cover, straps for rolling, and a storage bag.
The 5-layer design with a memory foam core provides a comfortable and supportive sleep. Our experts were impressed with how easy the cover was to put on and the overall convenience of the package. This futon mattress is a much better alternative to an air mattress that might deflate overnight.
During our testing, the mattress felt plush and well-made. However, some customer feedback mentioned issues with the zipper quality on the cover. Our team also noted that the size can be slightly off, which might make standard sheets fit poorly. Despite this, it remains a top choice for a convenient and comfortable guest bed.
Who Should Buy?
This futon mattress is perfect for anyone who needs a reliable and comfortable bed for guests. The complete package makes it easy to set up, clean, and store, offering great convenience and value.
How We Tested These Futon Mattresses
Our expert team, led by home goods specialist Mithu, took a hands-on approach to find the best futon mattresses. We spent over 80 hours researching and testing these products in real-world conditions. We slept on them, folded them, stored them, and even had kids and pets lounge on them to see how they held up.
We involved a chiropractor to get expert feedback on how each futon mattress supported the spine and affected sleep posture. Each one was evaluated based on a set of key criteria to ensure our recommendations are fair and reliable.
| Criteria | Testing Method |
|---|---|
| Comfort & Support | Slept on each futon mattress for multiple nights on a hardwood floor. Noted any pressure points, sinking, or pain. |
| Durability | Inspected stitching, fabric quality, and foam density. Rolled and unrolled each futon mattress 20 times to check for wear. |
| Ease of Storage | Timed how long it took to fold or roll up each futon mattress and place it in its storage bag (if included). |
| Material Quality | Checked for certifications (like CertiPUR-US), strong odors, and overall feel of the fabric and filling. |
| Value | Compared the price to the included features, overall quality, and performance of each futon mattress. |
What to Look for in a Futon Mattress
Choosing the right futon mattress depends on your needs. Here are the key factors our experts recommend considering before you buy.
| Factor | Expert Advice |
|---|---|
| Filling Material | “The filling determines the feel of a futon mattress,” explains our chiropractor. “Traditional polyester fill, like in the FULI, is very firm and supportive for your back. Modern foam cores, like in the MAXYOYO, offer more cushioning, which can be better for side sleepers or those new to floor beds.” |
| Thickness | “Thickness is not always better,” says Mithu. “A 2.5-inch authentic futon mattress can be more supportive than a poorly made 4-inch one. If you have sharp pressure points, like your hips, look for at least 3.5 inches of thickness. If you need firm back support, a thinner, denser futon mattress is often best.” |
| Cover Material | Look for a breathable fabric. “A 100% cotton cover, like on the ZonLi, is great for air circulation and helps keep you cool,” our experts note. “Microfiber is soft and durable but can sometimes feel less breathable. A removable, washable cover is a must-have for easy cleaning.” |
| Included Extras | “Don’t overlook the extras,” Mithu advises. “A futon mattress that comes with a cover, straps, and a storage bag, like the Heimorn, offers much better value and convenience. Buying these separately can be expensive and frustrating.” |
Standout Features
During our tests, we found a few features that made certain futon mattresses stand out from the rest.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Authentic Japanese Craftsmanship | Futon mattresses made in Japan, like the FULI and EMOOR, often have superior build quality and adhere to traditional designs that are proven to be good for back health. |
| Removable & Washable Cover | A zippered cover, especially one made of 100% cotton like the ZonLi’s, makes hygiene simple. You can easily wash away dust, allergens, and spills. |
| Health Certifications (CertiPUR-US/Oeko-Tex) | This guarantees the futon mattress is made without harmful chemicals, heavy metals, or flame retardants. It’s a crucial feature for peace of mind, especially in homes with kids. |
| Multi-Layer Foam Structures | Advanced designs, like the Vibe bear’s 9-layer system, combine different densities of foam and fiber to provide targeted support and prevent the futon mattress from flattening over time. |
Buying Guide
Making the right choice comes down to how you plan to use your futon mattress.
| Use Case | Recommended Type | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Sleeping | Choose a high-quality, durable model. An authentic Japanese-made futon mattress or a dense, multi-layer foam one is best. | $150 – $400 |
| Guest Bed | Look for comfort and convenience. A mid-range foam futon mattress (4 inches thick) with an included cover and storage bag is ideal. | $90 – $150 |
| Camping/Travel | Portability is key. A lightweight futon mattress with a good storage bag and durable cover is the best choice. | $70 – $120 |
| Kids’ Play Mat | Prioritize safety and easy cleaning. A futon mattress with health certifications and a washable cover is highly recommended. | $60 – $130 |
Why Trust Craftsing?
My name is Mithu, and I have spent over a decade reviewing home and craft goods. My passion is finding products that combine quality, value, and practical design. At Craftsing, we believe in honest, hands-on testing. We don’t just rely on online reviews; we buy the products and use them in our own homes. For this guide, we consulted with a sleep expert to ensure our advice is not only practical but also beneficial for your health. Our goal is to give you the clear, simple information you need to make the best choice for your home and family.
FAQs
Is sleeping on a futon mattress good for your back?
Yes, for many people, it is. The firm surface of a futon mattress can help keep your spine in a neutral position, which can reduce back pain. However, it may take some time to get used to if you are accustomed to a soft bed.
How do you clean a futon mattress?
Most futon mattresses are not washable. The best way to clean them is the traditional Japanese method: hang them in the sun regularly. This helps kill dust mites and remove moisture. For the mattress itself, spot-clean any stains. This is why a washable cover is such a valuable feature.
Can you put a futon mattress on a bed frame?
Yes, you can. Many people use a futon mattress as a firm topper. Just make sure your bed frame has solid support, like slats that are close together or a bunkie board, so the mattress doesn’t sag.
Conclusion
A futon mattress can truly change the way you sleep, offering comfort, support, and more space in your room. After extensive testing, our top recommendation remains the FULI Japanese Traditional Futon Mattress for its authentic quality and incredible pain-relieving benefits.
For a fantastic all-around option that balances modern comfort with convenience, the MAXYOYO Japanese Futon Mattress is an unbeatable value. And if easy cleaning is your top priority, the ZonLi Japanese Futon Mattress with its washable cotton cover is the perfect choice.
Choosing the right futon mattress is a personal decision, but we hope this guide has made it easier. Let us know in the comments which one you chose and how it has improved your sleep.
