Futon Frame 101

Three Frame Types
The most common futon frame is the bi-fold futon frame. Perfect for use as a conventional sofa and frequent conversion to a bed, the futon mattress is folded in half horizontally. Bi-fold futon frames are usually available in chair, full and queen sizes.

Item LF007

A loveseat futon frame uses two smaller futon mattress to fit a twin or full size bed into smaller spaces. Designed for smaller rooms, loveseats are perfect in guest rooms, home offices or a loft space. Loveseat futon frames are available in twin and full sizes.

Item LF009

Lastly, a tri-fold futon frame folds the mattress twice on the frame. Unlike the bi-fold frame, the tri-fold uses the shorter width of the mattress for the seating area while the bi-fold uses the longer length. Because the mattress must be flexible enough to fold two times, only thin futon mattresses should be used on tri-fold futon frames. Tri-fold futon frames are more difficult to change from sofa to bed than bi-fold or loveseat futon frames but are advantageous in narrower spaces. Tri-folds are popular with the college set due to their versatility and variety of lounge settings.

Item LF020

Wood Types
A high-quality futon frame should be made out of superior wood for durability. The futon frame you purchase should be made of a dense wood such as ash, beech, cherry, maple, oak or southern yellow pine. Weaker woods include alder, aspen, poplar, white pine or imported wood. These woods are not hearty enough to withstand the wear-and-tear of a convertible futon frame.

Item LF017

Metal Types
Metal futon frames range from classic to contemporary in design. Metal frames are innately durable. They are relatively easy to put together and move. Metal frames are commonly more economical than wood futon frames making them very popular with college students.