Selecting a Futon Frame

Shopping for a futon is great fun, because there are lots of stylish and comfortable choices. First, you'll want to think about your futon frame type. Then, think about what material you want.

Three Frame Types
Bi-fold futon frames are the most common futon frame out there. Perfect for use as a conventional sofa that converts to a bed, the futon mattress folds in half horizontally. You can usually find bi-fold futon frames available in both full and queen sizes.

Futon frames are also built for just seating, such as an arm chair or loveseat. 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. Futon frames built as a loveseat come in both twin and full sizes. For regular seating, select an arm chair futon frame. They use a twin-size futon frame for the seat and backrest. 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 have an advantage in narrower spaces. College students love tri-fold frames due to their versatility and their variety of settings.

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 to be avoided 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.

Metal Styles
Metal futon frames range from classic to contemporary in design. Innately durable, metal frames are relatively easy to put together and move. Because metal futon frame are usually priced lower than wood, they are quite are popular with college students.