Futon Size Guide

Is it time to buy a futon? Make the task of finding the right one much easier by narrowing down your options first. While you might spend hours choosing what color and style of futon you would like, one decision you can and should make right away is the size of futon you'll need. Your decision should be based on where you plan to put the futon and who will be using it, as well as on your budget and how much space you have available.

The information below is designed to help you decide what size of futon is best for you and your needs. Full Size Futons Also known as sofa futons, full size futons seat three adults comfortably, and can be shared by two sleeping adults when folded out. Full size futons are typically from 81 to 85 inches wide. If you plan on using your futon for everyday seating and want one that doubles well as a sofa, choose a full size futon rather than a bigger size such as a queen. The smaller mattress of a full size futon will form a more comfortable sofa. The larger mattress of a queen size creates a high back when folded up, and doesn't work as well for seating purposes.

Queen Size Futons
Although they don't convert as well into sofas, queen size futons have their advantages. If you desperately need extra space for guests and your main purpose in buying a futon is for sleeping, aim for a queen size. Although queen size futons are just slightly larger than full size ones, measuring about 90 inches wide, queen sizes will be much more comfortable for two sleeping adults. They also provide seated people with a little more elbow room and are great when you need extra seating in a pinch.

Full Loveseat Futons
Ideal for rooms with limited floor space, full loveseat futons are perfect for two adults, sleeping or sitting. Measuring anywhere from 60 to 64 inches wide, full loveseat futons are meant to take up minimal space and work well for last-minute guests or for lounging in the family room.

Twin Loveseat Futons
Designed for use by just one adult, twin loveseat futons fold up into large comfy armchairs, or fold out to provide sleeping room for one adult or perhaps two children. The frame of a twin loveseat futon measures from 45 to 49 inches wide and makes these pieces ideal for rooms with very limited space, such as small guest rooms or dorm rooms.

Chair Size Futons
Also referred to as twin size futons, chair size futons are the perfect complement to a futon sofa. They offer comfortable seating for one person when folded up, and can fold out to provide sleeping room for one small-sized adult or child. Depending on the size of the mattress used on the futon as well as the height of the person sleeping on it, you may need to add an ottoman for optimum sleeping comfort in a chair size futon.