Futons & Daybeds

Futons and day beds make it easier to get more than one use from a spare room, study or smaller living area. Factory Buys has convertible designs that work as seating during the day and open out when you need an extra place to sleep, including floor sofas, folding and adjustable-back styles in a range of fabrics and sizes.

Need the room ready for guests soon? Orders are dispatched within 1 to 2 days, backed by our 12-month warranty. 

Understanding futons and convertible day beds

Futons come in different forms, but the basic idea is a piece that can change between sitting and sleeping. Some use a padded surface that folds with the frame, while other convertible designs use the seat and back cushions to create a flat sleeping area. That differs from some sofa beds, which can use a separate pull-out sleeping surface or a different conversion mechanism. Look at how each product opens, its dimensions in both positions and the sleeping surface itself when comparing the two.

Setting up a room that has two jobs

A futon or day bed can work well in a study, home office, teenager's room, studio or other space where you don't want a permanent bed taking up the floor. Most of the time it can be used for sitting or lounging, then opened when someone stays. Measure the room with the piece fully opened, not just in its everyday seating position. Allow enough space to convert it and still move around the room once the bed is set up. A floor sofa is another low-set option for rooms where floor space is limited.

Choosing the right size futon or day bed 

The sleeping width and length of a futon can vary between designs, so use the opened dimensions on the individual product page when working out who it will suit. Think about both the sleeper and the available floor space. A wider design gives you more sleeping room but also takes up more of the room when it's open. If you need a separate guest bed that can be packed away completely between visits, a folding mattress is another option.

Thinking about sitting and sleeping comfort

Because a futon or convertible day bed does more than one job, think about how often it'll be used in each position. Look at the cushioning, overall depth and sleeping dimensions, along with how the sections meet when the piece is opened flat. If you want extra cushioning for overnight guests, a mattress topper may be suitable for some designs. Check the opened dimensions first so you can choose a topper that fits the sleeping surface and still store it easily when it's not needed.

Choosing a fabric for daily use

If the piece will spend most of its time as seating, choose the upholstery much as you would for a sofa. Woven fabrics and linen-look finishes give you a softer, textured surface, while velvet and corduroy bring more texture to the room. Think about cleaning as well, particularly if the futon will be used regularly by guests. Check the care instructions for the individual upholstery before cleaning it, and consider a sofa cover if you want another layer between the upholstery and everyday spills or marks.

Why shop at Factory Buys

From a spare sleeping spot to seating for a multi-use room, Factory Buys lets you compare futons, day beds and other convertible furniture online and have your choice sent directly to your door. Afterpay, Zip and Klarna are also available at checkout if you'd prefer to split the cost.

Factory Buys is Australian owned and operated, with orders leaving our Australian warehouses within 1 to 2 business days. Your purchase is covered by a 12-month warranty, and help is available from our support team between 8am and 8pm, seven days a week.

 

Futon FAQ

What is the difference between a futon and a sofa bed?

A futon commonly uses the same padded surface for sitting and sleeping, while some sofa beds have a separate pull-out sleeping surface or mattress. Other sofa beds use fold-down or click-clack designs that work more like a futon, so it's best to compare the mechanism and sleeping surface of the individual product.

Can you sleep on a futon every night?

That depends on the individual futon and what you find comfortable. If you're considering one for regular sleeping, pay close attention to its construction, cushioning, sleeping dimensions and intended use. Some designs are better suited to occasional guests, while others may be suitable for more frequent use.

What size does a futon open to?

There's no single standard size for every futon. Check the opened width and length on the individual product page and compare those measurements with both the sleeper and the available room. Don't assume a two or three seater will correspond exactly with a standard mattress size.

How do you clean a futon?

Cleaning depends on the upholstery and construction. Check the care instructions for your particular futon before using water or cleaning products. Removable covers may have separate washing instructions, while fixed upholstery may require spot cleaning. Let the surface dry completely before folding the futon away.

Do futons need a separate mattress?

It depends on the design. Many futon-style pieces use their existing padded surface for both sitting and sleeping, so you don't add a separate mattress when opening them. Other futon frames can be designed to hold a dedicated futon mattress, which is why it's important to check how the individual product is constructed.