Futon - a Short History

A traditional Japanese bed that consist of a padded mattress and quilts that can be folded and stored away. According to Japanese lore, the samurai who could not master the sword made these beds. The word we call futon derives from a Japanese word " shikibuton " to describe mattress portion of the bed.

These beds are quite different from the ones we use in America. The construction then is thin, two to three inches thick and made heart from the cotton flower. The usage of cotton as a material goes back 7000 years.

Which has found at archeological sites and has been harvested by man for it many applications. A futon is a flat mattress called a "shokibuton" that is filled with cotton, wool or synthetic batting Then there is a comforter "kakebuton" a blanket called a "taoruketto" a lighter top sheet called "mouf" and a pillow generally filled with buckwheat or beans called a "makura" which are sold as a set They are placed onto tatami mats are pads made of rice straw about two inches thick and two feet wide and six feet long which is a type of floor covering. Futons are traditionally folded away and stored during the day so to make use of the living space.

The must be aired out in sunlight on a regular basis. In addition many Japanese beat their futon mattress on a regular basis to fluff and keep it shape they use a bamboo type of carpet beater called a "futon tataki". The western style couch is much difference than the Japanese style of bed, but the futon couch is a combination with several major differences.

They are made of a wood, metal or bamboo type of frames that can be converted from a couch and made into a bed when laid flat. During the conception by furniture makers of these beds were inexpensive and disposal like those used in collage dormitories and small apartment where space utilization was needed. Many of these beds have improved in quality and comfort.

Today they have moved away from cotton style filling to a durable high density foam and polyesters in a multi-layer combination where it wont pack down like cotton fiber fill. Futon covers can complement the style and decor to your home. Needing additional space for guest stay over or at the office when working long hours takes it toll the futon has fit nicely into a multifunctional piece of furniture where comfort for sitting or sleeping is needed.