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The Futon Shop Review

Thursday, March 27th

2025 Futon Store Reviews

The Futon Shop Review 1 Star Rating

The Futon Shop

1 Star Rating
  • About 27 futons, plus mattresses, covers, frames sold separately
  • Prices range from about $500+ for a frame to $1,200+ for a set
  • Swatches available for $1.10 each
  • Some futons ship for free (as indicated), others may cost $190 to $260 to deliver
  • 3-day window for returns; 20% restocking fee and remaining balance offered as a store credit
  • "A+” rated by the BBB
  • In business since 1976

It's easy to see why you might be interested in The Futon Shop. In business since 1976, the company has focused on ethical sourcing and sustainable practices: organic, American-grown cotton in the mattresses; wool from North and South America; you get the picture. At least, that's how this retailer proudly markets itself. True story? Read on and see for yourself.

Need a frame, mattress, or set?

Because this store specializes in futons, your online shopping experience will be a little different from most of the rivals on our list. First off, you'll need to decide if you're looking for a frame, a mattress, cover, or a ready-made set. Choose your own adventure.

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Browse to find all of your options

Even if you zero in on one of those categories, it's still worth it to browse the site a bit. For example, on the main Futons page, there was an assortment of around 27 frames, mattresses, and covers, but we found other items when we looked on the Futon Set page (like an outdoor futon frame for $1,445 to $2,090, depending on the size). Those sets are a great place to start if you don't need to be super-customized with your futon and just want something ready to order. For example, we liked the Trelli Queen for $1,428. It comes in cherry or walnut finishes, four color choices in the slipcover, and (yay) free shipping. Be sure to scroll all the way down the page to see what all of those choices look like: you don't have to choose blindly.

Be as bespoke as you wish

On the other hand, if you're a bit of a control fan (we'd never say "freak”...) like us, you can get really granular with your choices at The Futon Shop. There's nothing stopping you from putting together the Flat Arm Shaker Cornerstone Wood Amish frame (on sale for $895.44 at the time of our review, with 15 ratings averaging 4.3 out of 5 stars), the Eco Pure Wool Futon Mattress ($699.98 during our visit, which was 50% off), and even one of the recommended matching end tables.

Swatches may be helpful

You may also want to check out the Swatches section of the website, linked at the top of the page. The Futon Shop has several different types of fabrics, from organic cotton blends to 100% organic cotton in various weaves. Those will cost $1.10 each, but it's well worth it to make sure the color and feel of your futon's cover will match what you're picturing.

Shipping is often not free

Pay attention to shipping costs, though. While some futons (mostly sets) are designated as "free shipping”, not everything The Futon Shop sells will come with no-cost delivery. You'll see your final cost when you get to the checkout, but you should expect it to cost $20-ish for small accessories like slipcovers and pillows, $70 for their foam beds and ottomans, and anywhere from $190 to $260 for frames and mattresses. Ouch.

Best Futons

Returns are not customer-friendly

Returns are going to be another pain point here. You've got a pretty stingy 3-day window to decide if you want to send your futon back to The Futon Shop. And, if you do, you'd better make sure you've got everything in its original condition and packing materials. You're on the hook for the cost of shipping it back (which we imagine will be steep, looking at the inbound shipping fees that are charged), a 20% restocking fee will be deducted, and you'll only get a store credit instead of a refund. That's a huge downside compared with a lot of the futon stores on our list, who have no problems giving you your money back on a return and not forcing you into accepting a store credit.

Awful customer service

Although The Futon Shop has an "A+” rating from the Better Business Bureau and just over two dozen complaints filed (and resolved) there in the last three years, we're really not sure we can trust this futon store to stand by its customers. For example, the company has a "poor” overall rating on Trustpilot, with reviews averaging a deeply disappointing 1.8 out of 5 stars. People complain (and rightly so) about false advertising, with mattresses described as "chemical-free” that arrive looking nothing like the packaging - and with the company allegedly confirming to some customers that those mattresses aren't actually what was advertised. To top it off, customers who receive futons and mattresses that don't fit the description are required to pay for the return shipping fees. The Futon Shop's customer service "never answers the phone or returns phone calls”, and more than a few shoppers have had to resort to disputing charges with their credit card companies just to get some kind of recourse on their purchases.

Don't buy your futon here

We just can't see any good reason to trust The Futon Shop with your business. Their futon frames, mattresses, and sets are some of the most expensive ones out there - largely because of their claims of being made of superior materials, which seems to have been proven false by multiple shoppers. You can't count on getting any support here, if you get the wrong item or have literally any other issue. If you're set on getting a high-end futon, there are far more reliable retailers to choose from on our list. Avoid The Futon Shop and save yourself the headache.

Which Futon Stores Are the Best?

In today's world, futons come in countless styles, from sleek, modern designs to rustic wooden frames. They're widely valued for their dual-purpose functionality: serving as a comfortable sofa by day and a convenient bed by night. If you're short on space, live in a small apartment, or frequently host overnight guests, a futon can be a practical and stylish solution.

One key reason people buy futons - especially online - is the convenience of shopping and the sheer variety available. Online stores let you browse thousands of options at different price points, read reviews, and easily compare features like frame material and mattress type. You can even filter by color, size, or style to find exactly what fits your space. Many online retailers offer free shipping, and some even provide assembly services, which can save you time and effort.

The Best Futon Stores Compare Futon Stores Compare Futon Store Reviews What are the best Futon Stores Best Futon Store Reviews

Futon Store FAQ

Futons are a Japanese traditional style of bedding. They usually include a mattress and duvet because although they generally look like a couch, they can double as a bed. They look slightly different from a sofa bed since they are not completely upholstered. With a futon, the same cushion is used for the sofa as well as the bed.
Futons are versatile to match different house styles and room spaces. They come in big and small sizes that could either sit 2 people comfortably or look like a sectional and sit 3 or more people. It may have a wood or metal frame, be made of leather material, or a soft cotton or polyester. You can buy futons in all different colors to match the rest of your decor.
The first thing to do when selecting a futon is decide what your style is. Your futon will make a big statement in a room and you want to make sure it matches your other furniture and home decor. Next, decide if it will mostly be used for seating or sleeping. If you plan on having yourself or guests sleep on the futon often, you'll want to choose a soft one that is large enough for a good night's rest. Read reviews on the different futons available online to see which ones get high ratings for durability, comfort, and quality.
Yes! Like most other pieces of furniture, futons can usually be returned to furniture stores if it is unused and in new condition. Be sure to check the return policy at the store you purchase your futon from to see how many days you'll have to send it back. If the futon arrives damaged or otherwise unsatisfactory, the company will most likely pay for return shipping and replace the futon.
Since futons can be made of all different types of material, you'll want to read the instructions that come with it to see how to clean it. Like any other couch or upholstered chair, you'll likely find it is safest just to spot treat the futon. If you have a futon cover, you'll be able to throw it in the washing machine, which is especially convenient.
Depending on the size and material of your futon, they typically range from $200 to $600. One reason futons are so popular is because they are fairly inexpensive for something that serves dual purposes. During major holidays, you can usually get a great discount from furniture stores, so it would be wise to shop for a futon during this time for extra savings.
Since your futon is a big piece of furniture that will be used for seating, it helps to complete your look with throw pillows and/or a throw blanket. This can help tie in your color scheme and make the futon look appealing. If you plan to use the futon as a bed, you'll also need to find sheets, a pillow, and any necessary blankets for sleeping as well. If you want a slipcover on your futon, you can purchase one to make washing easier and to protect the material that the futon is made of.
One reason futon slipcovers are so popular is because you can change the color of your futon whenever you want! Say you have a brown futon with a white slipcover. If you get bored of the white look, you can remove it and have a brown futon. Or you could purchase another slipcover color to freshen up your space. This keeps your futon looking new and clean. If you want a completely different style of futon, you could donate or sell the one you have to buy a new one. Since they are fairly inexpensive, it's an easy piece of furniture to update every so often.
Compare the Best Reviews

Continued from above...

Futons have a long and fascinating history, originating in Japan as simple, foldable bedding designed for minimalist living. Traditional Japanese futons - then and now - consist of a thin mattress and duvet, placed directly on tatami mats and easily stored during the day. This design was ideal for small living spaces and allowed rooms to serve multiple purposes.

As the idea spread globally, futons evolved into a more versatile type of furniture. Western-style futons, with frames and thicker mattresses, offer both seating and sleeping options, making them a staple in homes, dorms, and offices around the world.

So, why choose a futon over a standard sofa or bed? Futons are generally more affordable and space-efficient. If you're on a budget or need furniture that can serve multiple functions, a futon is an excellent choice. They're also lightweight and easy to move, which is a big plus if you relocate frequently or like to rearrange your living space (for better feng shui?). The adaptability of futons also makes them popular in multi-use spaces like home offices or playrooms. And, with so many styles and materials available, you can find a futon that complements almost any decor.

When shopping for a futon online, you might find it helpful to keep these factors in mind as you decide where to place your order and which one to buy:

  • Frame material. Common options include wood and metal. Wooden frames tend to offer a classic or rustic look, while metal frames are often lighter and have a modern aesthetic.
  • Mattress type. Futon mattresses can vary widely, from basic foam to high-end memory foam or innerspring models. The right choice depends on your comfort preferences and how often the futon will be used as a bed.
  • Size. Futons are available in various sizes, including twin, full, and queen. We've even seen futon chairs. Be sure to measure your space to make sure that the futon you're considering will fit comfortably.
  • Assembly and delivery costs. Check if the futon requires assembly and whether the retailer offers in-home setup. Free delivery is common, but full-service delivery can be a valuable perk if you want the furniture assembled and ready to use.
  • Reputation and reviews. Look at what other shoppers have to say about the futon store. Does the company have a good rating from the BBB? Some retailers also allow customers to leave reviews on the individual futons they sell, so don't forget to look for ones that have been as good in person as they looked online.

To help you get the right futon for your dorm, home, or anywhere else you need a convenient place to both sit and catch some Zs, the experts at Top Consumer Reviews have researched and ranked some of today's most popular futon stores. Whether you need a functional piece for a small living space or just want extra sleeping options for guests, your new futon can be an affordable and stylish addition to your home. Happy shopping!

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