Japanese Futon Setup Tips: Sleep Better Tonight

Are you interested in making sleeping on the floor more comfortable? If you're used to sleeping on a plush bed, the thought of floor sleeping might seem a bit daunting. But don’t worry! In this guide, we'll introduce the correct way to sleep on the floor using a futon, so you can enjoy a restful night’s sleep.

 

How to Sleep Comfortably with a Futon

Sleeping on the floor with a futon can be surprisingly comfortable — if you set it up correctly. The key lies in proper preparation and setup.

1. Preparing Your Futon for Use

Sunlight Exposure

Before using your futon, let it sit in the sunlight for a few hours. This will help restore its natural firmness, eliminate any odors, and help prevent dust mites from settling in.

2. Choosing the Right Spot for Your Futon

Sleeping Directly on the Floor

Use Tatami Mats

For floor sleeping, we recommend laying down a tatami mat first. This adds a layer of cushioning and helps with moisture control. Be sure to choose a tatami mat that matches the size of your futon. If you're using it temporarily, opt for a foldable tatami mat for easy storage. For more permanent setups, our Tatami Mini Square Mats work well.

Sleeping on a Bed Frame

If you prefer to sleep at bed height, you can simply lay your futon directly on top of your existing bed frame. In this case, there’s no need to use a tatami mat.

Using a Futon as a Sofa

Did you know you can also use your futon as a multifunctional sofa? When doing so, place it on as flat a surface as possible — along with a tatami mat if available — to avoid damaging the futon. For more tips on this, check out our dedicated article.

3. Tips for Laying Out Your Futon

Create a Flat Surface

Whether you're laying your futon on the floor or a sofa, it’s important to ensure that the surface is as flat as possible. Uneven surfaces can damage or warp your futon and tatami mat.

Adjusting the Thickness of Your Futon

Using a Firm Futon

For proper pressure distribution and good posture, we recommend using a firm futon. This can help prevent back pain, particularly in the lower back, which often comes from poor sleeping posture. Ideally, your futon should be between 2.5 to 5 inches thick.

Adding Softness

If you're transitioning from a soft bed and find the futon too firm, you can place a mattress topper underneath or even layer two futons together for added softness. This is a common practice in Japan.

 

4. Using Sheets and Extra Comfort Layers

Cover with Sheets

After laying down your futon, cover it with sheets to protect against dirt and moisture while improving the surface’s feel. We recommend breathable, moisture-absorbing cotton sheets for the best comfort. Keep two sets of sheets handy so you can rotate them weekly for washing. When one set is in the wash, you can use the other to ensure your sleeping environment stays fresh and clean.

Adding a Tatami Mattress Pad

To enhance comfort even further, consider adding a tatami mattress pad. Made from high-quality Japanese rush grass (Igusa), these pads offer a soft, smooth surface similar to sheets while also providing moisture control, antibacterial properties, and a soothing natural fragrance. These benefits combine to create a relaxing and comfortable sleeping environment.

5. Maintaining Your Futon for Long-Term Comfort

Regular Sunlight Exposure

Expose your futon to sunlight regularly. This helps maintain its antibacterial and deodorizing effects while restoring its natural firmness.

Preventing Mold

To prevent mold from developing, make sure to air out your futon after use. You can do this by propping it up on a chair or allowing it to stand in a well-ventilated area.

In Conclusion

By following these steps, you can enjoy a peaceful and comfortable sleep on the floor with a futon. We hope these tips help you relax and drift off into a deep, restful slumber. Sleep well!