The only thing to consider with those types of beds is the comfort level. Your mattress is not something you want to cheap out on. Answer from LeJisemika on reddit.com
Reddit
reddit.com › r/minimalism › what do you guys think about a futon vs something like a shikibuton (japanese bedding that goes on the floor)? need some help thinking through this decision..
r/minimalism on Reddit: What do you guys think about a futon vs something like a shikibuton (Japanese bedding that goes on the floor)? Need some help thinking through this decision..
April 25, 2022 -
I’m moving into a rather small room and maximizing space is important to me but so is comfort. I’m considering a futon because it would allow me to more easily/comfortably entertain guests, and I could also set my TV up across the room from it. But, a shikibuton is very attractive to me as well because it can be easily folded and stored in the closet when more space is desired.
Just looking for someone to help me think through this decision. I guess I could get a shikibuton and a futon, but if I did that would it make more sense to buy a couch, instead? I’ve heard varying reviews on futons; some people hate them and some have slept on one for 10+ years and love it.
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The only thing to consider with those types of beds is the comfort level. Your mattress is not something you want to cheap out on.
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It's up to you and how you will make the best use of space. Also keep in mind that a legit futon can be fucking expensive, at least where i've lived.
J-Life International
jlifeinternational.com › pages › the-japanese-futon
About The Japanese Shikifuton, Shikibuton and Futon | J-Life International
A shikifuton—also called shiki futon, shikibuton, or shiki buton—is the classic Japanese mattress. Far from being a budget substitute for a bed, the shikifuton is a complete sleep system rooted in centuries of practical design.
Shikibuton or Japanese Futon Help : minimalism
I have a bad back and have recently discovered sleeping on the floor with a couple yoga mats and folded blankets shockingly helps my back feel... More on old.reddit.com
What do you guys think about a futon vs something like a shikibuton (Japanese bedding that goes on the floor)? Need some help thinking through this decision..
The only thing to consider with those types of beds is the comfort level. Your mattress is not something you want to cheap out on. More on reddit.com
Regular Mattress vs Thick Cotton Futon (Shikibuton)?
I prefer futons, I like how firm they are, that they can be washed, that they are easy to transport because they are flexible, but I'm going to be realistic here. no chemicals/gassing, and cotton is also good for hot sleepers. Pesticides are used in cotton production and fiber bleaching, they are harvested by diesel-powered machines and the textile industry is one of the biggest water polluters in existence. More on reddit.com
Need recommendations on Japanese Shikibuton
I’m Australian and bought mine from a site called Japanache https://www.japanache.com.au/contents/en-us/d143_Japanese_Futons.html We got the king size and it was about $1130 AU with postage. It’s handmade in Japan and is 100% cotton. What exactly would you like to know? Our experience is pretty good. Was a bit disappointed that it was 5cms off (the whole way around) from the measurements they gave on the site. But the comfort level is good. We have it directly on hardwood floors but I’d like to get tatami mats once we can afford them. Took us about 3 nights to get used to the difference from a typical mattress. Love the space once it’s folded up. We have 2 of our kids co-sleeping with us and they never complained. We put it out in the sun once a week and it fluffs it up really nice. We use our trampoline for that. Any other questions, feel free to ask. More on reddit.com
What is the difference between a Shikibuton and a Western Futon?
A Shikibuton is a traditional Japanese mattress designed to be laid directly on the floor. It is thinner, firmer, and foldable for daily storage. A Western Futon is typically thicker, often contains foam or springs, and is designed to stay on a convertible sofa frame.
comfortpure.com
comfortpure.com › blogs › lc › shikibutons-explained-health-benefits-how-to-choose-and-everything-you-need-to-know
Shikibutons Explained – Health Benefits, How to Choose & Everything ...
How do you store a Shikibuton?
Fold the mattress into thirds (tri-fold) or roll it up. Store it in a dry, ventilated area to prevent mildew. Traditional Japanese households store them in closets during the day to free up living space.
comfortpure.com
comfortpure.com › blogs › lc › shikibutons-explained-health-benefits-how-to-choose-and-everything-you-need-to-know
Shikibutons Explained – Health Benefits, How to Choose & Everything ...
How thick should a Shikibuton be?
Traditional Shikibutons are typically 3 to 4 inches thick, offering firm support. Thicker versions (around 6 inches) are available for those who want the floor-sleeping experience with extra cushioning.
comfortpure.com
comfortpure.com › blogs › lc › shikibutons-explained-health-benefits-how-to-choose-and-everything-you-need-to-know
Shikibutons Explained – Health Benefits, How to Choose & Everything ...
Videos
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FutonBedsFromJapan | Shikibuton Set | Unboxing & Buying Guide - ...
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I tried two different Japanese floor futons - here's how it went ...
10:18
6 Years on a Japanese Futon - What They Don’t Tell You - YouTube
FutonTokyo on Instagram: "This time, we created a ...
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Futon Beds from Japan - Why I love my shikibuton - YouTube
Futonland
futonland.com › blog › western-futon-mattress-vs-shikibutons
Western Futon Mattress vs Shikibutons – Futonland Blog
Flexibility: Shikibutons, placed directly on the floor or mats, offer enhanced flexibility, easily folded and stored. In contrast, Western-style futon mattresses, intended for futon frames, maintain thickness conducive to folding and stacking in cupboards.
The Futon Shop
thefutonshop.com › home › futon mattresses › best selling futon mattresses › natural wool & organic cotton shiki futon bed - shikibuton japanese futon mattress - 3 or 5 inch - soft
Natural Wool & Organic Cotton Shiki Futon Bed - Shikibuton Japanese Futon Mattress - 3 or 5 Inch - Soft
Our Natural Wool & Organic Cotton Japanese Shiki Futon Mattress is made in the style of a traditional Japanese futon mattress. This classic design features organic cotton stuffing, wrapped in a layer of natural wool and encased in your choice of either organic or natural cotton fabric. No foam, synthetic fibers or chemical flame retardants are used in this version of our Shikibuton.
Futon Beds from Japan
futonbedsfromjapan.com › home
Shikibuton Japanese Futon – Japanese Mattress cover
FutonBedsFromJapan offers a wide selection of Shikibuton Japanese Futons, Mattress cover. Our futons are made with high-quality materials. Shop now and enjoy the perfect sleep.
Futon d'or
futondor.com › home › blog › how to choose the perfect japanese futon mat: a comprehensive guide
A Comprehensive Guide To Choose Your Japanese Futon Mat - Futon d’or - Natural mattresses
October 2, 2025 - Futons are traditionally made from 100% cotton, which is breathable and environmentally friendly. However, synthetic materials like polyester and latex are becoming more common, offering durability and easier maintenance. Cotton Shikibutons: Authentic and breathable, cotton futon mats provide a traditional feel but require more maintenance, such as airing out to prevent moisture buildup.
Healthline
healthline.com › health › sleep › i-threw-out-my-bed-what-i-sleep-on-instead-gives-me-the-best-sleep-of-my-life
Shikibuton: Benefits, Drawbacks & How To Use It
July 13, 2023 - A shikibuton promotes deep sleep by providing excellent blood circulation, says Brett Edmunds, a chiropractor in Drummoyne, Australia. “This helps ease muscle aches and stiffness caused by too much time sitting during the day or an active lifestyle, like going to the gym, hiking, or running,” he says. ... A firm, yet supportive futon mattress allows for natural alignment in the spine without the development of uncomfortable points of pressure, says Ali Mesiwala, a neurosurgeon in Newport Beach, California.
Futon d'or
futondor.com › home › tatami mat & japanese futon › shikibuton › eucalyptus shikibuton
Eucalyptus Shikibuton Japanese futon
April 21, 2023 - The Shikibuton Japanese futon is a traditional bed usually used on tatamis and folded during the day to be stored. The cotton compresses over time and offers a firm comfort. In the West, these futons are used more often by persons who are looking for a very firm and grounded sleeping surface or travelers that have experienced this type of comfort.
East West Futons
eastwestfutons.com › homepage › japanese futon
Japanese Futon Mattress & Shikibuton in Canada | East West Futons
Whether you're embracing a minimalist ... – elevate your sleep the Japanese way. ... The Eucalyptus Shikibuton is a new and improved version of the traditional all-cotton Shikibuton....