Ikea Futon: Originals and Best Alternatives (2020 update)

When it comes to futons in general, they are considered to be nothing less than classy sleep-worthy furniture. For many people, the word ”futon” brings up some really nice memories of threadbare foam on a metal frame. But what about Ikea futon?

If you are one of those people who are very space-conscious, a good Ikea futon is a must-have. This is especially true if your futon can work as a couch by day and a bed by night. So, why not getting yourself a good and affortable Ikea futon, AKA sofa bed?

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Ikea Futon Friheten – Also a Three-seat Sleeper

It is safe to say that Ikea Friheten is one of the most comfortable futons on the market. There are many different reasons why Ikea Friheten is such a good option. Ikea Friheten comes in five different colors, and the fabric is pretty soft.

Another reason why Ikea Friheten is such a good option is because it folds out pretty easily. Also, there are no creaky metal bits and pieces like in sofa-bed style futons of the past.

The seat moves out effortlessly, which means that you can store your private stuff in a fairly large compartment under it.

With a length of about 89 inches, Ikea Friheten works very-well in small spaces. 

If you want something that is easy to sit on during the day, Ikea Friheten is the perfect choice. Ikea Friheten is also suitable for a few nights of rest. While it’s not the most comfortable futon on the market, Ikea Friheten does its job very well.

Many reported that new models they received from ikea were not so good in quality as those made before, that’s why we come up with possible alternatives that have neat design and similar functions.

Alternatives of Ikea Friheten

Before anything, I’d like to remind you to pay attention to dimensions of futons. A quite few users complain about the size of their purchases, too small or big, or too low to sit. It dosen’t hurt to spend a minute or two and measure the size, does it?

No. 1 – Novogratz Brittany Futon

Sleeper size when unfolded: 71″L x 44″W, about the size of twin mattress

Seat hight: 16″

Novogratz Brittany is one of the most affordable futons on the market. It can be defined as a stylish, convertible futon that can easily trick you into thinking it’s a couch. What makes it such a good option is its elegant design, as well as its unique color options.

And you shouldn’t overlook its slanted wooden legs, or its distinctive curved armrests either. Simply put, this futon can add a whole lot of character to a contemporary space without being too trendy. They have a hard-to-find vintage-looking style that looks very, very cool!

Novogratz Brittany is a perfect choice for apartment dwellers. The main reason for this is because it’s not that heavy, meaning that it’s easy to move around. Also, Novogratz Brittany futon are not that expensive either.

If you don’t want to spend a lot of money on sofa, this one is a perfect option for you. It is pretty much safe to say that it’s your perfect alternative to Ikea futon Friheten. While you could easily go out and buy a traditional sofa, this futon offers a great spot to relax.

And on top of that, you get a pretty comfortable bed out of the deal! Also, the polyester and foam filling is extremely durable, it provides a good structure for the the whole thing. All in all, the Novogratz Brittany futon can make a statement in any room!

No. 2 – Novogratz Tallulah Memory Foam Futon

Sleeper size when unfolded: 73″L x 44″W, about the size of twin mattress

Seat hight: 17”

If you are looking for a good alternative to Ikea futon Friheten, then you might have just found one. This Memory Foam Futon might just be what you were looking for. It has the ability to fill your home with both elegance and sophistication.

The Novogratz Tallulah has a vintage silhouette, beautiful details, and rounded lines. All of these things make this futon as multi-functional and as compact as it is. Due to the fact that it comes with a sturdy wood frame, it offers nothing less than elegantly natural.

On top of being a great piece of furniture to look at, this alternative to ikea futon is also very functional. The seats are filled with responsive memory foam and high-density foam. These two types of foam will cradle your body while you are watching your favorite TV shows. 

With the extremely supportive wooden frame, both the high-density foam and memory foam create a luxurious feel. The back of the futon can also be placed in a lounger position easily.  

It has style, it has comfort, it has a great piece of fabric, but most importantly, it is extremely functional. With this in mind, this futon would make a great addition to any room in your home.

It comes in one package, and is very easy to put together. Just watch:

The Novogratz Tallulah futon can be used as a nice extra bed for you or your overnight guests.

No. 3 – DHP Futon – Sola Convertible Sofa

Sleeper size when unfolded: 69″L x 38″W, about the size of twin mattress

Seat hight: 15”

Are you looking for an ikea futon that is both small and compact? And you are also looking for something that is both comfortable and versatile? If you are, then you should definitely consider giving this DHP futon a chance.

The design is both straightforward and modern. And, if you are among those who are space-conscious, you should totally get yourself one.

The main reason for this is because it comes with two drawers for you to store all sorts of things, including video controllers, sheets and blankets.

College students, who are almost always short on space, may find these drawers extremely useful.

As far as the sleek black microfiber upholstery goes, it matches extremely well with the chrome frame of this futon. If you would like to make your futon look even better, feel free to throw in a few contrasting-colored pillows. This simple step will make it look amazing!

Another reason why this futon is so good is because it features three adjustable positions. You can effortlessly convert it from a sofa, to a lounger and finally a sleeper.  

Do you want to lay on it like you would on a traditional lounger? Or maybe you just want to sit on it like you would on a traditional sofa? Regardless of which one of these two things you want to do, you can.

Additionally, this DHP futon is also an ideal dog bed. Of course, it is also great news for both you and your overnight guests! 

Ikea Futon – 3-Seat NYHAMN

 

There is absolutely no doubt that Ikea futon Nyhamn is one of the most popular on the market. You can easily turn Nyhamn into a queen-sized bed. In order to do this, you just need to pull the underframe upwards and fold down the backrest. It’s that simple!

When turning it from a couch to a bed (and vice-versa), you don’t need to remove the cover and unfold it to a sleeper of about queen-size. If you are a space-conscious person, it is safe to say that you are going to love this futon.

The space under the sofa allows you to put a couple of boxes to store your stuff.

Also, Nyhamn is available in several different mattress and cover options. This is where your personality plays a very important role.  

Another reason why this ikea futon is a nice choice is because it’s very easy to clean. The cover is removable, spot-washable, and machine washable. 

Alternatives of Ikea Futon Nyhamn

No. 1 – Mainstay Memory Foam Futon

Sleeper size when unfolded: 72″L x 43″W, about the size of twin mattress

Seat hight: 17”

If you are looking to add some life to one of your rooms, you should definitely go for this one. The Mainstay memory foam futon provides good support, and it doesn’t break that easily. Also, it is very important to note that this is a convertible model of no more than 200 bucks!

Since it’s convertible, you can easily change it from couch to lounger and to sleeper if that is something that you want to do. In other words, it features three different positions, with all of them being very comfortable.

The Mainstay memory foam futon is not that big. It is the perfect choice for anyone who lives in a smaller home, or any petite people who want a suitable sleeper. And because it’s not that heavy, you can easily move it from one room to another.

Let’s see how you can assemble it:

Another thing that you should know about this futon is that it does not have any built-in storage. If you like this function, some other models here in the post may be a better choice. 

This Mainstay futon feels softer than Ikea Nyhamn. When last-minute guests show up, it will easily pull off double duty to save both your time and money.

No. 2 – DHP Emily Futon

Sleeper size when unfolded: 72″L x 44″W, about the size of twin mattress

Seat hight: 16”

If you would like to buy a modern-looking futon, then DHP Emily is a must candidate. The futon has a couple of slanted chrome legs, as well as an italian modern design.

And if you want to further improve your experience, feel free to pair this futon with a matching chaise. What’s more? Matching storage ottomans are also available. Pairing it up with all three of these things will help make your experience reach new heights.

Your DHP Emily will come in one package, and it’s very easy to put together. Holding up to 600 pounds of weight, it’s belivable that this model is durable. However, we had reports about short service life because of springs failure, even the user is not overly heavy.

Another thing that makes DHP Emily so good is their versatility. Speaking of versatility, in addition to a bed, this futon also allows you to transform it into a half-sofa half-bed kind of thing as well. Such an amazing piece of furniture to have in your home, isn’t it?

When it comes to the size, this piece of furniture is quite compact, which means that you can easily fit it in a condo, but tall people may find it a bit short.

The DHP Emily is as easy on the eyes as it is on the wallet. This is great news for those who are on a tight budget.

It is necessary to note that DHP Emily is a bit harder than Ikea futon Nyhamn. Choose Mainstay memory foam futon if you prefer softer feel.

No. 3 – Serta Rane Sofa Futon

Sleeper size when unfolded: 66″L x 38″W, a bit smaller than a twin mattress

Seat hight: 15”

The Serta Rane futon is a perfectly sized couch/lounger/sleeper for petite people who are not favor of bulky couches. Anyone who has a travel trailer would also love it onboard.

This futon has a very simplistic, yet unique design, and high-quality material also lends a relaxed, as well as a sophisticated look. 

It is quite easy to put together and everything you need to set it up come in a zipper pouch in the futon. The only thing that you need to do is put the legs on, since the frame is already built-in.

When compared to Ikea futon Nyhamn, the Serta Rane has thicker mattress. And at it’s price, it worth every penny you pay.  

No. 4 – DHP Dillan Convertible Futon

Sleeper size when unfolded: 69″L x 38″W, a bit smaller than a twin mattress

Seat hight: 15”

If you would like to create a clean and fresh lounge area in your home, you should totally get this futon. 

DHP Dillan features a stylish horizontal stitching, as well as a couple of strong, tapered wooden legs, which lend a feel of stability. Also, the microfiber upholstery makes this futon extremely easy to clean. 

It also has a multi-position back for your relaxing purposes.  This multi-position back allows you to easily convert the futon from a couch to a cozy bed.

As far as the design goes, DHP Dillan has a very casual look. In other words, it offers a neat and slick style that is suitable for both home and office spaces.

Another reason why DHP Dillan is such a good option is because it is very easy to set up. You do no more than attaching its leg on and everything you need comes in a box.

We’d like to point out here that this futon comes with a pretty thick mattress, about 6 inches. However, it’s not that soft. People have mixed thought about it’s mattress, or cushions. You’ll like it if you are looking for something firmer than memory foam.

No. 5 – Best Choice Products Modern Faux Leather Futon

Sleeper size when unfolded: 66″L x 38″W, a bit smaller than a twin mattress

Seat hight: 15”

Looking for a modern-looking leather futon with some extra feature? Congrats that you just found one. This futon is made of sleek faux leather, and it comes with four chrome-metal legs. It’s actually an amazing combination of quality, style, and comfort.

With a fully reclinable back, this BCP faux leather futon can also easily transform into a cozy bed – great news for your overnight guests. You don’t need to buy extra pillow because it comes with two removable armrests.

It’s size is not big, so it’s the perfect choice for kids room or apartment. Given it’s moderate size, this futon is a pretty strong piece of furniture as it holds up to 500 pounds of weight. That’s not all. Some report that it stays quite well after being “tortured” by a couple of heavy friends. 

The downside? Look at its price tag. You get what you pay for. I think the manufacturer trades its coziness with the slick look. I mean, the mattress is not soft, but you’ll like it if you need the cup holder and prefer firm seat. 

Some Other Alternatives To Ikea Futon

No.1 Lucid Mattress Sofa

Sleeper size when unfolded: 75″L x 38″W, about the size of a twin mattress

Mattress thickness: 8”

If you are looking for a simple, yet very stylish design, then you will love this one. In fact, I fell in love with it at the very first glance. 

The Lucid convertible futon is made of supportive high-density foam, which is certified by CertiPUR-US®. What’s different from above framed futons is that this one comes rolled and compressed in a compact package.

You don’t need any tools other than your own hands to set it all up. Just pull it out and remove the sealing film, and it will spread out in minutes. Technically, you have to wait 24-48 hours for the product to fully take form but trust me, it expands the moment you crack up the sealing plastic. Just like this Couchbed mattress:

The grey-linen cover gives this futon a very unique style, and the durable fabric can be spot cleaned.

One thing that makes this product outstanding is the fact that it can easily convert into a play mat – watch the video above and find out how. What’s more? It can also be an ottoman and a lounger if you like so.

It is the perfect choice for overnight guests or movie nights with your loved ones. This futon’s modern, simplistic design is what makes it really stand out. If you are looking for both style and functionality, this is the right one for you!

The only downside here is that the foam inside is not memory foam, some people may find it’s a bit firm. Luckly, if you prefer a softer version of this versatile model at the same price range, there is one memory foam that looks basically the same.

However, if you like supportive loungers, just hit the button below and check out the latest coupon:

No.2 Milliard Daybed Sofa Couch

Sleeper size when unfolded: 74″L x 38″W (twin), 82″L x 60″W (queen)

Mattress thickness: 9” (twin), 3″ (queen)

If you think the above futons are kind of small or even tiny, this one is probably what you are looking for as it expands easily into a 3-inch thick queen sized mattress. In addition, you can also effortlessly shape it into a 9 inch twin mattress when necessary.

To unfold the Milliard mattress sofa, all you need to do is unzip it from the package. Just like how you did with any other foam mattresses that come in a compressed roll.

When folded into a floor sofa, this daybed is very space-saving. So no need to worry about space because it is a perfect choice for apartments, family dens, and college dorms.

And since this daybed is made of CertiFUR-certified high-density foam, we can safely say that it is very durable. So, if you are looking for something that can be pretty small and fairly large as well, yet extremely functional, you should go for this one!

No.3 Best Choice Products 4-Inch Folding Mattress Topper

Sleeper size when unfolded: 80″L x 60″W (queen)

Mattress thickness: 4″ 

As you can see from the picture above, this is basically a mattress topper made of high-density foam. However, who said mattress topper can’t be transformed into a convenient guest bed, a comfortable camping bed, and a floor sofa that gives the right amount of comfort for a good night’s sleep? Mindblowing design huh?

When folded into a floor sofa, this queen mattress is extremely space-saving and cozy to sit on, and it is very easy to move around as well.

You can either fold it up to save more space in your home, or expand it flat as a queen mattress for your overnight guests.

When you want to clean it, just unzip its removable cover and toss it into your washing machine.

It’s a little bit tricky if you want to use it as a camp sleeper. While it feels better than an air bed and waives you exhausting pumping efforts, it does takes up space if you happened to have a compact car. Take some time to measure your car trunk before buying and you’ll be good.

No.4 Stanford Futon Set

Sleeper size when unfolded: 75″L x 54″W, the size of a full size mattress

Seat hight: 17”

The first thing that draw your eyes is the stylish frame that give a vintage touch. Actually, it’s a 100% solid hardwood frame, which under 4-year limited manufacturer warranty.  

The best part I like is that traditional mechanism that enables it to change the position of its back. The video below shows you how to do the job. The frame in the video is not the one here, but they work in the same way.

If you also ordered the mattress and it didn’t come with the frame – don’t worry, they are supposed to come separately, and it’s not because of some careless delivery man. If they arrived together – time to play Powerball tonight you lucky duck! Just kidding.

 Speaking of mattress, it’s a stand alone mattress which you can completely move away. It’s not made of memory foam, but the poly-cotton and high density foam inside are comfortablly firm to give the support you are looking for. Quality fabric also makes it durable and resistant to aging. 

A user claimed that it looks like a new one after 5 years. Well, although that sounds doubtful to me, it somehow shows the customer satisfaction. 

The only downside that bothers me is that the mattress cover is not removable. I suggest you place a sheet on it although it is said “not easy to become dirty”.

Do Sofa Beds Have Bed Bug Problems?

Short answer – yes.

Bed bugs are small insects that feast on the blood of humans and other mammals. Although bed bugs don’t fly, they can still move quickly over floors, walls, and ceilings. These things can enter your home through your luggage, clothing, couches, beds, and many other items that you may possess. Learn more. 

Bed bugs can fit into the tiniest of spaces in your home. They also tend to live in groups in hiding spaces. So, how can you get rid of these things? Well, it’s actually quite simple! For example, you can use steam vacuum to sanitize your floor and rag, and use hot water to clean your bedding, linens, clothing, and curtains.

You can also use a bed bug killer to get rid of these insects. And don’t forget to get yourself a good bugproof mattress protector!

How To Clean a Futon

Futons are actually quite easy to clean. Nothing would be fussy about if you have a futon with removable cover.

What to do if your futon cover is sewed with fillings? First of all, give your futon a good vacuuming to remove loose dirt, hair, and other debris. You should also sprinkle some baking soda over the unfolded mattress. Once you’ve done this, let it sit for about an hour, and then give it a good vacuuming once again.

Then, use a damp washcloth, warm water, and mild laundry detergent to get rid of the dirty spots. If you don’t notice any dirty spots, then it’s all good.

Keep in mind that it is easier to clean futons that have leather or synthetic leather upholstery. Also, we strongly advise you to use a cover or slipcover that is both removable and machine-washable.

Some Safety Tips That You Should Know

First of all, you should never smoke in bed. Smoking in bed is actually one of the most common causes of fatal bedroom fires. Also, make sure to never put electrical cords under your futon. And don’t even think about sleeping with a baby or two on the same futon! Study shows that sleeping on sofa can be fatal for babies. 

When you decide to buy a new futon, make sure to pick something that gives you sufficient support. My personal experience is that overly soft sofa cushion leaves me with really bad back pain over just one-night sleep. But that’s just me. 

If you are good with soft and spongy cushion, then go with it. But keep in mind that comfy sofa also cause some problems to your health. 

Would an Inflatable Futon Be Suitable For Me?

Inflatable futons, or air beds, are much cheaper than traditional models, and they are so great in terms of portability.

However, it’s obvious that inflatable futons are not as stylish as their traditional counterparts. And do we really need to mention the exhausting pumping effort?

I bet you also agree that inflatable futons are absolutely not suitable for anyone who has a pet or two.

Final Words

As you can see, there are some really good alternatives out there if you don’t want to stick at ikea futon. Generally speaking, futons are extremely flexible, and they are often used for both relaxing and sleeping purposes.

Some of the best futons on the market are designed to be used as a regular bedding. That said, it is very important to buy one that is made of high-quality materials.

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The one shown in the featured image comes from Futonworld, a futon manufacturer in the UK, and you can learn more on their website. If you like it, here is a much afforable model: