Futons for Sale-Terminology

Information on futons and some of their terminology

As futons have evolved into new designs with greater functionality, their terminology has increased.  The following are some common terms those buying futons may encounter.

Slat racks: These are the platforms on which the futon rests. These are divided into the seat racks the user sits on and the back racks the user leans against when the futon is being used as a sofa or chair.

Bi-fold: This type of sofa-bed futon folds a single time along its length, and its frame has two slat racks to support the mattress. It is the most common type of futon and can be found in full, queen, loveseat as well as chair sizes.

Tri-fold (sometimes called the A-frame): The tri-fold frame has three slat racks to support the mattress. Its futon mattress can be folded twice, usually along its shorter length. When used a chair or sofa, the third fold can hang over the back, be folded under itself under the seat or laid flat as a chaise lounge-style seat. Since it is folded three times, the mattress is usually thinner than other types of futons. Tri-fold futons can be found in queen, full and twin sizes.

Loveseat futons: Able to convert into a full or twin-sized bed, these use two-piece futon mattresses and are designed for places where larger futons will not fit. These often come with built-in or detached ottomans.

Wall-hugger: This type of futon can convert from a sofa to a bed without the need to move the base of the frame further away from the wall. They are often classified by their tolerances with zero-tolerance being one that can be placed directly against the wall.

Conversion mechanisms: The manner used for a futon to convert from a sofa to a bed and back again is the conversion mechanism. The three basic types are kicker, ratchet and sliding pivot.

Kicker: This is basically a wedge that swings freely on the back. By wedging itself between the seat rack and the back, it enables the futon to be converted from a sleeper to a sofa in one simple, fluid motion.

Ratchet: Operated from the front and consisting of a set of interactive arms, one can use it to covert the futon between different positions by pushing against a spring.

Sliding pivot: These are used primarily in wall hugger designs since they slide forward and allow the futon to be converted without moving the base.

The most basic parts of a futon include the futon frame, mattress and futon cover. When looking for futons for sale, be sure to understand any terminology encountered to find the best futon for the best price.