Futon mattresses have grown wildly popular in recent years. In California, it is not uncommon to see specialty shops like "Futon World", which exclusively offer the product of futon mattresses. Some mattresses are quite pricy; some are very cheap futon mattresses. It is no surprise the cheap futon mattress is the type of mattress that is the most popular.

With the prominent expansion of futon stores across the west coast, one would assume that futons originated in Los Angeles but this is not the case. Futon mattresses (cheap or otherwise) came into existence many years ago, several thousand miles away.

East to West

The origins of the cheap futon mattress are traced back to the eastern world. Futon mattresses originated in Japan and were generally placed directly on the floor of a dwelling. At some point this mattresses became expatriated to the western world. Perhaps the rising cost of standard mattresses opened the door for the import of the cheap futon mattress from abroad.

The western version of the cheap futon mattress differs greatly from its eastern cousin. Namely, the mattress is not placed directly on the floor. Westerners are not going to totally adopt an eastern method of interior decorating, at least not in a manner that greatly departs from standard convention.

Western Morphing

The cheap futon mattress is morphed into the existing frame of a western couch or bed. Within the frame of a couch, the cheap futon mattress is not only an economical alternative to standard couches, it provides for a greater level of comfort than what standard couches can offer, hence the escalated popularity that exists in relation to the cheap futon mattress.

Futon mattresses can also be used in conjunction with relaxing chairs. These chairs offer the same comfort level that is found with the futon mattress couches and futon mattress beds. It appears not out of the question one could furnish and entire house or apartment with futon furniture.

Futon Futures

Will futons ever replace the traditional mattress and will futon furniture replace 'regular' furniture? If by replace one means eradicate by making irrelevant, then the answer is, of course, no. If one means will it give traditional furniture a significant amount of competition in the marketplace, then the answer is of course, yes. Futons have serious potential for growth in the market in terms of North America as demonstrated by the growing popularity in places like Los Angeles and other "trendy" cities.

Recommended Reading:

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