11 Grown-Up Futons That Aren’t Anything Like What You See in College Dorms

updated Jan 17, 2024
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If the word ‘futon’ brings up an image of a horrible metal contraption with a dark mattress that always slides off the frame, know that you’re not alone. Any of us who have ever couch-surfed at a friend’s place or opted for one of these affordable finds when furnishing our first place knows exactly why futons get a notoriously bad rap. But it’s a new day and futon designs and construction have come so far. There’s a lot that goes into buying a sleeper sofa, but if you’re looking for something that’s budget-friendly, comfortable, and stylish, a futon is a solid furniture choice. And happily, the futons of today are just as attractive as they are practical. From futons that feature that classic design we all know and love (with updated construction) to those that one could easily confuse with a high-end sofa, here are 10 of the best futons that (and your guests) you won’t mind having in your space.

1 / 11
Amazon
$332.67
was $529.99

This economical option comes in three colors and has a split back that lets one side lounge while the other stays upright — or you can put both sides down for a comfortable sleep. Novogratz also happens to be one of our favorite budget brands you should know about.

2 / 11
QVC.com
$186.99

Made by the mattress brand Serta, you know this small-space-friendly modern futon is prepared to give you a good night's sleep whenever you need it. And because it's armless, anyone can fit on it (even your extra-tall friends).

3 / 11
Bed Bath & Beyond
$280.07
was $356.99

Both the armrests and backrests on this convertible futon are adjustable, so you can use this as either a sofa for watching TV or as a completely flat bed. Inside, the sofa is lined with 3-inch thick supportive memory foam, so you know this piece was designed with all-day (or all-night) lounging in mind.

4 / 11
Walmart
$245.51

Simple and seriously budget-friendly, this white futon found at Walmart is a great entry-level option. It's upholstered in white faux leather and gives off a sleek and elegant look while still remaining practical.

5 / 11
Bed Bath & Beyond
$395.54
was $439.49

Glam certainly describes this pink and gold split-back sofa. You can set the backrests to three different positions — upright, angular, and flat — so you get a totally customized seating environment that fits your mood at any moment. It's also available in a moody gray color if brightly colored furniture isn't totally your thing.

6 / 11
Wayfair
$768.86

This futon may look like a regular sofa, but its back folds down to create a cozy sleeping space for guests. It's upholstered in velvet and comes in a mix of bold and neutral colors. Best of all, it can be configured into three positions for ultimate lounging.

7 / 11
PB Teen
$899.00

PBTeen might cater to teenagers, but this futon is anything but juvenile. The Finn Futon is stylish, trendy, and reclines to a full-sized bed with plenty of support and cushioning. This popular pick is easy to love and has a variety of coverings (choose between chenille, velvet, canvas, and twill) that let you tailor it to your taste.

8 / 11
Wayfair
$319.99
was $339.99

Need something extra small and compact? This sweet little seat comes in three colors and opens up to a twin-size sleeping area, perfect for overnight guests in tight spaces (including bedrooms).

9 / 11
West Elm
$1499.00

The Andes futon is proof that these mainstays are definitely seeing better days when it comes to style. This sleek sofa folds down quickly and easily, and the simple gray color will match just about any decor idea you have in mind (although you can also get it made to order in a variety of other colors).

10 / 11
West Elm
$799.00

The clean lines and absent arm rests make this futon a simple piece that fits easily into any living room. It's available in 23 different color and fabric options and has handsome metal legs that give it a decidedly modern look. We like how quickly and easily it folds flat, so you can take it from couch to bed in only a few seconds.

11 / 11
Castlery
$729.00
was $799.00

If a blue velvet futon is at the top of your wish list, let us introduce you to the Nathan Velvet Sofa Bed. Available in either a teal or royal blue hue, this sofa is a gorgeous Scandi pick. It has tone-on-tone piping, subtle buttoning along the backrest, and gorgeous angled solid wood legs. Best of all, it features Castlery's iconic comfort cushioning for a piece you and your guest will love lounging and sleeping on.

Sarah M. Vazquez also contributed to reporting.