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A Brief History Of Futons
Originally from Japan, Futons are like bed
mattresses but used and made differently than in their home country.
Japanese Futons
Measuring two inches (5 cm) thick and filled with cotton and/or
synthetic batting, Japanese futons are typically flat and are
designed to be spread out on tatami flooring, which is a special
kind of flooring indigenous to Japanese architecture. Japanese
futons are usually sold in sets consisting of the futon mattress (shikibuton),
a comforter (kakebuton) or blanket (moku), a summer towel-like
blanket (towelket), and a bean- or plastic bead-filled pillow (makura).
This is equivalent to a western bed set.
Japanese futons are usually stored in a closet, but must be left to
air in the sunlight when not put away. These futons are typically
beaten with bamboo to keep them in shape.
Western Futons
Western futons are closer to mattresses; they are also stuffed with
multiple layers of foam and/or batting, but they do not have
springs. Western futons are placed on an adjustable frame resembling
that of a couch, and are designed in the fashion of a sofa-bed—to be
used as a couch and a bed. Western futons are constructed larger and
thicker than Japanese futons, and are cheap compared to regular
mattresses or beds.
Western futons are common now in Japan. These futons, hand-made,
have no synthetic filling; they are stuffed primarily with cotton.
Western futons in Japan are sold as “earth-friendly,” and are not
composed of any chemicals whatsoever, distinguishing them from the
traditional bed set.
Futons are very comfortable and, like sleeping bags, can also serve
as portable or transportable beds, depending on their size and
weight. Although futons can be damaged, they can more easily be
repaired than a traditional mattress, since its interior matting is
packed in a structured, layered way. Futons are otherwise most
convenient and economical and therefore preferable to people
on-the-go or living in small spaces. They’re not only for the
Japanese anymore!
About the Author: D. Benjamin is the owner of
iapsales.com LLC - a family business specializing in HVAC products. We
are distributors of
Qmark Heaters,
electric tankless water heaters,
bathroom heaters,
patio heaters, electric heaters,
portable air
conditioners & electric towel warmers. Shop on line at
www.heateroutlet.com for these great home improvement products.
Iapsales.com LLC was established in 2003 and is the sister company to
Innovative Air Products located in historical Exeter, NH. We are a 2nd
generation manufacturers’ rep firm dedicated to providing residential &
commercial heating, ventilation and air-conditioning equipment. We offer
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