Futons Come From the Japanese Culture

Futons originate from the Japanese but have been embraced by Westerners.

Futons are quite popular in American culture and are often used because of their multiple functions. They are able to turn into a couch and bed. Some of the most popular futons have a Western or Japanese style. It is actually a Japanese term. They have regular bedding and quilts pliable enough to be folded, if desired. They can easily be stored away during the day by folding it up into a couch or sitting bench. The bottom has a mattress, often referred to in the Japanese language as shikibuton. It also comes with a kakebuton, which is a thick quilted bedcover. In a myth created by the Japanese, the very first futon was made by Samurais who could not master the art of swordplay.

The typical futon is flat and measures 2 inches thick. The interior of the fabric for the mattress is usually stuffed with synthetic batting or cotton. In Japan, they are mostly sold in specialty stores called the "futon-ya." They can also be found in other department stores. Most of the time, they are sold as a hit and comes with a set that can be assembled. It comes with a blanket, mattress and comforters. Sometimes, it may also come with a large towel and pillow. This pillow is usually filled with buckwheat chaff, beans or plastic beans.

Futons were originally designed to be set up on tatami flooring. They are stored away or folded during the day which can be used as a couch or resting area. Most Japanese beat this special bed with a tool. The tool is made from bamboo, which sort of looks like a carpet beater.

These special beds are usually available in single, double or semi-double sizes. The typical Western futon is a carbon copy of the Japanese design. They also have several differences. The frames are usually made of metal or wood which can be used as a chair, couch or bed. The frame is able to fold in the middle, which allows for the diversity of use. They have many layers to them and the Western style is much thicker than the Japanese version. They are also considered a cheaper version to the Japanese one. Most consumers like futons because they are cheap and usually are sold in sets.

Another term that is used for the futon in the Japanese language is 'azbuton'. This is also referred to as the cushion that is sat on. They are also used to sit on by the Japanese when eating at a small table that is only a foot high. Most people who have studio apartments will use these as their main source of furniture since the apartment may not have a separate bedroom. It is more flattering to fold into a couch when guests are arriving or need somewhere to sit.

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