Futon, futon, whose got a futon??

[COArgosy78]

Ok. after following the "gaucho extension" thread and seeing the pictures with the futon, we decided to go futon shopping. We went to several stores and most carried one that they either called a 9" or a 9 layer which was a foam/cotton combo and was actually 8" thick. That was suppose to be the "best seller" according to the salesreps. Pretty comfy, but I want to make sure before I plunk down the dollars. Other choices were a 7 layer, which was basically just cotton stuffing (too soft and bound to bunch and flatten with time) or something called "Flex Contura" which was a 8" foam shaped like a cylinder. The cylinders went across the mattress in rows. No cotton at all. This one was at least as comfy (my husband said "More comfy") as the 9 layer, had the same 10 year guarantee, but is more expensive. Now, here is what I am wondering. The guantee is the same as the 9 layer not longer, so why more expensive? (the rep said it would last longer??, maybe?? The foam one would be lighter and easier to rearrange back to couch and also cut down on carried weight, but don't know if it is worth the extra $100+ dollars to purchase. Anyone who has a futon - I would like your 2 cents on this. Do you have a 9 layer? Comfort level? Rather you had something different? Anybody else seen or tried a "Flex Contura" and know of what I speak? Hope to get some answers quick as we are going back to the trailer in about a week and would like to take new purchase with us, if possible. Thanks, Leigh

[JodynJeep]

My Futon in my '79 was the coil \foam version. Last year it was there best mattress. A Fullsize fits the gaucho you just have to live with the back sticking up higher than the regular foam cushions. It was extrememly comfortable. The drawback is that it is heavy and moving it in and out can be a bit of the chore. But to me it was well worth it.

[overlander63]

The foam one would be lighter and easier to rearrange back to couch and also cut down on carried weight, but don't know if it is worth the extra $100+ dollars to purchase.

IMHO, an extra $100.00 or so for what will probably mean a LOT less aggravation in making up the bed/gaucho, would be money well spent. Add to that a probable better night's sleep, and a more comfortable place to "park it" during the day, would make it a winner for me. The increased cost would be negligable over the life of the futon.
My $.02 worth, as requested.
Happy futon-ing!
Terry

[Fun-Lovin]

I took and instead of using a futon framework I built my own to replace the rear twins with a desk on the oposite side. I went to the store several time with a tape measure. Made it so I can use the futon matress. Problem I found with using a futon frame was it requires alot more space than the galcho, also would sit up too high.

[COArgosy78]

Thanks for some of your replies. Yes, I started thinking about the weight issue. I am going to call the store today and ask about the weight of both the 9 layer and the foam. Not only did I realize that it might be easier as far as rearranging from bed to couch, but Jody talked about moving in and out and we have been taking our gaucho cushions out of the trailer when we winterize because of a probable mouse problem (we have only had 2 so far, but....) which would make it doubly important to move the futon out during that time. Definitely need to make this as carefree and enjoyable as possible since I talked my husband into the trailer for just that reason. Any more thoughts, feel free to let roam freely here!!! Thanks, Leigh

[gregg]

when I gutted my Soverign, I thought I wanted a Futon. I got one with the typical 8-9"cotton 'mattress". I discarded that unit within the first month. The futon is not comfortable to sit on and the cushion slipped around. When I considered my true requirements I settled on 2 recliners.....so far that's been excellent for me, good for naps excellent for reading and TV. The question came down to how often do I have sleep over guests.

[COArgosy78]

From what I understand, the all cotton futons have been largely rejected by the buying public for just that reason. Not comfortable and within a short period of time the cotton bunches together and is lumpy and mostly flattened out. We would not go that route, but are interested in the futon mattress because several that we tried were VERY comfortable. I'm waiting to hear back from 2 dealers on the weight of the 9 layer and the all foam "Flex Contura" mattresses as that has become an interesting factor. I think IF the foam one is significantly lighter, that is the way we will go even with the $100+ higher cost. But I am still interested in hearing from anyone who might have one on how it has worked for them. Leigh

[3Ms75Argosy]

Leigh, from my college days, I / we (my future wife) moved our full size futon more then I care to remember - it was SOOO heavy and bulky - I can't imagine I'd want that weight in the trailer. Have you considered buying some 6 inch high density foam in the size you want? I replaced all the foam in my trailer (still sewing covers though - almost done!) and the foam is extra comfy. The foam cushions are much denser then the old ones, and very comfy to lie on.....I can't get my kids off of them while they're in the house! Much easier to move around as well
My 2 cents,
Marc

[COArgosy78]

Hi Marc - Ok here's the deal. We thought about the high density foam route. Have to buy the foam - cost?? not sure. Then we have to pay to cover foam, cost $350-400 probably and that was just for the side gaucho (the one that we might futon). The futon that we are highly considering (the Flex Contura) is a high density foam, 2 layers of cylindrical looking foam which equals 9" of layering thick. The futon mattress and cover will cost us $386. roughly. I just had a call from the dealer and it weighs 56 lbs. Not to bad?! I am waiting for a call back on the 9 layer foam/cotton (sure it will weigh more, but how much??) Right now, I am still researching and got time. Like hearing the pros and cons from everyone tho. Thanks, Leigh

[3Ms75Argosy]

I found "the friendly foam shop" (that's it's name!) right around the corner here - $500 for the dinette and three cushions that make the rear slide out. The covering is the issue I suppose - what type of covering are you looking for? I sewed my box covers with a pattern fabric and cording - the quote for someone else to do it was around $2000! I'm into it for time (mine) and learned how to sew off the web. Fabric and supplies are around $500 - HOWEVER, I fell in love with some pricey stuff - and that's where I'm at. Covering foam with canvas duck without cording would be a snap - I'm kind of really liking this sewing stuff - I might even start a business. I'd think you'd be able to find lower cost fabric (Sunbrella canvas is around $15 dollars / yard). One color without cording - I could probably finish one cover in about four days - learning to sew really isn't that hard - AND - you can say you did it yourself. If you are so inclined - I can tell you some of my trials and tribulations.

Weight - 50#'s is still alot - I'm sure my foam doesn't weigh more then 3-5#'s each for the pull out - the kids (8 and 4) move them around the house to make forts without my help.
2c's!
Marc

[3Ms75Argosy]

What I didn't say this morning (I was tired), was that we loved our college cotton futon - I could sleep on it forever. It did get packed down after 4 years, but hey, the price was right!

Ken Smilie mentioned a Sealy Futon in his "twin-to full size" thread today, he said he loves his also.
Either way, happy sleeping zzzzzzzzz
Marc

[COArgosy78]

Hey Marc - Thanks for all your happy zzzz's. I am finding out alot about FOAM!!! Just like a dog with a bone, gotta keep diggin~~
I have come up with another futon that weighs just 15lbs.. all foam and the price is right at $119., plus I can get a cover made with my material for $50. Looks pretty good, but I am still working on my research. Went to the Knox Foam website and read up on density, ILD,WHAT!!???? anyway, getting to overload, but want to make sure HUB is HAPPY Hopefully, all this info I am gathering will come of use not just for us, but others here. I'll be back....didn't a governator say that!!! Leigh

[CordellCampr]

Originally Posted by COArgosy78

Hey Marc - Thanks for all your happy zzzz's. I am finding out alot about FOAM!!! Just like a dog with a bone, gotta keep diggin~~
I have come up with another futon that weighs just 15lbs.. all foam and the price is right at $119., plus I can get a cover made with my material for $50. Looks pretty good, but I am still working on my research. Went to the Knox Foam website and read up on density, ILD,WHAT!!???? anyway, getting to overload, but want to make sure HUB is HAPPY Hopefully, all this info I am gathering will come of use not just for us, but others here. I'll be back....didn't a governator say that!!! Leigh

Where did you find that 15lb futon mattress? Do you know if it was comfortable at all? That's why I am hesitant to buy bedding online, foam lbs doesn't translate to whether or not it is a good night sleep in my mind.