How to Change Your Futon From Bed to Sofa (and Back!)

One of the least understood concepts facing new futon owners is the operation of their futon frame. While there is no standardized mechanism, you will find that each manufacturer follows a similar set of guidelines. Futon frames can be sorted into five major catagories:

• Metal hinge futons
• Click clack futons
• Standard wood futons
• Front loading wood futons
• Wall hugging wood futons

In this article, we will focus on metal hinge futon frames and their operation.

Metal Hinged Futon Frames

Metal hinged futon frames are among the most common futons on the market. They are generally the only futon frames you can find in the big box stores. These frames tend to be very inexpensive and thusly easy to sell. The hinge, sometimes mistakenly called a click-clack hinge, usually has little to no warranty, and is prone to failure.

Metal Hinged Futon Operation Instructions

To convert your metal futon from sofa to bed:

1. Lift up on the front of the seat deck until the back deck is laying completely horizontal.
2. You will now be able to pull the seat deck down into a flat position.

To convert your metal futon from bed to sofa:

1. Lift up on the front of the seat deck until the seat deck locks.
2. Gently push the seat deck back down. Gravity should be doing most of the work as the crease of the futon frame rolls toward the back.
3. The frame will come to a stop in the recline position. Reach to the top of the back deck. With your calf against the seat deck, pull the back deck toward you until it locks into the upright position.

That’s it! If you have a heavy or extra firm mattress, you may have difficulty converting the frame at first. Over time, as the mattress becomes acclimated to the frame, conversion will become easier and easier!