How to Put a Futon Down: The Ultimate, Effortless Way

To put a futon down, lift the front of the frame or seat toward the back until you hear a “click,” which unlocks the mechanism. Then, gently guide the frame down until it lays completely flat. For bifold models, you may need to pull the seat base forward first before lowering it.

Have you ever found yourself in a wrestling match with a piece of furniture? If you own a futon, you probably know the feeling. That simple, versatile sofa-bed combo can suddenly feel like a stubborn, uncooperative puzzle. You pull, you push, you wiggle it, but it just won’t budge. It’s a frustrating moment, especially when you have guests waiting or you’re just ready to call it a night.

But here’s the good news: putting a futon down is actually incredibly simple once you understand the secret. It’s not about strength; it’s about technique. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the easy, step-by-step process to effortlessly convert your futon from a couch to a bed, no sweat required. Let’s get started!

First, Understand Your Futon: The Three Main Types

Before you can conquer your futon, you need to know what kind you’re dealing with. Most futons fall into one of three categories, and each one has a slightly different trick to it. Identifying your model is the first and most important step to a frustration-free experience.

1. The Bifold Futon

This is the most common type of futon. The mattress is folded in half once, lengthwise, to create the seat and back of the sofa. The frame is typically made of wood or metal and works like a hinge. When you look at it from the side, it looks like it folds right in the middle.

• How to Spot It: The mattress folds just once, creating a distinct “L” shape for the sofa.
• Best For: Living rooms and guest rooms where it’s used as a primary couch.

2. The Trifold Futon

As the name suggests, a trifold futon’s mattress is folded into three sections. The frame is often more compact. Part of the mattress is tucked underneath the seating area or acts as a low front panel. To open it, you typically pull out a hidden extension of the frame.

• How to Spot It: Look for a lower frame section near the floor or a mattress that seems to have two creases instead of one.
• Best For: Smaller spaces, dorm rooms, or kids’ rooms where space-saving is key.

3. The “Click-Clack” Futon

This type is famous for its signature sound. These futons look more like modern sofas or loungers and have a simple internal locking mechanism. The entire sofa back and seat are one connected piece that pivots on hinges. You operate it by pushing the back forward until it “clicks” and releases.

• How to Spot It: It looks more like a standard sofa without a separate, visible mattress. The frame and mattress are often integrated.
• Best For: Modern apartments and multi-purpose rooms.

Here’s a quick comparison to help you identify yours:

Preparation is Key: A 2-Minute Pre-Flight Check

Before you start moving anything, take just a couple of minutes to prepare. This will make the process smoother, safer, and prevent any accidental damage to your futon or your home.

1. Clear the Area: Move coffee tables, rugs, lamps, and any other obstacles out of the way. You need a clear path for the futon to unfold completely. Make sure there is enough room both in front of and behind the futon.
2. Remove Bedding and Pillows: Take off any decorative pillows, blankets, or throws. Trying to convert a futon with these still on can cause them to get caught in the mechanism, making it jam.
3. Check for Obstructions Underneath: Take a quick peek under the futon. It’s a favorite hiding spot for pet toys, shoes, or lost remote controls. Anything underneath can prevent the frame from moving correctly.
4. Identify the Locking Mechanism: Now that you know your futon type, take a close look at its hinges and frame. Understanding where it pivots will give you a better sense of how it’s supposed to move.

How to Put Your Futon Down: Step-by-Step Instructions

You’ve done your prep work, and now it’s time for the main event. We’ll break it down by futon type. Find your model below and follow the simple steps. Remember to move slowly and deliberately—never force it!

Method 1: The Standard Bifold Futon

This is the classic futon, and its mechanism is usually straightforward. The goal is to slide the seat forward so the back can flatten out.

1. Stand in the Center: Position yourself directly in front of the futon.
2. Get a Firm Grip: Grab the bottom edge of the seat frame with both hands, about shoulder-width apart. Avoid grabbing just the mattress, as it can slip. You need to hold onto the solid frame.
3. Lift and Pull: In one smooth motion, lift the seat frame up slightly (just an inch or two) and pull it straight out, away from the back of the futon. You should feel the frame begin to glide forward on its runners or wheels.
4. Lower it Down: Once the seat is fully extended, the back of the frame will naturally start to lower. Guide both the back and seat sections down gently until the entire frame is lying flat.
5. Adjust the Mattress: The mattress may have bunched up a bit during the conversion. Straighten it out so it lies flat and covers the entire frame evenly.

Method 2: The Space-Saving Trifold Futon

Trifold futons are all about revealing a hidden section. They are less about lifting and more about pulling.

1. Find the Front Panel: Locate the lowest part of the futon frame, near the floor. This is usually the third section of the frame that is tucked away.
2. Pull the Frame Forward: Grip this lower section and pull it straight out, away from the main body of the futon. It should slide out smoothly, extending the futon to its full length.
3. Unfold the Mattress: The mattress on a trifold is often designed with a “foot” section that was tucked under or behind. Unfold this part of the mattress and lay it over the newly extended frame section.
4. Smooth Everything Out: Make sure the mattress is sitting correctly on all three sections of the frame. There should be no large gaps or lumps.

Method 3: The “Click-Clack” Futon

This type can be tricky for first-timers because the movement feels a bit unnatural. The key is to listen for the clicks.

1. Empty the Futon: Make sure all pillows and blankets are removed.
2. Stand and Grip: Stand in front of the futon and grip the top edge of the seat frame. You’ll be using this to pivot the entire structure.
3. Push the Back Forward: This is the most important step. Lift the seat frame up, which will cause the back of the sofa to move forward. Keep pushing it forward until you hear a loud CLICK. This sound tells you the futon is now in a position to be released.
4. Gently Lower to Flat: Once you’ve heard that click, the lock is released. Now, carefully guide the frame back down. Don’t let go! It will go past the original sofa position and continue downward until it is completely flat.
5. Check for Stability: Once it’s flat, give it a gentle push to make sure the locking mechanism is secure in the bed position.

To put a click-clack futon back into a sofa, you do the exact same motion. Lift the frame all the way up until it clicks, then lower it back down, and it will lock into the sofa position.

Troubleshooting Common Futon Problems

Sometimes, even with the right steps, a futon can be stubborn. Here are some common issues and how to solve them without losing your cool.

Safety First: Handling Your Futon Like a Pro

While a futon isn’t heavy machinery, it’s still a large piece of furniture. A few simple safety practices can prevent pinched fingers, a strained back, or damage to your floor.

• Lift With Your Legs: Just like lifting a heavy box, bend at your knees, not your waist. Let your powerful leg muscles do the work to avoid straining your back. For more information, the Mayo Clinic offers excellent guidance on proper lifting techniques.
• Keep Fingers Clear: Be mindful of where your fingers are, especially near the hinges and folding parts of the frame. Metal and wooden frames can pinch unexpectedly.
• Ask for Help: If your futon is particularly heavy or you feel unsure, don’t hesitate to ask someone for help. A second person can help guide the frame and ensure it moves smoothly.
• Don’t Drop It: Always guide the futon frame down gently. Letting it slam down can damage the frame, the floor, and the locking mechanism over time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Futons

How do I know what kind of futon I have?

The easiest way is to observe how it folds. If the mattress folds in half like a taco, it’s a bifold. If it has a hidden section that pulls out from the bottom, it’s a trifold. If it looks like a single-piece sofa that pivots at the base, it’s a click-clack.

Why is my futon so hard to open and close?

This is usually due to one of three things: an obstruction in the mechanism, a frame that has come off its track, or hinges that need lubrication. Check for these issues first. Older futons can also become stiffer over time.

Can I put a futon down by myself?

Absolutely! Most modern futons are designed to be operated by one person. The key is to stand in the center and use smooth, even motions. However, if the frame is very heavy or you have limited mobility, getting a helper is always the safest option.

What should I do if the futon frame is bent?

If a part of the frame is noticeably bent, you should stop using the mechanism immediately to avoid further damage or injury. Depending on the material (metal or wood) and the severity, you may be able to gently bend it back, but it’s often best to contact the manufacturer or a furniture repair professional.

How do I make my futon more comfortable as a bed?

A great way to increase comfort is by adding a mattress topper. A foam or memory foam topper can make a huge difference. Also, be sure to flip and rotate your futon mattress every few months to prevent permanent indentations.

Is it okay to stand or jump on the futon?

It’s best to avoid standing or jumping on your futon, whether it’s in sofa or bed form. The frames, especially the slats that support the mattress, are not designed to handle that kind of concentrated weight and can easily crack or break.

The futon is stuck in the flat position. How do I put it back up?

The process is simply the reverse. For a bifold, lift from the middle of the frame until it folds up and locks into the sofa position. For a click-clack, lift the sleeping surface all the way up until it clicks, then lower it down, and it will lock in the upright position.

You’ve Mastered the Futon!

And there you have it. The mystery of the stubborn futon is solved! By identifying your futon type, clearing your space, and using the right technique, you can switch from sofa to bed in under a minute. No more struggling, no more frustration—just simple, functional furniture working exactly as it should.

Remember, the secret is almost always in that little “click” or the initial lift-and-pull motion. Once you’ve done it successfully a couple of times, it will become second nature. Now you can enjoy the versatility of your futon without ever dreading the conversion process again.