What is Shikifuton? What are its Benefits?

You must have noticed that people in Japan generally use a folding mattress or a shikifuton to sleep instead of using a western-style bed. A futon mattress can be the best alternative to this kind of Japanese mattress.

What is a Shikifuton?

Shikibuton or shikifuton is a traditional Japanese bedding comprising a thin mattress and a comforter. It is commonly used as a minimalist alternative to a Western-style bed and is often placed directly on the floor or a mat. The mattress is usually made of cotton and is typically around three to four inches thick, providing a firm sleeping surface that can promote better posture and alignment.

The comforter is also made of cotton and is designed to be lightweight and breathable, making it suitable for use in all seasons. Shikifuton is a popular choice for those who value simplicity, minimalism, and natural materials in their home and lifestyle.

Benefits of Sleeping on a Shikifuton

You must be wondering why Japanese people still prefer sleeping on the floor in this modern era. Here are some reasons that sleeping on a shikifuton mattress can offer you.

1. It’s Portable

Our Shikifuton mattresses are portable and easy to move around because of their lightweight and compact design. They can be rolled up and stored in a closet or against a wall when not in use, freeing up floor space in a room. When it is time to use the mattress again, you need to unroll and place it on a mat or directly on the floor.

Additionally, due to their portability, these futon mattresses are a great choice for camping or travel. As they are made of lighter materials, you can easily pack them into a carrying case for transport. Moreover, the portability of shikifuton mattresses is one of their advantages, making them a popular choice for people who move frequently or have limited space in their homes.

2. It Alleviates Pain

Shikifuton may potentially help alleviate pain, particularly for those who experience discomfort related to their sleeping posture. Like a shikifuton, the thin fabric of our futon mattress provides a firm and even surface, which can help promote proper spinal alignment and reduce pressure points. This can help alleviate back, neck, and joint pain caused by poor sleeping posture or an unsupportive mattress.

While a futon mattress may offer some pain relief benefits for certain individuals, you should consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice on managing pain and improving sleep quality. However, it’s important to note that not everyone will find futon mattresses practical for pain relief, as everyone’s needs and preferences are different.

3. It Contains Natural Materials

Our shikifutons are traditionally made with natural materials. The mattress, typically filled with layers of organic batting, such as natural latex, wool, and cotton, is a natural and breathable material that provides a firm sleeping surface.

A futon mattress, made of natural fibers is lightweight and breathable, making it suitable for all seasons. Using natural materials in mattress construction is often valued for its environmental sustainability and hypoallergenic properties.

4. It’s Chemical-free

A traditional mattress made with synthetic materials may contain chemicals, such as flame retardants, formaldehyde, and volatile organic compounds, which can have negative effects on your health. As our shikifuton mattresses are made with natural materials, they are completely free of harmful chemicals. So, you can reduce your exposure to those potentially harmful substances.

Chemicals released from a synthetic mattress can contribute to poor indoor air quality, which can lead to respiratory problems and other health issues. Our natural shikifuton mattresses promote better breathing by improving air quality in your bedroom. They can also reduce the likelihood of allergic reactions and improve overall sleep quality.

How to Protect a Shikifuton Mattress?

As a Shikifuton mattress is laid on the floor, there are chances of mold, mildew, and moisture damaging your mattress. So, here are some tips to protect your futon from these elements.

• You can avoid laying the mattress directly on the floor by placing it on a carpet or platform bed.
• Try to often move the mattress, and avoid keeping it in the same place for more than a week.
• In the daytime, when it is not used, folding and picking it up from the floor would be a better option. Flipping it and letting it dry in the sun will be the best option to prevent mold and mildew.
• You can use a mattress cover made with natural cotton to protect it from dust particles.

In Conclusion

Switching your regular mattress to a natural shikifuton one, you can sleep peacefully, knowing that you’re not exposing yourself to unnecessary risks. However, some modern futons may incorporate synthetic materials. So, you must choose your mattress manufacturer wisely and read all the material details carefully.