Sandra Baker
Sep 25, 2025
Choosing between a shikibuton and a Western mattress doesn’t have to be difficult. This guide provides a clear, concise comparison between the two, covering key aspects such as pressure relief, climate, hygiene, space, and maintenance.
By the end of this article, you will have understood the basics of:
- What is a shikibuton?
- What is a Western mattress?
- What’s the difference in support and pressure relief between a shikibuton and a Western mattress?
- How do climate and hygiene impact a shikibuton and a Western mattress?
- How budget, space, and portability work for a shikibuton and a Western mattress
- What’s the setup, maintenance, and longevity like for a shikibuton and a Western mattress?
- How do you decide between a shikibuton and a Western mattress?
What is a Shikibuton?
The bottom mattress in traditional Japanese bedding is called a Shikibuton. It’s a thin, foldable cotton pad that can be used either directly on the floor or on a tatami.
A shikibuton is often paired with a kakebuton (the top quilt or duvet). Together, they make up a firm bed for daily use, require minimal maintenance, and can be stored easily. These days, many people are inspired by the Japanese way of living a minimalist life. As a result, buying Shikibutons has become a trend.
What is a Western mattress?
A “Western mattress” typically refers to innersprings, memory foam, latex, and hybrids. These are multi-layer bedding solutions that use a frame or a platform.
Western mattresses are designed for contouring and pressure relief and are a popular choice for couples and for those who have a larger-than-average physique.
Now that you know the difference between a shikibuton and a Western mattress, let’s explore the key aspects to help you pick the right one.
Shikibuton vs. Western Mattress: Support And Pressure Relief
Shikibuton makes an excellent choice for back and stomach sleepers. However, side sleepers can feel more pressure on their hips and shoulders. In most cases, they will have to invest in an additional wool or latex topper.
According to industry studies, for anyone with non-specific lower back pain, a medium-firm surface works better than a firm one.
The bottom line?
- Go for a Shikibuton if you like to sleep on a firm platform and prefer floor-level bedding.
- Go with a western mattress if you share a bed and crave more pressure relief.
Shikibuton vs. Western Mattress: The Impact of Climate and Hygiene
Ventilation is a paramount concern when you sleep close to the floor. In Japan, a shikibuton is traditionally placed on a tatami and aired in sunlight regularly.
This helps manage the humidity or moisture accumulated during sleep (like from night sweat) and prevents the growth of dust mites and microbes.
If your bedroom is a bit damp and you intend to sleep on a shikibuton, it’s highly recommended to use a dehumidifier.
In comparison, Western mattresses usually aren’t sun-dried. So, you must invest in a breathable mattress protector, especially if you live in a coastal area or have a predominantly monsoon climate.
It’s a great practice if you have underlying medical conditions like asthma or COPD, or you’re prone to year-round allergies.
Shikibuton vs. Western Mattress: Budget, Space, And Portability
Let’s face it, not everyone has a spacious apartment, which is why they look for portable bedding options. And this is where Shikibuton checks all boxes.
It’s light in weight, fits your budget, easy to carry, and can be rolled up at one corner of the room. So, whether it’s a studio apartment, a tiny guest room, or a multi-purpose living room, Shikibition is a winner.
In comparison, western mattresses are pricier, demand more space (given their taller profile), and aren’t that portable. If you’re looking for a permanent bedding solution on a budget, Western mattresses can be a good choice.
Shikibuton vs. Western Mattress: Setup, Maintenance, And Longevity
Shikibutons are easy to set up and use. Follow some basic rules, and it will last you for years with minimal maintenance.
- If you prefer the traditional way of using a shikibuton, place it on a tatami. Alternatively, you can use any slatted base.
- Flip and rotate a shikibuton daily and air it out in sunlight.
- For pressure relief on joints while sleeping, use a thin topper.
- During monsoons or in damp rooms, use a dehumidifier.
For Western mattresses, things are different.
- You will need a rigid base or platform to place a Western mattress for daily use (Remember, it’s a permanent setup).
- Always use a breathable protector to keep away dust mites and stop the growth of microbes. Additionally, keep the room well-ventilated.
- If you already have back pain, it’s recommended to go for a medium-firm mattress
The Verdict
Choosing between a shikibuton and a Western mattress boils down to personal preference and unique requirements. If you live in a small apartment and have a tight budget, a portable bedding solution like a shikibuton is the way out.
However, if you have ample space in your bedroom, or you’re a couple with a budget for a good, permanent bedding, invest in a western mattress.
If you’re still not sure between a shikibuton and a Western mattress, try A/B testing both products. If you wake up fresh and energetic sleeping on a shikibuton, then stick to it. But if you feel pressure on the joints or experience pain, you might want to shift to a Western mattress.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. I have back pain. Can I still use a Shikibuton?
Shikibutons can be a good choice if you’ve back pain due to their firm support. However, for non-specific low-back pain, medium-firm surfaces like a western mattress work better
2. Do I need a traditional tatami to use a shikibuton?
Using a Tatami is more of a traditional choice, but if you can’t find one, any slatted base will do. The idea is to keep the airflow from being blocked under the futon.
3. How thick is a Shikibuton?
Generally, a shikibuton is 3-4.5 inches with cotton filling (although way less thinner than most western mattresses).
4. How do I keep the mold and dust mites away using a shikibuton?
To keep the dust mites and mold away from your shikibuton, flip and rotate it and air it out under sunlight daily. For damp rooms or during the monsoon, use a dehumidifier.
