When my family of four first came to the US, we decluttered most of our furniture and came here with less than 80 boxes of our belongings. The first problem to think of was our bedding. I wanted to keep as minimal as possible, in case we need to move back to Japan again. Buying beds was the least I wanted to do because most of the beds sold here in the US are too big for Japanese houses. I hope this blog, our journey to prepare bedding will be useful for those looking to embrace simplicity without sacrificing comfort.
The traditional Japanese futon offers an ideal bedding solution. Combining both functionality and style, a Japanese-style futon can transform your sleeping space into a serene and cozy retreat, all while keeping things minimal.
In this blog, I’ll guide you through how I created a minimalist yet cozy bedroom using a Japanese-style futon, along with tips on how to care for it, style it, and make it the centerpiece of your minimalist lifestyle.
What is a Japanese-Style Futon anyway?
Before diving into the decor aspect, let’s clarify what exactly a Japanese-style futon is. Unlike Western futons, which are typically thicker and placed on a frame, a Japanese futon consists of a thin mattress laid directly on the floor. It’s comprised of three essential elements:
- Shikibuton (敷布団) – The mattress, which is soft yet firm, offering support while sleeping.
- Kakebuton (掛け布団) – The duvet or blanket, used to keep warm.
- Makura (枕) – The pillow, often filled with natural materials like buckwheat husks, provides firm support.
A key feature of this bedding system is its simplicity. Futons are designed to be rolled up or folded after use, allowing you to maximize space during the day. This makes it ideal for small houses or for anyone looking to create a clutter-free, minimalist space.
What are the pros of choosing a Japanese futon?
- Simplicity: The Japanese futon has a straightforward design without the need for bulky bed frames, complicated headboards, or heavy mattresses.
- Natural Materials: Futons are often made with breathable, natural materials like cotton, wool, or down, making them more sustainable and eco-friendly than many conventional bedding options.
- Health Benefits: Sleeping on a firmer surface, like a futon, is known to support proper spine alignment. Many people find that it can reduce back pain and improve posture.
How to Style a Minimalist Futon Bedding for Coziness
While a futon offers simplicity and space-saving benefits, you don’t have to compromise on comfort. Here’s how I created my futon for a cozy, minimalist feel:
1. Prepare the mattress
Everyone has different preferences when it comes to the comfort of futons, but the ones I chose are so far so good. Unlike mattresses for beds, futon mattresses do not have much variety. The good thing about the futon is that you can keep several for the guests and can be folded and stored away when not in use. I have several for my parents so that they can stay at our house when they visit the U.S.
Also, don’t forget to place a moisture-absorbing sheet under the futon to prevent dampness. The dehumidifying sheet or tatami mattress underneath the futon is a must, and since I like “tatami” I chose this for my futon.
2. Layer Textures for Warmth
Minimalist design doesn’t mean cold or sterile. You can add warmth by subtly layering different textures. Use soft linen sheets, a woolen or cotton throw blanket, and a cozy duvet to create depth and comfort. I especially like the light-down duvet as it’s very light and comfy. Add a lightweight wool blanket or a textured cotton throw over the “kakebuton” for extra warmth during colder months. The combination of different textures will give your bed a cozy, inviting feel without overloading the space.
3. Focus on Natural Materials
Japanese-style futons are typically made from natural materials like cotton or wool, which are both breathable and environmentally friendly, so I suggest choosing the rest of your bedding with natural materials like linen, organic cotton, or bamboo. These materials are not only sustainable but also highly breathable, ensuring a comfortable night’s sleep in any season. I chose this set of sheets and they are so good!
Caring for Your Japanese Futon: Maintenance Tips
To keep your futon comfortable and long-lasting, proper care is essential. Since the futon is placed directly on the floor, it requires regular maintenance to ensure it remains fresh and clean.
1. Airing Out the Futon
One of the most important aspects of futon care is airing it out. Moisture can build up in the mattress from sleeping on it, so it’s essential to air it out regularly.
Take your “shikibuton” outside once a week and hang it in a sunny spot. Sunlight helps to kill bacteria and mold and prevents the mattress from becoming damp. If you can’t hang it outside, simply fold the futon and let it breathe in a well-ventilated area.
2. Fluffing and Beating the Futon
Over time, the cotton in the futon can become compressed. To maintain its shape and comfort, fluff it up regularly by shaking or beating it. This redistributes the cotton and keeps it soft and supportive.
3. Storing Your Futon Properly
When not in use, the futon can be easily folded and stored in a closet. This not only keeps your space minimalist but also protects the futon from dust and dirt. You can also place it in a protective bag to keep it fresh.
I hope you can consider choosing a Japanese futon for your next choice.
The beauty of a Japanese-style futon lies in its versatility and simplicity. It embodies the minimalist mantra of “less is more” by offering a bedding solution that is comfortable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. Whether you live in a small space or simply want to embrace a more mindful, clutter-free lifestyle, a futon can be the key to creating a serene, cozy bedroom.
