Daybeds vs. Futons  (originally published in our 2002 newsletter)

I have never been a proponent of filling bedrooms with extra beds to maximize occupancy.  When I see a master bedroom with a queen or king size bed and also a twin bed the room usually looks cluttered and not very inviting.  Guests need room and often the extra bed just becomes a catchall for clothes and suitcases.  Providing luggage racks will result in much less wear and tear on bedcoverings.

Lately daybeds have been popping up in furnishing stores and catalogs in a variety of attractive styles.  Daybeds are pretty much just a twin bed that has been dressed up to include footboards on both ends.  Some models even come with a trundle bed.  They offer a more sophisticated way to maximize space. A recent Neiman Marcus catalog had a beautiful mahogany stained version.  

Futons became popular in the 1990’s as a less expensive and trendier option than daybeds or trundle beds.  But no matter how hard you try it’s difficult to make a futon look sophisticated.

Daybeds can look more stylish and comfortable with high quality mattresses and plush bedcoverings.  It’s a way to add another bed to a study or a den.  They are several inches deeper than a standard sofa and don’t offer much support for your back.  They work better as beds than sofas.  They are not a good option as the only place to sit.  At the very least they need several sturdy throw pillows to provide comfortable seating.

© Resort Rating Specialists, Inc. 2002