Teens today spend a lot of time indoors, and often with their friends over. You may walk in and see them sprawled out on the bed, floor, a chair, or even a pile of clothes. The solution for this awkward situation, a futon.

A Futon, Really Mom?

Yet, what will your teen think of sleeping on a futon mattress? Futons add a more modern feel to the room, and many teens feel that they are more hip than the traditional twin bed. Teens feel more mature with a futon in their room, and some feel more like a good host to their friends.

Good for Sleeping

Sleeping on a futon mattress is practical and healthy, despite concerns some people have about them causing "bad backs". This concern over "bad backs" is ungrounded and not backed by medical studies. In fact, a futon mattress is like any other mattress: some are "good" while others are "bad". The best types to use for every-night sleeping are inner spring or foam mattresses. These may cost a bit more than fiber-filled, but are also more durable and have a longer life span.

Great Space-savers

Perhaps one of the best things about a futon is that they work great in small bedrooms. With their versatility to be a bed or sofa, seating is provided without needing to add chairs. You can also have it in a couch position to get more floor space in the day time; then at night, you can pull it out to enjoy your wide futon mattress.

My Teen Already has a Bed

It’s okay if your teen already has a bed. If he has the room for one, a futon is still a great choice for your kid. It will serve as seating for him and his friends in the day time. If her friends stay the night, there is a guest bed already in her room. Most likely, you can get something a little cheaper—that is, one with a futon mattress not intended for every-night use. Additionally, your teen can take it with him when he moves out; they work great in small apartments and dorms.

Happy Hunting

Futons and futon mattresses come in a variety of colors, materials, styles, and sizes. With thousands of options, your teen and you should be able to find one that you both like.