I've had this futon for about 11 months now (as of 6/10/2010), and am very happy with it. The first thing I noticed when I got it was its weight. It weighs about 27 pounds, and is a little unwieldy to transport. I also noticed a smell that I assume is the boric acid which is used as a fire retardant. The smell has diminished with time so that it isn't really noticeable any more.The construction of the mattress is very solid. It has a very tough outer cover over a 4 inch layer of thick cotton batting. There is also a zipper to allow access to the batting, or perhaps to allow the cover to be washed (although I don't think that would be advisable).
Because of the firmness of this mattress, I find that it takes a little time to adjust to it after sleeping on a regular mattress. Also, my body doesn't sink into the mattress as much, which makes it a little harder to sleep on my side. I've found that it helps to use a Japanese style pillow (such as this one: Organic Buckwheat Pillow - Japanese Size (14" x 20")) to give my neck better support.
With use, the cotton tends to compress. I've noticed a definite depression where the heaviest part of my body rests. To remedy this, every so often it helps to lift up the mattress and drop it from several feet onto the ground, or else to hang it up and beat it with a stick or bat (the manufacturer's care instructions actually recommend this!).
Pros:
+ Firm, but not overly so.
+ Comfortable enough to sleep on every night.
+ Solid, durable construction.
+ Folds up easily for storage.
+ Can be transported much easier than a normal mattress.
Cons:
- Compresses with use (although this can be remedied with proper care).
- Short length makes it non-ideal for tall people (over 6').
- A bit pricey (but worth it).
I would definitely buy this again given the choice. Combined with a Japanese style pillow, it is the ultimate minimalist bed.
Click Here to see more reviews about: J-Life Japanese Traditional Shiki Futon - TWIN SIZE (shikibuton)
Product Description:
Twin Size - 39" x 75"The J-Life Shikifuton is a true Japanese futon mattress offering the ultimate in support. There is no foam, wool, synthetic fiber or innerspring in the J-Life Shiki Futon (shown at left and above with optional removable custom futon cover in Red Ya Gasuri fabric).Made in the USA to our specifications by a premier futon and mattress manufacturer, the J-Life Shiki Futon offers the ultimate comfort of a true Japanese futon made with traditional materials. The four inch 100% cotton filling is covered in a tough 6.5 ounce natural cotton duck material ensuring that this shikifuton will stand up to daily use for many years. Additionally, most users do not require any additional padding (such as a tri-fold mattress) to be completely comfortable.We also offer this futon with an optional removable cover in one of our fabulous Japanese fabrics. Covers will require 3 to 5 days for shipping as they are made to order.Filling - 4 inches of 100% Cotton - the traditional, Japanese futon filling Fire Treatment - Boric acid powder treatment to meet U.S. flammability standards Cover -Durable 6.5 ounce natural 100% cotton duck cover. (Optional removable custom shiki futon cover in Japanese fabric available at extra charge.) Folding - folds into thirds for storage Comfort - Firm Manufacturing - Hand Made using American machinery Availability - Ships within 24 hours (excluding weekends and holidays) Warranty - Five Year Manufacturer's Warranty against defects in workmanship or materials Please Note: This futon is vacuum packaged for shipping. It may take 10 - 14 days to reach full dimensions after opening.
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