"Giving up mattresses" becomes the new norm? Approximately 40% of "post-mattress users" experience improved sleep quality

While mattresses have traditionally been the standard choice for bedding, there's a growing trend of "post-mattress users" who intentionally abandon their mattresses and return to futons. Moon Moon Co., Ltd., which operates the mattress review site "Mattress Otaku," conducted a survey of 181 men and women aged 20-60 nationwide who have experienced switching from a mattress to a futon, regarding "reasons for switching to a futon and sleep satisfaction." The survey results showed that approximately 40% (40.8%) responded that their sleep quality "improved" after switching to a futon. The survey highlighted that futons, which allow for effective use of limited space and maintain cleanliness amidst rising prices and the spread of minimalism, align with modern rational lifestyles.

Background of the Survey

Against the backdrop of increasingly compact living environments, especially in urban areas, and rising prices, consumers' criteria for "choosing things" have become more stringent. Until now, the image of "sleep quality = high-performance mattress" has been prevalent. However, an increasing number of people are also feeling inconvenienced by the disadvantages peculiar to mattresses, such as being "heavy and difficult to air out," "taking up space," and "difficult to dispose of." This survey aimed to uncover the true feelings of those who intentionally gave up mattresses, clarifying the "ideal state of bedding" in modern times and tips for comfortably living with a futon.

Survey Summary

1st place for reasons to switch was "Effective use of room space (28.2%)". "Trouble with disposal or replacement (15.5%)" followed.

Regarding changes in sleep quality, approximately 40% (40.8%) responded "improved." Including "unchanged (44.8%)," about 85% maintained or improved their sleep quality.

The benefits of futons, "hygiene (28.7%)" and "room spaciousness (28.1%)," were neck and neck.

Dissatisfaction points were "bothersome daily setup/storage (22.0%)" and "body pain (20.6%)".

Approximately 80% responded "will continue with futon" or "will consider depending on conditions," showing high intention to continue.

*When citing these survey results, please include the URL of "Mattress Otaku" (https://mattress.moonmoon.biz/).

Detailed Data

Q1: What was your biggest reason for switching from a mattress to a futon?

Wanted to make effective use of room space: 28.2%

Disposing of or replacing the mattress was bothersome: 15.5%

The mattress no longer suited me due to back pain, etc.: 13.3%

Worried about mold and hygiene: 11.6%

Felt that futons were more cost-effective: 8.8%

Other: 22.6%

→ Beyond seeking comfort, there is a strong tendency to choose futons, emphasizing the convenience of daily life, such as "optimization of living space" and "ease of maintenance."

Q2: How has your sleep quality changed since switching to a futon?

Unchanged: 44.8%

Slightly improved: 32.0%

Slightly worsened: 12.7%

Significantly improved: 8.8%

Significantly worsened: 1.7%

→ Contrary to concerns like "will my body hurt if I use a futon?" it was found that over 80% of people can live without diminishing their sleep quality.

Q3: Are there any points you felt were "good" after switching to a futon?

Hygienic because I can air out the futon: 28.7%

Room can be used more widely: 28.1%

Cost of bedding decreased: 10.0%

The feeling of sleeping close to the floor suited me: 9.7%

Moving or redecorating became easier: 7.1%

Other: 16.4%

→ The hygienic reassurance of being able to "air out in the sun" is supported as a significant added value not found in mattresses.

Q4: Are there any points you are "troubled by or regret" after switching to a futon?

Daily setup/storage is bothersome: 22.0%

Bottoming out, causing body pain: 20.6%

No particular troubles: 16.2%

Concerned about cold from the floor: 15.9%

Appearance is a concern when guests visit: 8.7%

Other: 16.6%

→ "Labor (setup/storage)" and "hardness" were cited as specific challenges of futons. How to solve these will be key to satisfaction with futon living.

Q5: Do you use any additional items with your futon?

Do not use anything in particular: 30.3%

Bed pads / mattress pads: 28.9%

Mattress topper (thin mattress): 14.7%

Dehumidifying sheets: 12.8%

Slatted bed base (sudare): 8.5%

Other: 4.8%

→ It is evident that people are adjusting comfort with "bed pads" and introducing moisture/mold countermeasures such as "dehumidifying sheets" and "slatted bed bases" to complement the weaknesses of futons and create a comfortable sleep environment.

Q6: Is there a possibility of returning to a mattress in the future?

Plan to continue with a futon for the time being: 35.9%

Would like to return if conditions are met (price, size, etc.): 26.0%

Still undecided.