Futons and mattresses made of natural wool for authentic comfort

A futon is a mattress made up of layers of fiber (wool or cotton, depending on the model) that provide firm support and a very stable feel. It’s particularly well-suited if you like sleeping on a firm surface, if you’re looking for a more minimalist bedding option, or if you want a versatile sleeping solution (bed, sofa, guest room).

The Kipli futon comes in two distinct firmness levels: wool (9/10) for a firmer feel that’s more “responsive” and slightly softer to the touch, or organic cotton (10/10) for a very firm feel. If you’re unsure, go with what you’re used to: someone accustomed to soft mattresses often prefers wool; someone who likes a very firm feel will find cotton more to their liking.

For everyday use, a futon is ideal when paired with a well-ventilated base. And if you’re looking for a more “mattress-like” level of comfort while sticking with natural materials, you might also want to check out a wool mattress, which offers the same artisanal and locally sourced appeal.

The difference lies in the firmness, the feel, and the thermal response.

• The wool futon (16 cm) is firm, yet offers a slightly softer feel. Wool has a natural ability to absorb and release moisture, which helps ensure a more comfortable feel throughout the seasons.
• The organic cotton futon (13 cm, 9 layers) is the firmest: it offers very direct, stable, almost “architectural” support. It is often chosen by those looking for a minimalist, very firm sleeping surface.

In both cases, the French linen cover (unbleached, untreated) contributes to breathability and long-lasting durability. If you’re torn between the two, ask yourself a simple question: are you looking for a “dry” firmness (cotton) or a “cozy” firmness (wool)? The natural futon is available in both versions.

The “right” mattress is one that supports your body’s natural alignment and helps you feel relaxed. A futon provides very firm support: it minimizes sinking and may be suitable for those who prefer a firm surface.

But there are two key points:

1. Your body type: certain sensitive areas, such as the shoulders or hips, may require a bit more support (wool rather than cotton, or a softer fabric).
2. The base: a futon never works alone. With flexible slats, you’ll enjoy greater comfort; with a very firm base (tatami, fixed slats), you’ll have a very firm sleeping surface.

If you’re looking for a firmer mattress (thicker, with a more enveloping feel while still feeling natural), a wool mattress can be a natural alternative—one that’s just as meticulously crafted.

It’s possible on an occasional basis, but it’s not the healthiest option in the long run if the air doesn’t circulate. A futon is made of fibers: it needs ventilation to release the natural moisture that builds up overnight.

For everyday use, choose a material that allows the skin to breathe:

• a slatted bed frame,
• a bench-style frame with slats,
• or any well-ventilated surface.

If you’re looking for a cohesive, all-in-one solution, the Kipli sofa bed was designed with exactly that in mind: a ventilated frame paired with a natural futon, free of synthetic foam and chemical treatments.

The futon is compatible with box springs, but the experience will vary depending on the type of slats:

• Flexible slats: a softer feel, a more “cushioned” comfort.
• Firm slats / very firm support: a firmer feel and excellent stability.
• Upholstered bed base (depending on the design): can provide a more “comfortable” feel underneath, while still using the futon as the top layer.

If you want to avoid making a mistake, the simplest and most straightforward combination is a ventilated, stable base, such as the sofa bed set, which was designed as a cohesive system (base + mattress).

A futon is something you live with, and it changes slightly over time: the fibers settle in, and the comfort level stabilizes. To keep it in good shape:

• Turn it over regularly (head to toe and front to back, as needed),
• avoid bending it,
• air out the room and the bedding,
• Use a mattress protector if you want to keep the cover in good condition.

Kipli also recommends a rare but valuable practice: after about ten years, you can have the futon re-stuffed to extend its lifespan. This is another approach to sustainability: repair and reuse, rather than replace.

To round out the set with some simple protection, you can pair it with an organic cotton mattress protector (natural anchor: “organic cotton mattress protector”).

Many futons on the market contain synthetic fibers, foam, or treatments designed to standardize comfort and streamline production. Kipli takes a more deliberate approach: clearly identified natural materials, custom-made by hand, and a commitment to sustainability (including the option to have the futon refilled).

This isn’t just another “trendy” futon. It’s a futon designed to be simply the right choice: practical, sturdy, built to last, and made locally. This “quiet strength” and understated elegance—both in its design and its message—reflect Kipli’s core values: authenticity, simplicity, and transparency.