If you’ve ever woken up stuffy, itchy or sweaty on a foam mattress, you’re not alone. Many Australians are moving towards simpler, natural bedding, and the Pure Cotton Futon is one of the cleanest options available. It is handmade in Melbourne from 100% Australian cotton, with no foam and no synthetic fillers.
In this guide, we answer the questions we hear most often in our Bayswater showroom: what it feels like, how thick it should be, how to look after it, and whether it suits you.
What Is a Pure Cotton Futon Mattress?
A pure cotton futon mattress is a flippable mattress made from layers of 100% cotton, both inside and out. There is no foam, latex or synthetic padding. Dense cotton layers are stacked, shaped and enclosed in a cotton cover, giving a firm, breathable sleep surface.
Back to Bed’s version is made to order in Melbourne using Australian-grown cotton. We believe it is the only Australian-made futon built entirely from cotton, and you can only buy it from us.
Key Specifications at a Glance
|
Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Core and cover |
100% cotton |
|
Thickness |
14–16 cm (5 layers) or 16–18 cm (7 layers) |
|
Sizes |
Single, King Single, Double, Queen, King, plus custom sizes |
|
Design |
Dual-sided and flippable |
|
Testing |
OEKO-TEX and eco-INSTITUT tested |
|
Origin |
Handmade in Melbourne |
|
Starting price |
From $599 AUD (Single, 14–16 cm, Natural Cotton Drill) |
Why Choose a Cotton Futon Over Foam or Latex?
Is Cotton More Breathable Than Foam?
Yes. Cotton fibres let air move through the mattress and absorb moisture rather than trapping it. Memory foam tends to hold heat against the body. This is a big reason cotton futons are popular with hot sleepers and in warmer Australian climates.
What Are the Benefits of a Chemical-Free Mattress?
Foam mattresses can contain adhesives, flame retardants and synthetic compounds that some people find irritating. A pure cotton futon avoids these. Ours is also OEKO-TEX and eco-INSTITUT tested, which are independent standards for textile safety.
Is a Cotton Futon Sustainable?
Cotton is a renewable natural fibre, and sourcing locally cuts transport emissions. Because the mattress is flippable and repairable in structure, it can also outlast many cheaper synthetic mattresses.
Cotton vs Latex vs Foam: Quick Comparison
|
Pure Cotton |
Latex |
Foam |
|
|---|---|---|---|
|
Breathability |
High |
Medium |
Low |
|
Feel |
Firm, supportive |
Springy |
Soft, sinking |
|
Synthetic materials |
None |
Sometimes |
Yes |
|
Flippable |
Yes |
Usually not |
Rarely |
If you prefer something with more bounce, see our Latex Futon Mattresses.
Is the Pure Cotton Futon Really Hypoallergenic and Bedbug Resistant?
Cotton is a natural, untreated fibre, and tightly layered cotton is less hospitable to dust mites than loose synthetic fillings. Many allergy-prone customers choose it for exactly this reason. It’s also gentle on sensitive skin.
A few honest points:
- No mattress is 100% allergen-proof. Dust mites live in bedding generally, so airing and washing your cover still matter.
- “Bedbug resistant” means the dense, natural structure gives bedbugs fewer places to hide. It does not make the mattress immune to an infestation.
- If you have a diagnosed allergy or asthma, speak with your GP or allergist. The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) has helpful dust mite guidance.
How Firm Is It, and Which Thickness Should You Choose?
The Pure Cotton Futon has a firm to medium-firm feel that suits everyday sleeping and lounging. Thickness changes both comfort and firmness.
14–16 cm (5 Cotton Layers)
A compact, firm option. It’s well suited to platform beds, daybeds, caravans, guest rooms and lighter sleepers who like a flat surface.
16–18 cm (7 Cotton Layers)
A deeper, supportive feel with more cushioning for nightly use. It’s a good choice for side sleepers, couples and anyone who wants a little extra comfort.
Which Sleepers Prefer Which?
- Back and stomach sleepers: 14–16 cm is usually plenty.
- Side sleepers: consider 16–18 cm.
- Not sure? Visit our showroom or call us on (03) 9720 0555 and we’ll help you decide.
What Sizes and Prices Are Available?
Standard Sizes
|
Size |
Dimensions (W × L) |
|---|---|
|
Single |
92 × 190 cm |
|
King Single |
107 × 203 cm |
|
Double |
137 × 190 cm |
|
Queen |
153 × 203 cm |
|
King |
183 × 203 cm |
Can I Order a Custom Size?
Yes. We make bespoke sizes for daybeds, caravans, Long Singles, Long Doubles, Super Kings and more. See our Customisation page.
How Do You Care for a Pure Cotton Futon?
To care for a cotton futon, rotate it regularly, flip it, air it monthly, spot clean only and keep it on a ventilated slatted base.
Step-by-Step Care Routine
- Rotate fortnightly for the first 3 months, then monthly.
- Flip the mattress regularly. Cotton futons are two-sided.
- Air it monthly in a ventilated room or in gentle, shaded light. Avoid harsh direct sun.
- Spot clean only with a slightly damp cloth and mild natural soap. Blot, don’t rub, and dry fully.
- Never machine wash, steam clean or dry clean the mattress.
- Use a washable cover or protector (see our Futon Covers).
- Pat or roll the mattress occasionally to re-fluff the fibres.
What Base Is Best?
Use a slatted base with gaps under 7.5 cm so air can circulate. A solid hardwood bed frame or low-profile platform bed works well. A tatami mat also works. If you place it directly on the floor, lift and air it often, especially in humid areas, to prevent dampness and mould.
Who Is the Pure Cotton Futon Perfect For (and Not For)?
Ideal For
- Allergy-sensitive sleepers wanting a chemical-free mattress
- Eco-conscious households choosing Australian-made, natural bedding
- Minimalist or compact living spaces, caravans and guest rooms
- People who prefer a firm, flat sleep surface
Might Not Suit
- Anyone who wants a soft, plush, sink-in feel. Our Spine Align or latex options may suit you better.
- Anyone needing a mattress tomorrow. Each one is made to order, so allow about 2–3 weeks for manufacturing.
Why Buy From Back to Bed?
- 30+ years of experience crafting futons by hand in Melbourne
- Made to order to your size, thickness and cover colour
- Australia-wide delivery, with 1–2 business days to Melbourne and Sydney and 5–10 business days to Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide after manufacturing
- Rated 5.0★ by verified customers
- Showroom at Unit 6, 29 Jersey Road, Bayswater VIC 3153, Tuesday to Saturday, with appointments available outside those hours
You can also browse our wider range of cotton futon mattresses and futon cushions.
Pure Cotton Futon FAQs
What is a pure cotton futon mattress made of?
It’s made entirely of cotton, in both the filling and the outer cover, with no foam or synthetic padding. Ours uses Australian-grown cotton.
Is a cotton futon good for your back?
A firm, even surface suits many people, particularly back and stomach sleepers. Comfort is personal, so if you have a medical back condition, check with a health professional.
How long does a cotton futon last?
With regular flipping, rotating and airing, a quality cotton futon can last for many years. Always follow the care steps above.
Can you flip a cotton futon?
Yes. The dual-sided design is meant to be flipped for even wear.
Can I put a cotton futon on the floor?
You can, but a ventilated slatted base is better. If it’s on the floor, air it often to avoid moisture build-up.
How long does delivery take?
Allow 2–3 weeks to make it, then 1–2 business days to Melbourne and Sydney or 5–10 business days to Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide. Regional timing varies.
Is the Pure Cotton Futon washable?
Spot clean only. Do not machine wash the mattress. Use a washable cover or protector for everyday cleanliness.
Conclusion: Is the Pure Cotton Futon Right for You?
If you want a breathable, chemical-free, flippable mattress made in Australia, the Pure Cotton Futon is hard to beat. It’s firm, honest and built to last. It suits allergy-prone sleepers, eco-minded households and small spaces, and you can tailor the thickness, size and colour to your needs.
Ready to Sleep Naturally?
Shop the Pure Cotton Futon from $599 or call (03) 9720 0555 to speak with our Melbourne team. Visit our Bayswater showroom to feel the difference before you buy.
