OK, now you’re ready - let’s dive right into the ancient world of Japanese sleep.
A Look Back
Have you ever seen an image of a traditional home in Japan? If you have, chances are that you’ve seen a Shikibuton mattress or a woven Tatami mat. This simple pairing has been a staple in traditional Japanese homes for hundreds and hundreds of years.
In Japan, Shikibuton mattresses were and are generally used in Japanese Tatami Rooms. The Tatami Room, is a room with minimal furnishings and a wide open atmosphere, that is covered with a foundation of woven Tatami mats used for sitting or sleeping. Dating as far back as the 8th century, Tatami mats were a symbol of social status. Only the wealthy could afford them, while commoners were forced to sit on the bare floor. Times have changed.
Fast Forward
What about modern Shikibutons and Tatami Mats?
It’s important to note that what we in the Western world call a “futon” is actually a sofa futon and is inspired by the traditional Shikibuton; but is its much *thicker cousin.
(*No emails about "fat shaming" please.)
Today’s Shikibutons - or Japanese futons - are still thin, versatile mattresses and continue to be designed for placement on Tatamis, which allow for proper aeration of the mattress. They are typically filled with natural materials and enclosed with a cotton cover, which lends to their growing popularity. Tatami mats, which are also made from natural materials, provide a firm, breathable base and come in a variety of sizes and configurations.
Why is Japanese Sleep becoming so popular?
There are a several reasons why this Far East custom is trending in our neck of the woods. Here are just a few...
How to Plan for Your Japanese Sleep System
So, if Japanese sleep is exactly what you’ve been looking for, it’s important to think about how you plan to use your space before you take the leap. Take some time. Dream a bit. This will help you create a room that really works for you.
Then, instead of the familiar real estate saying, (location, location, location), we suggest “measure, measure, measure’. You can’t go wrong with this…actually you can, that’s why we suggest doing it 3 times.
Next, keep in mind there are different configurations for both our regular sized Tatami mats and also the Bed Sized Tatami’s. Sooooo many great choices!
Finally, if needed, consider where will you store your mattress and mat(s) when not in use?
All of the above tools will help get you started and of course,
we are only a phone call away!
What will you find when you shop at East West Futons?
Futons of course. And lots of them. Since 1991, East West Futons has been offering one of Canada’s largest selections of futon frames, futon mattresses and futon covers, featuring a wide array of finishes, colours and sizes to suit every need…but we also like to remind our customers, “We’re Not JUST Futons!”
Looking for a traditional bed frame and mattress?
A natural mattress?
Japanese style sleep systems?
A hideaway Cabinet bed for guests?
We’ve got you covered.
In addition to sit/sleep mattresses, we also carry sleep mattresses designed to be used on a traditional bed frame and if you are in the market for a bunk bed, we can point you to the perfect one for you - many of which are Canadian made.
For those looking to explore the minimalist world of Japanese style sleep, we offer Shikibutons (pronounced Sheeki-boot-ons) and Tatami Mats that will infuse the culture of Japan right into your bedroom. Worried about limited space? This system can work well where space is limited and rooms serve a dual-purpose, as it can be rolled/stacked in a corner during the day.
Expecting company? Check out the Cabinet Bed collection, where you can hideaway a guest bed in a gorgeous looking piece of furniture. We love this solution for rooms serving a dual-purpose. While you’re at it, browse the Convertible Sofas. You may prefer this option.
Does your Family Room or Game Room need additional seating or a fun punch of colour?
Two words - Bean Bags. We’ve got ‘em. Enough said.
Well, that about covers it. We hope you enjoy yourself while you wander through and explore, and if you have the Shopify “SHOP” app on your phone, you can find East West Futons on that marketplace as well!
Here’s to a great 2024!
PS - If you ever have any questions about futons or life in general, feel free to give those goofy guys in the picture a call. Tell them I sent you. SA
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Thank you for supporting our small business over this last year, when our doors were closed 6 out of 12 months due to lockdowns.
Thank you for being patient as we managed – understaffed – to meet the needs of our (mostly online) customers as quickly as we possibly could.
Thank you for understanding changes in protocols and sometimes delays in the supply chain that meant a little longer wait for the arrival of product.
Thank you for your encouraging words along the way.
When the lockdowns began a year ago this March, we had no idea what was ahead, but we forged ahead and you came along side. We honestly couldn’t have made it through this year without your kindness and support.
What’s next? Well, while we don’t have all those answers, we continue to hope for an end to the lockdowns, a return to normal life and a future where the ‘pandemic’ is a distant memory.
We continue to watch ongoing changes in manufacturing supply chains across our beautiful country, with hopes that we can effectively respond to any challenges. But mostly, we just wanted to let you know how great it is to open our doors again and welcome you back in.
East West Futons has been in business since 1991 and we pray that tradition will continue…with your help, there is no doubt it will.
]]>Closed again. Online shopping is available. Please call if you require any assistance - our phones are monitored during our regular store hours.
March 8, 2021 - UPDATE
Reopened our doors to customers after lockdown started on Nov. 28.
May 25, 2020 - UPDATE
PHASE 1: COVID-19 Crisis REOPEN w/LIMITED CAPACITYOur storefront is now open from 10 am to 5 pm, Monday to Saturdays and closed on Sundays.
If you choose to visit the store, please adhere to the COVID-19 policies and refrain from touching surfaces within the store and stay socially distanced as per government standards.
We are working to keep everyone safe as we ease back into this 1st stage of business.
Our online store is still available, if you prefer to purchase products from the convenience of your home, with Contactless Pick-Up and Contactless Deliveries in place. We will also still be available by phone or email.
March 23, 2020 - UPDATE
Over the last few weeks, the COVID-19 crisis has continued to escalate and in light of current conditions, our store-front will be closed for any regular store hours, until further notice. Please note, you will still be able to shop at your convenience on our online store and arrange a Contactless Local Delivery. We will also still be available by phone or email.
In recent weeks, there has been a rise in the number of requests for futon mattresses required for self-isolation areas. If you need to set up a quarantine or self-isolation area and need to pick-up a mattress ASAP, you can call or email to make arrangements for a Contactless Pickup. We will do our best to accomodate your need.
*Most futon mattresses easily fit into the back of a car.
Our website and social media platforms will continue to be updated as necessary and as always, feel free to reach out to us at info@eastwestfutons.com.
Stay healthy and safe,
Laurie Adrian
East West Futons / Owner
416-588-1391
March 17, 2020
Over the last few weeks, East West Futons has been closely monitoring the rapidly-changing situation around the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic, with an eye to protecting the wellbeing of our customers and staff.
In response to the current crisis, East West Futons has been taking steps to clean all surfaces in our store and to practice safe-distancing protocols to protect those who visit our store and our employees. As well, we are also making changes to our local delivery practices to implement ‘Contactless Delivery’, in order to adhere to these same protocols.
In regards to shipping outside of the Toronto (GTA) area, we are monitoring this on a daily basis and working to keep our customers informed of any changes to product shipments as they occur.
As of March 18, we will be adjusting our in-store business hours (see below) until further notice and will continue to monitor and make additional changes in accordance to the recommendations provided by local health departments and Canadian experts.
Our website and social media platforms will continue to be updated as required, with additional details or changes as they arise, and our online store will remain available to shop at your convenience. Feel free to reach out to us at info@eastwestfutons.com or give us a call…we would love to hear from you!
We look forward to the days ahead when we can return to business as usual with this crisis behind us.
Warm Regards,
Laurie Adrian
East West Futons / Owner
New Store Hours:
Sunday & Monday - Closed
Tuesday - Saturday - 11:00 - 5:00
Magic.
This formula is behind the latest product on our showroom floor and we’re excited to share it with you! For over 130 years, Sealy has been crafting their unique bedding products with an eye towards quality and their new Sealy Sofa Convertible Collection is no exception!
With an emphasis on ‘sleep first’, Sealy’s Sleep technology adapts to every contact point of your body and creates the foundation for sofas that range from Traditional in style to Modern.
There’s more to tell. About fabrics and lounging positions…and about true double and queen bed sizing which makes it easy to use the sheets you already have on hand.
But honestly, it might be easier to show you.
The Russell Split Back Sofa - sharing the sofa just got easier.
The Borolo Drop Back Sofa Convertible - offers a true queen sized bed with beautiful modern styling.
The Chicago Sofa Convertible & Chaise - lets you choose from 5 positions.
The Myers Drop Back Convertible Sofa - discover the hidden storage space inside.
So now you can understand our excitement!
Underneath all these innovative and beautiful designs is the tried and true Sealy Sleep Technology that offers perfect support, perfect pressure relief and ideal body adaptation to help you (or your guests) sleep well.
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It’s been a little over 3 months now and we're all settled in, with extra space in our showroom and lots of free parking! For those of you who experienced the illusive search for parking along Bloor…this is a HUGE bonus!
You will find our new location just south of the 401, in between the Yorkdale Shopping Mall and Orfus Road - a familiar area for avid shoppers who know where to find the best stores with the best deals!
So what will you find when you stop in to see us?
A huge selection of futon frames, futon mattresses and futon covers to be sure…but we like to remind people that ‘WE'RE NOT JUST FUTONS’ so here’s a quick list of other items just waiting for you to discover:
So, take some time to stop in and check out our New Digs!
Or SHOP online from the comfort of your home - either way, you'll be glad you did.
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But while product quality is essential, there are certain attributes that take a good partner and product to the next level…and make them great.
Come along; let’s take a closer look.
Where would we be in this world without benevolent hearts? The act of compassion and charity always lead us in the right direction. They remind us of life’s greatest priorities – people.
One of the first things you will likely see when you wander through East West Futons are the area rugs that hang from the walls in our store. What you may not know is that these rugs are actually the by-product of a greater concern for people.
Before Kalora Interiors even existed, its founders worked together in Somali refugee camps with a dream of creating a non-profit that would provide ‘livelihood’ opportunities for families in developing countries. Once their dream was realized, they recognized the need to match suppliers (fledgling businesses) with customers (western world) and a hybrid company – Kalora Interiors – was born.
Today, an area rug purchased from Kalora, provides a steady source of income for small business owners in places of poverty around the world. Amazing.
Now, we realize not all companies choose to work overseas…some choose to work a little closer to home. This is equally important.
Sunpan (another key supplier) supports efforts that raise funds to fight hunger through the Daily Bread Food Bank and also shelter through partnering efforts with Habitat for Humanity. All for local communities here in Canada.
Benevolence near or far – all of it matters.
Let’s take a step back and widen our scope. There’s no question, this planet we live on is precious and we need to protect it in the best way know how.
Companies that really get this are now laser-focused on assessing their processes and making changes, such as the use of responsibly harvested materials, and/or ecological production practices that will benefit our generation and generations to come.
Two Canadian manufacturers that stand out are Amisco and Crate Designs - both are committed to a wide variety of eco-friendly production efforts. Another is LH Imports who incorporates the use of reclaimed materials (such as old timbers formerly used for cable reels, bridge beams and torn down buildings) into their sustainability model.
All three of these companies are committed to creating beautiful and durable furniture that are unlikely to end up in landfills for many years to come. In our throwaway prone society, we think that’s pretty amazing too.
OK, now let’s talk about the import side.
Because our forests play a huge role in providing building materials, while also being vital to the health of our planet, the use of materials from sustainably managed forests is crucial. So, it’s important to see the same efforts towards sustainability in North America mirrored in products coming from overseas.
In order to strike a healthy balance between the environmental needs and the ongoing need for wood products, we look to certified councils who act as guardians in the planting and selective logging process of forests around the world. In fact, our very own line of East West wood futons, are gleaned from certified sustainable plantations overseas, as are those provided through the products from Night and Day Furniture carried in our store.
This is no small matter. Our trees, the very resource that provides the air we breathe, need to be handled responsibly. We value and applaud companies that are committed to a variety of sustainability practices and we hope to see continued growth in these efforts in the years ahead.
So to summarize; in the search for great products to bring to you...our customer...one thing is clear, a company that can offer a quality product combined with an active concern for the world, is the most valued of all. We think you'll agree!
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If widely accepted, a change in perspective becomes – shall we say – a challenge. Case in point, the often misunderstood and maligned futon.
Chances are, your first encounter with a futon was memorable, but possibly for all the wrong reasons.
It could have been a night spent in a friend’s basement, where every slat under a paper-thin futon mattress became etched into your back before the break of day. Or maybe your college years hold similar memories…but endured over an even longer period of time. Maybe…you would say the only futons you've ever come across fall into the category of what any sane person would label "junk".
Fair enough.
But as happens so often with "reputations" part of the story is not being told - the most crucial part. Although it’s a surprise to some, there is quality to be found and benefits to be gained beyond the cheap, black-sheep versions that ruin the family name and haunt many a memory.
For starters, finding a reputable futon store is key to finding a futon that will work best for you. And for the skeptics, here are a few additional things to consider that will help you see the 'Humble Futon' in a whole new light!
So, no matter if you are a fan or sceptic, we invite you to drop by or visit us at www.eastwestfutons.com. Oh, and did I mention...
We're Not Just Futons!
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Carter Chaise - Sit, Sleep, Lounge
Having said that, I admit, great design is great design - in any size.
A wide-open space can still be inviting when creativity is at play...and I'm not talking about design that comes only through the hands of a professional. Because big or small, isn't it cool to step into a space that not only reflects the people who hang out there, but offers a few surprises as well?
Really, what's life without a few little surprises?