Best floor mattresses for sleeping on the floor

Top pick: J-Life All-Natural Japanese Futon. It's the classic shikibuton done right — 100% cotton batting, a firm feel that supports your back on a hard floor, and a choice of 3- or 4-inch thickness. The 4-inch is the one to take if you're a side sleeper or heavier; the 3-inch is the traditional, packable version. It's also the best-reviewed of the bunch.

Who the others suit:

• J-Life Shikifuton with removable cover — same firm cotton build, but the cover unzips for washing and you can pick a pattern. Best if you'll use it nightly and want it to stay fresh.
• Natural Cotton and Wool Shiki Futon — the wool blend adds a little warmth and cushioning; good for cold rooms or anyone who finds pure cotton too hard.
• RESTORA Japanese Floor Mattress — a softer, foldable option for occasional use, guests or lounging.
• Roll-Away Shikibuton with straps — a narrow cot-size roll that straps up small; the pick for a tiny space, a van or a spare bed you put away daily.
• CONCETTA Memory Foam Futon — the budget, softer-feeling choice for a guest crash pad rather than every night.

Whatever you choose, air it out and fold or roll it each morning — that's what keeps a floor futon from going flat and musty.