Hey everybody - sticking an affiliate link here - jlifeinternational.com/?rfsn=4799779.e2fd4d I hope you enjoy this 8 month follow up! If you are going to be heading over to the Jlife website next to browse their products, consider getting there by simply clicking the link above. Same experience for you, but it shows Jlife that this video helped you a little bit. If you buy something, a small portion goes to me, and I can't tell you how much I appreciate it. Gotta have those side hustles nowadays - sincerely thank you for understanding!!
Wise purchase! Thank you for your review; I have been considering going back to this way of sleeping. Just an idea, if you need to go to a motel again, maybe you could bring the small bed and your pillows with you. I used to sleep on the floor when I was younger and loved it. People later told me they felt sorry for me, which I thought that was funny! Now that I am "wiser", I would need two pads to sleep for this old body. 'I like that they can be folded into a "futon". Put one of the tatami's on the wall and the other on the floor, or both on the floor and set the mattress into a sofa style. They are so versatile!
The tatami mats are very good at collecting body moisture because the inside of the mat is paper. Its very important you allow the tatami mats to dry/air each day. With your shikibuton mattress (I need two shikibutons) you need to stretch out the cotton/wool so it doesn't clump. This is why in Japan, the shikibuton is folded or rolled each day. This allows the internal fibers to stretch. You should shake it thoroughly before you do this and whenever its sunny, hang it outside. In Japan you will see many mattresses hanging from balconies. I enjoyed your video and I'm happy you now love your pillow!
Jan, thank you for the tips! Totally agree with your suggestions and I can see how doing those things will allow the cotton inside to move and breathe regularly. I am totally loving the pillow!! Thanks for checking out the video!
@@khabibpogosyan2587 Do you have access to a window or is there a communal outdoor area for drying/airing clothes? If you can hang it from the window, first put an old but clean sheet and then hang it from there 1/2 at a time, but make sure you use grips to stop it falling.
@@janmariablackwell8138 I'm bit late from this conversation but what would you do if you were in situation like me that I live in Finland and the outside temperature gets to atleast -15 centigrade every winter and it's just not possible to dry anything outside. thanks already :)
I have the 4" full size from J Life. It is MUCH heavier than what your 3" looks to be. I have trouble flipping it alone . Also you might want to add that you can't get them wet at all. I have mine in a water proof cover & a futon cover. It's truly the best sleep I have ever had, I will never go back to a regular bed!
Hey TinaBoBina! Glad you are liking the futon. I agree... I don't think I'll ever go back to a regular bed either! Yep, definitely can't get them wet. One of my fears is to accidentally spill a drink on mine, which, knock on wood, has never happened 😂 thanks for checking out the video, enjoy your futon!
Fantastic, currently working on building a yurt to live in and this is a the perfect to solution to not need to haul a whole heavy mattress and frame every time I want to move, plus I can literally pick it up and store it away and gain that floor space back.
The thing about that company “J-Life” is that it’s actually an American company very cleverly branding these to be called “Japanese” futon. These are just old school American dorm room futons (the kind we all had in the 80s and 90s, that sat on wooden frames that could be sofas or beds) It’s literally the same company making them in Connecticut. There’s nothing “Japanese” about it except the name. The cotton is stuffed in the mattress, it is not folded and layered like an actual Japanese futon. That’s why you talked about getting low spots or dents. These are 100% cotton but it is low quality cotton. They aren’t dense like traditional Japanese futon. The company is also shady about their return policy and customer service. Real Japanese futon don’t need to be rotated and flipped like this company tells you to do. Their website is misleading and even though they sell tatami and traditional futon covers, the actual futon itself is just a remarketed American style “canvas bag stuffed with cotton” futon, the same thing they’ve sold since the 80s under a different company name without all the “traditional Japanese” language for marketing reason.
@@marknawrocki5323 I think you have to order from Japan via US distributors. The companies I'm familiar with that have a good reputation are Tatami Room and Futon Beds From Japan - they both have websites you can order from. You just want to make sure it's made in Japan. I'm not aware of any companies actually manufacturing Japanese style futon in the US currently
I've been sleeping on my twin sized bed from when I was starting middle school (so about ten years or so) and I finnaly bought a full sized shikibuton from jlife and your video really help me on pulling the trigger on the purchase. Cant wait to wake up without my back hurting 😢, cheers bro!
Yo! Glad to hear you finally went for it. It took me a bit of time for my body to get used to it when I first started, but I use the futon on a hardwood floor now and wake up feeling amazing. So comfortable and so worth it! I hope that back pain is a thing of the past for you soon, thanks for checking out the video and enjoy!!
I've been sleeping Japanese style with the futon and tatami for 5 years. I transitioned because of back pain too and so glad I did. I rarely have back pain anymore. Totally worth it. You won't want to go back to a western bed.
Been sleeping on a cheap futon from Amazon since I got married 3 years ago. We’ve loved the portability and simplicity. This summer our house has been particularly humid, and I have been busy with my baby and school so I didn’t think about airing it out and it has molded. We’ve slept with it directly on the floor this entire time. For the first 2 years it was on carpet though, which I think helped. Our floor is vinyl now. Anyways, now we have to find another affordable option that will last a long time, still be easy to fold up, and hold ourselves and our babies. We will probably have to sleep on the moldy one until we can afford to shell out a few hundred dollars for a new setup. In the meantime, I’m waiting for a sunny day to get some sterilizing effects, and I’ve sprayed it with vinegar and let it dry with a fan. Hopefully those measures help us to stay healthy until we can get a fresh bed. Thank you for demonstrating your setup with a tatami mat, and for your thorough review!
Hey, thanks for the comment! Sounds like you're doing everything you can in the meantime. I've never had an issue with my Jlife getting funky, so I'm sure it would be an upgrade from your current setup. I think the custom cover is the main reason, since it's made of a nice material and is removable/washable. Good luck on saving up, which is not easy nowadays! Thanks for checking out the video 💯 🙏
These are super cool. I'm currently moving into my first solo apartment and I have no furniture. I figure I can get one of these and a tatami mat instead and my dad can sleep on it when he stays over. Folded up I'm guessing it's about as comfortable as a floor pillow or floor couch setup, if not more so. Probably better value than buying some cheap couch. I move frequently so maybe I should stop investing in huge furniture that I can't move by myself.
You're on the right path! Those are all good reasons and the futon will work perfectly in those situations. It saves a lot of space and after a while you forget that it's "different" and you just view it as your bed! Hope you enjoy if you end up getting one of your own - thanks for checking out the video!
I'd like to add a comment about cost AND flipping/rotating. At the core of the subject is the mattress - the shikibuton, or futon - which is the essential part of this sleep system approach; the quilt (kakebuton) and pillows are not required although they are nice (and on my wish list!). The mats are not essential but are nice! In my opinion, if you're investing in a quality mattress, then going the extra mile and care for it as suggested by the manufacturer since it is also part of the purchase price and your time is invested in caring for your possessions. For the time being, I will use my current duvet until I am moved to buy a matching kakebuton. The tatami mats would be wonderful but my loft is carpeted and I have a railing that I can lay my buton over in the morning for a couple hours to prevent mold, so I can't justify getting a mat; but the grassy smell would be a welcome addition when I lay my head down at night. I recently purchased from a site that makes authentic shikibuton in Kochi, Japan. I chose to purchase a full size buton and a cover, but will be using a fitted sheet as well just to alternate and extend the life of my cover. My total cost was $615 plus their shipping is fast - I ordered 6/23 in the evening (a Friday) and will be receiving my order tomorrow, 7/3 --- 10 days total!! I really wanted to address the practice of flipping/rotating the futon as he shows in the video. After doing a lot of research online, I was considering going with JLife, but after reading further and watching some videos, I went confidently with another manufacturer in Japan, not elsewhere. *** This was some of the information in their FAQs that convinced me I would be making a better choice: "Do I Need to Flip and Rotate My Futon? There is a fairly common question or comment we get regularly. “I was reading online and they said that we need to rotate and flip our futon regularly. Is this correct?” No this is not correct. At least for our authentic Japanese futon this is not required. In fact, for authentic “wabuton” (wa = true/authentic/traditional) like we sell, there is an actual top and bottom of your futon. You will know the top based on two key features. 1) The quilting stitches have the tying side up. 2) The top of the futon arches down at the corners towards the floor. Note: It is our opinion that if a manufacturer is recommending to flip and rotate your futon, it is probably because the cotton quality used in making their futon is poor and they likely have problems with the cotton matting." *** I appreciate Japanese culture immensely. I'm happy I did my homework and am looking forward to changing my life, one night at a time. Whatever decision you make, I hope it's an informed and confident one. To your health!
Hey April, thanks for the comment and all of the new knowledge! I'm happy you found something that you like and I hope you enjoy the transition to your buton! The smell of the tatami fades after a while, I wish mine still had that grassy smell 😊 thanks for checking out the video!
I just want to agree with this person. They’re 100% correct. J-Life does not sell Japanese futon. The process for making traditional futon is completely different. It’s a layering process and not just stuffed. J-Life stuffs a canvas bag and calls it a futon. I ordered one after being misled by their site and upon unpacking it I realized it was not an actual shikibuton. I know the company April ordered from and I wish I’d ordered from them. Theirs are made in Japan the correct way. In my opinion J-Life misleads customers with a bunch of marketing mumbo jumbo on their website to make you think it uses authentic Japanese technique. But it’s not true. Real Japanese futon don’t get dents or low spots and you don’t flip and rotate them. (I mean you can but you don’t need to) J-Life sells the same bag of cotton they’ve been selling since the 80s under different names. I wish I’d realized it before I wasted my money thinking they actually used Japanese technique. Sigh.
Thanks for the video! I'm thinking about downsizing and getting a bed like this. I (voluntarily) slept in my car for a few months while traveling on a nemo air pad and never had any issues. But once I got back home to my cheap traditional bed, instant back pain!!
I can totally relate! I think you'd be a perfect candidate for a futon mattress. I bet you made some great memories on that trip, sounds fun! It's funny how once you get used to sleeping on a firm surface, the soft mattresses just dont cut it.. thanks for checking out the video!
I got this in the 4in twin and love it. Between this and barefoot running, I find my posture improving a lot. I worry about keeping it clean. Will air out the next time there is a sunny day.
Started sleeping on the floor and my back has never been better. Next will be slightly levelling up and going with a similar set up! Thanks for the great review !
Awesome! Glad to hear you are feeling improvement and thanks for checking out the video! Enjoy your setup whenever you decide to go for it. Take care Jonny!
I’ve been sleeping on futon for 2 years, changed because didn’t feel any benefits at all instead I started to get numb arms consistently during the night. Some find it comfortable and helps with a back pain witch is great! I guess everyone is different
Sorry to hear it didn't work out. Yep, everyone is definitely different and there's no way to know until you try. Props for giving it a shot! Thanks for checking out the video 👍
This is so helpful! I really appreciate your thorough review. I’ve been wanting to commit to a traditional Japanese futon for some years now, and you answered all the questions I had thought of. I’ve been accustomed to a sobakawa pillow already for many years, though they definitely take some getting used to.
Great question! Since there is no assembly, hardware, or legs to the frame, the whole setup is super sturdy. No creaking or rocking back and forth! Also, the center of gravity is extremely low so the whole thing is incredibly planted to the ground. As far as comfort, it's more comfortable and easy to balance in various positions because the mattress isn't sinking and creating slopes. In other words, it's great 👍👍 thanks for checking out the video!
Thank you so much for your amazing work you done. I am moving a lot recently, so for now I sleep on 2 yoga mat (+ blanket) and I fee that I already adjusted myself to sleep on a floor. In a month I am moving to my permanent place so I am looking into buying at this point fancy shikibuton.
Thanks so much Khabib - happy to hear that the video was helpful! The Jlife futons make a perfect permanent sleep system. I think you're right about already being accustomed to sleeping on the ground. Hope you enjoy when you buy your own! Thanks for checking out the video!
Thank you for the video Will. Have been looking at a similar setup. Just wondering how you care for your tatami mats, do you air them regularly, or put them outside to get some sun? Also, have you noticed any problems with the mats being on the carpet, instead of a hard wood floor, mould etc? Thanks, Chris.
Hey Christopher, thanks so much for checking it out! So I'll be totally honest with you, I never do anything special with those tatami mats. The room that they are in does get a fair amount of morning sunshine, but I really never touch them. Every once in a while I might hand vac them if I notice some debris or something.. no problems with the mats being on the carpet either. No mold, no weird smell other than the faintest remnants of that natural Rush Grass scent if you out your nose right on them. Hope that helps, and definitely understand that I'm just telling you what I do. I'm sure there are some routine maintenance things that could help them. I really can't notice the difference between how mine are now vs. how they were brand new. Take care, happy holidays!
Do you feel the ridge in the middle between two tatamis? I imagine it's probably little bit harder then the spot in the middle of tatami? Thanks for the video!
That was actually a question I had when I was shopping around. I emailed Jlife and they responded "no, you can't feel the ridge in the middle". I decided to go for it. They were correct, you can't feel it or even notice it at all. Thanks for checking out the video!
@@willpopemusic Would the tatami mat slip apart on your carpet if you move around a lot when you sleep? Love your video! It's a rare good review that I needed!
questions . . . Have you ever had your futon cleaned? If so, how? Where? I realize in Japan, the typical approach is simply to air the futon out by placing or spreading it out over a railing; but I'm asking about actual cleaning of the futon. Also, do you take any special precautions in cleaning the futon cover or case? Another question: do you ever remove your tatami mats from the floor for a day or two or three....? Do you have any recommendations for identifying good mats from not-so-good quality mats? Sources for mats? Thanks for an informative video.
I have a combo buckwheat and wool pillow for my damaged neck. When I got it from a local store, they gave me a bag full of more buckwheat just in case I wanted it much fuller...but yeah, I need it partially empty to properly support my neck.
Thanks for the video! I've been changing my sleeping arrangements. I want more room in my small studio apartment..And I think this set up would be great for me. I'm 511 175 pounds. Do think the full size is sufficient? I'm actually going from a Twin XL. Therefore, the full should be massive 😂..I'm actually doing a make over on my apartment and want to keep everything low to the ground. Getting rid of my dinning table and buying a foldable Japanese short table. I've always been very comfy on the floor. Makes me feel very grounded. Thank you for sharing.
Hey Walter. Looking at the Jlife website, the full size is actually a little shorter than the TwinXL by 5". It is a lot wider though from side to side and can fit two people or be a big single person surface. 75" is still 6 1/4 ft so you should be fine. I shift in my sleep I guess as much as anybody would but I have a tendency to move up and push the pillow off the top, if anything. Main thing though is I think you'd be fine at 5'11". I totally hear you on your design goals.. I almost took a saw to an end table of mine recently so it would be close to the ground, lol.. Good luck getting that all set up and thanks for checking out the video!
Man the cover alone for the futon is 195 bucks. Would love to try it but man they want an arm and a leg for those things. The cot size alone is over 300 bucks and doesn’t include any of the other goodies
Glad I was able to stumble upon this video and your previous one too! Super informative and the whole video just feels genuine. Just bought myself a set up yesterday through your link!! Can't wait for it to arrive :)
Thank you so much, your comment is also very genuine. I appreciate the support. I'm glad to hear the info was helpful to you - enjoy your new setup and thanks for checking out the video!!
Super video pal, you have convinced me to get one of these, interesting that I was led down this path looking at barefoot 🦶 shoes and grounding.... peace bro ...
Hey, thanks a bunch. Sounds like you went down the RU-vid rabbit hole! I ended up originally finding these futons through the Google rabbit hole, haha.. hope you enjoy. Still loving mine and sleeping on it every night. Peace ✌️
Hey. I was wondering whether there were any important reasons why you chose J-Life over futonbedsfromjapan. Currently i'm researching from which company to buy and the shikibutons from futonbedsfromjapan just look way nicer. So are there aspects in which J-Life is just better? Like the size or material?
Hey Ikaros, thanks for the comment. If you go on my channel and look at the original unboxing video I did for my Jlife setup, I mentioned being a little torn between the two companies. Ultimately, I chose Jlife because of their selection, materials, and styling. I needed more than just the futon and Jlife offered the futon, custom covers, buckwheat hull pillows, kakefuton, and tatami mats all in one place. I liked the colors and patterns that they offered on their genuine fabric and it just was the right choice for me. Hope that makes sense. I'm sure either way you went, you would be very happy with your choice! Thanks for checking out the video!
I don't know the JLife but did buy from Futonbeds from Japan. I think the critical thing is to get one that is all cotton. The ones with foam are just not as comfortable.
I’ve been looking at changing up my bed with something more minimal since I prefer to sleep on the floor anyway, but I really didn’t know where to start with shikifutons. Your video was really helpful and I’m definitely considering the J-life setup, thanks for the informative video!
Hey Jeremy! Glad the video presented some useful information for you, thanks for watching. I love my setup and haven't regretted it for a second. Jlife was a great choice for me. Hope you enjoy if you go for it!
@@willpopemusic I was looking at Jlife but ended up going with another company only because of the financing. But they are priced similar with same approach.. I got a great deal on a clearance mattress made of wool, cotton and other natural fibers, which really appealed to me.
Thanks for the informative video. I am struggling with which thickness to pick . They have 3 inch and 4 inch. They said 3 inch is super firm , does it mean 4 inch is not firm ?
I have the 3" super firm. My guess is that the 4" is made of the same exact material, but it's just 1" thicker. I don't think an email to info@jlifeinternational.com would be a bad idea.. they could definitely answer your question directly. You could always get the 3" and then layer some blankets on it if you want it to be more plush.. glad the video was helpful for you, I think you'll be happy with your decision either way you go!
My wife and I are thinking about switching to one of these. I have some questions for you. 1. If we have a queen size mattress, would you recommend getting a queen size futon? 2. I was looking at the Website you mentioned on your unboxing video, however I am kinda of confused on how what items I would need. Would it be safe to say you spent less than 800.00? Sorry for the personal question.
Hey Thomas! Yeah, I'd recommend a queen size since it's what you're both used to. As far as what to get, I would recommend the futon and one of the custom covers, at minimum. You can use whatever blankets you want and the tatami mats are nice to have but not mandatory. I spent about $1,200 on my setup but I got everything - futon, cover, blanket, cover, tatami mats, buckwheat hull pillow, and neck roll. Just the queen shikifuton and custom cover would be around $460.. looks like there is a sale running right now. Hope you and your wife enjoy if you try it. Thanks for checking out the video!
Hey, thank you for the review! Do you think, you’d need to get rid of the carpet in order to use the tatami mats? I noticed you didn’t, but are there any down sides of keeping a carpet under your tatami mat?
Hey Dr Possible, thanks for the question. I have used the tatami mats in another room before that is hardwood and haven't noticed a difference. The only thing in my opinion is if you have the tatami mats in a carpeted room and you walk on them a lot (I don't) the rigidity and firmness of the tatami will degrade/be compromised faster since they will flex a bit more. I think you can pretty much use them in any room and they will work just fine. Hope that helps, thanks for checking out the video!
The tatami mats are known for collecting moisture so if you do not pick them up off the floor so they can air out they will mold. This can make you deathly ill if you fail to take care of it properly since is where you sleep.
I am 5'9" as well. I am going to get the twin size bed but thought about getting the XL instead. Being about 5'9" yourself would you recommend the XL? I first thought about getting the cot, because I will be folding it up each night, but I was worried that it is too small. I have a slender build so it may work though. I think being able to move it around easily.
Hey Carly! To be honest, there are times when I wake up and my feet are hanging off the bottom just a tiny bit, or my pillow is kinda working its way off the top edge. It might be because I'm a shifty sleeper, but it doesn't bother me. Sometimes I kinda like my feet off the edge, idk.. lol. I have the cot size and it's perfect for one person. It's super easy to fold and stow away. The extra 5" on the twinXL could be nice. I'd say go for it! Good luck with whatever choice you make, thanks for checking out the video!
@@willpopemusic I understand what you mean by liking your feet hang off. I do too. I am thinking about either the cot size now or the twin. Do you feel that you have enough room in the cot size? Thank you so much for answering my question.
Thanks Horus! Glad you enjoyed and hope it was helpful. I went with the 3 inch for both futons. For the cot, I definitely wanted to maximize portability and get the sleekest, lightest option. It's been great so far! Thanks for checking out the vid, good luck with your choice 💯
Love it! We just bought one in queen size and it’s being shipped today. I’m just trying to figure out how to equip our bedroom since it’s furnished for a normal western size style bed. Our dressers are going to appear a lot taller, when we start sleeping on the floor. Not sure if we will replace them with something different or what.
Awesome! Hope you enjoy your new setup. It's definitely a fun part about switching is realizing how large other pieces of furniture are and how much space they take up. Thanks for checking out the video!
Awesome videos. I ordered a queen setup earlier as a replacement for my highschool/college bed. I was a little concerned like other people said about jlife's reputation but they sold the whole setup. I'm glad to see how well it all comes together. I actually slept in the bed of my truck for 2 weeks on camping gear for a road trip and it was great for my neck and back, so I know this will be great too
Hey thanks for checking out the videos! I'm pumped for you - hope you enjoy the new setup! If you have experience camping out and sleeping in the bed of a truck, you're gonna love the Jlife futon. I think they're super comfy and the quality had been great. Enjoy!
hey I’m looking for an authentic Japanese futon. what’s up with Jlife?? do you recommend any other online stores? all I see is maxyoyo and some amzn options hm
Is the tatami mat you got 100% compressed straw or does it have polyurathane foam? I'm trying to decide between tatami shikibuton on bed frame vs. traditional spring mattress. I also want to incline it 6 inches.
Hey I know I am 2 years late but, I am realy getting into the japanese lifestyle and wanted to try out Tatami and Futon. The price is to high for me right now but soon I would love to order them. But since I am new to all of this I am wondering, I just get the Tatami as the bottom part to lay on, without a sheet ontop of it I believe and the futon added ontop? So it's 2 layers below me and just using a blanket over me ofcourse then. I am from germany and was wondering if I should order something from here or not but since your video showed up with J-Life Internation I am realy curios. You seem to be very happy with the quality. So as a final summary, how to set it up right, what all do I need and are you still satisfied. Thank you very much. Edit: I am also bombarded with all those Terms. Tatami, Futon, Kakefuton and so on, if you do answer me and could take some extra time explaining the differences I would highly appreciate.
Have to agree with you on that. The hard part is commiting to the switch, then it's like.. why didn't I do this sooner?? 😆 Thanks for the comment, enjoy your weekend.
How do you find the interaction between the tatami and the carpet? Every other video I've watched on these so far has been on hardwood, and I'm curious 😊 Thanks!
Only problem I have with this is you and I guess most people sleep on this while the floor is a mat. The amount of bedmites must be insane in that type of environment.
I bought a queen sized shikibuton from J-Life and my only question is about cleaning and maintenance - do you let your futon air out in the sunshine frequently? I've heard there is a risk of mold on the tatami mats or the futon itself if its not aired out. Thanks for both videos!
Hey John. I am a little bit of a procrastinator when it comes to sunning the futon. I wash the covers regularly and fold the futon regularly when I'm not using it. I have not noticed anything odd or any funk so far. If I do, I will definitely sun it more often. Thanks for checking out the video!
No problem, Anna! It's held up better than I could have hoped for. Looking forward to having this setup for quite a while. Thanks for checking out the video!
They offer buckwheat hull pillows on their website. Check out jlifeinternational.com/?rfsn=4799779.e2fd4d And go to the pillow section. The covers are custom made with imported Japanese fabrics and are just amazing. Thanks for checking out the video!
Thanks for the video! I just got my Shikibuton and did not yet get a tatami mat. My Shikibuton is directly on the marble floor and it's quite uncomfortable. I'm debating whether I should get a tatami for underneath or a second shikibuton to layer... I realize the tatami helps with moisture but I'm afraid it doesn't do much for comfort... any advice helps !
Hey Connor 👋 congrats on the purchase. A tatami mat will definitely help if you can afford it. Also, keep in mind that there can be an acclimation period for getting used to them. Marble isn't the most comfortable surface to start on, as you're finding out. Do you have a carpeted area that you can use for a couple weeks? Or maybe put a normal comforter underneath. Any type of additional layer will probably make it a little more comfortable. Stick with it and I hope you enjoy it in the long run! Thanks for checking out the video 💯
The Cosori kettle that I have was one of the best deals I could find for a gooseneck with variable temperature settings. Love that thing. Enjoy your Secura kettle 👍
Hey Linda! The cot size futon is about 32x26x10 inches when it's folded twice. It could definitely fit in the trunk or backseat of a car, especially if you have an SUV or something. I don't think it would fit in luggage for travel through an airline.. you might be able to roll it and stuff it in a large duffel bag, but it'd have to be a big one.. If you're looking for a sleeping surface that's portable, get an ultralight backpacking sleeping pad like the Nemo Tensor.. those are awesome and can easily go in a backpack. Good luck, thanks for checking out the video!
Yes, no problem at all. In fact, it's much more stable so no creaky headboards ;) That's one of the reasons I went with a full size - having enough space for a partner. Not only is it plenty large enough for two people, it is definitely comfortable. Thanks for checking out the video!
Hey Herr.. I actually meditated directly on the tatami this morning, but I've never slept on them. I also stretch and rest on them. It feels great for a bit but not sure how I'd fare if I tried to spend the whole night on one. Sleeping on the tatami in my opinion is about 85% of sleeping on a wood floor. Very firm. Can't say for sure though since I've never actually tried. Your question makes me curious to try, now! Thanks for checking out the video 👍
In my opinion, yes. It gives the futon a forgiving yet substantial surface to support your body with. Softer than hardwood but more supportive than carpet as a sleeping surface. I definitely recommend including tatami mats if you plan for a permanent futon sleep system. Hope that helps and thanks for checking out the video!
I got everything at Jlife. They sell the shikibuton by itself or you can bundle it with the custom cover. They have tons of different designs. I have a more thorough unboxing video from when I first got all this stuff if you wanna check it out. The fabric is all imported from Japan. It's amazing! Thanks for the comment, enjoy your day! Here is a link to the website - jlifeinternational.com/?rfsn=4799779.e2fd4d
Great video bro! I'm thinking about doing this with a queen size bed... But I want it on a raised bed. Most beds have slats though... Would you recommend this?
Sup KindredGh0st! You definitely don't want to put the tatami or futon on a slat bed frame. They do make actually tatami/platform bed frames, but they aren't cheap.. would be totally awesome though. The Futon Shop seems to have some good ones. Good luck and thanks for checking out the video!
Bro i please need to know exactly the size because seeing urs I have that exact space and am same height ass u . In the website it says size : mattress: What should I input for both plz help bro I wouldn’t mind donating to u directly . I’m using ur affiliate link as well bro . 🙏 💯 plz help
Hey Cris! No problem at all, I can't thank you enough for clicking that affiliate link!! My futon is full size, the kakefuton/blanket is Single size, and the tatami is 2x European Full size. Hope that helps, enjoy your new sleeping setup!!!
That could be a tough one. I would say just do your best to regulate your body temp while you sleep and don't use too many blankets to the point that you sweat. If you do get sweaty during the night, just leave the futon flat and in a patch of sunlight if possible so it can air out the next day. Hope that helps, thanks for checking out the video!
Hey there. No big changes and nothing negative to report. I love my bed! I still use the full size and the cot size futon and love it. The fabric is holding up great and the tatami mats are still in perfect shape. Thanks for checking out the video!
Hey Lie Adi. Yes, this setup is great for any position in my opinion. I side sleep regularly and find it very comfortable. The tatami mats definitely help complete the system and add some additional support. Hope you enjoy if you give it a try. Thanks for checking out the video!
Hey Fernando! The Tatami mats cannot fold - they are two big pieces that lay next to each other. The futon mattress itself can be folded. Let me know what part of the video was confusing and I'll explain. Thanks for checking out the video!
Hey Donna, glad you like the color combo too! As far as I know, the zippered covers are the washable/removable component of the setup. You could certainly add blankets and sheets if you want, as an added layer. Thanks for checking out the video!
Hi thank you for this review. I am wanting to buy a shikibuton and sell my bed. But my biggest concern is my sensory issues. I have problems when it comes to sleeping on things like couches where I can feel the ridges between the cushions or feel the ridges in an air mattress. So looking at shikibutons with those sunken in ridges on them like what J-Life has I worry that I'll be bothered by them when I lay on them. Are those ridges as visible in real life? Do you feel them at all when you lay on it? Thank you for your time
I can relate to the couch cushion feeling too. No, those little dimples in the futon are not noticeable. I'm laying on it right now to be sure and the whole thing feels like one solid mattress. Those are just there to keep the cotton evenly dispersed. Hope you enjoy the futon and thanks for checking out the video!
Hey Mr. If you had a pickup truck or a car with a flat roof, sure! That would be awesome on a nice summer night. Thanks for checking out the video ✌️ 📸
Hi, I researched this brand and it looks really good, they say the inside is 100% cotton. I had been looking at foam type mattresses and many evidently have fiberglass in them, which is unbelievable! Are you confident this brand is just all cotton and nothing else? Also, how has it held up in terms of overall shape, has it become more lumpy in places? That's one concern I have. The price of the twin is currently just over $200 + tax and shipping, so I don't want to spend that without being confident about this brand. Would appreciate any feedback from you since it's been a couple of years since you posted this video. Thank you!
Yes, this futon is definitely 100% cotton and certainly no fiberglass. I don't have any noticeable lumps and I don't even sun it like I should. Sometimes I'll just shake it out or rotate/flip it. It's held up very nicely and I have no issues. The imported Japanese fabric is fantastic. Good luck with your decision, I love my Jlife futon and sleep on it every night. Thanks for checking out the video!
The cover is 100% imported Japanese fabric. It's custom sewn to order and has an amazing texture, look, and feel. As far as quality, I've had this futon for a while now and don't have any noticeable wear, fading, holes, or degrading of the fabric. For me, it has been totally worth it. It is made to fit tightly, so you aren't laying on folds n stuff. The fabric of the blanket is also the same so it ties the whole bed together. Yeah it's definitely more of an investment than a regular fitted sheet, but I'm glad I bought the real thing. Thanks for checking out the video!
Does the thickness of the tatami mats help do you think? I was looking at the folding ones because they are much more within my price range, but don’t want to get them if they won’t be comfortable because they are so thin.
Hey Jemma. To be totally honest, I dont have any experience with the folding mats, so I can only speak for the full tatami. If I had to guess, I would say that the folding type would be prone to bending if it was on a carpeted floor. The full tatami are very substantial at 60lbs each and create a really solid surface for the futon.because the futon has no internal structure or springs, that support is necessary. I guess you could compare it to a box spring.. like a mattresson the floor works, but having a box spring is preferable for most. Hope that helps! Get what makes you comfortable, pun intended.
In my opinion, not really. Some would argue that the tatami mats add a breathable layer in there, which is true that it does. My only concern with the platform bed is that the slats/supports form a continuous, flat surface and don't have any gaps. If they do, you could always lay something down in there to create a complete surface. The futons needs full support or over time it will create uneven parts that are uncomfortable. Hope that makes sense. Good luck and thanks for checking out the video!
The one I have is an older model, but you can check out their current lineup at www.healthmatesauna.com Mine is basically what they now call the "Enrich 3". Having a sauna has been so amazing. It's the best way to decompress after a long day. Amazed you don't see more of them at people's houses. Thanks for checking out the video!
J-Life is a scam company posing as selling Japanese futon when in reality it’s just the same American made bag of canvas stuffed with cotton they’re sold for decades. Real Japanese futon are a completely different thing. They are ripping people off. Real Japanese futon don’t get low spots or have to be rotated. The guy in this video got scammed and doesn’t even realize it. That’s what happens when you don’t know how to research things properly. You fall for scams like J-Life.
No. There are actual bed frames that you can buy specifically gor tatami mats, but the mats themselves are badically woven grass and would not support the weight of a human. They arrive pretty darn firm but start to soften up after a few weeks of use. Thanks for checking out the video!
Hey Will - curious how your futon has held up. I got a J-Life XL twin and have had it for about 5 months now. It has worn horribly. Lumpy, areas so thin I can feel the floor, etc. I air it weekly, shake it, everything according to J-Life's maintenance instructions. I am on the verge of chucking it in the garbage and shelling out over twice as much for a Futons from Japan futon. I'm curious if anyone else has had this experience.
Hey David. Sorry you're having the experience, sounds like you're doing everything right to take care of it. My futon definitely has a depression where my body lays each night, but it doesn't bother me personally. If I notice that it's uncomfortable or if it's just been a while, I rotate it 180 degrees or flip it over. Also.. sometimes if you're lounging or reading, you can lay on it short ways (90 degrees from how you would usually lay) and it can help the cotton to shift to different areas. I'm not sure if any of this info helps, but sorry to hear about the discomfort. I don't know how these compare to other futons, but I hope you find one that works for you! Tha ks for checking out the video 👍💯
@@3AsianBoi I sure did and my god was it worth it. Just in a totally different league than the J-Life. There is no permanent dip in the middle; it fluffs back up within an hour or two in the sun. There was a bit of an adjustment period but I am sleeping on it like a dream nightly now. Also, it's so much lighter and a breeze to fold up and carry around; I can easily carry it under one arm. Cannot recommend more highly. The real deal is sometimes worth the extra dough!
@@3AsianBoi Not because of my back; I got it as a storage consideration so I can practice yoga asana in the same room I sleep in. I will say I have had more aches here and there with the shikibuton in getting used to it. You have to be very specific and careful with your posture when sleeping on it. Some people get them because they are a very firm surface, so it's really up to the individual. I'd describe myself as someone who prefers a medium/hard mattress but has adapted to shikibutons fine.
Hello, I just finished watching both this and your last video on the J-Life International Floor Bed setup. Would you say that the J-Life setup gives customers the most bang for their buck or in other words the most quality for the price in the realm of floor bed setups? Moreover, how does the price for this setup compare to traditional American bed setups with elevated bed frames, full mattresses, blankets, etc. You mentioned in one of the two videos a need to keep the base mattress in the sun. What does the process look like for that including the time under the sun required as well as the reason for the process altogether? Would it be with the mattress cover on or without it?
Hey Sequoia! 👋 Appreciate the questions and interest.. I think this setup is very similar the price of a mattress/box spring/bed frame/blankets setup. I found Jlife to be the best option for variety, selection, quality, and price. I did a ton of research and was confident with this company. Turned out to be exactly what I was hoping for! As far as sunning the futon, I honestly have only done it once. I haven't had any concerning issues with mildew or funky smells etc.. I'm sure it would be good to do, but I've had it for over a year now and everything is working fine. When you do sun it, you'll want to have something to drape it over.. the full size futon is over 40lbs so it'll have to be sturdy. Ideally, I think you'd want to have the cover off when you sun it. A few hours of direct sunlight, especially on a warm/hot and dry day will be great for it. The principle is that you want to keep the cotton from collecting moisture and the sun helps with that. Hope this helps, good luck with your decision!
Hey, hello! Thanks for this video. Just curious why you say the tatami mats are integral to your sleeping experience. I bought the tatami and the shikibuton (they haven't arrived yet). My partner is reluctant to add the tatami to his setup because he's been serenely sleeping on a shikibuton directly on the floor for 6 months, and is worried it will ruin his current happy sleeping situation. :) We are definitely converts to floor sleeping.
Hey Andrea, thanks for the comment. If your partner is sleeping great with the shikibuton directly on the floor then the tatami will only enhance the experience - that's my best guess.. or maybe he'll say that he doesn't notice a difference. I think it takes a little edge off of the hardwood floor when you're side sleeping, for example. It's a subtle increase in comfort and support. Plus it looks great and keeps the cotton in optimal shape. Hope you guys enjoy, floor sleepers unite! ✊ 😂
@@willpopemusic Oh awesome, thanks so much for the info! I was hoping it would be something like that. I'm getting my setup tomorrow, we'll see how it goes! Woohoo! (looking forward to the hamster bedding smell).
Hej! Yes, Jlife does ship internationally. Here is a bit from their website. "We are happy to ship all over the world via DHL International shipping. Shipping costs are calculated at checkout. Please note that this shipping cost does not include any applicable duties, taxes, or fees, which are the responsibility of the recipient." Ha en bra dag, tack så mycket för att tittade på videon! I did a few hundred days of Svenska on Duolingo, hopefully I said that right 😂
@@willpopemusic Sup, appreciate the quick response, a response in general. Yes your Swedish is on point, you only missed one tiny word in the last sentence but it's no biggie, still understandable and good. I ask because I added my address and it didn't work so perhaps I need to change it to a pickup point or something, maybe home address doesn't work if it's international. Thanks for the video, very informative and helpful, and thanks for the response, cheers!
Hey, could you give a comment on the smell of the tatami? I got one 2 weeks ago and the smell of the grass/hay is really strong and makes my whole place smell and gives me some respiratory issues. Did you expirience this at all?
Yep, it's strong at first.. I promise that it will subside, and it doesn't take too long.. maybe a month or so. If it's giving you respiratory issues, maybe move them to a side room that you don't go into very much and let them air out for a couple/few weeks. After a while, you really don't smell them unless you stick your nose on them. Mine are over a year old and I can't even smell them when I sit directly on them. Hang in there and thanks for checking out the video!
Yo! Sure do - just click the link below, then click the drop down menu, then click "Pillows and Shams" then click "Buckwheat Hull Pillows" those are the ones. jlifeinternational.com/?rfsn=4799779.e2fd4d
Hell yeah! It's a 3 person infrared sauna by Healthmate. Goes up to 170F.. I usually do 25-30 minutes several times per week. It's truly amazing and an awesome investment. They are a couple/few grand.
@@willpopemusic I thought I saw a Health Mate! I have had several... they are awesome. Anyone aware of the level of stress and toxicity in the world today should strive to get one. I have gotten used fir saunas (including Health Mate) on Craigs List, etc. for a fraction of the retail price. Nice work!
interesting but the sizes of tatami mats and bed sizes they offer are kind of bad also the price is more expensive than some brands made in japan itself
Appreciate the comment. I never noticed lack of selection on sizes. From cot to king and everything in between, what are they missing? As far as cost goes - manufacturing in the US with authentic imported Japanese fabrics does come at a price. With the brands made in Japan that you are referring to, how much is shipping to the US? That could definitely level the playing field when all is said and done. Thanks for the comments, always good to look at these things critically and sounds like you are doing your research!
@@willpopemusic no full xl, and the mats are an inch under the size of the bed (I dislike that). You said it yourself in your review, your only options if you are tall is twin xl or queen or above. But really it's just the tatami mats, they're all like twin size or for much bigger spaces
There is authenticity (Japan imported fabrics) and quality with Jlife, so naturally there will be a cost. Be careful comparing these products to cheaper imitations that you find on places like Amazon. You get what you pay for! Thanks for your interest and for checking out the video! ☺️
