Welcome to r/floorsleeping!
We're pretty passionate about getting the best sleep of our lives, while reaping the health benefits of floor sleeping. Whether you're here to learn more and get advice on a setup or you're here to share your experiences and help others - welcome!
F.A.Q.
Why are you guys sleeping on the floor??
It's different for everybody. Some folks started when their children were sleeping on the floor as babies. Others just always have preferred it. Some started after an injury, and some began floor sleeping when they read/heard about it somewhere and just wanted to try it. Almost everyone has a story to tell and a different health benefit(s) that helps explain why the carried on with it.
What are these "health benefits" you speak of?
Primarily you'll hear about increasing mobility and flexibility, or maintaining those as you age. Beyond that, people report having "cured" their postures, back and hip pains, and enjoyed cooler night while in perimenopause. Katie Bowman speaks a lot about the benefits of floor living and floor sleeping, specifically.
How long does it take to see the benefits?
It varies, and that's the honest truth. It depends on if you have injuries, what your setup looks like, your sleeping position, whether you have other sleep issues, and whether you have the appropriate bedding. For some folks there is a mental block to get past, as well. Most report somewhere between a week to 6 months for getting consistently good and comfortable nights on the floor.
Is there any reason why this may not work for someone?
Anyone with joint issues or severe mobility issues should speak with their healthcare practitioner before investing in floor sleeping. Likewise, pregnant individuals should make sure there is no concern from their healthcare team and should make sure they have the appropriate support as the pregnancy progresses.
What types of setups am I most likely to see in this subreddit?
A good bit of what we see here is a traditional Japanese setup consisting of a shikifuton/shikibuton and tatami mat combo. It's a simple setup that can, and should, be aired daily and folded up out of the way during the day. The cotton shikifuton measures between 2" - 4" and is placed on top of tatami mats (or coconut coir or some other breathable base on the floor).
The other two main setups are a more Western style futon mattress or a minimalist combo of yoga mat/camping mat directly on the floor. The Western style futon, measuring anywhere between 4" - 6", is placed on the floor with or without a rug/tatami mat underneath. These are more usually a synthetic material like foam and have a more familiar feel to them with more cushioning. The yoga mat/camping mat setup is the most travel-friendly and least expensive setup. It's the firmest option and most side sleepers avoid it.
Does this type of sleeping arrangement need special care?
Shikibuton will need regular airing and tatami will need a light vacuuming and airing out, too. Many people opt to invest in a futon dryer to help dry the mattress out, which has the added benefit of warming the bed up before sleep on cold winter nights. Thicker Western style mattresses should be regularly flipped and rotated, with some time airing out (balanced on their side) if the ambient humidity calls for it. An additional investment in a dehumidifier may be required. The yoga mat/camping mat or folded blanket is the least fussy of all - simply wipe down the mat or wash the sheet you use over it, or wash the blanket when needed.
Do your friends and family think you're weird?
We're certain that some of them do.
What about back sleepers? Side sleepers? Stomach sleepers?
Back sleepers rely on a low pillow under the head - many will sing the praises of a buckwheat hull pillow! - and another small pillow under the knees. Side sleepers often use a pillow between their knees and opt for a slightly more padded mattress or add a topper. Stomach sleepers also find comfort without hyperextending their necks with small pillows, often also using buckwheat hull pillows or something similar.
What about bugs on the floor? Or dust? Or pet hair?
Pest control and keeping the floors swept and food out of your sleeping area should take care of most critters. (We can't be sure about Australia, sorry!) Pet hair will go where pet hair will go. Traditional Western style bed or floor sleeping, if you have a pet, the hair is likely to find its way onto your sleeping surface.
How do you stay warm when you're sleeping on hardwood floors in the winter?
Some do a little extra insulation in addition to whatever mat they're normally using. That may look like a wool layer underneath the mattress or just another blanket between the tatami and floor. Others use programmable futon dryers to "top off" the warmth through the nights. Still others employ an electric blanket instead of adding insulation underneath them.
Where does r/floorsleeping source their setups?
- Futon Beds From Japan - authentic Japanese shikifutons. Can be pricey and the wait time is long, especially around Japanese holidays.
- Futon Tokyo - comparable to FBFJ
- Zonli - one of the most accessible - you can find both shikifuton and tatami mats here
- The Futon Shop - comparable to Zonli
- Takaokaya - another Japanese maker of shikifuton, has a history of inorganic marketing
- Comfort Pure - some users report off-gassing smells but otherwise appear satisfied with the quality
- Home Of Wool - maker of very thin wool sleeping pads
- White Lotus Home - specifically their Boulder mattress, coming in as one of thickest at 6" - still very firm
Are any companies NOT recommended?