How to Clean a Futon Mattress

Futon mattresses are an excellent option for college students, frugal folks, minimalists, or anyone else looking for an inexpensive, space-saving place to rest. However, over time they can become dirty and smelly. And it doesn't help that futons can be a pain to clean. But if you know the process and get your hands on the right supplies and equipment, things become a whole lot easier. In this article, we’ll cover how to clean a futon mattress using four distinct methods. Hint: None of them involve a washing machine.

The Wet Method for Deep Cleaning Futons

The first futon cleaning method we'd like to introduce you to is the wet method. It requires a vacuum, a mild cleanser, and water. It's best for when your futon needs a deep clean, but you don't have a steamer.

Step 1 - Remove the Futon Mattress Cover

To clean a futon mattress, you will first have to remove the cover (if it has one) and the pillows. To do this, take the mattress off the frame and lay it down on a flat surface. Then find the zipper and carefully remove the mattress cover so as not to damage the fabric. Look for the care instructions on the label of the cover to see how to wash it. If appropriate, throw it in the washing machine. Now you should be left with a bare mattress.

Step 2 - Vacuum the Futon Next

Use a vacuum to cleanse your futon mattress thoroughly. Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies to remove any dust or dirt that may be lurking there. The best vacuum type for this step is a canister vacuum, as it's easier to maneuver around the mattress. You can also use an upright vacuum with a hose attachment. Take your time on this part to get all the dust bunnies out.

Step 3 - Scrub the Futon After Vacuuming

Wipe down your futon mattress using a sponge and a mixture of mild soap and warm water in a spray bottle. You'll spray the mattress until it's damp and then gently scrub the mattress in circular motions. Clean one area of the mattress at a time to make the process more manageable.

Make sure to follow the care instructions - they should be on a tag somewhere on the futon. Following those instructions will help you protect your futon and keep it looking new for longer. After scrubbing the mattress, use a clean cloth to pat it dry.

Note: If there are any stubborn stains on your futon mattress, you can attempt to remove these by using a cleaner specifically designed for upholstery. Dilute the cleanser as directed on the packaging before use.

Step 4 - Allow the Futon to Air Dry

After you've washed your futon mattress, it's crucial that you allow it to air dry. Try to stand it up in a corner, ensuring that the entire futon gets unrestricted airflow. If you put a wet mattress back onto your futon frame, you risk mold and mildew growth. Once the mattress is completely dry, put it back on the frame, put the mattress cover back on, and you're all done!

Spot Cleaning Method for Futons: Best for Urine Spots

When it comes to urine stains, you don’t want to waste time. Urine can result in permanent stains and odors if not promptly removed. Here are some spot cleaning instructions to get your futon looking and smelling fresh again:

• Blot the area with a clean, dry cloth to remove as much urine as possible – this will only work if the urine stain is new.
• Fill a bowl with 1/4 cup of white vinegar with 1/4 cup of water.
• Load up a clean cloth with the mixture and press it onto the affected area repeatedly.
• Put some water on the area and blot dry with a clean towel. Don't soak the mattress, as that encourages mold growth.
• Repeat steps 2-4 until the stain is gone. Then allow the futon to dry in the open air.

The Steam Cleaning Method for Futons: For Quick Sanitization

If you want to give your futon a deep clean and you happen to have a steamer on hand, you're in a good spot. Steaming your mattress is a toxin-free way to make your futon good as new! Here's how to clean your futon using this method:

First, make sure that the mattress is dry before steaming. If the mattress is too wet, it could damage the fabric. Second, test a small area of the mattress before steaming the entire surface to make sure that the heat will not damage the fabric. Finally, use a low setting on the steamer and hold it one to three inches away from the mattress while moving it slowly over the surface.

The Baking Soda Method for Deodorizing a Futon

Do you want to keep your futon mattress odor-free but would rather pass on the methods above? The baking soda method is an effective and natural solution. Simply sprinkle baking soda over the entire surface of the futon and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. The baking soda will absorb any odors and leave your futon smelling fresh. Vacuum up the baking soda before using the futon again.

How to Keep Your Futon Clean

A futon mattress can be a great addition to any home. Not only are they versatile and comfy, but they’re relatively easy to keep clean. However, like any piece of furniture, they do require some regular maintenance to stay looking their best. Here are a few tips for how to keep your futon clean:

• Vacuum regularly – This will help to remove any dust or dirt that has accumulated on the surface of the mattress. Be sure to vacuum both sides of the futon, as well as in between the folds, if it is a foldable model.
• Spot-clean spills immediately – As with any type of fabric, dealing with spills quickly is always a good idea. That way, they won’t have time to set in and stain the surface.
• Invest in a waterproof mattress protector - If your futon mattress is made of fabric, it’s a good idea to invest in a waterproof mattress protector. These are relatively inexpensive and will help protect your futon from spills and other accidents.

So, there you have it - four ways to clean your mattress and practical tips to keep it clean. We hope this article was helpful to you, and we wish you plenty of restful nights on your spotless futon!