How To Store A Futon Mattress: Everything To Know

There are three steps we can teach you on how to store a futon mattress. First, we will tackle the proper cleaning and folding of the futon to ensure it won’t get damaged and also last longer in the storage. Furthermore, we’ll help you decide how long you must keep the futon bed.

But what if your futon mattress is no longer in good shape? Check these suggestions on what to do with an old futon

how to store a futon mattress

 

How To Store A Futon Mattress Short-Term And Long-Term

Step 1. Clean the futon mattress

Similar to when you store a mattress properly, you have to clean your futon before storage. This applies regardless of how long you’ll store the futon. If you keep the mattress dirty, the dust and stains can set deeper into the material that can cause early degradation. 

But how do you clean a futon mattress? Depending on its condition, vacuuming the futon mattress typically suffices to clean it before storage. You can also freshen the futon with baking soda, but remember to treat its stains with vinegar or mild detergent if there are any. 

 

Step 2. Fold the futon mattress

Inspect the overall structure of the futon mattress before folding it. There should be no broken or missing parts, and you must do the necessary repairs before storage. Then, deconstruct the pieces to remove and find the instructions for folding the specific futon you have. 

Modern futon mattresses look more like sofa beds, but traditional ones called shikibuton fold much smaller like a pad. The sofa bed-like futon can either be a bi-fold or tri-fold futon that you can tie with straps, while you can fold or roll the shikibuton futon with the kakebuton and sheets on top. Depending on the size of the folded or rolled futon, you can use a mattress bag or box as long as it’s breathable. 

 

Step 3. Place the futon mattress in your storage

Check if the futon mattress has no moisture before you put it in a ventilated storage case. It would be best if you also aerate it outdoors to ensure that it’s not damp. Remember that dampness can cause mold growth, especially when storing items like mattresses. 

Find an area of the house that doesn’t get wet or experience fluctuating conditions. For example, the closet can work well because the futon is not as bulky as a traditional bed. Just remember not to place anything heavy on top of the futon and have the smaller hardware pieces in a secured bag near it to prevent it from getting lost when needed. 

 

How Long Should You Keep A Futon Mattress?

You can keep a futon mattress for 5 to 20 years. The expected lifespan of a futon is extensive because there are different types and materials available. Furthermore, it would be best if you accounted for how you use and maintain the mattress because they will dictate the longevity of the futon. 

For example, you should consider replacing the futon mattress if it’s too damaged and uncomfortable, even if it still hasn’t surpassed its expected lifespan. On the contrary, it’s also not surprising that some futon mattresses can last for a decade or more because some homeowners only use them for guests. And finally, storing your futon when not in use is significant for ensuring that it will last well. 

 

How Often Should You Air Your Futon?

Like any stored mattresses, you can air out your futon twice a year or every six months. It can even be more often than this frequency because ventilation ensures that your mattress won’t have residual moisture. Airing out your futon and letting it breathe outdoors will also freshen it and allow the UV rays to sanitize the material. 

The emphasis is necessary on checking where you store your futon as well. For example, do not keep the futon in humid areas such as the bathroom. You can also check the room for signs of high humidity, such as window condensation, mold, or even dust mites.  

 

Can You Fold A Futon Mattress?

You can fold a futon mattress, and it’s even why it makes the perfect option for those living in small areas. Depending on its design, you can fold the futon to convert it into a couch when not in use. However, some futons are designed to be rolled instead of folded, so check your manual diligently. 

 

How do you maintain a futon mattress?

  1. Vacuum the mattress weekly to remove dirt and dust build-up
  2. Treat stains as soon as possible and invest in a futon mattress cover
  3. Aerate the futon weekly to get rid of any trapped liquids
  4. Keep the futon when not in use
  5. Fluff up, roll, or fold the futon mattress every other day to maintain its shape

How Do You Keep A Futon Mattress In Place?

You can keep a futon mattress in place the same way you’ll prevent a mattress from sliding. First, check the fitting of the bed to the frame and invest in grip pads and strips. Place them underneath the futon, and it should prevent it from slipping when you lie down on the mattress. 

Conclusion

And that’s it! We have gone through how to store a futon mattress correctly to help it last longer. First, clean it thoroughly and check for any needed repairs. Then, fold the futon accordingly and select a breathable storage case and humidity-free area. 

We hope you also remembered our futon care tips. If you need more information, type futon on our search bar!

 

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