If you’ve ever had a futon, you know how versatile it can be. Whether it’s serving as a bed, a couch, or both, a futon is an excellent choice for adding extra seating or sleeping space to any room. However, with frequent use, futons can accumulate dust, dirt, and stains, which can affect both their comfort and appearance. 

But don’t worry, keeping your futon clean and fresh is easier than you might think. By following a few simple steps, you can ensure your futon stays looking great and remains comfortable for years to come.

Materials You’ll Need to Clean Your Futon

Before you dive into cleaning, gather a few essential items that will make the process much smoother:

• Vacuum Cleaner: Perfect for removing dust, dirt, and debris from both the surface and hard-to-reach crevices.
• Mild Detergent: A gentle cleaning solution for tackling stains and spots without damaging the fabric.
• Upholstery Cleaner: Specially designed to handle tougher stains and refresh your futon’s fabric.
• Microfiber Cloths: Ideal for gentle, non-abrasive cleaning, helping you avoid any scratches or damage.
• Baking Soda: A powerful deodorizer that absorbs moisture and neutralizes odors effectively.
• Fabric Freshener: Adds a fresh, clean scent to your futon after cleaning, leaving it smelling great.
• Rubber Gloves: Protect your hands during deep cleaning sessions, especially when working with cleaning agents.

Deep Cleaning: Bringing Back the Freshness

Deep cleaning removes built-up dust, dirt, and stains, which helps prolong the life of your futon. Follow these easy steps to give your futon a thorough clean and refresh it for the long haul:

1. Remove the Futon Cover (If Applicable)

If your futon has a removable cover, start by carefully taking it off. Check the care instructions on the label to see if it’s machine washable. While many futon covers are washable, it’s always good to verify the care instructions first to avoid any damage.

• Once removed, inspect the cover for any spots or stains that may need attention before washing. It’s a good idea to shake out any loose debris like dust or crumbs before washing.
• Wash the futon cover in cold water to prevent shrinkage. Hot water can cause the fabric to tighten, which could lead to the cover not fitting properly afterward. 

2. Vacuum the Futon Mattress

Even after removing the cover, the futon still needs cleaning. Dust, hair, and other debris can accumulate, so it’s important to give the mattress a good vacuuming to keep it fresh and free of allergens.

Start with the Top Side

• Attach the upholstery attachment to your vacuum cleaner.
• Slowly vacuum the top of the mattress, using long, even strokes.
• Move the vacuum in different directions to ensure all areas are cleaned, lifting away any dust and dirt.

Flip the Mattress

• Once the top is cleaned, carefully flip the mattress over.
• Vacuum the other side, following the same process for an even clean.

Don’t Forget the Edges and Seams

• Pay special attention to the seams, corners, and edges of the mattress.
• These areas tend to trap dust and dirt, so vacuum them thoroughly.

Vacuum Around the Frame

• Finally, clean around the futon frame to prevent dust from transferring back onto the mattress.

3. Deodorize with Baking Soda

Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that works wonders in eliminating unwanted odors and refreshing your futon. It’s a simple yet effective way to keep your mattress smelling clean and fresh.

Sprinkle Baking Soda

• Generously sprinkle baking soda across the entire surface of your futon mattress.
• Focus on the areas where you sleep most, as those tend to hold onto odors more.
• If you have a particularly musty or damp spot, apply extra baking soda in those areas.

Let It Sit

• Allow the baking soda to sit on the mattress for 15 to 20 minutes.
• This gives the baking soda time to absorb odors, moisture, and any lingering smells.

Clean It Up

• After the baking soda has had time to work, use your vacuum cleaner to remove it.

4. Spot Clean Stains on the Mattress

Over time, your futon mattress may develop stains that regular cleaning can’t remove. But don’t worry! Spot cleaning can tackle these stains without damaging the fabric. Here’s how to handle those pesky marks:

Mix Cleaning Solution

• In a small bowl, mix a small amount of mild detergent with water. Aim for a solution that is gentle enough not to harm the fabric.
• Before applying it to the stain, test the solution on an inconspicuous area of the futon to make sure it won’t affect the color or texture of the fabric.

Apply to Stained Area

• Dampen a soft cloth with the cleaning solution.
• Gently dab the cloth on the stained area, lifting the stain rather than rubbing it in. The goal is to lift the dirt, not spread it further.

Rinse and Dry

• Once the stain is gone, use a clean cloth dampened with water to wipe away any soap residue.
• Allow the area to air dry completely before using it again.

5. Use a Steamer for Wrinkles

If your futon mattress or fabric has wrinkles, a handheld steamer is an excellent tool for smoothing them out quickly and effectively. It’s a gentle way to refresh the fabric without causing any damage. Steps to remove wrinkles with a steamer:

Prepare the Steamer

• Fill the steamer’s water tank with clean water. Make sure the steamer is ready to use, with steam flowing steadily.
• Hold the steamer about a few inches away from the fabric. Be careful not to get too close, as this could damage the fabric or cause water spots.

Steam the Wrinkles

• Slowly move the steamer across the fabric, working in small sections. Let the steam gently loosen the wrinkles.
• As you move the steamer, make sure to maintain a steady, consistent distance from the fabric to avoid any risk of overheating or watermarks.

Smooth the Fabric

• If necessary, use your hands (protected with gloves to avoid burns) to gently pull and smooth the fabric while steaming. This will help release the creases more effectively.

Tip: When using the steamer, keep the nozzle moving in short, steady passes to avoid concentrated moisture on one spot, which can lead to watermarks or fabric damage.

6. Drying Your Futon

• Proper drying is crucial for maintaining your futon’s freshness and structure. If you’ve washed the futon cover, air-dry it whenever possible to avoid shrinkage. For the mattress, make sure to allow it to air out in a well-ventilated room. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can cause the fabric to fade.
• If drying indoors, place your futon mattress in front of a fan to speed up the drying process. This will help prevent any dampness from lingering and keep your futon fresh.

Keeping Your Futon Fresh Day-to-Day

Maintaining a clean and fresh futon is easier than you might think. By setting aside just a few minutes each week for regular upkeep, you can prevent dirt and grime from building up and keep your futon looking great.

1. Vacuum Frequently

Vacuuming your futon once a week will help keep dust, pet hair, and dirt at bay. Use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum to gently clean both sides of the futon. This will remove surface dust and debris before it settles in.

Pro Tip: Pay special attention to the seams, corners, and crevices. Dust tends to build up in these hard-to-reach spots, so give them a few extra passes with the vacuum.

2. Flip and Rotate Your Futon Mattress

Just like with any mattress, flipping and rotating your futon every few months ensures even wear and helps maintain its comfort level. This simple step promotes the longevity of the futon by preventing one area from sagging or losing its cushioning.

Secret to a Fresh and Long-Lasting Futon

Keeping your Futons clean doesn’t need to be an overwhelming task. With a bit of regular maintenance and a few deep cleaning sessions throughout the year, your futon will stay fresh, inviting, and comfortable. Whether you’re using it for sitting or sleeping, a well-maintained futon adds style and comfort to any space. By following the tips outlined here, you can ensure that your futon remains in excellent condition for years to come.

FAQs

1. How to remove pet hair from a futon?

To remove pet hair, use a lint roller, vacuum with an upholstery attachment, or rub a damp rubber glove over the fabric to gather hair. A squeegee can also be effective. For long-term prevention, consider using a couch cover that’s washable.

2. What to do if the futon has a musty smell?

Vacuum the futon, then sprinkle baking soda on it and let it sit for several hours. Airing the futon outside in the sun helps eliminate odors. If needed, lightly mist with a vinegar solution (equal parts vinegar and water) and allow it to air dry completely.

3. Can the futon mattress be machine-washed?

No, futon mattresses are generally not machine-washable. Instead, spot clean stains with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Regular vacuuming and airing out in the sun help maintain cleanliness. For tough stains, consider professional cleaning services.