Futon Care
Removable covers are strongly recommended because futons, like mattresses, cannot be laundered or dry-cleaned if they become soiled. We also recommend adding a mattress pad when using a futon as a bed.
Many odors and some stains may be removed by mixing a thin paste of baking soda and water, applying it to the affected area, allowing it to dry completely, then brushing or vacuum it off.
CLEANING COVERS – We recommend dry cleaning most of our covers for a longer lasting life. Some covers may be cold water washed and line dried. If the cover is Scotchguarded™, dry cleaning will extend the life of its protection to three to five cleanings, while cold water washing will remove it completely. Covers may be re-Scotchguarded™, if desired.
GENERAL CARE – (for traditional futons) With use, the cotton batting in the futon settles down. To help keep it resilient, a futon should be fluffed out regularly. This can be done in many ways. First, punch in the sides and ends of the futon to loosen fibers. Then whip-shake the futon, as you would whip-shake a rug (most easily accomplished with two people holding onto either end of the futon). Finally, drop the futon flat on the floor. This forces air back between the fibers and helps restore the loft to the cotton.
A futon will keep its shape better if it is flipped regularly, from end to end and side to side. Keeping your futon on a frame or on tatami mats will also help improve the air circulation in the batting. If a futon is placed directly on the floor, there may be a tendency for body moisture to condense on the underside, especially on colder wood or vinyl floors. If this is the case, check the futon occasionally for moisture and slip or fluff as needed.
When you move your futon, always grasp it by the entire thickness of the filling - never by the casing alone, which may stress the seems and tufting and could rip the casing. Then fold into thirds or roll it up and tie it.
