Futon Covers Add Years Futon Mattress Lifespan
Most of us know that you need to wear sunscreen if you are going to be exposed to UV rays for extended periods of time. Futon covers, like sunscreen is really one of those “should” use items that often gets ignored. It is hard to see the deleterious damages that are caused by neglect, but using a futon cover can as much as double the lifespan of a futon mattress.
Most futon mattresses are made up of a cotton/foam composition, which as you can imagine is quite absorptive. The primary cause of futon mattress damage is from liquids. You might think that you are quite careful and don’t tend to spill on the futon, but there are many other things that can happen which are not always controllable. Being sick is a prime example as sweat and vomit can easily end up on the bed. Since futon mattresses have little air voids within the core, there is a tendency for those liquids to become moldy and/or mildew rapidly. This is why futon covers are encouraged.
Mattress compaction is another problem the stems in part from moisture build up. Incremental moisture (from sweating for example) may not cause mildew, however mattress compaction is accelerated. This is the sagging which often means replacement is required and not much can be done to revive the mattress. Mold and mildew are also means for disposal since there is no certain method of disinfecting without causing damage to the core. Avoidance of mold, mildew and compaction is assisted in other ways in addition to futon covers, and can be reviewed on my website.
Despite the potential for moisture problems, futon mattresses are really a great value. If a proper futon cover is employed, the moisture issue becomes an unlikely issue. Futon covers will typically cost between $25-$75. Make sure the futon cover you buy is of high enough quality that you don’t feel like you are sleeping on a garbage bag. Some covers will only guard against minor spills, so you will want to make sure that is adequate.
There are many different futon covers available with a near infinite amount of colors, textures, materials and designs. If you have a futon sofa bed in your living room, it is easy to blend sofa into your existing decor. However, if you have a futon mattress solely for a bedroom mattress which will have bedding over top of it anyways, you should be able to save a few dollars by purchasing a white/plain cover.
Remember, an ounce of prevention is a pound of cure!
Vladmir Skillet holds a website helping consumers find the right futon furniture for their homes. For information on buying a futon bunk bed, visit his website.
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