One of the best features of futons is the fact that the covers can be replaced or, depending on the style and material, can be washed.

Durable, machine washable futon covers are available in an assortment of prints, colors and sizes. These covers can be mixed and matched for decorating variety but more importantly, are easy to keep clean. If there is an accidental spill on the furniture, washable futon covers do not require professional cleaning like regular upholstery.

Generally, a machine washable futon cover has two large zippers. The full cover looks like a large sheet made of denim or some other material, and has a seam in the middle. To install it, spread out the cover, align the mattress against the seam, and the fold the cover over so that the entire futon mattress is covered. When folded over, there are two open corners that are closed with zippers. Zip up the cover and that is all there is to placing a cover on a futon mattress. When it is wash time, simply unzip the futon cover and pull it off the mattress.

Like most things that have zippers, whether it is clothing or tents or suitcases, the zipper will occasionally get jammed, particularly after a spin in the wash machine. Trying to get the zipper to work can be frustrating.

It might be tempting, but do not try to force the jammed zipper because yanking it too hard could inadvertently break the zipper tab off or destroy the teeth. After the teeth have been coated, try zipping and unzipping the unit several times. This will usually make the zipper work more smoothly. If a candle is not available, a bar of hand soap works, although not quite as effectively.

If the problem is not ’stickiness’ resulting from age, dirt or other factors, a thread or piece of fabric from the futon cover might be caught in the zipper unit. Gently remove the caught string or fabric that is jamming the zipper. The inner fabric is usually what gets caught, so a pair of tweezers might come in handy in order to grasp the fabric or thread. As carefully as possible, pull the inner lining, thread or other material that is caught in the unit away from the zipper. Light tugging is okay, so long as the zipper tab is not yanked. Forcing the zipper tab up or down will make the problem worse. Depending on how embedded the futon cloth or thread is in the zipper unit, teeth might get separated when the fabric is removed. Gently push the zipper teeth back into place and the zipper should work. At this point, check the length of the zipper and push the lining away from the zipper to prevent future snags. Re-zip and the problem should be fixed.

Machine washable futon covers are inexpensive and come with sturdy zippers. Nonetheless, owning a couple of spare covers can come in handy if the zipper breaks.

Looking for design ideas? At Futon Heaven, our gallery showcases hundreds of futon cover designs, from elegant floral designs to simple, plain fabrics. Designed for both futon couches and chairs, many of these inexpensive futon covers come with complimentary pillow sets. Check out the gallery at http://www.futonheaven.com/futon_store/

- Urbain Beck

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