Futon covers might not seem like a big deal until you’ve dealt with a sagging, stained, or worn-out mattress.
Whether you use your futon every day or just there for the occasional guest, the right cover can make a huge difference. It can refresh your space, protect your mattress, and give you that clean, finished look without requiring a furniture overhaul.
In this guide, we’ll explore what makes the best futon covers stand out and, most importantly, how to choose the right slipcover for your needs.
Why the Best Futon Covers Deserve More Credit
Futons are multitaskers. They serve as beds, couches, and sometimes makeshift workstations or pet lounges. That means they deal with a lot—food crumbs, coffee spills, pet hair, and life in general. One of the smartest moves you can make is to protect your futon with a good-quality cover.
The best futon covers shield your mattress from everyday mess while giving your room a more polished vibe. Even better, they’re easy to swap out. Want a fresh look with the seasons? A different vibe for your guest room? Just change the cover.
If you're deciding how to choose the right futon slipcover, ask yourself: How much wear does my futon get? Who uses it? Do I need something low-maintenance, or am I okay with more maintenance for a stylish result?
What to Consider Before Buying a Futon Cover
Daily Protection – If you use your futon for sleeping or lounging, a durable cover protects against spills, dust, and pet hair.
Guest-Ready Comfort – For a futon used as a guest bed, choose a soft and breathable fabric to enhance comfort.
Easy Cleaning – A machine-washable cover is ideal for homes with kids or pets, making maintenance effortless.
Style & Home Décor – If your futon doubles as a couch, pick a stylish cover that complements your space.
Seasonal Versatility – Consider a lighter fabric for summer and a thicker, cozier cover for winter.
Portable & Travel-Friendly – If you move your futon frequently (e.g., for camping or van life), a removable, lightweight cover is best.
Choosing the right futon cover ensures comfort, cleanliness, and versatility based on your specific needs.
How to Choose the Best Futon Slipcover
Let’s break it down clearly and thoroughly. If you’ve been wondering how to choose the right futon slipcover, consider these five key factors, each influencing how the cover looks, feels, and holds up over time.
1. Start With the Size
Size is more than just the label—“twin,” “full,” or “queen” doesn’t always mean your futon will fit a standard cover. You need to measure your mattress in length, width, and depth. Don’t estimate or assume.
Use a tape measure and write it down. Even a one-inch difference can result in a loose, baggy fit or a cover that won’t stretch appropriately around the corners. A poor fit affects not only the look but also the comfort and usability of the futon.
2. Think About Usage
Do you sleep on the futon every night? Is it primarily used as a sofa for guests or weekend lounging?
Your answer will point you toward the best fabric and construction. For frequent use, you’ll want a durable fabric that can withstand a beating, like cotton canvas or microfiber.
If the futon is in a room with light traffic, such as a home office or reading nook, you can lean into softer, decorative fabrics that emphasize appearance. Understanding your needs is a key part of choosing the right futon slipcover.
3. Match Your Style
Function matters, but so does personality. Think about your room’s color palette, lighting, and vibe. A futon in a modern minimalist space might look best in solid neutrals like grey, cream, or muted blue.
In contrast, a cozy guest room could benefit from a textured slipcover or subtle pattern. Don’t be afraid of experimenting, especially if you enjoy changing things up seasonally.
Choosing a slipcover that complements your existing decor can bring the whole space together, and it's another key point when deciding on the right futon slipcover.
4. Make Sure It’s Washable
Life gets messy, and the best futon covers should be ready for it. Look for machine-washable labels and care instructions that don’t require special detergents or dry cleaning.
You’ll thank yourself later. It also helps if the fabric resists shrinking and fading, especially if you plan to wash it often.
Look for pre-shrunk covers that resist wrinkles and keep their color. One good example is the Zonli Home Floor Mattress Cover. Made from 100% natural cotton, it’s breathable, hypoallergenic, and washes well.
5. Prioritize Comfort
This is where touch matters. If you’re going to sit, stretch, or sleep on it, your futon slipcover should feel inviting. Some fabrics may look stylish but feel scratchy or stiff. Don’t compromise. Run your hand across the material, or order a fabric swatch if you're buying online.
Covers that strike a balance between softness and strength are often the best investment. When evaluating how to choose the right futon slipcover, always come back to this—does it feel like something you’d want to use every day?
The Material Fabric Factor
Cotton is a favorite for its softness and breathability. It feels good, holds up well, and is easy to wash. Meanwhile, microfiber is smooth and durable, making it great for homes with kids or pets. Linen, on the other hand, brings texture and subtle sophistication to guest rooms or home offices.
Some people gravitate toward polyester for its resistance to wrinkles and ability to retain color over time. But no matter the fabric, you want something that feels good to sit on, lounge on, and occasionally crash.
Learning how to choose the right futon slipcover means matching the fabric to how your futon is used. For a high-traffic room, go for durable fabric. For a quiet guest space, go for soft and calming fabric.
Updating Without Replacing
Covers let you change the look of your space without a complete redesign. Want a calm, neutral palette? Try grey, taupe, or soft white. Want to go bold? Deep green, navy, or patterned options turn your futon into a statement piece.
Some of the best futon covers come in reversible designs. This allows you to switch things up without committing to a single look.
If you’re trying to figure out the right futon slipcover for your aesthetic, consider what makes you feel at home. Cozy textures? Sleek and minimal? Playful patterns? The right cover ties the whole room together.
Where to Buy a Slipcover?
Whether you prefer a minimalist look or want to add a touch of warmth to your space, Zonli has you covered!
Our futon covers are made from 100% cotton, offering both comfort and breathability. With a variety of sizes and natural prints, you can easily find the perfect fit to complement your tatami mat or cozy setup.
Shop 100% Cotton Futon Cover >>
Final Thoughts
A futon cover won’t transform your entire home but will change how you feel about the space. It’s an easy, affordable upgrade that adds comfort, protects your mattress, and gives your room a clean look.
Once you know how to choose the right futon slipcover, you’ll start to notice how it improves your daily routine: less fuss, more function, better sleep, and cleaner space.
In the end, that’s what makes it worth the effort.