How to Use a Futon Outside (and Not Ruin it)

At times of the year when the weather is most agreeable, nearly everyone looks for comfortable outdoor furniture. Believe it or not, one such piece for outdoor comfort is the futon, a small sofa that can double as a bed. Although futons are typically used indoors for small spaces, they have also become quite popular for outdoor use. However, they are not immune to the elements like other traditional outdoor furniture. 

How do you protect a futon outside? There are three main ways to protect your outdoor futon: the first is to make sure you place it in a covered or somewhat shaded area. Secondly, keep the futon stored in a safe, dry area when not in use. Finally, purchase a protective cover for it. 

If you have decided you want to buy an outdoor futon to complete your patio or deck, read on to learn about some of the best outdoor-friendly futon options, as well as how you can keep your new investment protected from the elements. 

Can a Futon be Used Outside?

Futons are incredibly versatile and can be used in many different areas of your home.  What you may not know is that they are also great for outdoor use.  In fact, as futons become more popular as a form of outdoor furniture, many manufacturers began creating weather-resistant decorative covers and pillows* that offers a unique flair as well as to help futons last for much longer outside.  

*Note: If you go online and search outdoor pillows, you will also be able to find a multitude of pillows and pillowcases that are for outdoor use. The best part is that they come in two packs and even some six-packs, all varying in price. It’s fun to browse through them and find exactly what you are looking for in regard to color and style!

How to Protect an Outdoor Futon

There are a couple of different ways to protect your futon from bad weather and other hazards that would otherwise shorten the lifespan of your furniture. 

• Placement – Your futon is likely to be safer in a covered outdoor space, such as a screened-in porch or patio. 
• Storage – If you would prefer to lounge on your futon out in the sun or near a pool, it is highly recommended that you move it into a protected storage space, such as a pool house, garage, or shed, when it is no longer in use. The same applies during off-seasons when you do not plan on being outdoors for long.  
• Cover – The final and easiest way to protect your futon outdoors is by purchasing a protective slipcover to keep over it. 

Protective Slipcovers for Futons

Most slipcovers are made of fabrics such as acrylic, cotton blends, polyester, and synthetic fiber, some of which are great for outdoor use. These woven textiles for protective slipcovers made for outdoor use undergo a chemical treatment that allows them to repel things like mildew and water, all while resisting rot and soiling.  

Another bonus with this type of slipcover is that it is an absolute must-have for anyone who owns pets and/or has children. Yes, you read that correctly! Most outdoor slipcovers will not get ruined the first time a child spills Kool-Aid or a muddy dog leaps onto the seat. Simply vacuum or wipe the cover down with a wet cloth and mild soap as needed. 

Slipcovers for your futon can easily be purchased online; the following are a couple of highly-rated covers:

UltraBlock Futon Full Waterproof Mattress Protector – Premium Soft Cotton Terry Cover

This futon cover is one of the best covers found online. It works with every type of futon mattress, from spring to memory foam. The ultra-block cover is both spill and stain resistant and comes with a customer satisfaction guarantee if you are unsatisfied with the product.  

Last update on 2023-09-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Not to mention that it is hypoallergenic; this means that this futon cover has the added benefit of protecting you and yours by preventing mold and mildew while eliminating dust mites and allergens. It is also beneficial to your wallet; currently, this futon cover is selling for we are a very reasonable price.

Duck Covers Ultimate Waterproof 79-Inch Patio Sofa Cover

Another option is the Duck Covers Ultimate Waterproof Patio Sofa Cover. This futon cover is reminiscent of a bike cover or a grill cover. You just put it over your futon when you are not using it to protect your futon from environmental elements. It is ideal for high moisture climates and comes with a two-year warranty. It has buckles to secure it in place in case of wind.

Last update on 2023-09-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Affordable Futons for Outdoor Use

Futons come in all sizes and colors, and you can buy them anywhere. There are several furniture stores, not to mention everyday stores such as Target, Wal-Mart, and even some mattress stores. If you do not feel like leaving the house to shop for the best outdoor futon, there are also some incredible online options you can look into. 

The following are some of the best-rated futons that can be found on Amazon. Please note that all these options do not come weather-proof; you will need to purchase a protective slipcover to keep them in pristine condition outdoors. 

Mozaic Futon Mattress, Full, Khaki

The Mozaic futon mattress is an excellent option for anyone that desires comfort on a budget.  Its memory foam mattress is dual-sided and made with polyester.  The mattress is covered in cotton twill.  Its dimensions are 75 x 54 x 6 inches thick and designed for comfort in mind. This mattress’s only downfall is that it does not come with a stand or protective slipcover.

Last update on 2023-09-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Kodiak Furniture Monterey Futon Set with Butternut Finish, Full

The Kodiak futon set is more expensive than the Mozaic futon, but it comes with a stand, which makes it worth the money. With 18 colors to choose from, a classic hardwood convertible stand, and a polyester mattress cover, you will get a long-lasting piece of furniture destined to be a guest favorite on summer nights. 

Last update on 2023-09-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Even more incredible is that for a small amount, you can add two storage drawers underneath the futon. The drawers are great for keeping outdoor tools or toys inside.  If your futon is used poolside, you can even fill one drawer with towels and sunblock, while the other can have goggles and pool toys. 

Kodiak Furniture Phoenix Futon Set with Linen Stone Mattress and Storage Drawers, Full

This one is pricey, but it is definitely worth it because it is the total package.  This futon is also considered a full set.  It, too, has a hardwood convertible stand, comes with drawers, and pull-out arm stands that are basically small tables for you to use (or not use) how you please.  

Last update on 2023-09-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This futon’s fabric is durable, and its mattress’s thirteen-gauge Bonnell springs and layers of Certipur-US foam and cotton help offer the support and comfort you need as you sit or lay on it. 

The Kodiak’s mattress conversion is also easy with its unique hinge system. It allows seamless adjustment for sitting and lying positions and keeps the mattress in one sturdy place. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is possible to keep your futon outdoors. The best way to protect it depends on where you position it outside, how much protection that area provides, and how much money you are willing to spend on a protective cover.