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

Designed to withstand the rigors of machine washing, futon covers are available in a variety of prints, solid colors, and sizes. While these washable covers can be mixed and matched to add some variety to your interior décor, the main feature is that they are easy to keep clean. Unlike regular upholstery that may require professional cleaning, the occasional mess created by children or pets is not a problem with machine washable covers.

Typically, a machine washable futon cover has two large zippers. The entire cover looks like a large sheet made of denim or some other material and has a seam down the middle. To install, spread out the cover, align the mattress against the seam, and then fold the cover over to cover the entire futon mattress. There are two zippers, one in each corner. Close the cover and that’s all there is to putting a cover on a futon mattress. When it’s time to wash, simply unzip the futon cover and pull it off the mattress.

Especially after a few spins in the washing machine, the zippers on your futon cover can occasionally snag. Trying to get the zipper to work can be frustrating.

It may be tempting, but don’t try to pry open the stuck zipper because pulling too hard could inadvertently break the zipper tab 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 isn’t available, a bar of hand soap works, though not as well.

If the problem is not “sticky” due to age, dirt, or other factors, a string or fabric from the futon cover could get caught in the fastener unit. Carefully remove any trapped material or string that is jamming the zipper. The inner fabric is usually what gets caught, so a pair of tweezers can come in handy to grab the material or thread. Gently pull any inner lining, thread, or other material caught in the unit to separate it from the zipper. A slight tug will work, as long as you don’t pull on the zipper tab. Forcing the zipper tab up or down will make the problem worse. Depending on how embedded the futon fabric or thread is in the zipper unit, the teeth may separate when the material is removed. Gently push the zipper teeth back into place and the zipper should work. It is helpful to check the length of the zipper and push the liner to prevent snagging in the future. Recompress and the problem should be fixed.

Although they don’t cost much, machine washable futon covers are quite durable and their zippers are strong. However, having a spare pair of futon covers can come in handy if the zipper breaks.