Outdoor Futons

 

Outdoor furniture has grown in popularity. Many people are decorating their sunrooms, patios, and yards with pieces that were previously found only in the living room. Futons have become popular as a way to conserve space and allow furniture to serve more than one purpose. Outdoor futons let people have the best of both worlds: versatile, comfortable furniture in an outside living room.

There are several different styles of outdoor futon. They are sold as couches, chairs, loungers, and even swings.  Some styles are indistinguishable from their indoor counterparts, while others are quite different.

The frames for the outdoor furniture are often metal, while some styles offer protected wood frames. These frames are similar to traditional ones with slots and armrests, instead of some of the modern styles that look more like couches than the older frames did. These armrests can be made comfortable with pillows and cushions sold in futon stores.

Loungers are often called tri-fold futons because they fold in separate sections. Lounger futons can be standard frames that will allow people to lie down or raise the back to sit up while the legs stay stretched out.  Another style will fold down for the leg rest. This gives the futon a curved look.

Futon loungers come in different sizes, chair, two-seat couch, and three seat couch. This allows owners to place them by the pool, on a porch, or in a modern outdoor living room setting.

Swing futons are two or three seat futon couches set in an a-frame swing. Often, they have a canopy to provide shade for those who want to relax and enjoy the view. Like with a standard futon, futon swings can fold out from a couch to a bed.

An important aspect of outdoor futons is the protective cover. These futons are exposed to conditions that can destroy a cotton futon mattress. Wind, snow, rain, sun, wild animals, and pets can harm a futon mattress, making the furniture worthless.

An outdoor futon mattress cover will keep a futon mattress safe and dry. Cotton and wool, the standard filling for a futon mattress, can act like a sponge. If the mattress absorbs water, mold can form in the mattress. Mold can create allergens and is harmful if breathed in, especially black mold. Waterproof covers will prevent this from happening.

Vinyl outdoor futon covers come in many different colors or patterns to match the rest of the outdoor decor. Futon covers can also be removed for easy cleaning should they become soiled, and are usually machine washable.

Some outdoor futons are actually considered indoor/outdoor futons. They are made of materials that are more durable than standard futons, but may not be suitable for the elements. Check the materials and find out if this type of futon is appropriate for a patio or sun porch before purchasing. It would be beneficial to spend the money on this furniture and then have it ruined after a few seasons of use.  

If you loved to entertain outdoors, you may want to consider buying outdoor futons to create a living room on your patio. They are a great way to sit and enjoy the sun, or snuggle by an outdoor fireplace. The many different styles of outdoor futons provide opportunities for people to find one that will fit their needs and budget.