Tips for futon mattress

[boyswillbeboys]

We have an old futon, that little guy(5) is sleeping on right now, over the last 2 years we have had two different roommates sleep on that bed, and there are several stains, my first choice would be to replace it with a twin bed, but we don't have the funds.

I have two mattress covers for it, one just a padded cover, the other one (bought for DS because of bedwetting) is waterproof. I am out of febreeze, so since I have to buy something to use anyway, is there a better product available in Canada that works as an antibacterial as well? The main smell I notice is the same smell on the mattress when we bought it new, and febreeze doesn't touch that, so smell removal isn't actually my first concern, more antibacterial, due to more than one person using it, and the stains. Something I can spray on, and leave on.

[messymommy]

Do you have access to a steamer? Steam cleaning the futon will kill any bacteria that may be on it, and also dust mites, etc. Then you can mist it with plain vinegar and let it dry. The vinegar smell dissipates and leaves it odor free.

If no access to a steamer, we have some stuff here called Odoban. Hospitals use it, too. It is antibacterial as well as odor killing. Maybe you can get it there, too.

[sparkle]

Odoban is great stuff, just don't make solution too concentrated. I once got a bit too enthusiastic and then couldn't bear the smell for months. I would think someplace you sleep would really get to you if the smell was strong. It doesn't dissipate quickly. Just dilute it enough and it's a great product. Planning to use some myself this afternoon to put in the bottom of the bucket that catches leaks in the airlock roof. It makes the room minty and no stank problem with bucket.

[messymommy]

So true, Sparkle. A little goes a long way with Odoban. (I've done the same thing myself and the smell was way more than I wanted for a long time.) If you use the directions on the container, it will be just right.

[Layla]

Also if you are able to put it outside in bright sunlight for a few days that also kills germs, odor and sunlight bleaches stains.