For those of you that have been trolling the website for that perfect futon cover, you’ve probably seen the term “three-way zipper” a lot. It is usually described as “innovative” or “easy to use.” But what is it exactly? And why is it the best thing since sliced bread?

Firstly, the “three-way” does not describe the structure or design of the zipper itself - it’s not that revolutionary. It’s your traditional zipper, although of a polished, smooth quality. If it ain’t broke, why fix it?

What “three-way” describes is the direction and length of the zipper. The zipper goes three ways: up one side, across the top, and back down the other side. Think of it as the shape of a flattened letter U. So instead of trying to stuff a heavy mattress into an unwieldy cover like you would a pillow into a pillowcase (one-way), you would be opening the cover like a book and placing the mattress into it, fitting it in a much more relaxed, leisurely fashion. Consequently, removing it for cleaning is also much easier.

Perhaps the only argument that one could muster against the three-way zipper is simply that there is too much zipper: since zippers are generally an unattractive item, we should try to minimize them. However, modern ingenuity has yielded the “vanity flap” - a flap of fabric that hides the zipper very effectively. Almost all of the covers here at Futons, Etc. feature this invaluable zipper shroud.

With that, the last shreds of any argument against the three-way zipper are thrown away. Unless you like awkward and frustrating workouts, make sure that your next futon cover features a two or three-way zipper.

P.S. Remember, dealing with a futon cover with a shoddy, unwieldy zipper is a slippery slope. Once exposed to the initial drag of a futon cover with a one-way zipper, you will be inclined to put off cleaning it - again and again. During this extended period of procrastination, dust mites and other critters will be making your stained and soiled mattress their new home. Not long after, you could get sick, then you may have to go to the hospital, then….we shouldn’t speculate any further.