mattress protection -

[Diane]

We are putting our boat up for winter soon - any suggestions for protecting the mattress over the winter?? So many boat interiors end up musty or mildewy! Thanks for any tips.....

 

[Bradley Cavedo]

Take all cushions home

The instructions from Hunter said to take all cushions home for storage over the winter. We have done that every year and the cuchions/matresses are in great shape. No smell.

 

[Susan Hopkins]

Definitely take them home

I wrap mine in old sheets (I don't care for plastic; no ventilation) and store them under my beds. They were fresh as a daisy last spring.

 

[Bob Miller]

Musty or Mildewy!

I agree with taking matresses/cushions home, but what about the rest of the boat? In the Seattle area, we leave the boat in the water year round and don't winterize. But, we do have plenty of moisture and humidity which contributes to mildewyness (I like that word). My solution for the last 10 years or so is to leave electric space heaters on 24/7. I keep the temperature at a constant 50 to 60 degrees (just to be able to visit a warm and cozy boat on my ocassional visits). A temperature of 35 to 40 degrees would be just as good. The constant temperature and air flow virtually illiminate any condensation and resulting mustyness or mildewyness. It's a little expensive, but the results are worth it.

 

[Bob Knott]

It's easy

Use coffe mugs or cups under the mattresses. By placing them underneath you allow air to circulate. Also leave all underneath storage bins open to allow air in there also. We've used this simple system for years and never once have we had a problem. In the spring you remove the cups, wash them at home in the dishwasher, and go sailing!Bob KnottH380