Salon cushion cleaning and replacement foam

[csoule13]

After being overseas for the past three months, it's time to finally gear up for sailing season here on the Chesapeake. Boat is getting splashed next week.

Over the winter, I ended up removing the old foam from the two salon cushions in my CD27. The foam was stained, mildewy and the smell was....well, I think I know where part of the boat funk is coming from.

I'm going to hose down the old covers with some soapy water, with a little bleach added on the vinyl(unless someone can suggest a better cleaning solution). For the foam, I was looking at Sailrite's products. Anyone have any experience here? My sailing is coastal cruising in the Chesapeake, spending no more than one or two nights on board.

Thanks as always,
Chris
1978 CD27

[steveg]

Hi Chris,

I used outdoor foam from a manufacturer in Michigan. Water flows right through it. It was suitable for berth cushions in both the 3 and 4" thickness. Made new cushions with it over the winter in the 4" and am very satisfied.

Here is the link: https://foamforyou.com/residential-foam ... -foam.html

[Frenchy]

I'd advise against Sailrite's Dri-Fast foam for bedding. It's great for cockpit cushions, comfortable for sitting and will not
get soggy, assuming you have an open-weave bottom layer of fabric. It's too rigid for sleeping on.
For bedding, an open cell foam is better. To prevent moisture getting in, wrap the foam in thin plastic such as Sailrite sells for that purpose. The plastic wrap can also be used to suck air out of the foam making it much easier to insert. - Jean

[steveg]

People have different preferences for their bedding. Personally I found the outdoor foam, which seems about the same as the dry fast from Sailrite, to be fine for sleeping. I prefer firm bedding. It is a positive in my opinion that water will not remain in the foam in cases of drips or any other manner of moisture getting on the cushions. The outdoor foam was less expensive than the dry fast.

[csoule13]

Thanks Steve. These would be for the salon, but I do tend to prefer a firmer cushion for those afternoon naps. The dog doesn't seem to have a preference.

[Joe CD MS 300]

Our cockpit cushions were fabricated by the previous owner. I’m thinking there are at least 20 years old and are I’m perfect shape. They are a closed cell foam and will not absorb water, fairly firm. They do not “powder” as some foams do over time. My guess is that this foam will out last me. I’d go to a foam shop that carries all types and look at various closed cell foams. I don’t know the name or type of foam it is other than it’s closed cell.