Mold, Mildew, and old foam

[Bill K Jr]

I am seeing if I can refurbish some old, yet decent, foam cushions from a travel trailer. At one time the trailer leaked and the foam smells a bit mildewed. I came across this suggestion to use baking soda and vinegar. It looks plausible. I was wondering if anyone here had tried it. Here is the link

How to Remove a Mildew Smell in Foam Cushions | eHow.com


Bill

[Dennis Clinton]

It's almost impossible to get the mold out from the cells inside the foam. Also, foam does not age well, will slowly get less firm and start to decompose(stuff will look like sand on the inside of the covers when you take them off. It's not that expensive to just replace. Had my boat cushions recovered a few years ago and the upholsterer recommended the foam be replaced too-it was about 15 years old(but exposed to the sun a lot too). New foam made a big difference in comfort. Just my opinion.

[ruscal]

It is impossible to remove mold spores from porous surfaces. You may have success with that method for reducing the musty odor though. Even dead spores can cause allergic reactions to sensitive people, so it is best to replace the affected materials. I got this info from a mold inspection class I attended.
Older foam cushions tend to get stiff with age. I replaced all my 10 year old 16' Scamp cushions just to get the new resiliency back. The set was $ 220.00 for medium density foam.
Russ

[Bill K Jr]

Thanks. Any suggestions where to buy foam? I have looked in some fabric shops, but it seems expensive there.

Bill

[Donna D.]

Have you considered checking out a wrecking yard and seeing if you can get replacement foam out of an old moho or conversion van? It cuts like butter with an electric knife. Just a suggestion if new is not in the budget.

[ruscal]

Originally Posted by Bill K Jr

Thanks. Any suggestions where to buy foam? I have looked in some fabric shops, but it seems expensive there.

Bill

I got mine from an Upholstery Fabric Outlet. They had differing grades priced accordingly. I went with a medium quality and density. They said it should last 10 years. The 4" thickness provides good comfort, and I am a side sleeper. 5" would be better, but would require new upholstery.
Russ

[Bill K Jr]

Donna,

That's an interesting idea. I also thought of looking at furniture at Goodwill etc. I do like outlet stores, I'll need to see if there is one nearby.

Bill

[Donna D.]

Bill be sure to check the price of new-replacement before shopping. That way you'll know if what you see in an outlet store or wrecking yard is a good deal or not. Good luck on the hunt!