When I bought my project boat the "Character", it had some very nice darker blue, bunk and settee cushions. But this boat had been lived in by some hygienically challenged people, hence the cushions stank!

I removed them from the boat and took them home to work on. Knowing they were damp and this was Florida in the summer time I knew the only way to start cleaning them was to get the dampness out. So in the house they came to enjoy the air conditioning and the lower humidity that goes along with 78 degrees. OK, momma did not raise a fool but I am occasionally a little dumb. Family member quickly let me know that the cushions still stank here in the house as well as in the boat and my life was in danger if I did not get them out of the house then and there.

So here is what I did that bright clear sunny late May day:

(These were foam cushions with cloth covers, if yours are anything else, you’re on your own.)

1. Take the covers off.
2. If they are cloth, wash them according to directions supplied or in Woolite several times. This material tends to be heavy so make sure you get it dry within 12 hours or they could start to smell. I don’t think placing them in the dryer is a good idea. However, if you can’t ring them out and hang dry them quick enough then try the dryer on air or low heat and monitor them closely.
3. Take the cushions outside in the bright clear sun and lay them out.
4. One at a time; spray them lightly with a pleasant smelling ammonia, quickly sprinkle them a carpet smell fresh product, and lightly spray them again with the ammonia. Let them dry like this in the full sun for as long as possible.
5. Flip them over and do the underside when they are dry on the first side. Don't forget to do the edges. Let this side dry fully in the sun.
6. Do this a couple times as needed (until they smell nice again.)
7. Bring them into the house, dry storage room, or your boat.

Tips:

• Don’t use a strong smelling ammonia.
• Use a carpet freshener that you don’t mind having close to your nose if you are cleaning your bunk cushions.
• Once done, don't put them back out side or anywhere else where they are subject to humid conditions.