Airstream mattress platform - moldy from condensation
We just returned from a 3100 mile trip to the Florida Panhandle with our DWR Airstream, and to our dismay, we discovered that our mattress was starting to develop mold on the bottom. Moisture sans air flow is a breeding ground for mold. This was bound to happen if one looks at the construction of the mattress platform. Airstream decided to use two plywood sections to lay the mattress onto. There is no air flow to the center of the mattress, therefore in cold and damp weather, the colder storage compartment develops condensation between the mattress and the plywood platform.
Airstream bed platform - with moldy panels removed
This is certainly a design flaw. We have discovered that our DWR Airstream trailer is an interesting combination of great design and somewhat shoddy carpentry. So, my brother Mark Thomas from Thomas Design/Build and I created a solution, so that we can get out of town without creating more mold build-up. We purchased pine slats for $8.50, an aluminum strip to complete the rear support structure, a box of screws and a galvanized metal sheet to isolate the heater compartment from direct contact with the mattress.
Mark Thomas - replacing ply-wood mattress platform with pine slats to improve air circulation below mattress
Three hours later we had replaced the plywood panels with a breathable wood slat system that lets air circulate under the mattress between the storage compartment and the rest of the trailer. My brother is an architect who actually has the skills to build a house himself. Due to his excellent upgrade, we’re ready to travel mold-free!
Airstream with slat system for mattress breathability
This was a great idea!
I also have a similar problem. How did your solution work this year? Thanks. Rick Savage
I haven’t gone through another winter yet but did some cold weather camping and so far so good. It definitely keeps moisture from building up below the mattress in our DWR Airstream. Good Luck. Martin Thomas
Did you have to replace the mattress itself? If so, do you know where I can order one? We lived in the desert for the first few years we owned our CCD Airstream, and so we never had this problem. Four months in Washington State…different story.
We did not have to replace the Mattress. I just washed it down with diluted bleach in water and let the sun dry it. But ours wasn’t too bad. If your Mattress is really bad then I would replace it. I don’t know of any places where you could get a replacement, but I would buy a solid latex mattress and cut it to fit. I like latex mattresses more and since there are no springs inside you can cut the corners off to match the Airstream.
Good luck. Martin