Learn about the trials and tribulations of making the bed on a small sailboat – and the myths of an un-disturbed v-berth.
Prefer to read? See Nica’s post Making the Bed On Board
making boat life better
Published on ; last updated on by Nica Waters
Learn about the trials and tribulations of making the bed on a small sailboat – and the myths of an un-disturbed v-berth.
Prefer to read? See Nica’s post Making the Bed On Board
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Anastasia Ensminger says
Glad you touched on this as I’ve been wondering about the ideal bedding set up. The cinch sheets in the link above look like a nice solution, if a bit pricey. Are there alternatives? What about blankets? Duvet and cover? Do you keep spare blanket(s)? Trying to figure out what in my land life will come aboard with me.
Carolyn Shearlock says
Here’s another way to keep sheets on. It’s not quite as good as the CinchFit, especially with odd-shaped mattresses. I have a quilt on the bed and also keep a fleece blanket for the few winter days that are cooler. Exactly what you’ll need depends on where you’ll be cruising. Check average temperatures as well as likely winter lows to see what you may want to take on the boat with you.
Anastasia Ensminger says
Thanks! Love the idea of sewing the straps and use of swimsuit clips!
julie Neaderthal says
I love when Nica says that making a bed is your cardio for the day! So true. Our master bed
is centerline, which makes it somewhat easier to make. The forward V-berth is the challenge. We use
a cotton quilt or duvet but have a lightweight washable down blanket for cooler nights.
My best advice to someone who is adding or changing a mattress is: your mattress should be able to fold
in half. The mattress should have a non-padded break in the middle which makes it easier to lift up one side
without lifting the entire mattress.
P LaGrelius says
HI Carolyn:
We just bought a 34″ Gemini in Guaymas,, Mexico….and I am researching bedding….checked out the Cinch-fit and found the products to be quite expensive. Looking at other sites, am planning to purchase sheets (any suggestion on type…microfibre? sateen?)….adding corner straps.to keep them on….also a mattress cover…(suggestion for type? waterproof? to avoid mold?). In addition to sheets, looking at a quilt for winter…but sounds like I should have another blanket handy for cooler nights? Some beddings come with shams and pillows, but I am thinking I don’t really need those. I want to avoid mold at all costs on the bedding….We are part time sailors at this point. Thank you!
Carolyn Shearlock says
I like plain cotton sheets, many others also like bamboo. My experience with microfiber was that I didn’t like the feel but you might. Yes on a waterproof mattress cover — it does help with mold. If you’ll be in the Sea of Cortez for the winter, you’ll want both a quilt and an extra blanket for the cooler times. I like a fleece blanket for the boat — I use it on the bed and occasionally put it around my legs while sitting in the evening. Fleece washes easily and resists mold. For the quilt, just make sure it’s washable. While I love down comforters, they’re not good on a boat as down has zero insulation if it gets wet — and leaks can happen!
I’ve written more about our bedding in this article: Sleeping Well Means Better Cruising
Enjoy your Gemini!
P LaGrelius says
Carolyn:
Thank you, your bedding comments have been very helpful.. Another question, you got a waterproof mattress pad that did not cover sides, what are your thoughts on a zippered encased waterproof mattress cover? I am unsure if that would be better in the hot summers of the Sea of Cortez….might the mattress need to breathe? I found a fully encased one on Amazon, and would appreciate your thoughts.