A big part of the boat ownership ‘experience’ is maintenance. Yes, proper boat maintenance, in all aspects, can add many years to not only the life of your boat but to the overall experience as well.
Not to mention, if and when you do go to sell your boat, a properly cared for boat shines above those that were abused and neglected along the way.
Not even taking in to consideration all the various forms of ‘usages’, as well as the differences between boats that have been primarily used in ‘fresh water’ compared to those that have been subjected to salt water.
All of these ‘situations’ can detract from a boats appearance. And the more ‘elbow grease’ that is applied throughout a boats life, the better off the boat owner will be.
The following are a few tips and tricks to help keep your boat looking it’s best and in tip top shape.
What You’ll Need
Castile soap
Water
Washing soda
Tea tree oil
Hydrogen peroxide
Bucket
Scrub brush
Spray bottle
Clean rags
303 Aerospace Vinyl Protectant
Maintaining boat upholstery requires a deep cleaning once or twice a year and somewhat frequent surface cleanings. How often you use your boat and how much sun it gets will help determine the life of its upholstery. Marine upholstery is built to withstand constant water contact and to take direct sunlight.
However, if it is not properly maintained, the sun can dry it out and ruin it before its time. There are excellent marine vinyl protectants on the market, but in terms of regular cleaning, the best materials are common household cleaning agents.
Step 1: Keep Mildew and Mold Off
The step in boat vinyl upholstery maintaining is to ensure that the growth of mold and mildew is kept to an absolute minimum. Without resorting to harsh chemical agents, there is a very simple solution for this. Combine hydrogen peroxide and warm water in either a bucket or a spray bottle. Use the ratio of 1 part hydrogen peroxide to 1 part water. Spray the solution onto the vinyl and let it sit for a minute. Scrub it all over the vinyl, on the seats, behind the seats and in the seams. Be sure to use fresh hydrogen peroxide. It should bubble and fizz when you add it to water.
Step 2: Clean Down with Soap and Soda Mixture
To wash the vinyl off after scrubbing off the mold, mix together the following in a spray bottle:
½ teaspoon Castile soap
½ teaspoon washing soda
2 cups water
15 to 20 drops tea tree essential oil
This is an all-purpose cleaner that is good on any surface. Spray it onto the vinyl and wipe down all surfaces with a clean rag. Be sure to remove all moisture from the vinyl after you have cleaned it.
Step 3: Vinyl Protectant
In the sun, vinyl will eventually discolor, dry and crack. This can take a long time, but if you don’t protect the vinyl upholstery, it can happen at an alarming rate, especially if there is no cover on the boat and it is left out when not in use.
A good product to use is called 303 Aerospace Vinyl Protectant, used by boat owners to protect their boat’s vinyl interior from both water and sun damage. Read the directions before applying for proper quantities and frequency. It is a small price to pay for protecting the vinyl from excessive weather damage.
Step 4: Replace Vinyl When Needed
Eventually, all vinyl will crack and will need to be replaced. If you clean and protect it properly, it will last a long time. After a while, though, it will be required. The bulk replacement vinyl can cost anywhere between $10 and $15 per 3-foot section, so it can quickly add up. That does not include the cost of labor.
If you are experienced with vinyl replacement and have the time, you can do it yourself, but a professional marine vinyl installer is recommended. Depending on how much needs to be replaced, with the cost of the vinyl, padding and other materials and the labor, you should expect to spend at least $500.
The best way to ensure long life for your marine vinyl upholstery is to maintain it frequently. Cleaning it regularly and making sure mold and mildew is kept at bay, in addition to protecting it from water and sun damage, are necessary maintenance steps.
