Springtime is officially here, which means it’s time to pull your boat out of storage and get ready for some time spent on the water this season. Whether you’re planning for early season fishing or just can’t wait for a day out with the family, we’ve compiled a list of tips for cleaning and preparing your boat for the warm weather seasons.
Cleaning Your Boat
Before your first excursion, it’s important to take some time to clean your boat. Keeping your boat clean is a good way to ensure it lasts longer, removing residue, debris, and other build-up. A clean boat is also much more welcoming for any passengers you may have.
After long months of storage or sitting dormant, it’s a good idea to give your boat a thorough cleaning, from top to bottom. Grab your favorite marine wash to scrub down all the surfaces of your vessel.
Cleaning Boat Upholstery
When cleaning a boat, many people overlook the importance of cleaning their upholstery. When you choose Sunbrella fabrics for your boat, you get the benefit of having low maintenance, easy-to-clean fabrics that look and feel great for years on the water.
For general cleaning of boat upholstery and marine vinyl, try Sunbrella® Clean™ Multi-Purpose Fabric Cleaner. Sunbrella Clean powers through spills and stains and is specially formulated to safely clean and brighten your Sunbrella fabrics. Use it to remove everyday dirt and grime including food, drinks, pet messes, and more!
Sunbrella Clean Multi-Purpose Fabric Cleaner is safe to use on all Sunbrella fabrics and vinyl and wipes away with no sticky or cloudy residue behind.
Follow these steps for general cleaning of Sunbrella marine fabrics:
- First, brush off any loose dirt.
- Prepare a cleaning solution of 1/4 cup mild soap per gallon of lukewarm water or use Sunbrella Clean Multi-Purpose Fabric Cleaner.
- Use a sponge or a soft bristle brush to clean your fabrics.
- Allow the cleaning solution to soak into fabric.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.
- Allow the fabric to air dry.
Cleaning Sunbrella Horizon®
Sunbrella Horizon marine vinyl is engineered to stand up to constant exposure to harsh marine conditions. One of the best ways to maintain the appearance of Sunbrella Horizon is to regularly care for it. Hose fabrics off monthly with clean water to help prevent dirt from becoming deeply embedded in the fabric and eliminate the need for more frequent cleaning.
Follow these steps for general cleaning of Sunbrella Horizon:
- Wipe spills as they occur with a dry towel, soft cloth, or napkin.
- Clean with a soapy water solution, such as 1 teaspoon of mild soap to 1 cup of water or use Sunbrella Clean Multi-Purpose Fabric Cleaner.
- Blot excess moisture with a clean, dry towel, soft cloth or napkin.
- For stubborn stains, use isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol.
- Rinse thoroughly with water until all soap is removed.
- Allow fabric to air dry.
Cleaning Marine Tops and Shade
Adventures on the water require a vessel well-equipped to handle sun and sea spray. Sunbrella offers trusted comfort and protection for boat covers and tops. Like your boat upholstery, hose marine canvas fabrics off monthly with clean water. This helps prevent dirt from becoming deeply embedded in the fabric and eliminates the need for more frequent thorough cleaning.
Follow these steps for cleaning your Sunbrella Marine tops and covers:
- Brush off loose dirt.
- Hose down with clean water.
- Prepare a cleaning solution of water and mild soap or use Sunbrella Clean Multi-Purpose Fabric Cleaner.
- Use a soft bristle brush to clean.
- Allow cleaning solution to soak into the fabric.
- Rinse thoroughly until all soap residue is removed.
- Air dry.
Sunbrella fabrics are treated with a proprietary water and stain repellent finish that is designed to last for several years but may require replenishing depending on the age of the fabric or after a thorough cleaning. Sunbrella recommends 303® Fabric Guard™ to retreat fabrics.
Cleaning Mold and Mildew
Sunbrella fabrics do not promote mildew growth. However, mildew may grow on dirt and other foreign substances that are not removed from the fabric. Be sure to address any mold or mildew you find as soon as possible. Sunbrella marine upholstery, Sunbrella Horizon marine vinyl, and Sunbrella marine tops and covers are bleach-cleanable for mildew and other stubborn stains.
- Follow these steps for cleaning your Sunbrella fabrics with bleach:
- Prepare a solution of 1 cup of bleach: 1/4 cup mild soap per gallon of water.
- Apply and allow to soak into the fabric for 15 minutes.
- Remove stain with a non-abrasive sponge, towel, or very soft bristle brush.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.
- Allow fabric to air dry.
- If stain and/or mildew are severe, bleach quantities may be increased.
Pro-Tip: Take the time to empty your boat and remove all personal items before cleaning. As you remove safety gear, inspect each life jacket for signs of wear and replenish your first-aid kit.
Now Kick Back, Relax, and Enjoy!
Taking the time to thoroughly clean your boat at the beginning of the season will mean easier maintenance throughout the prime boating months. Regular care of your Sunbrella fabrics will keep them looking like new for many boating seasons to come!
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