Re-treating Boat Covers & Tops With 303®

If you are one of the many marine enthusiasts who can't wait to get on the water, we're right there with you. It's hard not to smile when you hop aboard your boat for a quick spin around the lake or even a well-planned day trip. When you're out on the open water, the weather is favorable, and you're surrounded by good company, it's a feeling of pure joy that is unmatched.

 

A close up view of a sailboat on the water A close up view of a sailboat on the water

 

As a boat owner, you already know the importance of keeping up with maintenance. But not all boat maintenance is related to replacing the spark plugs, inspecting the fluid levels, and repairing damaged fuel hoses. Your boat cover requires attention, too, and there's an easy way to tell when it's time for a quick re-treatment.

 

Sunbrella marine fabric tops and covers are fade resistant, mold and mildew resistant, and weather resistant, protecting your boat against the harsh marine elements. However, after many years, you may start to notice your boat cover starting to absorb water or dirt lingering on the surface longer than it used to. When that happens, it's time to give your boat cover or top a little love, and re-treating it is a simple two-step system.

 

1. Clean Dirt & Debris

A bottle of 303 Marine Multi-Surface Cleaner sitting on a boat on the waterA bottle of 303 Marine Multi-Surface Cleaner sitting on a boat on the water
303 Marine Multi-Surface Cleaner works on vinyl and fabrics

 

Boat covers and tops made with Sunbrella fabric are naturally designed to stand up to life on the water–and the debris and stains that come with it. However, constant exposure to marine conditions means dirt and debris will accumulate from time to time. In these scenarios, 303 Marine Multi-Surface Cleaner works well to easily lift anything that fell or spilled on top of the fabric without leaving any residue behind. This last part is key because streak lines on the cover will take beauty points away from even the prettiest boat in the harbor.

 

2. Restore Lost Water Repellancy

A bottle of 303 Marine Fabric Guard sitting in front of a covered boat on the waterA bottle of 303 Marine Fabric Guard sitting in front of a covered boat on the water
303 Marine Fabric Guard helps to restore lost water repellency

 

303 Marine Fabric Guard helps to restore lost water repellency in boat covers and Bimini tops that can naturally occur over time.  To retreat the fabric, make sure it is completely clean and dry by using a residue-free cleaner. Ideally, you'll want to pick a day where the temperature is at least 70° Fahrenheit to get the best results. Spray the product evenly until the entire surface area is visibly wet. Give it a full 24 hours to cure and test it out by pouring water on it when the fabric appears dry. You'll love the feeling you get when you see the water droplets bead up and slide right off.

 

A black Bimini top on a boat on the waterA black Bimini top on a boat on the water

 

Boat covers made with Sunbrella fabric have been trusted by boaters and fabricators worldwide for over 50 years.  Sunbrella marine fabrics naturally repel water, are highly resistant to fading and stains, and are super easy to clean. The fabric is designed specifically to withstand the stress of marine environments, offering trusted comfort and protection for your boat.

 

You can always rely on the power of 303's marine products to replenish that protection and take your boat cover to the next level. Using 303’s high-powered cleaners and protectants with Sunbrella fabric is an outstanding way to keep your boat cover in excellent shape for years to come.