{"id":8649,"date":"2018-02-06T11:28:03","date_gmt":"2018-02-06T16:28:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.boatcoversdirect.com\/boat-lovers\/?p=8649"},"modified":"2018-04-17T16:48:21","modified_gmt":"2018-04-17T20:48:21","slug":"how-to-clean-boat-seats-and-keep-them-clean","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.boatcoversdirect.com\/boat-lovers\/editors-picks\/how-to-clean-boat-seats-and-keep-them-clean\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Clean Boat Seats (and Keep Them Clean)"},"content":{"rendered":"

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\"\"Boat seats are designed to withstand the environmental conditions they encounter. Manufacturers use marine grade vinyl to cover seats because it\u2019s known for its strength and ability to stand up to grime. In contrast with most other man-made fabrics, vinyl is highly resistant to moisture and humidity, which is why it\u2019s become the industry standard for marine applications. <\/span><\/p>\n

But there\u2019s only so much that vinyl can take without breaking down. If you aren\u2019t giving your boat seats regular care, they\u2019ll accumulate dirt and mildew that damages them over time. If you want to protect your investment for the long-term, you\u2019ll need to clean your seats periodically and guard them against harmful UV rays from the sun.<\/span><\/p>\n

In this guide, we\u2019ll share a complete set of tips to clean and protect your boat seats, so you won\u2019t have to deal with the damage that comes from neglecting your seats. If you follow these tips, you\u2019ll be able to enjoy your boat\u2019s seating to the fullest!<\/span><\/p>\n

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Check Your Vinyl Type<\/span><\/h2>\n

Not all vinyl is created equal. There are different \u201cgrades\u201d of vinyl, which are designed for varying purposes and have different characteristics. Marine grade vinyl is intended for applications in the conditions that a boat will encounter when it\u2019s in use. Within the marine grade category, there are a few different types of vinyl. <\/span>Some are<\/span><\/a> designed to look perforated or like fabric. It\u2019s a good idea to check with the manufacturer to see if there are any special considerations if you have something other than the standard marine-grade vinyl.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Conduct Routine Cleanings<\/span><\/h2>\n

To extend the life of your seats and keep them looking fresh, you\u2019ll want to create a regular schedule for cleaning. If you get into the habit, you won\u2019t forget what you need to do when. How often you clean will depend on how often you use your boat and how dirty it gets while you\u2019re out. If you notice any visible grime, it\u2019s time to scrub!<\/span><\/p>\n

Wipe Down and Clean Up Immediately<\/span><\/h3>\n

If you make routine maintenance a part of your regular boating experience, you\u2019ll prevent much of the build-up that results from going too long in between cleanings. After you return from each boating trip, simply wipe down your seats.<\/span><\/p>\n

You\u2019ll also want to clean up any spills as soon as they happen. Vinyl does contain pores, and it can stain if messes aren\u2019t wiped up immediately. It\u2019s smart to keep <\/span>cleaning supplies<\/span><\/a> onboard, so you\u2019re prepared for the inevitable.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tree sap is especially notorious for causing damage to boat seats when the boat is parked. Once the sap gets on the seats, the sun bakes the sap in, making it extremely difficult to remove. So if any sap gets on your seats, clean them immediately. Be sure to use a <\/span>boat cover<\/span><\/a> whenever you\u2019re not using the boat, to protect against tree sap.<\/span><\/p>\n

1. Gather Supplies<\/strong><\/p>\n

When you\u2019re ready to do your periodic cleaning, collect all the supplies you\u2019ll need before you begin to streamline the process. Gather your vacuum, several clean cloths, a soft brush, a <\/span>good-quality cleaner<\/span><\/a> that\u2019s designed for marine-grade vinyl, and an old toothbrush. <\/span><\/p>\n

2. Remove Dust and Dirt<\/strong><\/p>\n

Before you introduce cleaners, it\u2019s a good idea to vacuum up any loose dust and dirt particles that may have accumulated. Don\u2019t forget to vacuum under seat covers, between joints, and in crevices.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. Clean With a Marine-Grade Vinyl Cleaner<\/strong><\/p>\n

While each product will have its own instructions you should follow, generally you\u2019ll use this process:<\/span><\/p>\n