Protect Your Boat Seats: Best Vinyl Protectants

Boat seats are often made of vinyl, which is a popular choice for boat owners, boaters, and mariners. Vinyl is a durable material, but it can be susceptible to damage from the sun, weather, and time if not properly protected. To maintain the quality and longevity of boat seats, it is important to regularly clean and protect them.

One recommended product for cleaning boat vinyl is Gold Eagle's 303® Multi-Surface Cleaner, which can be used on all water-safe surfaces and leaves no residue or streaking behind. To clean boat vinyl, spray a light coat of the cleaner directly onto the seat, let it sit for a minute, and then use a soft brush to work it into the vinyl in circular strokes. Use a towel to remove the loosened dirt and grime, and a toothbrush for crevices.

After cleaning, it is important to protect the vinyl with a product like 303 Aerospace Protectant, which provides superior UV protection to prevent fading and cracking. Spray the protectant on the cleaned surface and wipe it dry, buffing with a dry cloth for greater bonding and longevity. Repeat the cleaning and protection process every three to five weeks to maximize UV protection.

In addition to regular cleaning and protection, it is important to cover boat seats when they are not in use, as the sun can cause fading and cracking. Vents in the boat cover are also recommended to allow for proper air circulation and prevent mold. For stubborn stains or mold, a marine vinyl cleaner, such as Marine 31, 3M Vinyl Cleaner/Protectant Cream, or 303 Marine & Recreation Aerospace Protectant, can be used. However, it is important to avoid using harsh cleaners or power washers, as they can damage the vinyl.

How to clean vinyl boat seats

Cleaning your boat seats

Firstly, rinse down the seats with freshwater. Then, clean the vinyl cushions with a soft brush or cloth and a gentle soap, such as dish soap, as often as possible—at least once a week. You can also use a good-quality boat vinyl cleaner, like Gold Eagle's 303® Multi-Surface Cleaner. Spray a light coat of the cleaner directly onto the seat and let it sit for about a minute. Then, take the soft brush and work over the vinyl in circular strokes, applying very little pressure. Go over the entire surface of the seat in segments, using a toothbrush for piping and crevices. Finally, use a towel to remove the dirt and grime that the cleaner loosens.

Drying your boat seats

After washing your boat seats, remember to always wipe them down until they are completely dry. When moisture is left on a surface that's susceptible to high humidity, it creates the perfect breeding ground for mildew.

Using a protective sealant

There are many top-rated brands on the market that can help prevent the onset of mildew or mould on your boat seats. Remember to do your research to find out which product is best for your fabric and follow all directions carefully. After cleaning and drying your seats, apply a vinyl protectant, like 303 Aerospace Protectant, to the surface and wipe the area completely dry. For greater bonding and longevity, buff a few times with a dry cloth. Repeat this process, along with cleaning, every three to five weeks to maximize UV protection.

Removing mildew stains from your boat seats

To remove mildew stains from your boat seats, invest in a quality mildew remover that is specially formulated for boat use and safe to apply to vinyl material. After applying the mildew remover and treating your seats, be sure to practice cleaning and drying your seats regularly to avoid further exposure to mildew.

Preventing mildew on your boat seats

To prevent mildew from getting cozy on your boat seats, cover your seats when they are not in use. The sun will damage anything left outside and is the number one cause of fading and cracked seats. If possible, store your boat in a dry, ventilated area when it's not in use.

Products to avoid when cleaning your boat seats

• Power washer
• Magic Eraser
• Degreasers
• Bleach
• Goo B Gone
• 409
• Gasoline
• Household cleaners
• Caustic cleaners

How to prevent mould from forming on vinyl boat seats

Mould and mildew are constant dangers for boat owners, as the warm, dark, damp conditions they provide are perfect for mould to thrive in. If left untreated, mould can break down the vinyl your seats are made of, which can be costly to repair.

To prevent mould from forming on vinyl boat seats, you should:

Wipe down your seats after use

Even if there doesn't seem to be any moisture, it's a good idea to run a towel through the cracks and seams of your seats after each use. Mould and mildew form from moisture, so keeping your seats as dry as possible will help prevent mould from growing.

Maintain your boat while it's in storage

Mildew can spring up when you least expect it, especially if your vessel is in storage. Regularly checking in on your boat can help you catch a mess before it becomes a problem.

Purchase mildew-resistant seat material

If you are in the market for a new boat or are replacing a seat that's too far gone, look into mould-resistant materials. While not one hundred percent foolproof, they will reduce your chances of getting a mouldy mess in the first place.

Keep your seats covered

Use a cover that has good ventilation to keep your seats out of direct sunlight and to keep them dry. The sun will dry out the plasticizers over time, which causes cracking. A cover will also help prevent fading and mould/mildew from forming on the seats.

Keep your boat well-ventilated

When covering your boat, ensure you have the right ventilation for your cover to keep your seats dry. This will prevent moisture from getting trapped, which is how mould and mildew form.

Clean your seats regularly

Use a good-quality boat vinyl cleaner, such as Gold Eagle's 303® Multi-Surface Cleaner, to clean your seats regularly. To clean boat upholstery, follow the directions on the product you choose. Generally, to clean vinyl, you should:

• Spray a light coat of vinyl seat cleaner directly onto the seat and let it sit for about a minute.
• Take a soft brush and work over the vinyl in circular strokes, applying very little pressure.
• Go over the entire surface of the seat in segments, then use a towel to remove the dirt and grime that the cleaner loosens.
• For piping and crevices, use a toothbrush. Spray the cleaner directly onto the brush, then follow with a clean section of the towel. Always use a clean portion of the towel so that you are not just re-applying dirt to the seat.

Protect your vinyl boat upholstery

After your vinyl boat seats have been thoroughly cleaned, protect them with a product like 303 Aerospace Protectant. This product provides superior UV protection to prevent fading and cracking of the vinyl, repels smudges, dust and other stains, and leaves a dry, matte finish with no greasy feel. To protect your boat seats:

• Spray the protectant on the cleaned vinyl surface, and wipe the area completely dry.
• For greater bonding and longevity, buff a few times with a dry cloth.
• Repeat this process, along with cleaning, every three to five weeks to maximize UV protection.

How to prevent vinyl boat seats from cracking

Vinyl boat seats are susceptible to cracking from sun exposure, dirt, and grime. Here are some detailed steps to prevent this from happening:

Keep the Seats Clean

Keeping your boat seats clean is essential for preventing cracks. Substances like sunscreen, oils, sweat, and drinks can all damage the vinyl if left to sit. After each use, wipe down the seats with a damp cloth to remove any spills or stains. Use warm water and a mild dish soap for cleaning, avoiding harsh household cleaners that can be harmful to the vinyl.

Use a Marine Vinyl Protectant

After cleaning, apply a marine vinyl protectant, such as Starbrite Marine Vinyl Treatment or 303 Aerospace Protectant, to keep the seats in good condition. These products help protect against fading and cracking over time. Apply the protectant after wiping down the seats, and reapply every few weeks.

Remove Spills and Stains Quickly

It is crucial to address spills and stains as soon as possible. The longer they remain on the vinyl, the more damage they can cause. Use a soft brush and a mild cleaner specifically designed for marine vinyl to work the cleaner into the vinyl in circular motions. Avoid using household cleaners, as these can be harmful.

Cover the Seats

Protect your boat seats from the sun by covering them when not in use. Sun exposure can dry out the plasticizers in the vinyl, leading to cracking. A cover will also help keep the seats dry and prevent the formation of mould and mildew, which can also contribute to cracking. Ensure the cover has good ventilation to prevent moisture buildup.

Keep the Seats Dry

In addition to covering the seats, take steps to keep them dry. Wipe down the seats after each use, and ensure the cover has proper ventilation to prevent moisture from becoming trapped, as this can lead to mould and mildew growth.

By following these steps, you can effectively prevent your vinyl boat seats from cracking and prolong their lifespan.

How to remove stains from vinyl boat seats

Regular Cleaning

To prevent mildew and mould, it is important to clean your vinyl boat seats regularly. After a day out on the water, wash your vinyl seats with dish soap and water. Use a cloth to carefully scrub and clean each seat to remove dirt, sweat, and debris. Avoid pooling water into the seams as this can lead to water soaking into the foam and result in mould. Rinse the soap off with fresh clean water and wipe the seats down until they are completely dry.

Deep Cleaning

For deep cleaning, start by making sure your seats are thoroughly dry. Then, apply a vinyl cleaner, such as 303 Fabric & Vinyl Cleaner, and rub it into the vinyl with a soft clean cloth or soft-bristled brush. Remove the excess cleaner with a soft cloth.

Removing Mildew and Mould

To remove mildew and mould, invest in a quality mildew remover that is specially formulated for boat use and safe to apply to vinyl material. Avoid using bleach, as this can damage your seat cushions. Apply the mildew remover and treat your seats, then practice regular cleaning and drying to avoid further exposure to mildew.

Removing Stains

For pen marks, try using sunscreen to remove the ink. Just be sure to clean up the sunscreen with warm soapy water to prevent other issues. For sunscreen stains, wash the area with a solution of mild soap and water, then rinse and dry. For other tough stains, try a product like Spray Nine or Soft Scrub with bleach (for white vinyl only).

What Not to Use

Do not use the following products on your vinyl boat seats, as they can damage the protective outer coating:

• Acetone
• Magic Eraser
• Degreasers
• Bleach
• Goo Gone
• Gasoline
• Household cleaners
• Ammonia
• Windex
• Simple Green
• Power Washer

Best products to protect vinyl boat seats

Before we dive into the best products to protect your vinyl boat seats, it's important to understand why protection is necessary in the first place. Boat seats are exposed to various elements, such as sun exposure, spills, stains, and moisture, which can cause fading, cracking, and the formation of mould or mildew. Therefore, it is essential to take proactive measures to maintain the appearance and longevity of your boat seats.

303 Marine UV Protectant Spray

The 303 Marine UV Protectant Spray is a popular choice among boat owners. It offers a trigger sprayer for easy application and comes in a 32-fl. oz bottle. This product is designed to protect vinyl boat seats from the harmful effects of UV rays, helping to prevent fading and cracking. It is also suitable for use on other materials, such as plastics.

Boat Juice Interior Boat Cleaner Spray

If you're looking for a multi-purpose cleaner and protectant, Boat Juice Interior Boat Cleaner Spray is an excellent option. It can be used on various surfaces, including boat seats, upholstery, carpets, and even boat accessories. This product comes in a 32-oz bottle and is known for its ability to remove tough stains and protect against future ones.

303 Marine Clear Protective Cleaner

The 303 brand makes another appearance on our list with their Marine Clear Protective Cleaner. This product not only cleans but also provides protection for vinyl and plastic surfaces. It offers superior UV protection to prevent yellowing and cracking, ensuring your boat seats maintain their original appearance. The protective cleaner comes in a 32-oz bottle.

Star Brite Ultimate Vinyl Clean Spray

Star Brite is a well-known brand in the marine maintenance industry, and their Ultimate Vinyl Clean Spray is a trusted product for cleaning and protecting vinyl boat seats. It can also be used on other surfaces, such as rubber, leather, and plastic. This multi-surface cleaner comes in a 32-oz bottle and is known for its effectiveness in removing dirt, grease, and stains.

Meguiar's Extreme Marine Vinyl & Rubber Protectant

Meguiar's Extreme Marine Vinyl & Rubber Protectant is a premium choice for those seeking long-lasting UV protection for their boat's vinyl and rubber surfaces. This product comes in a 32-oz spray bottle and is designed to provide a protective barrier against the sun's harmful rays, preventing fading and cracking. It is also suitable for use on RVs.

Better Boat Vinyl Protectant

The Better Boat Vinyl Protectant is a family-owned American business's offering, focusing on creating premium products for boating accessories, RV care, and boat cleaning supplies. Their vinyl protectant is designed to nourish and protect surfaces, creating a residue-free barrier that repels grime, salt, and sun. It can be used on various surfaces beyond boat seats, including plastic, leather, and rubber.

Frequently asked questions