Best Boat Upholstery Cleaners: Keep Your Boat Looking New

Boat upholstery is made from a variety of materials, including vinyl, leather, and canvas. Marine-grade vinyl is a popular choice for boat seats as it is treated with mould, mildew, and UV-resistant chemicals. However, it still requires regular care and maintenance to keep it in good condition. When cleaning boat upholstery, it is important to use the right products to avoid damaging the material. While some people opt for household products like Simple Green, Clorox Clean Up, and Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, others prefer specialised boat upholstery cleaners.

There are several boat upholstery cleaners on the market that are designed to effectively remove mould and mildew stains without compromising the fabric's quality. Some popular options include Marine 31, 3M Marine Vinyl Cleaner, and Starbrite Sail & Canvas Cleaner. These products not only clean but also provide protection against future stains and discolouration. When using any cleaning product, it is important to follow the instructions on the pack and test on a small area first to avoid any potential damage to the upholstery.

Best boat upholstery cleaner for vinyl

Marine-grade vinyl is designed to withstand harsh marine conditions, but proper care and maintenance are essential to preserving its quality and longevity. Here are some of the best boat upholstery cleaners for vinyl:

3M 09023 Marine Vinyl Cleaner, Conditioner & Protector

This product is a dedicated marine vinyl maintenance solution that cleans, restores, and protects vinyl, rubber, and leather surfaces. It is formulated to clean and restore lustre to old and worn surfaces while also providing UV protection. It forms a barrier against dirt, mildew, and stains, and its price ranges from £28.99 to $35.99 for a 250 ml bottle.

303 Products 30207 Multi-Surface Cleaner

303 Products Multi-Surface Cleaner is a biodegradable cleaner that can be used on vinyl and fabric. It safely removes dirt, oil, grease, and even tough stains like coffee, tea, and ink. It is recommended to test on a small area before applying liberally. This product costs £17.95 / $18.99.

Meguiar's 57 Vinyl & Rubber Cleaner

Meguiar's 57 Vinyl & Rubber Cleaner is designed to clean, shine, and protect marine vinyl, rubber, and plastic surfaces. It comes in an easy-to-apply spray trigger, and its blended ingredients help prevent surfaces from drying out, fading, or cracking. It also includes UV treatment for resistance against sun damage. The price of this product is £14.39 / $15.99.

Renovo RBVC 1132 Boat Vinyl Cleaner

Renovo's RBVC 1132 boat vinyl cleaner is a water-based, neutral-coloured formula designed for regular use to maintain the appearance and condition of vinyl. It effectively removes dirt, grime, difficult stains, and bird droppings. It is important to test this product on an inconspicuous area before use, and it should not be used on fabric.

Starbrite Vinyl Boat Seat Cleaner and Shampoo

Starbrite's Vinyl Boat Seat Cleaner and Shampoo is a concentrated formula that effectively cleans and restores the colour, brightness, and freshness of marine vinyl seats. It loosens and removes grime and dirt while also helping to prolong the softness of the vinyl.

In addition to these products, it is recommended to regularly apply a UV inhibitor, such as 303 Aerospace Protectant, to protect vinyl boat upholstery from sun damage and prolong its life. A mild soap and water solution can also be effective for routine cleaning, followed by a vinyl cleaner like 303 Fabric & Vinyl Cleaner.

Best boat upholstery cleaner for leather

When it comes to the best boat upholstery cleaner for leather, there are several products on the market that can help you get the job done effectively. Here are some options to consider:

3M 09023 Marine Vinyl Cleaner:

This product is specifically designed for the marine environment and can be used on leather, vinyl, and rubber surfaces. It cleans, restores lustre, and protects against UV damage, dirt, mildew, and stains. While it is a pricier option, it may be a cost-effective investment due to its versatility and protective properties.

Leather Care & Revive Kit:

This two-step kit includes 500 ml of leather cleaner, 250 ml of conditioner, a soft cleaning brush, and two cloths. It effectively removes dirt and grime from leather upholstery without causing any damage. The conditioner also helps to strengthen and protect the leather, preserving its natural beauty and flexibility. This kit provides an ideal all-in-one solution for leather boat upholstery care.

303 Products 30207 Multi-Surface Cleaner:

This biodegradable cleaner can be used on leather, vinyl, and fabric surfaces. It claims to safely remove various types of stains, including dirt, oil, grease, coffee, tea, and pet stains. It is recommended to test the product on a small area first before applying it liberally. After using this cleaner, follow up with a waterproofing agent for best results.

Autoglym Leather Cleaner:

Autoglym is a well-known brand in the automotive world for car care products, including leather care. Their leather cleaner is designed to safely clean and freshen leather upholstery without leaving behind any silicones, which can give an unpleasant feel. Additionally, its pH formulation is designed to preserve essential oils in the leather.

Marine Grade Boat Cleaner Products Leather Conditioner and Boat Vinyl Cleaner:

This product is a leather cleaner and conditioner that can be used on both leather and vinyl boat upholstery. It effectively removes dirt, salt, and grime from cushions, seats, and trim. It also provides UV protection, shielding the upholstery from fading, cracking, and premature aging caused by sun exposure. The formula includes a combination of sulfate-free surfactants, silicones for a high-gloss shine, and lanolin for conditioning.

When choosing a boat upholstery cleaner for leather, it is important to select a product specifically designed for this purpose, as regular household cleaners can be too harsh and damaging. Additionally, always follow the instructions on the product packaging, and test on a small area first if possible, to ensure the best results without causing any damage to your boat's leather upholstery.

Best boat upholstery cleaner for canvas

When it comes to cleaning boat canvas upholstery, there are a variety of products available that can help get your sprayhood and sail covers looking their best again. Here is a list of some of the best boat upholstery cleaners for canvas, along with some general advice on how to clean and care for your boat's canvas upholstery.

Best Boat Upholstery Cleaners for Canvas

• Starbrite Sail & Canvas Cleaner – This is a concentrated, biodegradable formula that is tough on stains but kind to the environment. It can be used on both white and coloured fabrics, including nylon and Dacron, and it attacks dirt, grease, and mildew stains without weakening the fabric. It is safe and simple to use, usually diluted with water, but can be used at full strength for heavily soiled white material. After using this product, it is recommended to apply a waterproofing agent to maintain water-tightness and resistance to soiling.
• Fabsil Universal Cleaner – This product is designed to be used on any outdoor fabrics, including tents and garden furniture. It is quick and easy to use, and effectively removes green mould, restoring canvas to its original colour. It is also fairly inexpensive.
• Starbrite Fabric Cleaner & Protectant with PTEF – This product is advertised as safe for marine fabrics and does not have any major environmental warnings. It is not bleach-based and appears to have less impact on the colour of the canvas than other products. It is easy to use, simply spray on, scrub, and rinse off. It is designed to reduce UV damage and repel dirt, in addition to cleaning.
• BOATER'S EDGE Fabric Cleaner & Stain Remover Spray – This is a fast-acting, bleach-free formula designed for marine-grade canvas and upholstery. It can be used on a variety of outdoor and indoor surfaces, including canvas, vinyl, polyester, and car interiors. It is ideal for removing stubborn dirt, grease, oil smudges, suntan lotion, and everyday grime. It can be used for spot cleaning or treating larger areas, and its gentle action makes it perfect for frequent use.
• Renovo Boat Canvas Cleaner – This product requires a slightly more involved process than some of the other cleaners, but it is still effective at removing dirt from canvas.

General Tips for Cleaning and Caring for Boat Canvas Upholstery

• It is important to cover your boat seats when they are not in use, as the sun can cause fading and cracking.
• Ensure your boat cover has a vent cap to help with air circulation and prevent mould and mildew.
• Wipe down your seats regularly with warm soapy water to prevent issues.
• When cleaning, use warm soapy water and scrub with a plastic bristle brush. You can also use a marine vinyl cleaner specifically designed for cleaning boat seats. Avoid harsh cleaners that may damage the protective outer layer of the vinyl.
• For pen marks, try using sunscreen to remove them, and then clean the area with warm soapy water to prevent other issues.
• To extend the life of your boat's canvas, use a marine vinyl treatment like Starbrite marine vinyl treatment or 303 Aerospace protectant.

By following these tips and using the recommended products, you can effectively clean and care for your boat's canvas upholstery, keeping it looking its best for years to come.

Best boat upholstery cleaner for mildew

Boat upholstery is often made from vinyl, which is a porous material that can be susceptible to mildew. To prevent this, it's important to regularly clean your boat seats and cover them when not in use. When choosing a boat upholstery cleaner, opt for a product specifically designed for marine use, as household cleaners can be too harsh and damage the vinyl. Here are some of the best boat upholstery cleaners for mildew:

Marine 31 Mildew Remover

Marine 31 Mildew Remover is a powerful and versatile cleaning agent that effectively removes mildew stains from boat seats, cushions, and other surfaces. It comes in a spray bottle for easy application and is safe to use on marine vinyl. While it may contain a small amount of bleach, it is still safe for boat seats and will not cause discolouration. You can buy this product in a gallon-sized container, which is a practical and economical option.

3M Mildew Stain Remover

3M Mildew Stain Remover is a powerful cleaner specifically formulated for marine and outdoor use. It can be used on various surfaces, including boat seat upholstery, and offers lasting protection against mildew growth. This product is easy to use; simply spray it on and wipe it off with a cloth. While it may require a little extra time and effort for tougher stains, it is still a good option for removing mildew from boat upholstery.

Star Brite Mildew Stain Remover

Star Brite Mildew Stain Remover is another excellent option for removing mildew from boat seats. It is easy to use, safe for marine upholstery, and removes mildew on contact. Just spray it on the affected area, wait a minute, and rinse away the mildew. This product is also suitable for various surfaces, including wood, awnings, concrete, and other outdoor acrylic materials. While some stubborn stains may require a second application, it is still a highly recommended mildew remover for boat seats.

Star Brite Sail & Canvas Cleaner

If you're looking for an eco-friendly option, the Star Brite Sail & Canvas Cleaner is a great choice. This cleaner is formulated with biodegradable components and is safe for marine upholstery, including vinyl seats and cushions. It effectively removes dirt, mould, and stains without causing discolouration. While it may require a bit of scrubbing and multiple applications to completely remove mildew, it is still a gentle and effective option for boat upholstery.

Boat Juice Interior Boat Cleaner Spray

Boat Juice Interior Boat Cleaner Spray is a versatile product that can be used on boat seats, vinyl, carpets, and other surfaces. It effectively removes mildew and helps protect against future mildew growth. This product comes in a 32-ounce bottle and is safe for marine use.

Other Options

Other boat upholstery cleaners that can help with mildew removal include:

• RMR-86 Marine Mildew-Stain Remover: This product instantly removes mould and mildew stains and is safe for various surfaces, including boat upholstery.
• 303 Multi-Surface Cleaner: A biodegradable cleaner that can be used on vinyl and fabric. It safely removes dirt, grease, and other stains and is recommended by Sunbrella.
• Meguiar's M5716SP Marine/RV Vinyl & Rubber Cleaner & Protectant: A spray-on cleaner and protectant for marine vinyl, rubber, and plastic surfaces. It helps prevent surfaces from drying out and fading.

Best boat upholstery cleaner for mould

Marine-grade vinyl is a common boat upholstery fabric that has been treated with mould, mildew, and UV-resistant chemicals. However, it still requires regular care to prevent mould and mildew build-up. Here are some of the best boat upholstery cleaners for mould:

RMR-86M Marine Mildew-Stain Remover:

RMR-86M is a mildew stain remover that instantly removes mould and mildew stains. Its sodium hypochlorite formula is less abrasive and easy to use. This product is highly rated and available on Amazon.

Marine 31 Mildew Stain Remover & Cleaner:

The Marine 31 Mildew Stain Remover & Cleaner is suitable for marine and boat, home and patio, and bathroom and shower cleaning. It effectively removes mildew stains and can be purchased on Amazon.

Star brite Liquid Mold & Mildew Stain Remover + Cleaner:

Star brite's liquid mould and mildew stain remover is designed to remove stains on contact. It is suitable for use on wood surfaces and can be purchased on Amazon.

3M Marine Vinyl Cleaner and Restorer:

3M's Marine Vinyl Cleaner and Restorer is a dedicated marine vinyl maintenance product that cleans, restores lustre, and protects vinyl, rubber, and leather surfaces. While it is on the pricier side, it forms a barrier against dirt, mildew, and stains, making it a cost-effective investment. It can be found on Amazon and WestMarine.com.

Renovo RBVC 1132 Boat Vinyl Cleaner:

Renovo's RBVC 1132 boat vinyl cleaner is Amazon's Choice for a reason. It is a water-based, neutral-coloured cleaner that helps remove grime, dirt, leaf gum, difficult stains, and bird droppings. This product is designed specifically for vinyl and should be tested on an inconspicuous area before use. It is not suitable for fabric.

Boat Bling Vinyl Sauce and Conditioner:

Boat Bling's Vinyl Sauce and Conditioner have been recommended by multiple boat owners. The Vinyl Sauce effectively cleans vinyl and leather surfaces, while the Conditioning Sauce provides UV protection.

Simple Green:

Simple Green is a popular choice among boat owners for its ability to remove grime from tiny lines in white upholstery. It should be followed up with a vinyl treatment.

Warm Soapy Water and a Plastic Bristle Brush:

For a more straightforward approach, warm soapy water and a plastic bristle brush can be used to scrub away mould and mildew. This method is recommended to avoid using harsh cleaners that may damage the protective layer of the vinyl.

Frequently asked questions