Restore Boat Vinyl Seats: Tips For Reviving Marine Upholstery

Boat seats are prone to cracking, fading, and staining, and replacing or restoring them can be expensive. One way to restore vinyl boat seats is to use a vinyl coating product, such as Vinyl Coat or Rub 'n Restore®, which can be sprayed or sponged on to conceal damage and protect the seats from sun damage. Another option is to recover the seats by purchasing new vinyl and using the old seat covers as a pattern to cut the new covers, then stapling them in place.

Cleaning vinyl boat seats

Firstly, it is important to avoid certain products when cleaning vinyl boat seats. Power washers, magic erasers, degreasers, bleach, Goo B Gone, and household cleaners are all harmful to vinyl. These products can rip or remove the protective outer coating from the vinyl.

Instead, a routine cleaning with warm water and dish soap is recommended. This method is effective and safe for vinyl. Simply combine a few drops of dish soap with warm water in a bucket, then use a clean cloth or sponge to lightly clean the seats, being careful not to let the water pool. Rinse with clean water and dry the seats completely. This routine should be performed regularly, ideally after each use of the boat or, at a minimum, twice a month.

For deep cleaning or tackling tough stains, a mild soap solution can be used. Mix one gallon of water with 1/4 cup of mild soap, then use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe the vinyl in a circular motion. Rinse the seats with clean water and a clean cloth to remove excess soap, then allow the seats to dry completely.

To remove deep stains, alcohol wipes or a small mix of alcohol and water with a soft brush can be effective. It is important to avoid using harsh cleaners that contain ammonia, bleach, Windex, or Simple Green, as these can damage the vinyl.

In addition to cleaning, protecting vinyl boat seats is crucial. This can be done by using a marine vinyl conditioner and protector a couple of times a year and utilising boat seat covers when the boat is not in use.

Removing mould and mildew

Prepare the Necessary Supplies

Firstly, gather the required supplies for the job. It is recommended to use a bleach-free mould and mildew stain remover, a marine and UV protectant spray, and Magic Eraser sponges. These products are specifically designed to address mould and mildew without damaging the vinyl material.

Spray the Mould Remover

Start by spraying the mould remover onto the affected seats. Ensure you cover all areas, including gaps and seams, as mould tends to form in these crevices. Allow the cleaner to sit for a few minutes—around five minutes should suffice, but you can let it soak longer for stubborn stains. This step will help break down the mould and mildew, making it easier to clean.

Scrub Gently

After the mould remover has had time to work, use a soft brush to scrub the seats gently. Avoid using too much force or scrubbing aggressively, as this may damage the vinyl. Focus on the significant problem areas first, and don't worry if there is still some debris left after scrubbing.

Wipe with Microfibre Cloths

Use microfiber cloths to wipe away any remaining mould debris. Wipe in a circular motion, and make sure to reach all the narrow spots and crevices. You may need multiple cloths, especially if you have a large vinyl area or heavy mildew buildup.

Repeat as Needed

If there are still areas with mildew, repeat the process of spraying, scrubbing, and wiping until you've removed as much as possible. Be patient and persistent, as it may take several attempts to fully remove the mildew.

Target Stubborn Stains with Magic Erasers

For any stubborn stains that won't budge, bring out the Magic Eraser sponges. These sponges have built-in cleaners and can reach tight spaces. Wet the eraser and gently wipe away the remaining stains. Again, avoid scrubbing too hard to prevent damage to the vinyl.

Apply Vinyl Protectant

Once you've removed the mould and mildew, consider using a vinyl protectant. This step will not only make your seats look great but also provide protection against UV damage and help prevent future mould and mildew growth.

Prevent Future Mould and Mildew

To reduce the chances of mould and mildew returning, take preventive measures. Wipe down your seats after each use, even if they don't seem wet. Regularly check on your boat, especially when it's in storage, to catch any potential mould growth early on. Additionally, consider purchasing mildew-resistant seat material if you plan to replace your seats.

Repairing tears and cracks

To repair tears and cracks in boat vinyl seats, you will need to purchase a product such as Vinyl Coat or Rub 'n Restore. These products are designed to restore and protect vinyl and can be applied in a few simple steps.

Firstly, you will need to repair any tears or cracks with filler. For large areas of cracking, a rubberized coating can be used. Holes must be patched before repairing with filler or rubber.

Next, clean the area with Flite, followed by alcohol. When it comes to applying the product, less is more. Apply thin coats, only as needed, and allow each coat to dry before adding another.

If you are repairing tears and cracks as part of a larger restoration project, you may also want to consider replacing the vinyl fabric. To do this, remove the old seat covers by prying out the staples and taking note of how the vinyl is attached. Use the old seat covers as a pattern to cut the new covers, adding about 7 inches to each side for allowance. Attach the new seat covers using an industrial-grade stapler.

Choosing the right vinyl protectant

UV Protection:

The sun's UV rays can cause fading, discolouration, and cracking of vinyl boat seats. Look for a protectant that offers superior UV protection to shield the vinyl from the sun's harmful effects. Some products, such as 303 Aerospace Protectant, are designed to prevent fading and cracking by providing a protective barrier.

Pigmentation:

Clear conditioners might not be effective in hiding sun damage and discolouration. Consider choosing a vinyl protectant with natural mineral pigments like titanium dioxide (TiO2) that reflect UV rays, prevent sun damage, and provide superior protection. Rub 'n Restore® is a water-based solution that contains mineral pigments to protect against UV rays and discolouration.

Longevity:

Frequent reapplication of vinyl protectants can be time-consuming and costly. Opt for a product that offers long-lasting protection and does not require frequent reapplication. Rub 'n Restore®, for example, provides a more lasting solution and does not need to be reapplied as often as other products.

Ease of Application:

Choose a vinyl protectant that is easy to apply and does not require special tools or complex procedures. Some products, such as Vinyl Coat, are easy-to-use aerosol sprays that can be applied directly to the vinyl surface. Others, like Rub 'n Restore®, can be applied with a damp sponge.

Restoration and Protection:

Look for a vinyl protectant that not only protects but also restores the appearance of your boat's vinyl upholstery. Products like Vinyl Coat and Rub 'n Restore® are designed to address common issues such as discolouration, fading, stains, and even repairs. They can help conceal damage and restore the vinyl to its original condition.

Safety:

Consider choosing a product that is safe for both the vinyl and your health. Some vinyl protectants contain chemicals like benzotriazoles or benzophenones that can cause skin allergies and other issues. Opt for products with natural ingredients and ensure they are safe for use on vinyl surfaces.

By considering these factors, you can choose the right vinyl protectant to maintain and enhance the durability and appearance of your boat's vinyl upholstery.

Replacing vinyl seat covers

If your boat's vinyl seats are beyond repair, you may need to replace the vinyl seat covers. This can be a costly process, with a new boat seat costing hundreds of dollars. However, there are some more affordable options available.

One option is to purchase a vinyl repair kit, which can be used to seal small tears and nicks in the vinyl. This is a relatively easy process that can make your vinyl seats look almost new again. For larger tears, you may need to use a backing material to support the repair compound.

If you want to replace the entire vinyl seat cover, there are a few things you need to consider. Firstly, you need to make sure you purchase a cover that is the correct size and fit for your seat. You can find replacement vinyl seat covers online or at marine supply stores. It's important to measure your seats accurately and compare them to the product specifications to ensure a proper fit.

When purchasing a new vinyl seat cover, look for one that is made from high-quality, durable vinyl. This will ensure that your new seat cover is long-lasting and can withstand the elements. You should also consider the colour and style of the vinyl to match the aesthetic of your boat.

Once you have purchased your new vinyl seat cover, you will need to remove the old one carefully. This may involve unscrewing or detaching any fasteners or adhesives that hold the cover in place. Take your time with this process to avoid damaging the underlying structure of the seat.

Finally, install the new vinyl seat cover by following the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure the cover is secured properly and check for any loose flaps or threads. With proper care and maintenance, your new vinyl seat covers should last for many years.

Frequently asked questions