Marine vinyl is a unique type of fabric that is made to hold up in hot temperatures and consistent exposure to water. While this fabric contains UV protection and is mold and mildew resistant, it’s still important to take good care of your marine vinyl to preserve its lifespan and keep it in top-notch shape.

How To Properly Care For Your Marine Vinyl

When marine vinyl fabric isn’t properly cared for, it can start cracking, looking discolored, or pick up mold and mildew over time. Below are a few tips that will help you keep your marine vinyl fabric looking great for long periods and maintain its ability to fight off mold or UV rays from the sun.

Clean Your Marine Vinyl Fabric

This is the most important step when it comes to protecting your marine vinyl fabric. This type of fabric is very porous, so if you leave things on the fabric, especially if left out in the sun, the fabric can start picking up the coloring of different items. Boats typically mean the fabric is exposed to different items and consistencies, such as sunscreen, salt water, or spilled food and drinks. It’s important to clean the fabric after use, or every 3-5 weeks, so that nothing seeps into the fabric or wears down the outer layer that provides UV, mold, and mildew protection.

The best way to clean your fabric is to simply use dish soap and warm water, or a specific marine vinyl fabric cleaner. Other cleaners can be harsh on the fabric and begin breaking it down. Regular soap is safe to use to clean the outside without harming the outer layer of the fabric.

Keep Your Boat Covered When Not In Use

While boat fabric is UV resistant, marine fabric will last longer if it doesn’t sit in the hot sun every day. When exposed to too much sunlight, the fabric can start cracking. Once the fabric cracks, no amount of cleaning will repair the damage, and the fabric will eventually need to be replaced. Your fabric is built to withstand sunny days out on the water, but make sure to cover your boat when not in use so it is not working overtime.

Make Sure Your Boat Cover Has Airflow

Since boats with marine vinyl are exposed to water, it’s important to make sure that the cover contains a vent or snap system that allows for good air circulation. If the fabric is not completely dry when the boat gets covered, or if water gets into the boat during poor weather, a lack of airflow can lead to the buildup of mold and mildew.

Treat Your Marine Vinyl Fabric

After cleaning your boat, there are many marine vinyl treatments you can use. These can help seal the fabric and maintain the UV resistance. Make sure you use products specific to marine vinyl, as automobile or other treatments can contain silicone or harsh ingredients that break down the marine vinyl, removing any UV or mildew-resistant qualities.

Where To Find Marine Vinyl Fabric

If you’re looking for quality marine vinyl fabric, Bry-Tech is your go-to supplier. We provide top brands and a variety of marine products that will hold up for a variety of uses, including boat fabric, aqua turf, or canvases. Our team offers free shipping on all orders and same-day shipping if ordered by 2:00pm ET. Shop all upholstery materials and supplies online today!