What is the Best Way to Clean Vinyl Seats in Boats?

To clean the boat seats, you have to be gentle and do the following:

• Wet a soft rag with freshwater (you can also put in some gentle soap)
• If the seats have dirt and stains, soak the seats with some soap and wait for the dirt and stains to loosen up (avoid scrubbing hard) 
• Wipe the seats gently to remove the remaining stains, dirt and grime 
• Wipe the seats with a dry rag (wipe until the seats are dry, don’t let the seats air dry) 
• Apply a protective sealant to the seats (if you want to protect the surface from mould and mildew) 

Even if you see no dirt and stains, you should still clean the boat seats at least once a month. This is to prevent the onset of mould and mildew (prevent them from thriving in the first place and getting a foothold). This monthly cleaning will also help ensure that you’re wiping away the invisible spills that have already dried up. 

Can you use bleach on boat seats? 

No. Bleach can damage your seat cushions and may require you to replace the seats (damage from bleach can be irreversible or impossible to repair). Bleach is a harsh chemical that might still react even against a durable material such as vinyl. Also, bleach may cause fading or discolouration. You might also want to avoid using bleach because it can irritate your eyes, skin and respiratory health. 

Some soapy water always does the trick (no need to use harsh chemicals). You can also buy a boat seat cleaner and spray or pour some of it. You have to test it on a small hidden spot first before you use it on the entire seat. It might be too harsh or it’s not appropriate to your seat’s material. 

If you want to ensure excellent results, you can also contact us here at LCS Sydney to do the boat seat cleaning. We’ve been specialising in upholstery cleaning since 1972. We know the best ways to clean each seat whether it’s covered with vinyl, leather, linen, microfibre, polyester, velvet and other fabrics and materials.