Most boat covers are made from a solution dyed polyester
fiber that’s woven into a breathable fabric and given a urethane coating, then
treated using a fluorocarbon finish that gives it excellent mildew and water repellent
qualities. Because of this, they are easy to maintain and long lasting.
Some top tips to consider while washing your boat cover are:
Fitting, Your Boat
Cover
When you place your cover on your boat, ensure that it has a
proper support system in place so there are no areas where water can pool.
This can be done using straps or poles, set to give a
“tented” effect that makes sure the water quickly runs off to stop any mold
growth and damage. If allowed to pool on your boat cover water will seep
through and cause damage inside. When fitting the cover add extra padding
around areas such as windscreens and sharp areas to avoid wear.
Keep Your Boat Cover
Clean
Try and keep leaves and other debris off your cover so mould
and grime doesn’t have a chance to take hold. Ideally, your boat covers should
be sprayed down with clean water once a month.
This will keep it looking clean and help delay the need for
more vigorous cleaning and help it last for many seasons.
Cleaning Times
Under normal conditions, a boat cover should be cleaned
every two years. This is often done while it is still on the boat for ease of
handling and allowing it to naturally dry. Unless it’s a small cover and
clearly stated on the label that it’s machine washable, it should not be washed
in a machine.
Washing Soap
The cover should be washed using a natural soap and not a
detergent although special boat cover washing solution can be used. The water
should be cold or lukewarm, never hot as this can damage the boat covers waterproofing
capabilities.
Always use a natural pH soap with water that should be cold to lukewarm,
but not hot.
Washing Method
- Begin by posing done the whole cover and brushing off any dirt with a stiff broom to remove dirt and stains.
- Spray with a weak solution of liquid soap and brush down with fresh clean water
- If stains will not wash off, try using a mixture of 1 part white vinegar, 1 part of borax powder and 2 parts of clean cold water mixed together. Spray the stained area and leave for about 10 minutes and rinse off, repeat if necessary
- Allow the cover to air dry completely
- After a few years, it’s recommended to apply a water repellant product to help protect your boat cover and extend its working life
Storing a Boat Cover
If you are storing your boat
cover, always make sure it’s clean and dry before placing it in a protective
bag. His will prevent the buildup of mould and mildew. Store it in a dark, cool
place.
Boat covers are designed to
protect your boat from the elements and keep your boat clean. They are normally
made of a woven breathable fabric to keep water out while allowing any moisture
to escape. They should be a tight fit and not allow water to pool.
