Modern-day pontoon boats have luxurious and plush upholstery that needs maintained. If neglected, seats may deteriorate resulting in expensive repair and replacement costs. Dirt, dust, UV rays and other environmental elements damage pontoon boat seats. Additionally, due to constant moisture exposure, pontoon boat seats can also have mildew, mold and fungus. Pontoon boat seat cleaners remove stains, dirt, and mold while restoring, protecting and improving the life of the upholstery.
Why Pontoon Boat Seat Cleaning is Important
Prevents Stains, Mildew, and Odors
Moisture from the air and human sweat form an ideal environment for mold and mildew growth. Marine vinyl resists mold. Unfortunately, water, sweat, sunscreen, dirt, and residual soap still impact and degrade marine vinyl.
Pontoon boat seats need regular cleaning to remove stains, mildew, and orders. We highly recommend cleaners specifically designed for use on marine vinyl, plastic, rubber, etc. Follow all cleaning with a thorough rinse of clean warm water.
Avoid certain household cleaners, powdered abrasives, steel wool and industrial cleaners because they can cause damage and discoloration. Do not use bleach as it will break down vinyl over time. Avoid lacquer solvents, kerosene, gasoline, and acetone as they will remove the protective marine top coat, gloss, and any paint.
After cleaning, go one step further and install pontoon boat seat covers to prevent mold and dirt accumulation. The cover will also provide UV protection and greatly extended the seats lifetime.
Protects Seats from UV Rays
Beyond cleaning, regular pontoon boat seat maintenance also requires the use of protectant sprays. These sprays protect against UV rays, resist water, and do not leave any residue behind. use of these products keeps seats from fading, cracking, and deteriorating.
The formula for most marine vinyl cleaners incorporates protective features allowing you to purchase only one product. However, take note of the purchased product to understand it’s features and whether an additional protective spray must be purchased.
Avoid silicone based protectants since they will extract the plasticizer and make vinyl hard and more likely to crack.
As previously mentioned, the installation of pontoon boat seat covers will also provide protection against UV rays, water and dirt.
Enhances Seat Appearance and Lifespan
Pontoon boat seat cleaners, protective sprays, and covers work together to significantly enhance both the appearance and lifespan of your boat’s seats. Regular use of seat cleaners removes dirt, grime, and stains, restoring the material’s original look and preventing damage caused by mildew or mold. Protective sprays add an extra layer of defense against UV rays, water, and general wear, keeping the seats from fading, cracking, or deteriorating over time. Meanwhile, seat covers shield the upholstery from harsh environmental elements, such as sun exposure, rain, and debris, when the boat is not in use. By combining these tools, boat owners can maintain their seats in pristine condition, preserving their investment and ensuring a polished, inviting aesthetic for every outing.
Best Seat Cleaners
There are several pontoon boat seat cleaners available from different manufacturers.
Better Boat Vinyl Cleaner
The Better Boat Vinyl Cleaner protects and cleans vinyl seats and fabrics. This marine grade vinyl cleaner works great on pontoon boat seats, canopies, Bimini tops, and covers. Also, the product can be used on other surfaces such as plastic, rubber, and leather. In addition to cleaning, the product also acts as a sealant to prevent fading, to provide long-lasting UV protection, and to create a barrier that repels grime and salt.
Better Boat is a family-owned American business offering premium quality products and exceptional customer support.
303 Clear Vinyl Protective Cleaner
The 303 Clear Vinyl Protective Cleaner not only cleans vinyl upholstery but also provides protection from UV rays. This pontoon boat seat cleaner protects against cracking, fading and yellowing from exposure to harsh environments. The 303 Cleaner provides a streak free, smooth, matte finish with no oily or greasy residue. There is no alcohol or ammonia used in its manufacturing.
The 303 Marine Multi-Surface Cleaner is another great offering that can be used on almost any surface.
Mean Green Super Strength
For those looking for a strong pontoon boat seat cleaner, Mean Green Super Strength is the right choice. It can remove the toughest grease and grime from surfaces such as fabrics, carpets and even concrete. Caution must be taken while using this cleaner as it is not recommended for glass and metal surfaces such as aluminum. While removing stains from colored fabric, it must be used sparingly and diluted well to prevent color fading. While the product is an excellent cleaner, it must be paired with another product which provides long term protection.
Shurhold Serious Marine Cleaner
The Serious Marine Cleaner from Shurhold is a versatile pontoon boat seat cleaner that can be used on multiple surfaces besides vinyl. These surfaces include carpets, canvas, fiberglass, rubber and teak making it a versatile product that can remove streaks and stains on different parts of the boat. It is safe to use on all surfaces as it does not contain bleach. Although, you must check colorfastness when using on fabrics or carpets.
Marine 31 Cleaner
This Marine 31 fabric and vinyl cleaner is a bio-degradable pontoon boat seat cleaner. This concentrate is effective at removing dirt, light mildew and stains from surfaces made of fabric or vinyl. Besides boat seats, it can be used to clean Bimini tops, cushions and covers. It is a great choice for people looking for eco-friendly and non-toxic cleaner.
DIY Cleaner
If you are looking for a quick, easy, and effective seat cleaner using standard household products, the Great Lakes Skipper has the perfect recipe. They recommend a mixture of vinegar, baking soda, and dish soap to remove stubborn mold and mildew stains. Remember, use of this product only cleans the pontoon boat seats and a protective spray is required to defend against UV rays.
Conclusion
Maintaining clean and well-kept pontoon boat seats is essential for preserving both the appearance and longevity of your investment. By choosing the right seat cleaner and using it regularly, you can protect against common issues like stains, mildew, and UV damage, ensuring your boat stays comfortable and inviting. Whether you opt for a ready-made marine cleaner or a DIY solution, consistent care is key. With a little effort, you can keep your pontoon boat seats looking like new, enhancing your boating experience for years to come.
