Managing Mold and Mildew on Boats

One of the most important components of maintaining your boat is preventing mold and mildew growth. Mold and mildew are not just aesthetically unappealing, but they can also be dangerous for your health. That’s why the experts at The Harbor (Boat & Yacht Sales) have provided some tips for managing mold in your vessel. You can also stop by our location in Branson, Missouri, for additional advice from our experienced staff. We welcome all those from Springfield and Kansas City.

Preventing Mold

Even if you take proper care of your craft, there’s a chance that you might see unsightly black or brown stains on your seats and vinyl, as well as an unpleasant odor. This happens as a result of the constantly damp environment of a boat, which allows mold and mildew to thrive.

The best way to manage mold is to take steps to stop it before it forms. The biggest problem you’ll need to curb is excessive moisture. Over time, the moisture can settle often enough that bacteria and mold start to grow. Dirt and grime give mold more surfaces to grow on, so something as simple as keeping your vessel clean can help you stop mold in its tracks.

You can also use a marine-grade protectant spray, such as 303 Aerospace & UV Protectant. This will repel dirt, mildew, mold, and debris by creating a glossy finish. It also protects your vinyl and seats against the harsh UV rays, which tend to discolor and wear fabric over time. To prevent the reappearance of mildew, wipe down the vinyl after every boat ride, and wash and dry it regularly. If you ever cover up and store your boat, make sure it’s dry before you do so.

Cleaning

Harsh chemicals like bleach can completely damage the vinyl and its seams, which results in costly repairs or replacements when the fabric finally gives way. Choose milder cleaners like CLR® Mold & Mildew remover. You’ll also need sponges, a soft brush, microfiber cloths, and some Magic Erasers.

To get started with the boat cleaning, spray down all the vinyl with the CLR. Ensure that every crevice and corner is covered and properly dampen all the worst spots. Let it soak for about five minutes. Then, with your soft brush, start to gently scrub the stains. Be careful not to put too much pressure or you’ll end up scuffing the vinyl or wearing off its surface. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll see the mold and mildew come off easily.  

Wipe Down the Surfaces

Once you’ve removed the fungus from your boat seats, take the sponges and the microfiber cloths and wipe away any debris left behind. It’s quite easy to wipe off the loose remains with a piece of cloth, but if you’ve got particularly damaged vinyl, you’ll need to repeat the process a few more times.

Getting rid of mold and mildew is an important part of keeping your boat in top shape. If you’re still looking for the right craft for your next outing on the water, stop by The Harbor (Boat & Yacht Sales) in Branson, MO, and let one of our experienced staff give you the complete tour of available options. We welcome all our patrons from Springfield and Kansas City.