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Boat Upholstery How-To Guide: Maintaining & Restoring the Interior

August 16, 2023

Spending time on the water can create moments of tranquility in the chaos of our daily routines. Amidst the scramble to apply sunscreen, pack coolers, and inflate inner tubes, ensuring your boat is properly prepared for the water is crucial. Keeping your boat in tip-top shape enables you to enjoy your time casting a line or riding the waves. Boat upholstery requires special care, and sometimes you may need to restore your boat seats. Learn more about maintaining and fixing your boat interior.

Research conducted by marine biologist Wallace J. Nichols provides insight into the health benefits of spending time on the water. In his groundbreaking bestseller, “Blue Mind,” Nichols suggests that being in or near water induces a state of calmness, relaxation, and improved mental clarity. According to his research, spending time in natural aquatic environments can lead to improved mood, increased creativity, reduced anxiety, and enhanced cognitive function.

If spending a day at the lake or cruising the coastline rejuvenates you, you’re not alone. There are 12 million registered boats in the U.S., and 95% are small crafts under 26 feet, according to the National Marine Manufacturers Association.

CCI’s Care Tips

Creative Colors International is the leader in leather and vinyl restoration and repair. We specialize in restoring and maintaining boats, RVs, car interiors, and furniture. To maintain your boat’s interior, we recommend following our guide of proactive steps.

  1. Regular cleaning: Regular cleaning is crucial for preserving the condition of your boat's interior. Remove loose dirt and debris with a soft brush or vacuum cleaner. Use a mild soap or specialized marine cleaner and gently scrub the upholstery. Rinse thoroughly and allow it to dry completely before covering or storing. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the fabric or vinyl.
  2. Sun protection: The sun's powerful UV rays can cause fading and deterioration of marine vinyl. Protect your boat seat upholstery from direct sunlight by using a sunshade and covering them when the boat is at the dock. Applying a UV protectant spray specifically designed for marine upholstery can offer protection against sun damage.
  3. Prevent moisture damage: Excessive moisture can lead to mold, mildew, and rot, particularly on boat seats. After you take the boat for a spin, promptly wipe down the seats and upholstery with a clean, dry cloth. Avoid leaving wet towels or other damp items on the seats, as they can promote mold growth.
  4. Protect upholstery. To prolong the life of your boat’s interior, consider using seat covers or protective cushions when the boat is in use to provide an extra layer of protection against dirt, spills, and UV exposure.
  5. Repair small blemishes: Minor tears or scratches in your upholstery can often be repaired easily. Promptly addressing small issues can prevent them from escalating into more significant problems. Utilize a specialized marine-grade vinyl or fabric repair kit that matches the color of your upholstery.
  6. Enlist a professional. For complex restoration or professional assistance, request a quote from CCI. We take the hassle of maintenance off your shoulders. Our service technicians can do a thorough deep cleaning, make repairs, and complete upholstery replacements to restore your boat's interior to its original condition. We have the expertise and knowledge to handle intricate upholstery tasks efficiently.

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We Can Fix That!

Take time to enjoy the long, lazy days of summer by relying on CCI’s repair and restoration services to get your boat ready for the season. Request a quote to get a free estimate today.