Are you tired of dealing with unsightly mildew stains on your boat seats and your canvas boat cover? We’ve got you covered! In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of removing mildew from your canvas boat cover using simple, yet effective techniques. Our step-by-step instructions and easy-to-find household items will help you get your boat cover looking like new again.
Don’t let mildew ruin your boating experience – follow our guide on “How To Remove Mildew From Canvas Boat Cover” and sail the high seas with confidence!
Inspect Your Canvas Boat Cover
Before you begin the cleaning process, it’s important to inspect your canvas boat cover to determine the extent of the mildew damage. It is possible to remove some mildew stains with a mild soap and water solution, however, more severe stains may require additional steps.
If you find any areas of boat canvas where the mildew has caused discoloration or has damaged the fabric, it may be best to consult a professional cleaner.
Create a Cleaning Solution
Once you have inspected your canvas boat cover and identified the mildew stains, it’s time to create a cleaning solution. For mildew removal, you can use a mixture of water and bleach.
Be sure to wear protective gloves and eye protection when mixing these ingredients together. You can also use a mild soap or detergent as an alternative warm water.
Additionally, there are specially formulated mildew stain removers available on the market from brands like Citra-Shield Marine, Armada® MightyBrite® Non-Toxic Mildew Stain Remover, Nautic Clean Mildew Remover, and Rejuvenate Mildew Stain Remover. Once your cleaning solution is ready, it’s time to start the cleaning process.
Scrub the Mildew Stain
Once you’ve inspected your canvas boat cover and created a cleaning solution, you’ll need to scrub away the mildew stain.
You will need to use a brush or sponge to apply the cleaning solution to the affected areas. Make sure to wear gloves while scrubbing and be careful not to damage the fabric.
For tougher stains, you may need to use soft scrub brush or a cleaner with a higher concentration of bleach. Be sure to rinse the canvas boat cover thoroughly after scrubbing and allow it to dry completely before applying any additional treatments.
Rinse the Canvas Boat Cover
Once you have scrubbed the mildew stain with your cleaning solution, it is important to rinse the canvas boat cover with clean water.
This will help to remove any leftover cleaning solution that could potentially cause damage to the canvas fabric. Use a garden hose to get soapy water and rinse the canvas boat cover until the water runs clear.
Then allow the canvas boat cover to air dry naturally in a well-ventilated area.
Apply a Mold and Mildew Remover
Once you have scrubbed the mildew stain, it’s time to apply a mold and mildew remover. There are several products available on the market that can help you tackle the task.
Citra-Shield Marine Algae, Mold and Mildew Remover and Prevention works wonders for boat covers, bimini tops, docks, life rafts, seats and canvas. Alternatively, you can use a spray bottle of mold remover, like Rejuvenate 24 oz Mildew Stain Remover.
For a non-toxic solution, you can use Armada® MightyBrite® Non-Toxic Mildew Stain Remover. Whatever product you choose, make sure to follow the instructions on the label to get the best results.
Use a Pressure Washer
If the mildew is still visible, you can try using a pressure washer.
Pressure washing is a great tool to remove any stubborn stains and mildew stains. When using a pressure washer, make sure to adjust the pressure to the lowest setting and keep a minimum distance from the fabric surface.
This will help prevent any damage to the canvas material. Use a circular motion and spray from one side to the other, making sure to cover all of the mildew-affected areas.
Once you have finished, rinse off the canvas with clean water to remove any residue.
Allow the Canvas to Dry Completely
Once the mildew has been completely rinsed off, it is important to let the canvas boat cover dry completely. This can be done by laying the canvas out in direct sunlight or, if the weather does not allow for that, in a warm, dry, and well-ventilated area.
Make sure to turn the canvas over periodically so that it can dry on both sides. If possible, try to use a fan to help speed up the process.
Once the canvas boat vacuum is completely dry, you can proceed to the next step.
Apply a Protective Coating
Once the canvas boat cover is completely dry, it’s time to apply a protective coating. This will help keep the cover in good condition for years to come.
Westland® boat covers are especially formulated to protect against UV damage and fading, so it’s a good choice if you want to keep your cover looking great. However, before applying any protective coating to vinyl boat seats, make sure you read the manufacturer’s instructions.
After the protective coating is applied, store the cover in a dry, well-ventilated area and make sure it’s not exposed to direct sunlight for long periods of time.
Maintain Proper Ventilation and Storage
After thoroughly cleaning and drying your canvas boat cover, it’s important to store and maintain it properly to prevent mildew and mold from forming. Before storing your boat cover, make sure it is completely dry.
During storage, be sure to provide ventilation with a fan or air filter to minimize humidity levels. In addition, place a dehumidifier in the storage area to help control the moisture in the air.
It’s also important to store the cover in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent UV rays from degrading the canvas material. Following these steps will help maintain your canvas boat cover and keep it looking good for years to come.
Consult a Professional Cleaner
If all else fails, it’s best to hire a professional cleaner to help with the mildew removal process.
Professional cleaners have the right tools and systems in place to get your boat cover clean and free of mildew. They can also apply protective coating to make sure your boat cover stays clean and free of mildew for years to come.
As always, it’s important to inspect your boat canvas cover on a regular basis and follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. With this combination of regular maintenance, cleaning, and protective coating, you can ensure that your canvas boat cover remains in top condition for years to come..