How to Clean PVC Inflatable Boat?
You’ve had lots of fun taking your inflatable PVC boat on different water adventures, and you’re now ready to put it away. Just before you fold it away, you notice dirt stains, grime, and even some mold. If you’ve never cleaned a PVC inflatable boat before, this can prove to be a challenge. Luckily, we’ve outlined several easy ways you can clean your PVC inflatable boat without damaging the material.
The best practice for cleaning your PVC inflatable boat is to clean it after every use instead of waiting for visible dirt stains. To do this, all you need to do is ensure you rinse your boat after every use. Thoroughly rinse and then let it dry properly before storing it away. You can wipe it down with a towel to soak up extra water before air-drying it. If it is sunny, you can use the sunlight to dry your boat. However, do not leave it out in the sun for too long because that degrades the material.
How to Clean Stains?
Say your boat already has stains, and a simple rinse will not do it; what can you do? You can clean most stains using the steps outlined below.
- Gather the items you’ll use. You’ll need gloves, inflatable boat cleaner, and sponges or brushes. You must use an inflatable boat cleaner. Without, you won’t have as much success removing stains, and you risk damaging your boat’s material.
- Wet the whole boat with water as this will allow the cleaner to go on quickly.
- Apply the inflatable boat cleaner. Depending on the nozzle, you can spray, pour or wipe the solution onto the boat. Avoid applying the cleaner to the whole boat before cleaning. The cleaner will dry out before you get the chance to use it. The best solution is to work in smaller spots. An excellent method is to start from the inside of the boat while working your way to the outside.
- Follow the instructions on the cleaner. Some let you begin cleaning immediately, while others ask you to wait for a few minutes. This lets the solution work its magic, making it easier for you to work on.
- Use your sponge or soft-bristled brush to scrub on the stains. Most simple stains will come off within the first screw scrubs. However, stubborn stains may need harder scrubbing and a little bit more cleaning solution.
- Repeat the process on the same spot for a second time, after which you can move on to other parts of the boat. Keep doing the same process all over the whole boat. Do not wait until your boat is filthy for you to clean it. Make it a habit to clean your boat often.
As a bonus step, you should invest in a protectant, especially one with UV features. Protectants help prolong your boat’s lifespan and protect it from the degrading effects of the sun. Practicing the steps outlined above will help keep your inflatable PVC boat in its best condition.
