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How to Maintain Your Boat Seats & Keep Them Looking Brand New

Your boat is built to take on the water, but that doesn’t mean your seats should take a beating too. At PRP, we’ve engineered our marine seating with durability and quality in mind. However, proper care is still essential for keeping them looking and performing their best. Whether you’re dealing with UV rays, saltwater exposure, or off-season storage, here’s everything you need to know to extend the life of your PRP boat seats.

Cleaning Tips for Vinyl and Marine Upholstery

Routine cleaning is the first step in protecting your investment. PRP’s marine-grade vinyl is designed to resist mildew and UV damage, but it still needs a little maintenance to stay sharp.

Here’s how to clean your marine seats the right way:

  • Use mild soap and water: A gentle mix of warm water and dish soap will handle most dirt and grime. Avoid harsh cleaners or bleach, which can damage the vinyl’s protective coating.

  • Soft-bristle brush or microfiber cloth: Don’t scrub aggressively — let the cleaner do the work.

  • Rinse thoroughly: Salt and soap residue can break down materials over time. Be sure to rinse with fresh water and dry with a clean towel.

  • For stubborn stains: Use a marine-safe vinyl cleaner or a 1:1 solution of water and white vinegar.

Pro tip: Clean your seats after every outing. It only takes a few minutes and goes a long way in preventing long-term damage.

How to Protect Seats from UV Damage, Saltwater, and Mold

Sun, salt, and moisture are your boat seat’s biggest enemies. Here’s how to fight back:

UV Protection

  • Apply a UV protectant every month or so to keep vinyl from drying out and cracking.

  • Use seat covers when the boat isn’t in use. It’s one of the simplest ways to block harmful rays.

Saltwater Protection

  • Rinse with fresh water after every saltwater outing. Salt is corrosive and can wear down stitching and fabric quickly.

  • Dry seats thoroughly to prevent salt crystals from forming as water evaporates.

Mold & Mildew Prevention

  • Keep airflow moving. Mold thrives in damp, stagnant areas. Leave compartments open when possible or use moisture-absorbing products like silica gel packs or DampRid.

  • Avoid sitting on wet seats with soaked clothing or towels, and dry off standing water as soon as possible.

rapid boat seat

hydro classic

hydro retro

The Importance of BOAT COVERS AND Storage Solutions

Protective covers are a game changer — especially if your boat lives outside. PRP offers custom-fit seat covers designed specifically for your marine seats. They:

  • Block UV rays

  • Repel moisture

  • Shield from bird droppings, tree sap, and debris

If you’re storing your boat for more than a few days, invest in a full boat cover or a canopy. Keeping your interior covered not only protects your seats but also extends the life of your entire boat setup.

Best Practices for Off-Season Storage

When boating season comes to an end, proper storage can make all the difference when spring rolls around. Follow these steps:

  1. Clean and dry everything thoroughly. Mold is more likely to grow in a sealed environment if any moisture is left behind.

  2. Store in a dry, covered area — ideally indoors. If outdoor storage is your only option, make sure your boat cover fits securely and drains properly.

  3. Check periodically during winter months to ensure no moisture buildup or pest activity.

Final Thoughts

A little maintenance goes a long way when it comes to your PRP marine seats. By cleaning regularly, protecting against the elements, and storing smart, you’ll keep your boat looking clean, fresh, and ready for the water — season after season.

Got questions or need custom-fit seat covers for your setup? Reach out to our team  we’ve got your back on land and sea.

ORDER FREE SAMPLES

GET THE PERFECT COLOR MATCH TO YOUR INTERIOR

Create your own custom design! Just like the rest of our seats, PRP’s new suspension seats for marine and boats are fully customizable with over 60+ different colors and materials to choose from.

Use our seat builder to create the perfect look for your boat and order free fabric and color samples to make sure you’re not up the river without a paddle!

HAVE QUESTIONS?

If you need any help, or have any questions, feel free to give us a call at 1.800.317.6253 or email us anytime at [email protected]

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