Marine Fabric Care Guide

At Morley Canvas, we understand that your boat is more than just a vessel – it’s an investment in adventure and lifestyle. That’s why we’re committed to providing Perth boat owners with marine trimming solutions, from biminis and boat covers to seating, clears, and carpets.

To help you keep your marine fabrics looking and performing at their best, we’ve compiled this comprehensive care guide. With a little TLC, you can prolong the life of your marine fabrics and ensure they stay as good as the day you got them.

 

1. How to Care for Your Boat Bimini

Your bimini is your boat’s first line of defence against harsh Australian sun and unpredictable weather. Proper care ensures it continues to protect you for years to come.

• Clean Regularly: Rinse your bimini with fresh water after every use to remove salt, dirt, and debris. For a deeper clean, use a mild soap and a soft brush to gently scrub the fabric. Avoid harsh detergents that can weaken UV protection.
• Dry Thoroughly: Always let your bimini air-dry completely before folding or storing. Storing it while damp can lead to mould and mildew growth.
• Apply Fabric Protectants: Consider using a UV fabric protectant designed for marine-grade materials. This will help maintain the fabric’s colour and resistance to fading.

 

2. How to Care for Your Boat Seating

Marine seating faces constant exposure to sun, salt, and moisture, so a little care goes a long way in keeping it comfortable and durable.

• Clean Spills Promptly: Wipe up spills as soon as they occur to prevent staining. Use a soft cloth or sponge with mild soap to tackle stubborn marks.
• Rinse with Fresh Water: Like your bimini, your boat’s seating should be rinsed with fresh water regularly to remove salt and grime.
• Protect Against UV Damage: Apply a marine-safe UV protectant to vinyl or fabric seating to prevent cracking and fading.
• Cover When Not in Use: Use fitted seat covers or a full boat cover to shield seating from direct sunlight and reduce wear. Morley Canvas manufactures all products in house to suit your specifications – so get in touch if you need custom covers for your boat cushions.

 

3. How to Care for Your Boat Covers

Boat covers are essential for protecting your vessel when not in use, so keeping them in top condition is vital.

• Wash Carefully: Use fresh water and a mild soap to clean covers.
• Avoid Abrasives: Never use abrasive brushes or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the protective coatings.
• Store Properly: When removing your boat cover, fold it neatly and store it in a dry, ventilated area.
• Inspect Regularly: Check for small tears or damage. Repairs done early can prevent larger issues down the line.

 

4. How to Care for Your Boat Carpets

Marine carpets are designed to withstand wet and salty conditions, but they still need care to stay fresh and functional.

• Vacuum Frequently: Vacuum your boat carpets regularly to remove sand, dirt, and debris that can wear down fibres.
• Wash with Fresh Water: Rinse carpets with fresh water after every trip. For a deeper clean, use a marine-grade carpet cleaner.
• Dry Completely: Always let carpets dry thoroughly to prevent mould and mildew growth. Elevated drying racks can help speed up the process.
• Use Mats or Runners: Place mats or runners in high-traffic areas to reduce wear and make cleaning easier.

 

5. General Tips for All Marine Fabrics

Some care tips apply to all the fabrics on your boat, whether it’s your bimini, seating, or carpets:

• Prevent Salt Build-Up: Salt is the enemy of marine fabrics. Always rinse your boat with fresh water after every trip to remove salt residues.
• Check Fasteners and Zippers: Keep zippers, snaps, and other fasteners free of debris and lubricate them regularly with a marine-grade lubricant to prevent corrosion.
• Store Properly in the Off-Season: If your boat is stored for an extended period, ensure all fabrics are clean and dry. Use a full boat cover to protect against dust and pests.
• Schedule Professional Repairs: For any significant wear or damage, bring your boat to Morley Canvas. Our team can repair or replace your marine fabrics to keep your boat in top condition.

 

Protect Your Investment with Morley Canvas

At Morley Canvas, we don’t just create high-quality marine fabrics – we’re here to ensure they last for the long haul. Whether you need repairs, custom fabrication, or expert advice, our experienced team has you covered.

From dinghies to large yachts, we offer a wide range of marine trimming and fabrication services to Perth boat owners.

Here’s how we can help:

• Custom Boat Covers: Protect your vessel with durable, locally made covers designed to withstand the harsh Australian climate.
• Marine Trimming Services: From reupholstering existing seats to adding marine-grade carpets, we’ll tailor solutions to your boat’s needs.
• Convenient On-Site Services: Our team can visit your location for a free measure and quote, or you can visit one of our WA workshops.

 

Need help with your marine fabrics?

Visit our marine canvas page to learn more about our premium marine products, or get in touch with our friendly team today to discuss your requirements or get a free, no-obligation quote.

Call us on (08) 9375 9500, or submit your enquiry online.