Summer is winding down and boating season is coming to a close.
Are you and your boat prepared for the off-season? Stay protected with LaPorte
Another incredible boating season has come and gone, and it is time to make sure your investment is prepared with the essentials it needs to be protected during the off-season.
No matter where you store your boat – on a lift, trailer, jet dock, or otherwise – it is important to know what you need to protect it from the elements in the coming seasons. This is where we come in.
Cleaning Your Cover
One of the best ways to keep your T-Top Boat Cover fabric looking good and to delay the need for deep or vigorous cleaning is to hose the cover off on a monthly basis with clear water. This helps prevent dirt from becoming deeply embedded in the fabric and eliminate the need for more frequent vigorous cleaning.
We recommend that you clean your cover while on the boat. To do so, follow these simple steps:
- Brush off loose dirt
- Hose down
- Prepare a cleaning solution of water and mild soap such as Woolite or Dawn dishwashing liquid
- Use a soft bristle marine brush to clean
- Allow cleaning solution to soak into the fabric up to 20 minutes
- Rinse thoroughly until all soap residue is removed
- Air dry
If stubborn stains persist, you can use a diluted bleach/soap mixture for spot cleaning of mildew or bird droppings:
- Mildew – 1/4 cup dishwashing liquid / 1 cup bleach / 1 gallon water
- Bird droppings – 1/4 cup dishwashing liquid / 1 gallon water
If the inside of your cover needs cleaning, you can install your cover inside out on your boat. The zipper entry will be on the other side. Follow the same instructions listed above.
Storage
Once you have cleaned your boat thoroughly, you’ll then need to think about where to store it. There are several storage options available for the offseason. Storage is a very important part of preparing your boat for the offseason. Take a look at our recent blog to check out different storage options to consider here.
We know it’s always sad having to put your baby away for the season, but you’ll be back on the water in no time! We hope these tips have helped you with preparing your boat!