How to Clean Leather Boat Seats 
If you’ve been wondering how to clean leather boat seats, you’ve come to the right place! Here are a few tips to keep them looking great and preventing stains. First, make sure you use a UV protectant. You can also use stain removers. And, remember to use a soft brush.
Stain removers
When it comes to stain removers for leather boat seats, you have several options. Some of these stains are simple to remove, while others are more difficult. For example, Sharpie ink is nearly impossible to remove. In both cases, you will need to apply a cleaning agent to the stained area and rub it in using circular motions. Afterward, buff it with a clean microfiber cloth. The cleaning agent will gradually wear off the UV protectant, so you will need to reapply it every month or two to maintain the protective layer of the material.
Another option is to use a cleaning solution that is dedicated to the stain. A good solution for this is the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, which works very well on mold and mildew stains. This cleaner is made to remove stubborn stains and doesn’t require a lot of elbow grease. Afterward, make sure to dry the stain and protect the boat seats with a protective coating.
UV protectant
A UV protectant for leather boat seats will help prevent fading and cracking caused by sunlight. It also repels dust and smudges. It leaves a dry matte finish. You can apply it directly to clean seats without the need to use a cleaner. 303 Aerospace Protectant has a broad spectrum of protection against UV rays.
There are several types of UV protectants available for marine applications. Some are more effective than others. 303 Marine Clear is a high-end UV protectant that is very versatile and can be used on many types of marine vehicles. It’s a bit pricey, but it’s highly rated and doesn’t leave behind a greasy film.
Avoiding harsh cleaners
When cleaning leather boat seats, it is important to use a mild cleaner that does not damage the fabric. It is important not to use a caustic cleaner as it will harm the upholstery and strip away its anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties. Also, it can harm the threads that were used to stitch the seats. If the stitching is damaged, it will not last as long as it would before.
Avoiding harsh cleaners is important because some chemicals can break down vinyl. For example, bleach and degreasers can weaken the seats over time. Although bleach is sometimes necessary to remove mold and extreme stains, it will remove the top layer of the finish. Vinyl is a porous material, and it needs a little breathing room to maintain its appearance.
Using a soft brush
Marine vinyl is porous, so if you leave it on your boat seats for a long time, it will stain. Among the things that can stain it are sunscreen, food, drinks, cardboard, life jackets, leaves, and more. If you want to keep your seats clean and free from stains, you must use a special cleaner for vinyl and dry it thoroughly. You can also use a dedicated vinyl protectant.
Using a vacuum will help you vacuum up loose dust. Then, you should use a soft brush to scrub the seats with a quality marine vinyl cleaner. You can also use an old toothbrush to scrub away any dirt from the seats. For best results, use circular motions to scrub the seats with cleaner. You can repeat this cleaning process every few months.
Using a mildew remover
When it comes to cleaning your leather boat seats, using a mildew remover is the best way to go. These cleaners have been specially formulated for upholstery. They are safe and won’t damage the upholstery or your boat. Choose a mildew remover with high versatility because it will work on various types of materials. A mildew remover with a low versatility will not work on leather and could cause discoloration. Also, a mildew remover with a low pH might damage wood and aluminum surfaces.
Once you have determined which type of mildew remover is right for your boat seats, you can begin the process of cleaning. First, spray the area with the cleanser and allow it to sit for at least 10 minutes. Then, begin scrubbing to remove stubborn stains.
Using a marine vinyl cleaner
Marine vinyl is a porous material, and regular cleaning is essential. Leaving items on the seats can also cause stains. One time I left a welcome mat on the seat for about 2 weeks. Luckily, it didn’t damage the leather. Here are some tips to clean the marine vinyl without damaging it.
Ensure the vinyl seats are dry before applying the cleaner. To avoid scratching the leather, use soft-bristled brushes. Also, use a marine-grade vinyl cleaner that has been specially designed for marine use.
