stain results from failure to properly clean and maintain
the vinyl. This means that after use, the upholstery must
be cleaned with a soft brush and warm soapy water, fol-
lowed by a thorough rinse with clean water.
This situation is worsened if the boat is stored without
proper ventilation or if the boat cover is put on while the
vinyl is still wet, creating a situation in which all forms of
fungi (mold and mildew) thrive.
Failure to follow these instructions in the proper care
of upholstery may cause your warranty to be voided!
The cleaning table presented in this section is offered
only as a suggestion and as an aid in attempting to deal
with stains. We do not guarantee that the cleaning meth-
ods will work.
Stains from any external source are un-
likely to be covered by warranty.
Carpet
Occasionally washing with mild detergent and warm wa-
ter or household carpet cleaners will help keep the carpet
clean. Thoroughly hose the detergent out of the carpet and
into the bilge. (This is a good time to clean the bilge also.)
Allow the boat to remain uncovered to air dry for several
days to prevent any mildew or odor caused by moisture.
Teak Wood
Regular cleaning and oiling of teak wood will maintain its
original appearance. Use a teak cleaner that can pen-
etrate the pores of the wood and cleanse them of dirt
and stains. Avoid caustic teak cleaners since they can
damage the wood. Immediately after cleaning, an oil
sealer should be applied with a soft cloth. (Follow the
directions for application and maintenance that appear
on the cleaner and sealer can or bottle.)
Windshield
In cleaning tempered glass windshields, the normal
glass cleaners (from spray bottles or aerosol cans) work
best. While the glass is very strong, it can be scratched
if anything abrasive is used. Harsh chemicals or solvents
should be avoided because they may affect the vinyl gas-
kets or powder-coated finish on the extrusions.
More care should be taken when cleaning the clear
Eisenglass curtains, which are an option on some boat
models. Eisenglass curtains are usually made with clear
vinyl sheeting, which is much softer and more prone to
scratching and hazing than the windshield glass is, only
soft cloths and mild detergents should be used.
Canvas Covers
The material used in constructing Bimini tops and boat
covers is made from 100 percent solution-dyed polyester
fiber with a urethane coating to provide excellent water
repellency and mildew resistance. This design allows
the material to be easily maintained. By following a few
simple care and cleaning steps, the fabric will continue
to look good and maintain its fine qualities for seasons
to come.
Important Background Information
Because the fabrics are woven, they are breathable. It’s
also important to know that these fabrics are treated with a
fluorocarbon finish, which enhances water repellency. This
finish requires replenishment after vigorous cleaning.
Polyester fabric will not support the growth of mildew.
Mold and mildew need something on which to grow and
polyester fabric is not a desirable substance for such
growth. Dirt or dust on the fabric, however, is a perfect
source for mildew growth, which makes regular cleaning
of the fabric important.
There is no set time for when the fabric should be
cleaned, and the local environment has a great deal
to do with determining cleaning frequency. Cleaning is
required less frequently in a dry environment than in a
humid one where heavy foliage exists.
The material has an applied finish that deters mold
and mildew growth, but it does not make it mold-
proof. Keeping the fabric free of dirt and foreign sub-
stances is important in deterring mold growth.
2008 MasterCraft Owners Manual Page 13-2
