Mold and Mildew stain remover

[On The Edge]

Hi All

I need to call upon the forums vast knowledge and years of experience in boating to help me out. I sadly let me boat seats get Mold and Mildew stains on them and now I can't get the stains out with ordinary cleaners. I was wondering if anyone has had any luck with a cleaner and wouldn't mind sharing that info with me.

Thanks a bunch

On The Edge

[Seaplane Pilot]

I've used Greased Lightning Marine Formula for several years. It's taken out every stain imaginable. Give it a try.

[Tyler]

Try a 50/50 mix of bleach and warm water, works great. Be carefull of spilling on the carpet for obvious reasons. Let us know how it works.

[Proline]

Bleach will work. I used the bleach they make in a spray bottle and sell as a kitchen cleaner. Spray on and let sit for a few minutes then wipe off. Best to hose off away from the lake though.

[SIKSUKR]

I've used Greased Lightning Marine Formula for several years. It's taken out every stain imaginable. Give it a try.
Did it get the tequila stains off the bar at the Tiki Hut? SS

[NightWing]

Simple Green is also pretty effective.

[GrandmaBig6]

Ammonia and water are good for killing the mold. I'd be worried to use clorox on a color seat - but say it's ok on white.

[Tyler]

I use clorox on white, blue, and maroon, no problems with good old clorox and warm water having an affect on the colors.

[Smith Point]

If it won't come cleen with Castrol super cleen it won't come cleen.

[Proline]

Just an FYI. I was assuming the seats are vinal. I have not had a problem with clorox changing color s on vinal.

[Sammy]

Starbrite mildew stain remover is the best. Works in an instant. Most marine stores carry it, West Marine for sure.

[Seaplane Pilot]

Did it get the tequila stains off the bar at the Tiki Hut? SS

Yes sir... even removed the Jagermeister stains!

[parrothead]

I have used "black streak cleaner" for RV's. I cleaned boats for a marina out in Western MA for years. The owner of the marina used it to clean everything. It will take stains out of vinyl seats, carpets, fiberglass. The stuff works really well. Spray it on and let it sit for a few minutes and then soak the seats with soapy warm water and scrub lightly with a scrub brush. Spray the seat off with a hose and you'll be amazed. Obviously this is something to be done once the boat has been taken out for the season or before it goes in for the season. It will also work on the fiberglass sides to get rid of the water line mark, and any black streaks coming out from under the snaps, or vent holes. If you call and RV dealer they may have the stuff, there are many brands, but they all work pretty similar. According to the bottle it is also biodegradeable. Good luck.

[WakeUp]

Be CAREFUL using any bleached-based products cleaning marine upholstery! It's not so much the color of the vinyl being effected, the problem is the bleach deteriorates the stitching of the seats! I learned the hard way. Bleach PLUS the sunlight kills the threads! There are products formulated specifically for marine use...some sort of UV protection. WORTH THE INVESTMENT!!!

[Rinkerfam]

I have had great success using Meguire's Mirror Glaze "One Step" cleaner/wax (#50 I believe) on marine vinyl. It removes pen, crayon, mold etc., etc..... Once you have taken the stains out, apply a protectant such as 303 aerospace protectant (both products are available at Sports and Marine Parafunalia or West Marine). I swear by both of these products. Good luck.

[DLBIV]

Hi
I have used Starbrite mildew cleaner with great success. Also I highly recommend using a product by Starbrite called "NO DAMP Dehumidifier" system. This product pulls the moister out of the air. I use it during the boating season when I cover the boat weekly and also I put a few of these in prior to being wrapped for the season for storage. Keep the moisture out which causes the problem to begin with.
DLBIV

[ddemers]

Try using a mild solution of TSP (trisodiumphosphate), it can be found at most home depots. Start weak and work your way up.

[BroadHopper]

Bleach and ammonia are hard on vinyl. Ask any marine upholsterer.
I use the color-safe 'bleach' found at the supermarkets. It is hydrogen peroxide. It removes the stains and helps keep the mold and mildew from coming back. :cool:

[donnamatrix]

I use Tilex Mildew remover (any grocery store). I've used it on our vinyl cushions and also the boat covers. We used to have a Bayliner many years ago that had vinyl instead of canvas for the covers/Bimini. In the spring everything that was stored in the boat had black spots, and Tilex is great. I've also used it to clean the patio umbrella. Does a great job.

[KBoater]

Be careful using Tilex Mildew it works well but be sure you completely rinse it off or you can rot any metal including stainless.

[Belmont Resident]

I've uesed Starbright with the help of a scrub brush. Has worked great on everything I've encountered so far with the exception of what looked like a cigarette stain. Have not had luck with anything on that one.

[HotDog]

Mr Clean Magic Sponges i have seen work the best and they don't harm the seats or anything on the boat!!

[KPW]

[QUOTE=BroadHopper]Bleach and ammonia are hard on vinyl. Ask any marine upholsterer.

Bleach and Ammonia do not make a good mix!!