Direct answer
Yes, you can clean and protect your boat cover yourself.
The correct order is essential.
You always work in three steps: cleaning, stain removal, and protection.
With the right Ultramar products, your boat cover stays clean, water-repellent, and well cared for longer.
Why this happens
A boat cover is usually made from woven outdoor fabric.
This material is strong and flexible, but it is exposed to the elements all the time.
Rain, sunlight, and dirt cause:
- dirt to settle into the fabric
- the water-repellent effect to slowly wear off
- the cover to look dull and stained
If you only clean and do not protect, dirt returns quickly.
That is why waterproofing is not an extra step, but a fixed part of proper maintenance.
The Ultramar 3-step plan
Ultramar always works with the same clear order.
Each step has its own purpose and should never be skipped.
Step 1 – Cleaning
You start by removing loose dirt and general contamination.
Use Sprayhood & Tent Shampoo for this.
This product is designed for outdoor fabrics and rinses out easily.
This is how you do it:
- Wet the boat cover with lukewarm water
- Apply the shampoo using a spray
- Brush gently with a soft brush
- Allow the product to work briefly
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water
- Let the fabric dry completely
Still see dirt? Then repeat this step.
Step 2 – Stain removal
Are dark areas or stubborn discoloration still visible after cleaning?
Then you are dealing with deeply embedded contamination.
In that case, use Power Cleaner.
This is a stain remover, not a general cleaner.
Important:
- Use only where needed
- Always after step 1
- Never as a replacement for cleaning
After application:
- Let the product work calmly
- Rinse thoroughly with water
- Let the cover dry completely again
Step 3 – Protection
Only protect the boat cover when it is clean and dry.
Use Sprayhood & Tent Protector for synthetic fabrics.
This restores water repellency and helps reduce new contamination.
For best results:
- Apply the product generously
- Treat both sides of the fabric
- Spread it with a brush for even absorption
- Let it dry completely
Afterwards, test with a little water to see if the fabric still absorbs moisture.
If it does, you can apply an additional layer.
Practical tips: what to do and what not to do
Do
- Work in dry weather
- Always test first on a small, inconspicuous area
- Use enough product for an even result
- Let the fabric dry completely between steps
Do not
- Do not use vinegar or household cleaners
- Do not use green deposit cleaners
- Do not use a pressure washer on fabric
- Do not waterproof a wet or dirty cover
What you need
For a complete treatment of your boat cover, you need:
- Sprayhood & Tent Shampoo – for basic cleaning
- Power Cleaner – for stubborn stains
- Sprayhood & Tent Protector – for water-repellent protection
Want to do it right in one go?
Ultramar offers maintenance bundles that combine these products.
Bundles are often more cost-effective than buying products separately and make sure you have everything you need.
Tip: do not be too economical.
Using too little product leads to uneven results.
A slightly larger pack is useful for:
- an additional layer
- touch-ups later in the season
- maintenance next year
Frequently asked questions
Can I clean the boat cover while it is still on the boat?
Yes, that is perfectly fine. Just make sure you rinse thoroughly and do not leave product residue on windows.
How often should I do this?
Ideally once at the start and once at the end of the boating season.
With regular maintenance, steps 1 and 2 become easier over time.
Do I always need to use Power Cleaner?
No. Only if clearly visible stains remain after cleaning.
Is waterproofing really necessary?
Yes. Cleaning makes the fabric clean, protection prevents dirt and water from attaching again quickly.
Summary / choice guide
Do you want to keep your boat cover looking good and use it longer?
Then always follow this order:
- Clean with Sprayhood & Tent Shampoo
- Remove stains with Power Cleaner (only where needed)
- Protect with Sprayhood & Tent Protector
This keeps your boat cover water-repellent, clean, and easier to maintain.
Ultramar
Ultramar helps you clean, maintain, and protect boat covers, tents, convertible roofs, and other outdoor fabrics yourself.
Using PFAS-free maintenance products that are easy to use at home and based on a proven three-step maintenance process.
