Even when your boat is well-maintained and clean, mildew can be a problem. The typical vessel contains many dark and moist spots that create the perfect environment for smelly mildew to thrive. Mildew doesn’t just cause unpleasant odors, though. Left unchecked, it can also make you and your family sick, causing coughing and eye irritation. Proper cleaning and ventilation are necessary to keep mildew at bay and maintain a pleasant boating experience. 

Helpful Tips for Preventing Boat Mildew

1. Maintain Proper Ventilation

Musty mildew smell is common when you first open your boat, especially after a winter in storage. In many cases, a good airing out by opening the hatches and portholes to create cross-ventilation can eliminate most, if not all, of the smell. Keeping your vents open also ensures plenty of airflow, which helps maintain a dry environment and prevent mildew from growing. However, when you aren’t using your point, consider using an active ventilation system with fans that keeps the air moving throughout the vessel. 

2. Clean Upholstery

Often, mildew grows underneath seat cushions or in the crevices between them, causing a musty odor. Any upholstery in your boat can fall victim to mildew, including carpets, bedding, and cushions, so keeping them clean and dry should be a priority. At the beginning of the season, thoroughly steam clean all fabric surfaces to remove any mildew or lingering odors. Whenever you aren’t out cruising, turn the seat cushions on their sides to maintain air circulation. Some boat owners even place fabric softener sheets under cushions to keep things smelling fresh and deter stowaway pests. 

3. Reduce Moisture in the Air

Keeping the air in your boat cabin as dry as possible reduces mildew and the chance of odors. Installing a dehumidifier is the best option. Marine dehumidifiers remove moisture from the air using calcium chloride crystals; the collected water is stored in a reservoir that needs to be periodically emptied. If that isn't a practical option, consider using moisture absorbing sachets or bags to control humidity. This keeps mildew from forming, preventing the unpleasant odors.

If you need advice and supplies for getting mildew out of your boat, or you’re considering a new one, get in touch with Lewis Boats in St. Charles County, MO. They have a massive inventory of new and used watercraft, from pontoons and party boats to fishing and deck options. This family-owned and -operated company has been in business for over 25 years and has more than 300 years of combined experience in the boating industry. Call them at (636) 949-9926 to speak with a staff member, and visit their website to explore their full inventory.