8 Tips to look after your boat cover

Please note: Every Canvasman product is handmade using different fabrics, fittings, and materials. For product-specific care advice, see our individual care guides.

1. Clean Early, Clean Often

Dirt is easiest to remove when it’s fresh. Left too long, contaminants like bird droppings, tree sap, salt, mould, and pollution can stain or damage your cover.

Our advice:

• Rinse regularly with fresh water
• Always rinse after saltwater use
• Allow to air dry naturally
• Deep clean once or twice a year

Important: Never use a pressure washer—it can damage coatings, stitching, and seams.

2. Keep It Dry Before Storage

Never store your cover damp.

Moisture trapped in folded fabric can lead to mould, mildew, staining, and damaged windows.

Before storing:

• Make sure the cover is completely dry
• Fold with minimal creases
• Avoid sharp folds around clear windows
• Store in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight

3. Keep It Tensioned

A correctly tensioned cover lasts longer and performs better.

Proper tension helps prevent:

• Water pooling
• Wind flap
• Fabric stretch
• Seam wear
• Stress on fittings

Check straps, fixings, and framework regularly

4. Respect Extreme Weather

Your cover is built for British weather—but every cover has limits.

Strong winds, heavy snow, and storms can put serious strain on fabric, stitching, and fittings.

When severe weather is forecast:

• Remove covers where possible
• Secure loose sections
• Clear snow build-up early

A little prevention can avoid expensive repairs.

5. Control Moisture & Ventilation

Moisture doesn’t just come from rain—condensation builds up quickly inside enclosed covers.

Without airflow, mould and mildew can develop.

Prevent it by:

• Opening panels when conditions allow
• Ventilating regularly
• Drying damp areas as soon as possible

If mould appears, treat it early.

6. Protect Clear Windows

Clear panels need extra care.

When rolling:

• Roll with the smooth surface facing out
• Never leave windows rolled while wet
• Unroll and dry within 48 hours

Leaving windows damp can cause permanent misting.

7. Replace Small Parts Early

A missing fastener or damaged fitting might seem minor—but it can quickly lead to bigger issues.

Loose fittings can cause:

• Uneven tension
• Fabric movement
• Seam stress
• Damage to surrounding fixings

Replace worn parts as soon as possible.

8. Repair Small Issues Before They Become Big Ones

Even the best covers wear over time. Catching small issues early extends the life of your investment.

Whether it’s stitching, zips, windows, fittings, or reproofing, professional repairs can add years of service.

Every Canvasman cover is handcrafted for long-term performance. With routine care and early maintenance, your cover will keep protecting your boat season after season.