CLEANING
15-2
becomes more visible to the naked eye whenever the
whitest-white vinyls are used. This is true regard-
less of manufacturer or vendor. MasterCraft has
chosen a white that reduces the appearance of the
pink stain but retains as much of the lightest white we
can use.
Although there can be other causes for pink stain-
ing in vinyls, most pink stains are caused by dyes pro-
duced by micro-organisms. These dyes are metabolic
products of the micro-organisms, otherwise known as
a form of fungi.
It is virtually impossible for consumers to avoid these
micro-organisms as they exist in the atmosphere. It is
also more prevalent in high-humidity areas. Rain can
cleanse the air with the result that the micro-organ-
isms are deposited on items such as marine vinyl.
While the vinyl is treated to resist the growth of
mmicro-organisms (meaning the vinyl is not a food source),
the stain results from failure to properly clean and
maintain the vinyl. This means that after use, the up-
holstery must be cleaned with a soft brush and warm
soapy water, followed by a a thorough rinse with clean
water. if this procedure is not followed, the micro-or-
ganisms can find the marine vinyl to be a suitable host
site. 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.
The organism causing the pink stain has been iden-
tified by the Burlington Scientific Corporartion as
Streptoverticillium reticulum, although there are other
strains of organism that can cause stains.
Failure to follow these instructions in the proper
Acceptable Upholstery Cleaners
MasterCraft Premium Shine & Protectant
Vinyl Finish Finyl Cleaner
Dish Soap, such as Dawn or Ivory
Fantastik
303 Protectant
Unacceptable Upholstery Cleaners
409 (it states not for use on vinyl)
Murphy’s Soap
Simple Green
DC Plus
Armorall
Top Kote Sealant
Son of a Gun
Orange 88 Degreaser
Roll Off
Bleach/Baking Soda
Turtle Wax/Tar Remover
APCO
Tannery
Harbo Master
Any product not listed above in the
Acceptable Upholstery Cleaners!
care of upholstery can cause your warranty to
be voided!
The cleaning table on the next page is offered only as
a suggestion and aid in attempting to deal with stains.
We cannot guarantee that the cleaning methods will work.
Stains from any external source are unlikely to
be covered by warranty.
Carpet
Occasionally washing with mild detergent and warm
water or household carpet cleaners will help keep the
carpet clean. Thoroughly hose the detergent out of the
carpet and into the bilge. (This is usually the best time to
clean the bilge also.) Allow the boat to remain uncovered
in the sun for several days to prevent any mildew or
odor caused by moisture.
Teak Wood
Regular cleaning and oiling of teak wood will main-
tain its original appearance. Use a teak cleaner that can
penetrate 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. Allow a
couple of hours for the oil to soak into the wood and
apply a second coat. Wipe off excess oil to prevent a
varnish look.
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