When it comes to keeping your boat in top condition, knowing how to properly wash and detail the interior is essential. Whether you're a weekend boater or a professional detailer, the right technique—and the right products—can make all the difference.

In this educational blog from Revival Marine Care, we walk you through a step-by-step process to deep clean and protect every surface of your boat’s interior, using our professional-grade marine detailing products. This guide was used to transform a dirty 2024 Robalo, and now you can get the same results with your vessel.

Let’s dive in.

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Step 1: Remove Rust Stains

Product: Revival Rust Stain Remover

Rust stains are a common issue for boat owners, especially around metal fixtures and fittings. Begin by applying Revival Rust Stain Remover directly onto the affected areas. Use a microfiber towel or soft detail brush to gently agitate the surface.

For stubborn stains, allow the product to sit for 2–3 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with water. This powerful, marine-safe formula breaks down rust without damaging your gel coat or upholstery.

Pro Tip: Always rinse thoroughly after use to neutralize any acidic residue.

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Step 2: Deep Clean Vinyl Seats & Cushions

Product: Revival Intense Clean

• Vinyl seats take a beating from sun, salt, sunscreen, and general grime. We use our Revival Intense Clean, a powerful all-purpose cleaner formulated specifically for marine vinyl.
• Lightly rinse the seats.
• Spray Revival Intense Clean directly onto the surface.
• Use a soft brush or magic eraser (with gentle pressure) to lift embedded dirt, oils, bird droppings, and mold stains.
• Wipe clean with a microfiber towel.
• This cleaner is effective at removing even sunscreen stains that can dye vinyl over time. It’s tough on grime but safe on marine upholstery.

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Step 3: Wash the Topside & Hull

Product: Revival Wash & Wax Boat Soap

Next, it’s time for a full rinse and wash. Start with a fresh water rinse to remove loose dirt, salt, and any leftover cleaning agents. Then, wash all surfaces using Revival Wash & Wax Boat Soap.

Why we love this soap:

• pH-balanced formula – won’t strip existing wax protection.
• Biodegradable – safe for marine life and environmentally responsible.
• Antibacterial & non-alkaline – perfect for delicate boat finishes.

Use a soft Max Shine wash mitt for detailed areas like compartments and seat bases, and a brush for floors and bulkier surfaces.

Don’t forget to clean inside compartments using Revival Intense APC and rinse thoroughly.

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Step 4: Protect All Metal Surfaces

Product: Revival Corrosion Blocker

After the boat is fully dry, apply Revival Corrosion Blocker to all exposed metal surfaces including railings, fixtures, and latches.

This step is crucial for:

• Neutralizing any acidic residue from rust removers.
• Preventing oxidation and future rust.
• Restoring shine to stainless and chrome finishes.

Simply spray the product, let it dwell for a moment, then wipe evenly with a microfiber towel.

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Step 5: Seal & Protect Your Vinyl Seats

Product: Revival Vinyl Guard

Once the vinyl is clean and dry, it’s time to protect it.

Revival Vinyl Guard restores that factory OEM finish while forming a protective layer that:

• Repels water, mold spores, and bird droppings.
• Blocks UV rays that cause fading and cracking.
• Keeps seats looking clean and shiny longer.

Spray it on and wipe evenly using a clean microfiber towel. Once cured, the surface will bead water and resist grime beautifully.

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Step 6: Ceramic Protection for Gel Coat & Glass

Product: Revival Ceramic Spray Coating

To finish your detail, apply Revival Ceramic Spray to all smooth gel coat surfaces, painted areas, engines, and glass.

This is a true ceramic coating in a spray format:

• Spray directly onto the surface.
• Spread using a microfiber towel.
• Let it sit for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
• Level off with a second clean towel.

You’ll be left with a slick, high-gloss finish that resists UV damage, salt spray, dirt, and grime for 4–6 months in harsh marine conditions.

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Final Results: Before & After Transformation

This 2024 Robalo came to us covered in pollen, bird droppings, and salt buildup. After just 2.5 hours following the steps above, we achieved a stunning transformation—a showroom-clean vessel ready for the water.

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Summary: Your Boat Deserves Pro-Level Care

Here’s a recap of the Revival Marine Care interior detailing process:

1. Remove Rust – Revival Rust Stain Remover
2. Deep Clean Vinyl – Revival Intense Clean
3. Full Wash – Revival Wash & Wax Boat Soap
4. Protect Metals – Revival Corrosion Blocker
5. Seal Vinyl Seats – Revival Vinyl Guard
6. Shield Gel Coat & Glass – Revival Ceramic Spray Coating

By using the right process and products, you can protect your investment and keep your boat looking brand new all season long.

Have questions or want help choosing the right products? Reach out to our team—we’re boat detailers ourselves and are here to help.