Covers are prime breeding grounds for mildew. It’s a good idea to stretch the cover out, either on the boat or dockside. Give it a good wet-down and wash it using a soft brush and a specialized cleaner, such as Aurora’s Boat Clean Plus or West Marine’s Mildew Stain Remover. Pay particular attention to seams, stitching and tie-downs.

Let the cover soak for 15 minutes and then rinse very thoroughly. If some stains remain, you may repeat the process. The best way to keep mildew from coming back is to clean the cover regularly. Ventilation helps too, and a simple center pole will keep the cover up for better circulation and improved drainage.