As the late autumn charters draw to a close in the calm anchorages of the Tuscan archipelago, crews begin preparing deck equipment for winter storage. It is essential to correctly clean inflatable yacht platform salt residue before the season finishes. Leaving salt crystals on the material can trap moisture and cause wear during the long layup. A methodical wash means your equipment unrolls next spring exactly as you left it.
Steps for an Effective Washdown
Preparing a floating deck for winter requires a clear routine, especially after months in the Mediterranean sun and sea. Follow these steps to prepare your gear for a dry winter ashore.
- Find a flat space. Unfold the product on a clean surface free of sharp objects, either on the quay or a cleared deck area.
- Leave the item inflated to make the surface taut. If it has softened in the cold autumn air, use the Air Pump 1200W to restore the pressure stated in the product instructions.
- Perform a heavy flush. Rinse thoroughly with fresh water after contact with salt water to dissolve the crust that forms along the waterline and in corners.
- Wash the fabrics. Clean fabrics with a mild soap solution, using a soft brush or cloth to lift stubborn grime from the 0.9 mm PVC sides and underside.
- Scrub the top layer carefully. Give the teak-look surface a regular, gentle clean to keep its appearance, sweeping the soapy water away from the valves.
- Rinse again. Perform a final rinse to wash away all soap, making sure no residue remains on the material.
- Dry completely. Make sure the product is completely dry before you deflate, fold and pack it.
Saltwater Care for Drop-Stitch Fabric
The materials used in Dockee products are chosen to be UV- and saltwater-resistant, but they still benefit from attentive care. The core relies on drop-stitch construction, where two layers of fabric are joined by a dense array of internal threads. This creates a flat, firm deck when inflated. Proper saltwater care for drop-stitch equipment means keeping the exterior PVC clean so the material retains its flexibility over the winter.
When you rinse drop-stitch platform sections, pay close attention to the seams and connection loops. If you used an AirLink Tube to join a Premium Teak Platform 4.10 m to other units during the season, the connection points will need extra fresh water to clear trapped salt. The 410 x 205 cm frame holds a large surface area, so work in sections to make sure the fresh water flushes away every trace of marine buildup.
Caring for the Teak-Look Top
The top of the platforms features a non-slip, teak-look finish. It is a teak look only, not real wood. Because it is synthetic, it needs no oiling or sanding at the end of the year. A thorough wash with a mild soap solution is all that is required to remove marks left by foot traffic, tender lines or water toys.
If you are washing a large deck or a compact Premium Teak Platform 2.05 m, use only soft bristles. Harsh scrubbing can wear the non-slip texture over time. By sweeping the fresh water evenly across the 205 x 205 cm surface, you lift the dirt without compromising the grip. Once the surface is clean, let the Mediterranean breeze dry it completely before moving on to deflation. For smaller lounge items and accessories, you might use the Air Pump 500W to draw out the remaining air once they are dry.
Valve Inspection and Final Drying
The final stage of your yacht inflatable end-of-season cleaning involves the hardware. The valve is the fitting through which the product is filled with air and deflated. It must be closed for inflation and capped afterwards so that the product holds its pressure. Before you open it to release the air, wipe away any remaining water droplets around the rim.
When you are ready to winterise an inflatable dock, press the valve to release the air and let the internal threads relax. Store inflatables and covers dry and out of prolonged direct sunlight. Proper care and storage protect the reinforced PVC over the cold months. Dockee policies include a warranty of 2 years from delivery, and keeping the folded platform in a dry, temperate environment keeps the fabric in excellent condition for another summer cruising the Italian coast.
