NRS Inflatable Boat Cleaner: 7 Steps to Clean a Raft Without Damage

Updated November 2026

An NRS inflatable boat cleaner lets you lift dirt, algae, sunscreen film and mildew from an inflatable’s tubes and floor without breaking down the fabric. This guide walks you through a safe, repeatable cleaning routine: prepping the boat, choosing the right cleaner for your tube material, scrubbing with the correct tools, rinsing thoroughly and drying the boat so mildew doesn’t return. Follow the steps and your raft will look better and last longer.

Before You Start: Know Your Boat Material

Most inflatable boats use one of two coatings. Older and budget rafts often use PVC, while many river and whitewater boats use Hypalon or a similar synthetic rubber. Both respond well to gentle cleaning, but harsh solvents can dry out or discolor either material. Check the manufacturer’s care label or product manual before you pick a cleaner. If you can’t find the label, start with the mildest option and test a small hidden spot first.

Shopping for one? See our guide: 5 Best Hull Cleaners for Boat Options Compared: Our Picks for Every Need.

Also inspect the boat before cleaning. Look for loose valve caps, lifting handles that are fraying, and any patches or seams that are already peeling. Cleaning can reveal small punctures, so it is a good time to check for leaks too.

Tools and Supplies You Need

A simple kit covers almost every inflatable. Gather these items before you begin:

• A cleaner labeled safe for PVC or Hypalon coatings
• A soft-bristle brush or deck brush with nylon bristles
• A soft cloth or microfiber towel
• A bucket of lukewarm water
• A garden hose with a gentle spray nozzle
• A non-abrasive sponge for stubborn spots
• Mild dish soap for a backup wash if needed
• A clean, dry towel or chamois for final drying

Avoid wire brushes, scouring pads and any product containing bleach or strong solvents. They can scratch the coating and leave permanent marks.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean an Inflatable with an NRS Inflatable Boat Cleaner

Step 1: Rinse the Boat

Start with a thorough rinse using a gentle spray. Remove loose sand, grit and leaves first. Grit left on the surface acts like sandpaper once you start scrubbing, so this step prevents micro-scratches on the coating.

Step 2: Dilute the Cleaner as Directed

Mix the cleaner in a bucket of lukewarm water at the ratio printed on the label. More product does not mean cleaner results. Over-concentrated solutions can leave a film that attracts dirt, and they can be harder to rinse off completely.

Step 3: Clean in Sections

Work from the top down. Clean the tubes first, then the floor, then the transom area if your boat has one. Working in manageable sections, roughly one tube panel or a few square feet at a time, keeps the cleaner from drying on the surface before you can rinse it.

Step 4: Scrub Gently

Use the soft brush in small circular motions, applying light pressure. Let the cleaner sit for the time listed on the label, usually a few minutes, so it can loosen grime. For stubborn scuffs or mildew stains, use a sponge and a little extra dwell time instead of scrubbing harder.

Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse each section before moving to the next. Leftover cleaner residue is one of the most common causes of sticky, dull-looking tubes. Rinse until the water runs clear and no suds remain. Pay extra attention to seams, valve areas and the lower tube where soap collects.

Step 6: Handle Mildew Carefully

If you see mildew, the cleaner alone may not remove it fully. Apply the diluted cleaner, let it dwell longer and scrub gently with the soft brush. Rinse well. Do not use bleach as a shortcut, because it can damage the coating and weaken the material over time.

Step 7: Dry Completely

Wipe the boat with a clean towel or chamois and let it air dry in the shade. Dry the boat before storing it, even if you only cleaned the outside. Trapped moisture inside a rolled-up raft is the fastest route to mildew.

Cleaning Method Comparison

The table below compares common cleaning approaches so you can match the method to the soil you’re dealing with.

Situation	Recommended approach	Key caution
Light dust and sand	Rinse with a hose, then wipe with a damp cloth	Rinse before wiping to avoid scratches
Sunscreen or oily film	Diluted cleaner, soft brush, thorough rinse	Residue can attract more dirt if not rinsed fully
Algae or green staining	Diluted cleaner with longer dwell time	Test a hidden spot first on older coatings
Light mildew	Cleaner plus soft sponge, then full dry	Never use bleach
Scuffs on the tube	Gentle sponge with cleaner	Avoid abrasive pads that can thin the coating

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Cleaning in direct, hot sun. The cleaner dries too fast and leaves streaks.
• Using household bleach or harsh solvents. These can dull or weaken the coating.
• Skipping the rinse. Residue dries sticky and holds dirt.
• Scrubbing with abrasive pads. Scratches make future dirt harder to remove.
• Storing the boat damp. Mildew can develop within days in a rolled-up bag.
• Ignoring the manufacturer’s instructions. Always follow the care guidance for your specific boat.

Tips for Keeping Your Inflatable Cleaner Between Trips

• Rinse the boat with fresh water after every saltwater or muddy outing.
• Dry the boat fully before packing it, paying attention to folds and valve pockets.
• Store the boat loosely rolled or folded in a ventilated bag, not sealed in a plastic tote.
• Keep a small spray bottle of diluted cleaner in your gear for quick spot treatment on the river.
• Check seams and valve areas during each cleaning so small problems don’t grow.

Recommended gear

A few supplies make cleaning easier and gentler on your boat. Look for these types of products:

• A dedicated inflatable or PVC-safe cleaner formulated for synthetic tube coatings, so you avoid harsh chemicals that can dull the surface. View on Amazon
• A soft-bristle deck brush that scrubs grime without scratching the coating. View on Amazon
• A microfiber drying towel that absorbs moisture quickly and leaves no lint behind. View on Amazon
• A gentle spray nozzle for your garden hose that rinses away grit without forceful pressure. View on Amazon

FAQ

Can I use an NRS inflatable boat cleaner on Hypalon and PVC?

Many inflatable-safe cleaners are designed to work on both PVC and Hypalon coatings, but you should confirm compatibility on the product label and your boat’s care guide. When in doubt, test a small hidden area first.

How often should I clean my inflatable boat?

Rinse after every use, especially in saltwater or muddy conditions. A full cleaning with cleaner is usually appropriate at the end of a season or whenever visible grime builds up.

Is it safe to use bleach to remove mildew?

Bleach is generally not recommended because it can damage synthetic coatings and weaken seams. Use a cleaner made for inflatables and scrub gently instead. Consult your boat manufacturer if you have concerns about a specific material.

Do I need to rinse off the cleaner completely?

Yes. Leftover residue can dry sticky, attract dirt and dull the finish. Rinse each section until the water runs clear and no suds remain.

Can I clean my inflatable boat in direct sunlight?

It is better to clean in the shade or early in the day. Direct sun can dry the cleaner too quickly and leave streaks or spots.

How should I dry the boat before storing it?

Wipe the surfaces with a clean towel and let the boat air dry in a shaded, ventilated area until no moisture remains in folds or valve pockets. Store it loosely packed to prevent mildew.

Can scrubbing damage the tubes?

It can if you use stiff brushes or abrasive pads. Stick to soft bristles and gentle pressure, and let the cleaner do most of the work.

Should I hire a professional for heavy staining?

For severe staining, deep mildew or any peeling coating, consider consulting the manufacturer or a qualified marine repair shop for advice before trying aggressive treatments.

Conclusion

A careful, gentle cleaning routine keeps your inflatable looking good and extends its useful life. Rinse first, dilute the cleaner correctly, scrub softly, rinse thoroughly and dry completely before storage. For more on keeping your boat in top shape, see Cleaner for Aluminum Boat: A Step-by-Step Guide to a Spotless Hull and Anchor for Inflatable Boat: How to Choose, Rig and Use One (2026).

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