One of the most common questions we hear from customers is how to keep their Polyform fenders looking clean and performing well over many seasons. The good news is that Polyform fenders are genuinely low-maintenance — but a little regular attention will significantly extend their working life and keep them performing as they should.

Regular In-Season Maintenance

During the boating season, the most important thing you can do is rinse your fenders with fresh water after each use, particularly after mooring in harbours with poor water quality or after contact with rough dock walls. Salt deposits, diesel residue and biological growth can all degrade PVC over time if left on the surface.

For more thorough monthly cleaning, use the Aqua Marine Boat Fender Cleaner — a specialist formula designed specifically for marine PVC. Apply with a soft cloth or sponge, work in sections, and rinse thoroughly. Never use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads or solvents on Polyform fenders — these strip the UV protectants from the surface and accelerate degradation.

Checking and Maintaining Inflation

Check your fenders’ inflation pressure at the start of each season and periodically during the season, particularly after significant temperature changes. Cold weather reduces internal pressure — fenders that were correctly inflated in summer may feel soft in autumn. Conversely, fenders stored inflated in a hot locker over winter may over-inflate.

The correct inflation pressure for most Polyform fenders is between 0.15 and 0.2 bar. The fender should feel firm but retain a slight give when squeezed. If you can press the sides together easily, it needs more air. If it feels rock-hard, release a small amount of pressure.

End-of-Season Winter Storage

• Clean thoroughly with Aqua Marine Fender Cleaner before storage
• Deflate slightly — reduce pressure by about a quarter to reduce valve stress during storage
• Store in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight — UV is the primary cause of PVC degradation
• If storing in a locker, ensure ventilation — moisture trapped around fenders can encourage mildew on fender covers
• Check ropeholds for wear before storing — if the rope eye shows cracking or splitting, address it before next season