HOW TO CLEAN RIB TUBES

 

How to Clean & Restore Inflatable RIB Tubes – August Race ™ Guide

Keeping your inflatable RIB tubes in top condition is essential not only for appearance but also for performance and safety. Clean, well-maintained tubes are less prone to UV degradation, staining, and wear, this also gives you the opportunity to check for damage such as abrasion, punctures, or seam separation.

Whether you’re new to boating or an experienced RIB owner, tube care should be part of your regular maintenance routine.

Understanding Your RIB Tubes

Inflatable RIB tubes are typically made from Hypalon® or PVC fabric.

  • Hypalon® – Highly UV resistant and durable, often found on premium RIBs.

  • PVC – Lightweight and cost-effective, but more susceptible to UV damage over time.

The care process for both is similar, but PVC requires more frequent protection to prevent fading and brittleness.

Why Clean Tubes Matter

Over time, inflatable tubes accumulate dirt, algae, fuel residue, and UV-related fading. If neglected, this can lead to:

  • Permanent staining that becomes harder to remove

  • UV degradation that weakens the fabric

  • Surface oxidation that dulls the finish

  • Longevity - Reduced overall lifespan of the tubes

When and How Often to Clean

For best results:

  • Full clean & protect at least twice per season – ideally at the start and mid-way through the season.

  • Quick rinse after every trip, especially in saltwater.

  • Extra care if the RIB is stored outdoors or uncovered.

Tube Cleaning Step-by-Step

  1. Rinse Down – Use fresh water and a soft SWOBBIT® brush to remove loose dirt and salt.

  2. Apply Cleaner – Use August Race® Liquid RIB Tube Cleaner. Treating on small sections at a time spray evenly across small sections of the tube surface.

  3. Agitate – Gently scrub using a SWOBBIT® Soft Flagged Brush or microfibre pad or cloth, working in manageable sections.

  4. Rinse Thoroughly – Wash away residue with fresh water.

  5. Revive the Finish – For particularly faded tubes, it might be necessary to clean a second to remove oxidisation and restore colour.

  6. Protect – Apply August Race® LR Sealer UV to shield against UV damage, fading, and staining.

  7. Final Buff – Using a clean, dry microfibre cloth, lightly buff the tubes for a uniform finish.

 

Environmental Tip: Always carry out tube cleaning away from the water’s edge where runoff can be collected and disposed of responsibly.

Products & Tools You’ll Need

Cleaning While Afloat

You can give tubes a quick freshwater rinse while afloat, but never apply cleaners directly into the water. Keep deep cleaning for when the RIB is ashore to prevent harm to the marine environment.

Special Considerations

  • PVC Tubes – More prone to UV damage; apply UV Tube Protect more frequently.

  • Hypalon® Tubes – More resistant but still benefit from seasonal protection.

  • Coloured Tubes – Avoid harsh abrasives to prevent uneven fading.

  • Older Tubes – Test any cleaner on a small area first to check for compatibility and fully inspect for sign of wear or damage

Professional Tube Restoration

Professional tube cleaning and restoration can transform the look of your RIB in just a few hours. For training on professional RIB tube valeting and to learn the correct use of August Race products, visit the August Race Training Hub to book a course.

August Race offers a complete range of marine-safe inflatable tube care products to help keep your RIB looking its best — whether you’re a proud owner or a professional valeter.