Are You Ready to Clean Your Boat?
As much fun as our boats are, they do require a certain amount of maintenance and cleaning to keep them in good condition.
Keep in mind that your boat is exposed to weather, hot, windy or cold, as well as water, salt, fresh and everything that’s in the water. It’s understandable that it’s going to need a good scrub down periodically.
Cleaning your boat can be rather time consuming, but the key is to keep it clean and don’t go for long periods between cleanings. This will eliminate extreme build ups of dirt and water scum.
You can also reduce the need for some cleaning by using a good boat cover when you’re not using it.
Where to begin
- Begin by assembling all of the products and tools that you will need:
- A sturdy brush
- A sturdy doesn’t mean stiff or course – that could damage your boat’s finish.
- Your brush should have a handle to get to those hard to reach places
- Large bucket
- Mops
- Towels
- Chamois
- Soap
Use soap designed especially for cleaning a boat.- Avoid everyday dish soap, it is too harsh and could damage your boat’s finish.
- Use a bio-degradable soap with a neutral ph factor. You will be helping to protect the environment.
- A sturdy brush
- Your second step would be to rinse the entire exterior of the boat with fresh water.
- Always be sure your boat is wet before your start scrubbing so you don’t scratch the finish.
- Starting from the top and working your way to the bottom, you may begin washing with a cloth or sponge of soapy water.
- Work on only one section at a time, otherwise the soap will dry out which would cause you to rewash to prevent streaking.
- Now is a good time to use your brush to get off any hard to remove dirt or grime.
- Then rinse.
- Use your chamois to dry off excess water.
- Wax your boat 1-2 times a year to protect the finish from all things damaging.
Fall is coming and it won’t be long before you put your boat away for the season. Do it right, and clean your boat thoroughly before you do, then it will be ready and waiting in the Spring!
I hope you will follow my sailing posts and like my Facebook Page.
Once I complete the licensing requirements, I will be offering sailing lessons through the local sailing schools. I would be honored to have you in one of my classes. Watch for updates!
