Choosing the Right Cleaning Products
When it comes to keeping your boat clean and well-maintained, choosing the right cleaning products is essential. Use alternative cleaning products such as phosphate-free, bio-degradable, and non-toxic cleaners. For instance, a mixture of 1⁄4 cup of salt per liter of white vinegar can be used for soaking rusty tools. Hydrogen peroxide is another recommended non-phosphate product for your vessel. A good sponge and white towels are essential cleaning tools.
Cleaning Surfaces and Tools
To clean hard surfaces on your boat, use a mild soap or a cleaner/wax spray product for fiberglass surfaces. Avoid using household cleaning agents as they may damage boat surfaces like the gel coat. Instead, it is better to use a dedicated boat soap like Brite Wash to clean without stripping the wax and ensure biodegradability.
A simple scrub with soap and water is recommended for teak, with the use of an acid-based teak cleaner if blackening occurs. If mildew is present on a fiberglass boat, you can add a cup of household bleach to your cleaning solution.
Remember to scrub all boat portions with the soapy water and rinse everything well with freshwater.
Algae Removal and Seat Care
Use a pressure washer to remove algae from a boat’s hull and apply antifouling paint to prevent algae growth in the future. For boat seats, wash with freshwater each week of use, and rinse seats at the season’s start. Avoid using a high-pressure nozzle when flushing seats as this may cause damage. If the pontoon is used frequently, clean by rinsing weekly or after every 4-5 uses.
It’s recommended to follow manufacturer guidelines and read instructions before using any product on your boat for the best results. Generally, environmentally-friendly boat soap is the safest option.