Tender Loving Care: How to Clean the Boat

Tender Loving Care: How to Clean the Boat

Owning a boat is a rewarding experience, but it also comes with responsibilities—and one of the most important is keeping your vessel clean. Regular cleaning not only preserves your boat’s aesthetic appeal but also protects its structural integrity and prolongs its lifespan. Here’s a step-by-step guide to giving your tender the loving care it deserves.

Gather the Right Supplies

Before you begin, ensure you have all the necessary cleaning tools and products:

• Marine-grade soap or boat cleaner

• Soft-bristle brush

• Microfiber cloths or sponges

• Hose with fresh water

• Bucket

• Vinyl cleaner (for upholstery / tough stains)

• Vinegar (rust stains)

• Non-toxic, marine-grade cleaning products specifically designed for boat interiors

• Dekmagic is recommended for floors or a mild all-purpose cleaner

• Avoid cleaners with harsh chemicals such as Meguiars Car Wash, Armor All, Simple Green, 303 Citrus Boat Cleaner, Woodys Wash and Wax, Starbrite Mildew

Rinse Off the Salt and Grime

Start by thoroughly rinsing your boat with fresh water.  Be sure to rinse off your boat at least once a week if you are keeping your boat on salt water. This removes salt, dirt, and loose debris that can cause corrosion or scratches. Pay special attention to areas exposed to saltwater spray.

Clean the Hull and Tubes

• Apply Soap: Mix your marine-grade soap with water in a bucket and use a soft-bristle brush or sponge to scrub the hull.

• Work in Sections: Clean one section at a time to prevent soap from drying on the surface.

• Rinse Thoroughly: After scrubbing, rinse each section with fresh water to remove soap residue.

Wash the Interior 

• Foam flooring: Non-slip decks like the foam flooring can accumulate grime. Use a soft brush or microfiber spounge and mild soap to clean. 

• Clean Hard-to-Reach Areas: Use a small brush or sponge to clean corners, edges, and other tight spaces.

Tidy Up the Upholstery

• Use Vinyl Cleaner: Spray a vinyl cleaner on seats, cushions, and other upholstery. Wipe with a microfiber cloth to remove dirt, sunscreen, and sweat.

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use bleach or other harsh cleaners that can damage or discolor vinyl.

• Condition the Upholstery: Apply a vinyl protectant to keep seats looking new and to prevent cracking or fading.

Clean the PVC Tubes

• UV Protection: To protect the PVC tubes from sun damage, apply a UV Protectant Solution like 303 Aerospace Protectant twice a year if not more often. This will help extend the life of your boat’s tubes. 

• Regular Cleaning: Rinse the tubes with fresh water after each use, especially after boating in salt water. Use a mild soap and soft brush to remove dirt, sand, and other debris. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, which can damage the material.

Cleaning and Rinsing your Motor

• Cleaning your motor regularly is also important especially when boating in salt water.
• On either the Tohatsu or Mercury outboards you can take a garden hose and remove the cap on the motor, screw in the hose and run the water through your motor with the Engine off for a couple of minutes to rincse any salt out of the motor. 
  
• Use mild soap and water on the outside of the motor to ensure outside is also free of salt and debris. 

Inspect and Clean the Bilge

• Drain Excess Water: Check the bilge and turn on the bilge pump to pump out any standing water.

Dispose of Waste Properly

• Eco-Friendly Practices: Dispose of cleaning materials, wastewater, and trash responsibly. Avoid letting debris or chemicals enter the water.

Establish a Routine

• Regular Cleanings: Aim to clean your boat after every outing to prevent buildup of salt, algae, and dirt.

• Deep Cleaning: Perform a more thorough cleaning, including waxing and conditioning, every few months or as needed.

A clean boat isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a crucial part of maintenance that protects your investment and enhances your boating experience. With the right supplies, techniques, and a little elbow grease, you can keep your boat looking and performing at its best for years to come. So next time you dock, give your boat the TLC it deserves!