Your Complete Guide to Cleaning a Boat

There's nothing quite like being out on the open water, enjoying the breeze and the sun on your face. However, you'll want to maintain your boat in tip-top shape to ensure your boating trips are safe and enjoyable. Cleaning is among the most critical parts of boat maintenance, and you want to cleanse your vessel proactively and regularly. Here are a few tips to help get you started.

Gather Your Supplies

Refer to your owner’s manual to see what products and cleaning solutions your manufacturer recommends for your boat. In addition to those, you want to get a bucket, a scrub brush or sponge, towels, and mild detergent or boat soap for cleaning your vessel. It's a good idea to have quality wax or marine polish to help keep your boat shiny and protect it against damage from the sun.

Start with the Hull

First, remove your belongings from the boat, including any electronics, leftover food, and other knick-knacks, then start cleaning the hull. This is among the most critical parts of your vessel, and you want to keep it clean and free of damage.

Rinse your hull with fresh water to remove dirt or debris, and apply boat soap before rubbing the hull. Use your sponge or brush to scrub off stains, and pay attention to any stubborn buildups. Finally, rinse the hull with fresh water and dry it with a clean towel or chamois.

Clean the Deck and Interior

Next, you want to clean your boat deck and vacuum the floor to remove any dirt and loose debris. Use a mild soapy solution to cleanse the interior and wipe down your seats and countertops. You’ll also want to vacuum and spot-clean your carpet and upholstery to make your vessel appear neat and welcoming. Make sure you look for areas with mold or mildew buildup, as these can quickly spread if left untreated.

We hope you can follow these tips to keep your vessel looking great and performing at its best for years. If you need more maintenance advice or are still in the market for a boat, visit Clews & Strawbridge. We are in Frazer, PA, and are happy to welcome our friends from Philadelphia and West Chester, so reach out today.