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Boat Cleaning Guide

Oct. 27 2020 Ownership Tips By Rockingham Boat

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Just like any land-based vehicle, your boat will get dirty after several months of frequent usage and it will need to be cleaned. Sand and dirt can coat the floor, while barnacles and algae can hang from the hull. Dust and debris can pile up and mold or mildew can form if they’re not promptly addressed.

So how do you get a dirty boat clean? Rockingham Boat, in Hampstead, is your New Hampshire boat dealer, so we’ve prepared this guide to help you get your boat all clean and washed so you’re ready to store it or take it out for the fall.

1. Gather Supplies

It’s wise to gather up the supplies you’ll need before you begin the process of cleaning your boat so that you aren’t having to run into the garage or house to find what you need. Here are some things you’ll need to clean your boat: 

  • Source of fresh water (a garden hose or pressure washer)
  • Marine-friendly boat wash (the milder, the better)
  • Long-handled brush
  • Sponges
  • A few buckets
  • A mop
  • Towels and chamois cloths
  • Soft-bristle brushes
  • Polish or wax

2. Park Boat & Remove Belongings

Park your boat on its trailer on a flat, even surface with good drainage. A concrete or gravel driveway will do nicely. You don’t want to wash your boat over your lawn as the debris and soap residue could damage your grass.

Take a few minutes to remove all your personal items, safety gear and other equipment from your craft. Stow these items in your house or garage until you’re ready to put them back on board. Bag up any trash or food items to remove as well, which will help prevent pest infestation. Sweep and mop the deck if needed and wipe down the seats and console. You can also examine your safety gear like lifejackets and your first-aid kit to make sure they don’t need replacing or replenishing. 

3. Rinse the Hull

Now it’s time to start cleaning! Get your hose or pressure washer and rinse down your entire hull thoroughly to try to get off as much grime as possible before you start scrubbing. Ideally, you should rinse your boat after every journey, especially if you boat in saltwater, because this can help to prevent build-up and corrosion.

4. Scrub the Exterior

Use your marine boat wash and a soft-bristle brush to gently scrub your hull in small sections, rinsing as you go to prevent the residue from drying. Go top to bottom and left to right. Rinse once more to ensure all the soap is gone and either allow your boat to air-dry or use a squeegee blade or your chamois cloths to dry it more quickly.

5. Apply Polish

Finally, you can apply a boat polish to the hull of your craft to get it all shiny and clean and ready for your next adventure! Boat experts recommend that you wax your boat at least twice a year: once at the start of the boating season and once after you’ve cleaned it and are preparing it for winter storage. Use a soft cloth and a marine wax or polish to apply the wax gently to your hull, then stand back and admire your handiwork as your boat gleams in the sunshine. 

Remember: if you discover any issues that could merit professional assistance while cleaning your boat, you can always contact the service department here at Rockingham Boat. Our team of mechanics can assist you in getting your boat ship-shape and ready for fall boating or winter storage. If you’re searching for a brand-new boat, view our full stock of new and used boats for sale on our website before visiting our location in Hampstead, NH. Rockingham Boat proudly serves Nashua and Manchester, NH.