Helpful Hints on How to Clean Every Part of Your Boat

November 10, 2005
By David Bryant

Vinyl

3M Vinyl Cleaner/Restorer and SprayNine have both received positive reports for cleaning vinyl. SprayNine in particular has been said to remove mold and mildew particularly well. Use an old toothbrush to get into the small cracks.

303 Protectant( Overtons.com) has been said to be a good protecter (opposed to cleaner). Whereas products such as Armorall damage the silicon in the vinyl, 303 Protectant conditions it. Furthermore, it provides UV protection for your vinyl.

Hull

-A solution of 50% vinegar and 50% water works well for cleaning the hull of your boat. Use a wax afterwards.

-Star Brite Deck Cleaner has been said to work great. Again, use a wax when you’re done.

Meguiar's Hard Water Spot Remover received the following comment from one individual “a regular Saturday-morning wash couldn’t get the yellow of our hull. After using a bit of Meguiar’s, the hull almost looks new!”.

Removing Mildew

-Mildew removers are available in the houseware section of most supermarkets along with some marine stores. You can also make your own solution of mildew removers by combining 5 1/2 tablespoons of calcium hypochlorite into a quart of water. Spray the solution into the desired area and then wash with water afterwards.

Warning: Always make the hypochlorite with the water, not the water with hypochlorite- doing the latter rather than the former may result in a near explosive reaction. Also, you may want to test the solution on an inconspicuous part of the affected material to make sure it will not discolor it.

Solvents for Stickers

GooGone, Goo-off is a citrus-based cleaner that has been reported to do wonders for removing stickers. However, be careful as this product is extremely caustic and will eat through almost ANYTHING. This includes the dried-latex on your walls, your gloves, and even the skin on your hands.

Acetone: Available at most hardware stores, pour a little on a cloth and rub the stickers. Again, be careful as this is highly acidic stuff!

WD-40: A good option for removing stickers that you may have lying around your garage is WD-40. Simply spray liberally and peel away. Don’t worry, it won’t affect your gel-coat.