There’s no doubt about it: Americans love boating. Fishing and entertainment out on the water are always so enticing. But for those who are novice boat owners, it can seem quite difficult to manage your boat.
Just like all things, it will eventually get dirty and will need a good cleaning. However, as a new boat owner, this task can seem daunting. If this is you, then here’s a guide on how to clean a boat the right way.
Nobody wants to ride the waves on a dingy looking skip, here’s the way to make sure it always looks pristine.
- Choose the Right Cleaner
Choosing the best cleaner for your boat is as important as choosing the best soap for your skin. Some formulas are work better than others. Your job is to find what works for your boat, and sometimes that takes trial and error.
You can find various options online. Betterboat.com options tend to work well for many boats. You can start there to find what’s best for your boat.
- Rinse, Rinse, and Rinse Again
When cleaning your boat, always rinse multiple times. Begin the cleaning process with a rinse to soften up the dirt and grime. Dry scrubbing can damage your boat’s finish, and no one wants that.
After this, lather up the hull and get rid of the pesky dirt and grime using that cleaner you found for your boat. Scrub well, scrub often. You want to get as much as you can before you rinse your boat again.
- Don’t Forget the Engine and Crevices
The exterior may be clean, but what about the interior? The inner carpets and walking areas will always get the most abuse. If you have removable mats, take them out and clean them as well.
You want to make sure you get into the hard to reach crevices of your boat that do not get much attention all that often as well, such as the engine space and livewells.
The livewell especially is prone to generating foul odors if not properly cleaned regularly. You don’t want your boat creating this so it is important to pay good attention to it as well.
- Wax On, Wax Off
Once all the tough parts are cleaned and rinsed, it’s time to buff out those scratches captain. A good coat of wax keeps up the appearance of a shiny, new boat. Wax also protects your boat from more dirt and grime.
Be sure to do small areas at a time, paying particular attention to every area so nothing gets trapped underneath. Buff the wax evenly with the classic wax on, wax off technique.
Once it’s dry, take off the excess wax with a cloth and your boat is looking showroom-worthy.
How to Clean a Boat the Right Way
As a new boat owner, you should learn how to clean a boat the proper way. You deserve to have a showroom skip out on the water with your friends. Whether it be for fishing or entertainment, your boat can look as beautiful as you want it to.
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