How to Keep Your Boat Looking Like New
Keeping your boat clean isn’t just a matter of vanity. It prolongs the life of materials that are exposed to the elements, improves functionality in many cases and can help you get top dollar when it’s time to sell.
Cleaning your boat requires regular care, and it’s important to find a professional who knows what they’re doing. A well-known marine detailing business will be able to take care of the job quickly and efficiently, leaving your pride and joy looking like new.
A good place to start is with your teak. Simple scrub-downs with soapy water will keep it looking great for a while, but as the weather turns, the wood’s natural oils degrade and the wood darkens, it’ll need a more serious cleaning. There are both mild one-part cleaners and stronger two-part solutions available, and it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely.
Your vinyl upholstery also needs attention. Most modern marine vinyls are treated with anti-microbial agents, which are the best long-term defense against mold and mildew. They should be washed down with warm, soapy water, rinsed and wiped down with a soft cloth with a little bit of marine vinyl protectant. Tough stains should be attacked with a dedicated marine vinyl cleaner, followed by a rinse and a coat of protectant.
The carpet on your boat catches a lot of dirt carried there by people’s feet. It also catches a lot of moisture, which gives it a rough texture and imparts odors. Cleaning this carpet is a major part of boat cleaning, and you should do it as regularly as you vacuum your house.
Your boat canvas also needs to be cleaned. Most of it can be gently machine-washed with warm (under 120 degrees) water, a little bit of laundry detergent and a cup or two of baking soda. It’s a good idea to do this at least once a year, but every few years you might need a heavier-duty treatment, such as a light scrub with a bristle brush or a stiff nylon broom and some heavy-duty canvas cleaner.
It’s important to completely dry your boat, trailer and equipment before using it in a different body of water. Not only will this prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species, but it will also reduce the risk of contaminating your boat with fish diseases and other pathogens. Be sure to check common attachment points such as trailer bunks, axles and rollers, lights, transducer, license plate and motor props for signs of mud or plants. If anything looks suspicious, run your hand over it to see if it feels like sandpaper.
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) boat stewards are ready to help you with your cleaning and inspection needs at all of our free boat wash stations. See the statewide map of boat wash locations. DEC asks that the public treat stewards and other volunteers with respect, and report inappropriate behavior or harassment to DEC or partner organizations.boat cleaning near me
