Spring is finally here, which means it’s time to get your boat ready for the water. Before you head out on the lake, you’ll want to ensure your vessel is in top condition, beginning with a thorough spring cleaning. Here are a few tips for cleaning the various boat parts to improve your watercraft’s appearance and longevity. 

3 Steps to Cleaning Your Watercraft

1. Rinse the Boat

Use a hose to rinse the watercraft’s exterior with fresh water; this will remove debris and grime. Make sure to get the top, hardware, and platforms. Avoid using a high-pressure nozzle, as it can cause water to get into areas that are sealed off. Utilize a regular garden hose, instead. After rinsing, wait a few minutes so the water can dissolve any harsh minerals that may have accumulated on the boat’s surfaces. 

2. Use Soap

After the initial rinse, use soap to wipe down the surfaces and remove stubborn dirt and grime, as well as fish blood. Use an environmentally friendly, biodegradable, and pH-neutral product to avoid contaminating the water and harming any wildlife. Read the instructions on the label, and dilute it with water as directed. Rinse the soap off afterward with a hose. If you don’t rinse it, the cleaning agents will eat away at the surfaces.

3. Clean the Interior

After cleaning the outside, work on the inside of the vessel. Use a gentle multi-surface cleaner for the seats and other interior boat parts and a glass cleaner for windows. As with the exterior, use eco-friendly products. A mild mixture of two parts water and one part white vinegar will also work as a general cleaner and disinfectant. Use a metal polish solution to polish areas such as metal poles. Next, use a wax to improve the look of the woods. Make sure the color you choose matches the wood. Clean vinyl upholstery with a damp cloth, and then use a vinyl cleaner. Next, utilize a spray-on furniture polish to finish up. If there are mildew stains, use a deck brush and scrub them with a mixture of four parts water and one part ammonia. 

For a truly thorough, quality cleaning, turn to Sutter’s Canandaigua Marina. With over 20 years of experience, this Ontario County, NY, boat dealer is one of the community’s most trusted sources for boat parts, repairs, and sales. Call (585) 394-0918 to speak with a staff member about their boat parts and other products, or visit the website to learn more about their services.