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Tips to Clean A Boat Hull Yourself

Apr. 23 2021 Maintenance Guide By The Harbor

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Do you want to be the owner of the cleanest and the best performing boat amongst all in your group? Well, be ready to get your hands a little dirty then. Cleaning your boat yourself is the right step forward as it can teach you a lot about maintaining a boat and you can enjoy a clean boat throughout the season. With this guide, we want to show you the steps to cleaning the boat’s hull – the part of the boat that’s constantly exposed to the elements.

The Harbor, in Branson, Missouri, is your local boat dealer and we can help you upgrade your boat to the latest model and preferred brand. We also serve our friends in Springfield and Kansas City.

Preparing the Boat

Once you have pulled it out of the water, use a pressure washer to remove all salt and loose particles over and around the hull. In case you haven’t lately cleaned this part, or it is very dirty, you may need to scrub it a bit to do away with the debris and algae.

If you notice the presence of barnacles or weeds on the hull, use a stronger pressure hose for better results.

Cleaning the Hull

Work on one side at a time.

Make use of an acid-based cleaner and a strong hose to rinse the hull. Mix the cleaner with water and apply it generously throughout the area you need to clean. Let the cleaning solution sit for some time so it can act on the dirt and grime. Use a brush with soft bristles to rub the cleaner and remove the grime.

Once you are satisfied, use the hose to remove the dirt and wash off the cleaner. Ensure that the residual solution is completely removed before you are back in the water.

Repeat the process on the other side and see if they are both on par.

Choosing the Right Cleaning Products

Refer to the owner’s manual to see the recommendations. Use the exact or a similar product for all cleaning and maintenance purposes. Incompatible cleaning solutions can damage the hull and lead to costly repairs. As a better option, spot test the product before applying it. If you are still unsure, get your query addressed by our service experts.

Cleaning Professionally and Responsibly

As a responsible boat owner, you need to ensure that you use eco-friendly cleaning solutions only. This will help minimize the negative effects on the marine ecosystem and keep your watercraft safe, too. Additionally, remember to:

  • Pull out the boat from the water before you start applying a cleaning solution.
  • Make sure that the cleaning process does not contaminate the groundwater.
  • Cleaner vapors can be harmful; use only an open and well-ventilated area for cleaning purposes.
  • Always use protective gear during the cleaning sessions – rubber gloves, protective suit, splash-proof goggles, and appropriate footwear.

We hope this helps and you can clean and shine your boat’s hull like a pro. For help with warranties, parts, service and support to maintain your water crafts, head to The Harbor in Branson, Missouri. We also serve all those in Springfield and Kansas City.