DIY Network

Cleaning the Boat Cleaning the Boat From "Talking Dirty With the Queen of Clean" episode DQOC-135

Figure A

Outdoor recreation has big rewards -- and sometimes big cleaning problems. For some people boating beats other outdoor activities for scenery, action and fun. Keeping a boat in top shape is a big job: boats get dirty even sitting at a dock. But cleaning a boat is a task that enthusiasts take in stride.

Keeping a boat clean protects it from the harsh elements of sun and water and adds years to its life. Ellen Cochrane Veum and her sons, Scott and Zachary, clean her restored 1994 speed boat after every trip on the water (figure A). Cleaning the boat has become a family affair -- and a safe one too, thanks to natural household cleaners.

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	Figure B
	Figure C

• Scuffmarks Tires, often used as dock bumpers at marinas, leave scuffmarks on the exterior of boats. Remove the marks with a mixture of 2 parts baking soda and 1 part borax. Keep in a shaker container and apply as needed with a damp sponge to remove scuffmarks without scratching the fiberglass (figure B). A coat of car wax on a clean hull can also help shield the boat from scuffmarks.

• Boat seats Clean with a mixture of 1 quart warm water, 1 tablespoon borax, 1 tablespoon washing soda (available in the laundry aisle of the store,) 1 teaspoon lemon juice and a squirt of dishwashing liquid. Shake thoroughly to dissolve dry ingredients, and store in a spray bottle. Spray on, work in using a circular motion, rinse and dry. Another method of cleaning vinyl is to lather a moisturizing soap onto a cloth or sponge and work into the seats (figure C).

• Canvas boat covers Clean with bar laundry soap rubbed onto a scrub brush. It's low lathering but deep cleaning. Rinse and let dry.

• Plastic boat windows Spray with a solution of vinegar and water. Use a soft cloth to prevent scratches to the plastic.

• Stains and mildew Clean with a solution of 1 tablespoon chlorine bleach in a quart of water. Wear gloves to protect hands from the bleach.

• A pressure washer can also be used for general boat cleaning. Wearing safety glasses, direct the spray broadly at first, then closer on tough stains.