Cleaning Your Boat

Each time you venture out into the open waters, your boat returns with a little dirt. Those open waters aren't very clean after all. This bit of dirt may not look like much. But it builds over time and slowly starts to hurt your boat. Regular cleaning helps keep your boat looking (and operating) well. We created an easy-to-follow guide for cleaning your boat below. For all your boating needs, visit Active Water Sports. We proudly serve those in Portland, Oregon as well as Vancouver, Washington.

Making the Process Easier

Work smarter, not harder! Washing a boat is a time-consuming process, but you can make it easier on yourself. Each time you return home, give your boat a quick rinse. You'll be surprised how much gunk comes off when you rinse it right away. If you skip this cleaning step, that loose grime transforms into caked-on grime (which takes longer and more effort to clean off). 

It's especially important to complete this step if you cruise around in saltwater. Salt clings to your boat and can cause corrosion. This damage is easily preventable with a quick rinse after each trip.

Washing a Boat

Eventually, the time will come to give your boat a deep clean. Start with a quick rinse to clear away loose debris. That way, you can focus your energy on the hardened grime underneath. 

For soap, you'll want to use one designed for boats. A car wash soap can work, but it's not tailored to the unique gunk found in the water. Whatever soap you use, make sure it won't remove your wax.

For the cleaning process, shoot for small sections. That way, you can rinse the soap off before it dries and leaves streaks. These streaks do more than look bad - they can actually damage your boat's finish. Begin cleaning at the top and work your way down.

After the boat is washed, the next step is to dry it. You can choose to let your boat air dry, but it does leave unappealing water spots everywhere. Most people opt for using a chamois or a squeegee to get the moisture off, leaving behind a shimmering clean boat.

Waxing a Boat

Boats need to be waxed just like cars do! Aim for waxing twice a season. You can do it before putting your vessel in winter storage and then after you remove it from storage.

Waxing requires plenty of elbow grease, but it's worth the effort! Wax makes it more difficult for dirt and salt crystals to stick onto your boat. It creates a protective layer against debris. It reduces the need for detailing. Finally, it provides a beautiful aesthetic given the nice shine it leaves.

It is important to pick a wax designed for boats. It may seem tempting to use a car wax but think about the different environments boats and cars face. A car wax won't offer the protection needed for aquatic environments!

While cheap options offer an appealing price, steer clear. That cheap liquid or spray-on carnauba wax product won't offer much in terms of protection. It's worth the extra dollars to protect your boat.

For everything related to boats, visit Active Water Sports. If you're looking to buy, we offer a range of new and used boats for sale. We also operate a parts replacement and service department. Our expert staff can get your boat running like new in no time! We proudly serve those in Central Oregon as well as Portland, Eugene, Salem, and Bend, Oregon. We also serve those in Vancouver, Washington. Come and visit today!