Boat Wash Buying Guide
As boat owners, we all know that feeling of putting a coat or two of wax on the inside and the outside of our vessel. Long hours, lots of rubbing, sweat and maybe some blood. Then, you use your boat a few times and it appears that the wax job that you worked so hard for does not seem to be holding up its end of the deal. The water may not be beading off as you expected and the salt, blood, dirt and foot prints just are not washing off like they should after a fresh coat of wax. Why is that? Are you using the right boat wash on your boat? If you are not, then you understand these frustrations all too well. From the stubborn residue of bait and fish guts to the ever-encroaching threat of rust, a fishing boat’s exterior demands meticulous care to preserve its functionality and that shine that we all love.
Benefits Of Having The Best Boat Wash
Having a boat wash that facilitates easy cleaning, protects wax, and prevents rust offers a range of advantages for boat owners and enthusiasts alike. Here are some of the key benefits: A boat wash that makes your vessel easy to clean significantly reduces the time and effort required for maintenance. With a quick rinse, dirt, salt, algae, and other contaminants easily slide off the surface, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your boat rather than scrubbing and cleaning. Many boat washes are formulated to be gentle on wax and other protective coatings.
This means that regular use of such a wash won’t strip away the wax or polish that enhances your boat’s shine. Instead, it helps maintain and prolong the longevity of your wax job, keeping your boat looking glossy and well-maintained. Regular cleaning with a boat wash that protects wax and prevents rust can contribute to long-term cost savings.
By preserving the protective coatings on your boat’s surface, you can avoid the need for frequent waxing and polishing, which can be both time-consuming and expensive. Additionally, preventing rust helps avoid costly repairs or replacements that may arise from corrosion. A well-maintained boat with a clean and glossy exterior is more appealing to potential buyers.
By using a boat wash that safeguards your boat’s appearance and prevents rust, you can help maintain its resale value. Prospective buyers are more likely to be attracted to a boat that has been cared for and protected from the elements.
Rust can be a relentless adversary, particularly in the marine environment where exposure to saltwater and moisture is inevitable. A boat wash with rust inhibitors creates a barrier that shields your boat’s metal parts from the corrosive effects of saltwater, preventing rust from taking hold. This protection extends the lifespan of your boat’s structural components and hardware.
When your boat is protected by a quality boat wash, routine maintenance becomes a breeze. You won’t need to spend excessive time scrubbing away stubborn stains or dealing with extensive rust removal. The cleaning process becomes more straightforward, allowing you to focus on other aspects of boat ownership. Knowing that your boat is being treated with a wash that not only keeps it clean but also offers rust protection can provide peace of mind.
Boat Washing Fundamentals
Maintaining a fishing boat’s appearance and functionality involves a combination of proper cleaning techniques and regular care. Here are some fundamental steps and considerations for washing your fishing boat:
- Rinse Thoroughly: Before you begin washing, give your boat a thorough rinse with fresh water. This helps remove salt, dirt, and loose debris that might scratch the surface during the washing process.
- Use the Right Products: Choose a boat wash that’s suitable for your fishing boat’s material. Look for a wash that’s gentle on surfaces yet effective in removing dirt, fish scales, and other contaminants. Some boat washes also include rust inhibitors to provide extra protection against corrosion.
- Read Instructions: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the boat wash label. Dilute the product as recommended and avoid using too much, as excessive soap residue can lead to streaks.
- Start from the Top: At this step, I have recently been washing the boat from top to bottom with Salts Gone. This removes all of the salt at this stage and makes washing much easier. This prevents dirt, salt and debris from being dragged over areas you’ve already cleaned.
- Use Soft Tools: Opt for soft cleaning tools to avoid scratching the boat’s finish. Microfiber mitts or soft bristle brushes are great options. Avoid abrasive scrubbing pads or brushes that could damage the surface.
- Gentle Scrubbing: For stubborn spots or dried-on residue, gently scrub the area using a soft brush or cloth. Avoid applying excessive pressure to prevent scratching.
- Pay Attention to Details: Don’t forget to clean hard-to-reach areas, such as crevices, hinges, and hardware. These spots can accumulate dirt and grime over time.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals or household cleaners, as they can damage your boat’s finish and harm the environment. Stick to products designed specifically for marine use.
- Rinse Thoroughly Again: After cleaning, give your boat another thorough rinse to ensure all soap residue is removed, this is another great thing about using Salts Gone, you do not have to worry as much about residue.
- Dry Properly: Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth or chamois to dry your boat’s surface. Drying helps prevent water spots and streaks.
- Protect with Wax: Consider applying a marine wax or protectant after washing and drying. Wax helps maintain the boat’s shine, protects against UV rays, and makes future cleaning easier.
- Focus on Rust Prevention: Use a boat wash with rust inhibitors to protect metal parts from corrosion. Regularly inspect and maintain metal hardware, applying a corrosion-resistant coating if needed.
- Regular Maintenance: Establish a routine cleaning schedule to prevent dirt and grime buildup. Regular cleaning makes each session quicker and more effective.
- Environmental Responsibility: Wash your boat in designated areas or marinas equipped with proper wastewater disposal systems to minimize environmental impact.
- Inspect Your Boat: While washing, take the opportunity to inspect your boat for any signs of damage, wear, or required maintenance. Catching issues early can prevent more significant problems down the line.
By adhering to these boat washing fundamentals, you’ll not only keep your boat looking its best but also ensure its longevity and performance over time. Regular cleaning and maintenance go a long way in preserving your fishing boat’s value and enhancing your boating experience.
Best Boat Wash
As mentioned above, there are many reasons why choosing the best boat wash is so important. All boat wash is not created equally. On a recent episode of the Alabama Saltwater Fishing Report Podcast we talked with Zach McAllister of Salts Gone to dive into what makes the best boat wash as well as a product that inhibits corrosion on your vessel.
We asked Zach how he got into this industry and more importantly why he created Salts Gone. Here is what he said, “I’ve been in the corrosion industry now for about 15 years. A lot of dealing with heavy industrial corrosion out of Houston. And to make a long story short, if you are Shell Oil, if you’re Elon Musk, or if you’re a guy trying to clean their boat in the backyard, you all know most of the same amount about corrosion, you just know that it exists. And you know that it’s a problem. But most people don’t understand the science behind it. And so, after spending so many years in the corrosion industry, we really needed a product for our customers and the guys that just needed to get the salt off of things to extend the life of the coatings and to extend the life of their equipment. And it just so happens that the parameters that we made the product to, ended up being a perfect fit in the consumer world for stuff like boats where it’s totally safe. It’s easy to use, but it’s 100% effective.”
Salts Gone
Features
- Removes stubborn salt and brine residues that can harm your boat’s finish
- Safeguard your boat with built-in corrosion resistance
- Achieve a stunning, radiant finish
- THREE-IN-ONE solution is designed for simplicity
- Non-toxic, non-hazardous, and biodegradable
3M Perfect-It Boat Wash
Features
- Use alone for general cleaning, or as the first step in 3M™ Perfect‐It™ gelcoat finishing system
- High-suds formula removes common marine debris without stripping wax from the surface
- Can be used on virtually all areas of boats from bow to stern, including hull and non-skid areas
- Professional-strength concentrate reduces cost
- Part of a complete range of 3M™ Perfect‐It™ products for gelcoat finishing
- Using this product prior to restoring and waxing will greatly improve reconditioning outcomes
Salt-Away Products Cleanser Concentrate
Features
- Concentrated salt remover formulated for use with Salt-Away mixer units
- Removes salt deposits that can cause corrosion and adversely affect engine cooling
- Ideal for flushing engine cooling systems and washing down trailers and boats after saltwater use
- Safe on waxed surfaces
Salty Hull Ultimate Cleaning Starter Kit
Features
- Perfect for cleaning all external surfaces and materials
- Specially formulated soap designed to gently release dirt and grime without compromising the protection
- Safe for all clear coat finishes, wheels, glass, rubber, and vinyl
- Biodegradable cleaning agents
- Neutralizing salt wash cleans and protects your boat and motor from buildup and corrosion caused by saltwater and salt air
Salty Captain Boat Wash
Features
- Biodegradable and pH neutral
- Removes salt deposits and prevents corrosion
- Multi-purpose, 2-in-1 wash & flush device
Rust Inhibitor Boat Wash
In the same podcast interview, we asked Zach with Salts Gone, What is a corrosion inhibitor? This was his answer. “Before you can really dive into what is a corrosion inhibitor, you have to understand, particularly with salt, what it’s doing. When sodium and chlorine come together, they are actually very unstable. So they come together really easily. That’s why salt is, if it’s not the most common mineral on the planet, it’s got to be like number two, right? But what happens is the bond is actually unstable and there’s a really strong desire for electrons. And so what that means is when the salt lands on something, it wants to pull the electrons out of it. It’s trying to satisfy its bond.
Well, conveniently, for the salt, everything is made out of electrons, right? Like the glue that holds your metal together, if you would, is the electrons. And so what happens is those electrons are pulled out and that’s what we see as rust, the visual cue is the corrosion. And so what corrosion inhibitors are doing is they’re essentially providing copious amounts of electrons so that as the salt lands back on the surface, it has something to attack. You’re not going to stop the salt from doing what it does on the inhibiting side you need to give it what it’s looking for. So you’re constantly feeding it what it wants, and when it has what it wants, it is never going to attack the metal on the boat.”
We also asked Zach, “What are the benefits of using corrosion inhibitors versus just spraying the boat off with fresh water?” This is how he answered. “So this is the number one thing that you hear right? Water dissolves salt and water removes salt. So how exactly does water remove salt? Water moves salt, but it doesn’t remove it. And so what happens as we’re spraying off the deck of the boat is we are forcing salt into every little crack and crevice. The reality is that if you have an eye hook, or another piece of hardware, thinking that you’re going to get enough water behind there to get all the salt out is a very limited reality. So what Salts Gone is doing is providing a chemical aid. If the water can get there, then Salts Gone can get in there. Because you’re spraying everything down and now we have a chemical aid to remove the salt.”
The primary reason for choosing such a product is its rust prevention capabilities. Look for boat washes that clearly state their rust inhibitor properties on the label. The product should provide a reliable and long-lasting barrier against corrosion. Different boat washes might be formulated to work better with specific types of metals. Check that the rust inhibitor is suitable for the types of metals present on your boat, such as aluminum, stainless steel, or other alloys. While rust inhibition is important, the product should also effectively clean your boat’s surfaces. It should remove dirt, grime, salt deposits, and other contaminants without causing damage or abrasion to the finish.
A good boat wash with a rust inhibitor should be easy to apply. Whether through spray application or mixing with water, the process should be straightforward and integrate smoothly into your boat maintenance routine. Another great thing about Salts Gone is the easy spray bottle that is attached right to your hose. The boat wash should not leave behind excessive residue or streaks after rinsing. Residue can attract dirt and compromise the appearance of your boat, and streaks can be unsightly. Opt for a product that is environmentally friendly and biodegradable. This is crucial to prevent harm to aquatic ecosystems when the wash runoff enters the water. Research user reviews and seek recommendations from fellow boat owners or professionals.
Salt-Away Products Cleanser Concentrate
Features
- Concentrated salt remover formulated for use with Salt-Away mixer units
- Removes salt deposits that can cause corrosion and adversely affect engine cooling
- Ideal for flushing engine cooling systems and washing down trailers and boats after saltwater use
- Safe on waxed surfaces
Salts Gone
Features
- Removes stubborn salt and brine residues that can harm your boat’s finish
- Safeguard your boat with built-in corrosion resistance
- Achieve a stunning, radiant finish
- THREE-IN-ONE solution is designed for simplicity
- Non-toxic, non-hazardous, and biodegradable
Boat Wash And Wax
The primary purpose of any boat wash is to clean effectively. Ensure that the product can remove dirt, grime, salt, and other contaminants from your boat’s surfaces without causing damage or abrasion. Look for boat washes that explicitly mention a wax component on the label. The wax should provide a protective layer that enhances your boat’s shine, offers UV protection, and repels water to some extent.
Meguiar’s Flagship Premium Marine Wash-N-Wax
Features
- One-step wash and wax emulsifies dirt
- Carnauba wax and synthetic polymers add protection
- Biodegradable formula is safe and effective on all surfaces including fiberglass, gelcoats
- Adds a layer of wax protection
3D Wash N Wax Car Wash Soap
Features
- pH balanced car wash soap with wax protection
- Easy rinse formula cleans without stripping wax, sealants, or coatings from surface
- High foam suds provide a deep clean without scratching or damaging the paint
- Great weekly maintenance boat wash soap
TR Industries Seapower Marine Wash-N-Wax Boat Soap
Features
- Wash-n-wax in just 1-application
- Highly effective on marine poly, fiberglass gel-coat, metal, rubber and wood surfaces
- Biodegradable concentrated formula – 100% environmentally friendly
- Safe to use, easy to apply while producing high quality results
- Reduces streaking and spotting
- Contains the highest quality carnauba wax for longer exterior boat protection
- Unique ingredients creates a long lasting like new exterior boat surface finish
Boat Pressure Washer
A small pressure washer can be a great addition to your boat cleaning arsenal. Selecting the right pressure washer for cleaning your boat requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure efficient and safe cleaning without causing damage to the boat’s surfaces. Here’s what to look for: Opt for a pressure washer with adjustable pressure settings. Boats have different types of surfaces and materials that require varying levels of pressure.
Being able to adjust the pressure allows you to tailor the cleaning process to the specific needs of your boat. Choose a pressure washer with a moderate pressure range suitable for boat cleaning. Typically, a pressure range of around 1000 to 2000 PSI (pounds per square inch) is suitable for boats. Extremely high pressures can damage delicate surfaces like gelcoat or decals. A higher flow rate (measured in gallons per minute or GPM) is generally beneficial for efficient cleaning. A higher flow rate helps rinse away dirt and debris effectively. Look for a pressure washer that comes with a range of interchangeable nozzles.
Different nozzles provide various spray patterns, such as pinpoint, wide, or fan, allowing you to adjust the spray angle for different surfaces. Ensure the included nozzles are made of durable materials and are easy to switch out. Nozzles that can withstand wear and tear contribute to the pressure washer’s longevity. Consider the length of the pressure washer hose. A longer hose allows for more flexibility and reach around your boat, especially if you’re cleaning a larger vessel. Pressure washers can be electric or gas-powered. Electric models are generally more suitable for boat cleaning due to their quieter operation and lower maintenance requirements.
However, if you don’t have access to electricity near the water, gas-powered options might be necessary. If you plan to take the pressure washer to different locations, consider its weight and portability. Some models come with wheels or handles for easy maneuverability. Keep in mind the noise level of the pressure washer, especially if you’ll be cleaning in areas with noise restrictions or close to other boaters. Look for a pressure washer made of durable materials that can withstand exposure to water, salt, and other outdoor elements.
Sun Joe 14.5-Amp Electric High Pressure Washer
Features
- 5 Quick-Connect spray tips (0º, 15º, 25º, 40º and soap)
- Powerful 14.5 Amp/1800-Watt motor generates up to 1450 psi /1.24 GPM
- Total Stop System – automatically shuts off the pump when trigger is not engaged to save energy and prolong pump life
- Dual detergent tanks – two 0.9 L onboard, removable tanks carry and store different types of detergent to simultaneously tackle different cleaning projects
- Includes a 34 in. extension wand, 20 ft. high pressure hose, 35 ft. power cord with GFCI protection, garden hose adaptor, needle clean-out tool
- CSA approved; Full 2-year warranty
- Max PSI at initial discharge per CSA internal pressure testing. Max GPM with nozzle open at minimum pressure
WHOLESUN WS 3000 Electric Pressure Washer
Features
- 5 quick-connect spray tips (0°, 15°, 15°, 40°, soap)
- 35ft power cord with inline GFCI
- 20ft pressure hose
- Total Stop System – Automatically shuts off pump when trigger is not engaged
BERGWERK Cordless Power Cleaner
Features
- 6-in-1 Multi-Function Nozzle
- 180° – 360° adjustable rotatable angle nozzle
- Auto/Eco Modes
- Charger with indicator light
- Spray Gun
- 20 FT. Hose
- 2xFilters
- Battery Charger
- Extension Lance
- 2x40V Batteries
- 9.14 OZ. Soap Bottle
Boat Wash FAQs
Can you pressure wash a boat?
Yes, you can pressure wash a boat, but it should be done with caution to avoid damaging the boat’s surface, its paint, or any other sensitive areas. Here are some guidelines and steps to safely and effectively pressure wash a boat: Take out any loose items and electronics from the boat. Cover areas like electrical units, speakers, and other sensitive equipment to protect them from water. Choose a pressure washer with adjustable settings, usually, a washer with around 2000 to 3000 PSI is suitable for most boats.
However, start with the lowest setting and increase as needed. Use a wide spray nozzle to distribute the pressure over a larger area and reduce the risk of damaging the surface. Maintain a safe distance between the nozzle and the boat’s surface to avoid damaging the paint or fiberglass. A distance of about 3-4 feet is a good starting point. Conduct a test wash on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it won’t damage the surface. Move the spray in a consistent, sweeping motion to avoid focusing the pressure on one area for too long. For more delicate areas, such as vinyl seats or canvas covers, use a lower pressure setting or clean them by hand to avoid damage.
Can I use regular car wash on a boat?
Using a regular car wash soap on a boat is not recommended, primarily because the materials and finishes on boats — which often include fiberglass, gelcoat, and sometimes aluminum — are quite different from the paints and materials used on cars. Moreover, boats are exposed to different environmental factors including saltwater, which can have corrosive effects. Here are some reasons why it’s best to avoid using car wash soaps on boats: Boat surfaces, particularly fiberglass and gel coats, require special care that car wash soaps might not provide.
Car wash soaps can potentially strip off the wax and reduce the gloss of gel coat surfaces over time. Boat cleaning products are formulated to be more eco-friendly considering that boats are often washed in close proximity to water bodies. The runoff from washing a boat can easily end up in lakes, rivers, or oceans, which can potentially harm marine life if non-marine safe products are used. Marine-specific washes often contain ingredients designed to remove salt, which is a crucial aspect of maintaining a boat, especially one that is used in saltwater environments.
Car wash soaps don’t contain these ingredients because they are not formulated to tackle salt. Marine-specific washes often leave a protective layer on the boat’s surface that helps to protect against the harsh marine environment, including UV rays, salt, and algae growth. Car wash soaps do not offer this protection. Boat wash products often contain specialized ingredients to combat issues such as oxidation, which is a common problem on boats but not on cars. For these reasons, it’s recommended to use cleaning products designed specifically for boats to ensure both effective cleaning and the long-term health of your boat’s surfaces.
Can you wash a boat with dawn dish soap?
Using Dawn dish soap or similar dishwashing liquids to wash your boat is not recommended for a couple of crucial reasons. While Dawn is excellent at cutting through grease, which is why it works well on dishes, this same property can strip away the essential protective wax or other coatings on your boat’s surface. Over time, this can lead to oxidation and a dull appearance on fiberglass and gelcoat surfaces. Dish soaps can have a negative impact on aquatic environments.
These soaps can remove the slime coat that protects fish from infections and diseases, and potentially lead to algal blooms due to the phosphates present in many dish soaps. Even if the soap is labeled as biodegradable, it can still be harmful to aquatic life. Unlike marine-specific boat cleaners, Dawn dish soap isn’t formulated to address salt, algae, and other marine-specific issues that boats frequently encounter. Using a cleaner designed for boats will provide more effective cleaning and protection against these issues.
Dish soaps may leave residues that are not easily rinsed away, which can attract dirt and make the boat appear dingy over time. That said, in a pinch, using a small amount of Dawn dish soap to address a specific issue, like a greasy stain, is unlikely to cause immediate, severe damage. However, it should not be used as a regular substitute for marine-specific boat cleaners, which are formulated to be safer for aquatic environments and to properly clean and protect boat surfaces.
Final Thoughts On Boat Wash
Properly washing your boat isn’t just about maintaining its appearance; it’s a commitment to safeguarding its longevity against the elements that challenge its shine and structural soundness. With the right techniques, tools, and products, you can keep your boat looking, feeling and even keeping it more protected than just using regular soap off of the shelf. Our exploration of the best boat washes and rust inhibitors has illuminated the products that stand out in the maritime realm. These formulations are more than just cleansers; they are guardians of your investment, enablers of your boat’s brilliance, and sentinels against the forces of corrosion. The careful balance between cleaning prowess, wax enhancement, and rust inhibition elevates these products to essential tools for any boat owner’s arsenal.
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