| Like anything else, the best way to care for | | | | then use an upholstery wax that protects |
| your boat is to take preventative measures. | | | | against UV damage. To get rid of nasty |
| Don't wait until you can barely see your boat | | | | mildew stains, use a solution of one part |
| under all of the grime that has built up, to | | | | ammonia to four parts water. Scrub the area |
| decide it needs a good cleaning. Wouldn't | | | | with a soft or medium brush, and rinse with |
| you rather spend the nice summer day enjoying | | | | fresh water. |
| your boat instead of cleaning it? | | | | |
| | | | Secure the line: |
| Let's start topside: | | | | |
| | | | Ropes can be damaged by salt, oil, and dirt. |
| Because the surface of the boat is a gelcoat, | | | | It is important to keep these maintained |
| it makes regular cleaning easy. This gelcoat | | | | because they are used for many essential |
| can be cleaned with a mild or boat soap, and | | | | purposes. These should be checked regularly, |
| then rinsed thoroughly with fresh water to | | | | and replaced if there is any sign of |
| prevent build up of soap scum or water spots. | | | | deterioration or tears. Because knotting |
| Start at the bow and work your way back | | | | causes access wear on the lines avoid this as |
| because boats drain from bow to stern. You | | | | much as possible. |
| can apply a coat of automotive or boat wax | | | | |
| twice a year to maintain a nice shine and | | | | Keep the ropes out of direct sunlight when |
| protect the gelcoat. Only apply to the parts | | | | not in use, and rinse them after each use. |
| that will not be walked to prevent slipping. | | | | Ropes can be washed in a washing machine with |
| | | | a mild detergent. Be sure to place them |
| It is important to dry the canvas before | | | | inside a pillowcase first to avoid damage to |
| storing your boat to avoid moisture damage | | | | the machine. |
| and mold buildup. To wash the canvas use a | | | | |
| dishwashing detergent and a soft scrub brush | | | | Fender Bender: |
| if necessary. Every so often, you should | | | | |
| lubricate snaps with petroleum jelly and | | | | Bumpers take the beatings, poundings and |
| zippers with a paraffin wax. You should also | | | | sometimes crashes for the side of the boat. |
| periodically treat the canvas with a | | | | Because of this, they are bound to get dirty. |
| waterproofing solution to prevent break-down | | | | Dirt, tar, and grease can be removed with a |
| of the material. | | | | strong cleanser and scrubbing pad. When |
| | | | using tar remover, test a small area first to |
| Don't do windows? | | | | check that it is not too abrasive for the |
| | | | plastic. |
| Glass windows can be cleaned with a glass | | | | |
| cleaner or a water and vinegar solution. To | | | | Quick Tips: |
| prevent scratches apply a clear silicon spray | | | | |
| with a soft cloth. | | | | • Do not use bleach; it can be too |
| | | | harsh on many of your boat parts |
| Vinyl windows should be cleaned with water | | | | |
| because chemicals in cleaners can break down | | | | • Get in the habit of cleaning your |
| the vinyl. After cleaning apply a clear wax. | | | | boat each time you come in off the water. |
| | | | |
| If you roll up vinyl windows, do it carefully | | | | • By cleaning more frequently, you will |
| to avoid scratching. Leaving them rolled up | | | | avoid an enormous cleaning job that could |
| for long periods of time will lead to | | | | take a whole beautiful day. |
| discoloration. | | | | |
| | | | Kristy Bateman is the writer for Earl's Blog |
| Have a seat: | | | | on These articles are unique and helpful to |
| | | | anyone interested in learning about boating |
| Upholstery should be wiped down with a wet | | | | and or fishing. Please visit to view a |
| cloth, removing dirt and salt. Apply a vinyl | | | | variety of unique articles from Kristy. is |
| upholstery cleaner with a damp cloth, rinse, | | | | The Simplest Solution to Buying and Selling |
| and wipe off with a clean cloth. You should | | | | 'Ur' Boat. |