The 10 Best Boat Cleaners
Special Honors
Thetford Marine Boat Wash If you care just as much about the environment as you do the effectiveness of your cleaning product, there are few better choices than this boat wash. It was rated as the Boat U.S. Foundation Staff Pick based on both of those factors. According to their research, it is 100-percent biodegraded after just four weeks. thetford.com
MRD Waterline Stain Remover Extremely proficient at removing tannic acid, iron, and lime deposits, this stain remover often succeeds where other products fail. It comes in an easy-to-apply formula, requires very little scrubbing, and has even been known to remove some barnacles, which is no easy feat. mdramazon.com
Editor's Notes
August 20, 2019:
Just like having the right tool for the job makes things significantly easier, the same can be said for having the right cleaner. Spray Nine 26901S claimed our number one spot because of its impressive versatility, being just as effective on vinyl as it is on a gel coat. Meguiar's Gel Wash, Star brite Sea Safe Wash, and Boat Juice Exterior are also great all-purpose soaps that can be used on everything from your hull down to your little tiny chrome details. This last product even contains a polymer wax that offers your gel coat future protection against salt spray and fading.
However, if you prefer something a little more purpose made, we also have a lot of great options for that. Those looking for something specifically to help remove mold and mildew from vinyl seats or the walls of a cabin should consider 3M Mildew Stain Remover. Star brite EZ-On EZ-Off, on the other hand, is a very powerful hull and deck cleaner that can cut right through rust stains, waterline scum, and get rid of that yellowing that causes boats to look old. And Boat Bling Hot Sauce is a great for use after each outing to get rid of water spots and quickly add a thin layer of wax.
If you need to tackle some serious oxidation and chalkiness, and want to bring back some luster to worn-looking fiberglass, 3M Liquid Marine Restorer & Wax and Poli Ox Heavy Oxidation Remover are best. However, both of these require a lot of time and effort.
While regular cleaning is a must for all vessels, you may be able to make your life a little bit easier and stretch out that time between cleanings by using a boat cover to keep it protected from the elements.