Shopping For Boat Cleaners & Waxes
2008 Buyer's Guide: Accessories
by David S. Yetman
January 29, 2008
Why You Need Them
All boat finishes — including gelcoat, varnish, paint and applied graphics — are subject
to degradation from the effects of dirt, oils, contamination and the UV content of sunlight. In the
absence of regular cleaning and the application of some kind of protection, the finish will soon
deteriorate, taking the boat’s appearance and resale value down along with it. Top surfaces that
get direct sun, like foredecks, require the most attention. Hull sides and surfaces under cover
require less. Dark gelcoat colors will chalk out and fade more quickly because they lack the
natural UV resistance of white or lighter colors, but all will need regular maintenance to retain
their appearance.
Mothers Marine Polish
What You Need To Know
There are several types of products you can use in maintaining the finish of your boat.
Cleaners and rubbing compounds contain a very fine abrasive to aid in removing dirt and the residue
of deteriorating gelcoat. They can be used to buff the surface to a high gloss, but must be used
carefully to avoid damage — especially when used with a power buffer or polisher. The use of
cleaners is a necessary preparatory step for badly faded or chalked-out gelcoat surfaces before
applying a final finish. Polishes usually contain a cleaner and some sort of agent — like wax
or teflon — that will leave a protective coat on the surfaces. In many cases, they’re both the best
and easiest products to use for regular maintenance. Waxes like carnauba have an excellent
reputation for longevity when applied as a final finish, but are usually more difficult to apply
and buff out than polishes. Sealers, applied to previously polished clean surfaces, offer a high
sheen and may also provide protection from UV light rays.
Starbrite boat wax (left) and polish cleaner
The Final Word
No product or process can guarantee complete and lasting protection over the course of a
season, especially in the blazing sun of the tropics. Constant renewal of the protection with
whatever product or process you choose is the only option, but you can extend the benefits of your
hard work by using as little detergent as possible when washing the boat. Also, keep in mind that
products containing abrasives are effective and sometimes necessary for use on gelcoat, but may not
be appropriate for surfaces that have been painted with AWLGRIP or IMRON. Those types of specialty
finishes should be maintained according to their manufacturers’ instructions.
3M Marine mildew remover (left) and gloss restorer